Pennsylvania House Bill HB2054

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/24
• Refer: 2/22/24

Caption

In electronic voting systems, providing for defects, disclosure, investigations and penalties.

Impact

The impact of HB 2054 on state laws includes enhanced oversight of electronic voting systems, aimed at ensuring the integrity and reliability of such systems during elections. By requiring vendors to disclose defects and allowing for the suspension of defective systems, the bill seeks to safeguard the electoral process from potential malfunctions that could affect ballot casting and counting. This increased scrutiny better aligns Pennsylvania's election laws with the growing complexities and technologies utilized in voting systems.

Summary

House Bill 2054 focuses on the regulation of electronic voting systems within Pennsylvania. The legislation amends the Pennsylvania Election Code to impose new requirements on vendors regarding the disclosure of defects in electronic voting systems. Vendors must report any known defects or confirm the absence of defects every odd-numbered year. The bill establishes a framework for the state to suspend the use of systems with known defects and outlines penalties for vendors who fail to comply with disclosure requirements.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2054 appears cautiously optimistic among supporters, who view it as a necessary step toward transparency and accountability in the electoral process. However, some may have concerns regarding the feasibility and implications of stringent compliance measures on vendors. The discussion around this bill highlights the tension between ensuring election integrity and the operational burdens placed on those providing voting technologies.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding HB 2054 involve the potential for increased costs and administrative burdens on vendors as they comply with the new reporting requirements. Critics raise concerns about the practicality of timely disclosures and the implications of penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, the provision for the state to suspend systems raises questions about the readiness and adaptability of counties to switch technologies on short notice, especially during election periods.