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Marking your ballot using the Ballot Marking Device (BMD)

Accessibility Features

  • At the bottom of the display screen you may change how the ballot looks:
    • - Select "ZOOM IN" to make the text larger.
    • - Select "ZOOM OUT" to bring the text back to original size.
    • - Select "HIGH CONTRAST" to display the ballot in white text on a black background.

  • You may adjust the audio on the headphones:

    • - Repeat audio.
    • - Increase or decrease the speed of the audio.
    • - Increase or decrease the audio volume. (The volume is initially set on low.)

The BMD provides two ways for voters to access the ballot:

  • 1. See the ballot on the display screen
    Display screen
  • 2. Listen to the ballot through audio headphones
    Headphones

The BMD provides four ways for voters to mark the ballot:

  • 1. Touch screen
    Display screen
  • 2. Key Pad (Braille)
    Key pad
  • 3. Sip & Puff Device
    Sip and Puff
  • 4. Rocker Paddle

    Rocker paddle
    Rocker paddle

Follow these steps to mark your ballot using the BMD:

  • 1. Decide how you will access and mark the ballot (see options left).
  • 2. Insert your ballot into the feed tray.
    Feed tray
  • 3. Select your preferred language.
  • 4. Select each candidate and/or issue for which you intend to mark a vote.
    • Your selections will be highlighted in yellow on the screen and will be read through the headphones.
      Mark your ballot
    • Make sure the oval is filled in black.
  • 5. For write-in candidates, select "Write-in."
    • Select letters to type the name of a candidate and select "OK."
      Write in
  • 6. After completing your ballot, review your selections.
    • To change a selection, select the contest or issue you would like to change and reselct the proper choice. Select "NEXT" to return to the summary screen.
  • 7. When finished, select "NEXT." Select "Mark Ballot" to print your marked ballot.
    Mark ballot
  • 8. Take your printed ballot to the scanner area.
    • If you would like assistance inserting your ballot into the scanner, a poll worker will assist you.