Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2629

Introduced

10/9/24

Refer

10/9/24

Caption

In registration system, providing for verification of citizenship; in voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration; in penalties, further providing for duties under part; and, in provisions contingent on Federal Law, further providing for removal of electors.

Impact

If passed, HB 2629 would significantly affect various aspects of state election laws. The verification of citizenship in voter registration could potentially reduce the number of individuals registering inappropriately. While supporters argue that it enhances the integrity of the electoral process, critics raise concerns about the potential disenfranchisement of eligible voters who may find it harder to meet these verification requirements. The changes proposed in the bill indicate a shift towards more stringent requirements for voter participation in the state.

Summary

House Bill 2629 seeks to enhance the registration system by introducing stricter verification of citizenship and modifying methods for voter registration. The bill aims to ensure that individuals registering to vote in the state can provide adequate proof of their citizenship status. Additionally, it stipulates certain penalties for failing to adhere to the outlined duties and provisions concerning voter registration, reflecting a broader effort to tighten election security measures. These provisions are also contingent on applicable federal laws, demonstrating the bill’s alignment with national standards and regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2629 is mixed, with proponents praising it as a necessary reform to protect electoral integrity and prevent potential fraud. However, opponents argue that it could lead to discrimination against certain groups, including minorities and low-income individuals, who may lack the required documentation. This polarization reflects broader national debates about voting rights, accessibility, and election security, making HB 2629 a focal point for discussions on how to balance these competing interests.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 2629 include the implications of citizenship verification on voter accessibility and the legal authority of states to impose such requirements. Critics are particularly concerned about how these changes might disproportionately impact marginalized communities, possibly leading to a decrease in voter turnout. There are fears that the penalties outlined in the bill could further discourage individuals from registering or participating in elections, raising fundamental questions about civic engagement and the democratic process.

Latest HB2629 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1061

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.

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 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 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 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 HB1758

In registration system, further providing for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for approval of registration applications; in records, further providing for public information lists; and, in changes in records, further providing for removal notices, for transfer of registration and for death of registrant.

PA SB125

In changes in records, providing for interstate voter registration cross-check; and, in provisions contingent on Federal law, further providing for removal of electors.

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 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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.