PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB1757

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1757

Introduced
10/16/23  

Caption

In voter registration, further providing for qualifications to register, for government agencies and for preparation and distribution of applications; and, in voting procedures, further providing for application for absentee ballots.

Impact

This legislation's enactment is expected to enhance accessibility to the voting process for residents of Pennsylvania, particularly for individuals who have historically faced barriers, such as those currently in correctional institutions. Allowing inmates who meet residency and age requirements to apply for absentee ballots can empower a marginalized segment of the population and potentially affect voting demographics in the state. In addition, the integration of electronic signatures in the voter registration process signifies a shift towards more modern and user-friendly methods of governance.

Summary

House Bill 1757 focuses on amending Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically concerning voter registration and absentee ballot application processes. It aims to expand and clarify the qualifications for voter registration, making provisions for government agencies to facilitate the registration process through electronic applications. A noteworthy aspect of the bill is its inclusion of inmates as eligible to apply for absentee ballots, marking a significant change in voting rights for incarcerated individuals who meet certain registration criteria.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB1757 appears supportive among advocates who prioritize expanding voting rights and simplifying the voting process. Proponents argue that the bill is a progressive step towards inclusivity in the electoral system. Conversely, some concerns may arise regarding the implications of allowing incarcerated individuals to vote, reflecting broader national debates on criminal justice and voting rights. As with many voting-related legislations, there is likely to be a divergence of opinions on its appropriateness and potential repercussions.

Contention

Key points of contention revolve around the inclusion of incarcerated individuals in the voting process and the resultant implications for electoral outcomes. Critics may argue that allowing inmates to have voting rights could lead to questions about the integrity of the electoral system or the influence of correctional populations in specific districts. Additionally, the proposed amendments could raise concerns regarding the efficiency and security of electronic voter registration methods, as well as equitable access for all potential voters, including those without access to technology.

Latest HB1757 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1257

In voter registration, further providing for qualifications to register, for government agencies and for preparation and distribution of applications; and, in voting procedures, further providing for application for absentee ballots.

PA HB1827

In preliminary provisions relating to voter registration, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for qualifications to register, for methods of voter registration, for application with driver's license application and for government agencies, providing for same-day voter registration and for preregistration data entry and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications; in changes in records, further providing for death of registrant; in voting procedures, providing for prohibition of rejecting ballots based solely on signature analysis; making a repeal; and making editorial changes.

PA SB904

In preliminary provisions relating to voter registration, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for qualifications to register and for government agencies, providing for preregistration data entry and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications; and, in changes in records, further providing for death of registrant.

PA SB488

In preliminary provisions relating to voter registration, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for qualifications to register and for government agencies, providing for preregistration data entry and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications; and, in changes in records, further providing for death of registrant.

PA HB785

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for electronic voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; in records, further providing for general register, for district registers and for reports; in changes in records, further providing for removal notices and for change of enrollment of political party; and, in penalties, further providing for altering registration.

PA HB1771

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for departmental responsibilities; in voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration and for application with driver's license application, providing for automatic voter registration and for time and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; and making a repeal.

PA SB40

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for departmental responsibilities and for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration and for application with driver's license application, providing for Commonwealth agencies and other entities and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; and providing for privacy and security standards for voter registration in this Commonwealth.

PA HB1703

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for electronic voter registration, for electronic submission of changes to registration and for time for electronic voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; in records, further providing for general register, for district registers and for reports; in changes in records, further providing for removal notices and for change of enrollment of political party; and, in penalties, further providing for altering registration.

PA HB479

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for same-day voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications.

PA HB128

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for same-day voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.