PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB703

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB703

Introduced
2/24/25  

Caption

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Impact

The implementation of HB 703 would significantly alter the governance structure in Pennsylvania by increasing accountability and reducing potential political bias in the appointment process for the Secretary of the Commonwealth. As the chief elections officer, the Secretary plays a vital role in overseeing state elections, and electing this position may enhance public trust in the electoral process. The proposed amendments also include specific qualifications for candidates, thereby setting a standard for officeholders in these critical positions.

Summary

House Bill 703, introduced in February 2025, proposes integrated amendments to the Constitution of Pennsylvania concerning the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth. This bill aims to establish a more democratic process by allowing the Secretary of the Commonwealth to be elected by the qualified voters of Pennsylvania, rather than appointed by the Governor. The bill specifies that the Secretary will serve a four-year term and cannot serve more than two consecutive terms.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 703 appears to be generally supportive among proponents who advocate for increased electoral democracy and accountability in government. Many lawmakers believe that electing the Secretary of the Commonwealth aligns better with democratic principles and enhances voter engagement. However, there may also be some reservations about potential political ramifications, with skeptics wondering if partisan influence might affect election outcomes in this office.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discussions on HB 703 center on the potential impact of an elected versus appointed Secretary on election integrity and management. Some legislators express concern that an elected Secretary may be more susceptible to political pressures, while opponents of the bill may argue that an appointed Secretary allows for a more expert and less politicized approach to handling elections. The debate continues on whether the benefits of increased public input outweigh the risks of potential politicization of the role.

Latest HB703 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB547

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA HB1348

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, abolishing the office of Lieutenant Governor.

PA HB891

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

PA HB554

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

PA HB1890

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

PA SB1205

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

PA HB1828

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

PA HB212

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, changing the Commonwealth's fiscal period from one year to two years.

PA SB130

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for election audits.

PA SB1

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for courts to be open and suits against the Commonwealth.

Similar Bills

PA HB547

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA HB2580

A Joint Resolution proposing separate and distinct amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for ineligibility by criminal convictions, for qualifications of Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General and for qualifications of justices, judges and justices of the peace; providing for ineligibility of civil officers; and imposing a duty on the General Assembly.

PA HB1348

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, abolishing the office of Lieutenant Governor.

PA HB1630

Establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers and duties; establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians Restricted Account; and establishing the Advisory Committee to Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers, duties and membership.

PA HB1207

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for explanation of ballot question and providing for wording of ballot question; in dates of elections and primaries and special elections, further providing for elections on proposed constitutional amendments; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot; in voting machines, further providing for form of ballot labels on voting machines; and, in preparation for and conduct of primaries and elections, further providing for publishing constitutional amendments.

PA HB1339

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for explanation of ballot question and providing for wording of ballot question; in dates of elections and primaries and special elections, further providing for elections on proposed constitutional amendments; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot; in voting machines, further providing for form of ballot labels on voting machines; and, in preparation for and conduct of primaries and elections, further providing for publishing constitutional amendments.

PA HB1139

In organization of departmental administrative boards and commissions and of advisory boards and commissions, providing for Cybersecurity Coordination Board.

PA HB1113

Establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers and duties; establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians Restricted Account; and establishing the Advisory Committee to Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers, duties and membership.