Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1081

Introduced
2/23/24  

Caption

In electronic voting systems, further providing for statistical sample.

Impact

The proposed changes aim to bolster election integrity by reinforcing effective election administration through systematic audits. The statistical sample checks are expected to validate reported results and enhance transparency in electoral processes. By mandating a more rigorous approach to post-election audits, the bill intends to minimize the chances of errors and instill greater public trust in the election outcomes. The legislation is particularly significant in the context of growing concerns over election security and the integrity of electoral systems nationwide.

Summary

Senate Bill 1081 seeks to amend the Pennsylvania Election Code by introducing enhanced bipartisan post-election audits focusing on the accuracy of election outcomes. The bill mandates that after each primary and general election, county boards of elections conduct a post-election ballot audit. This audit requires a review of a random sample of paper ballots from statewide or county contests to ensure that the election results align closely with the recorded outcomes. It emphasizes the importance of public confidence in the electoral process through structured auditing practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 1081 appears largely positive, particularly among advocates for election transparency and integrity. Proponents, including various political figures and electoral advocacy groups, argue that the enhanced audit process will provide a necessary checks and balances mechanism for elections. However, there may also be concerns from groups wary of increased government oversight in the electoral process, potentially viewing the bill as a bureaucratic overreach. The debate thus promises to be multifaceted, involving balancing public confidence with effective governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of the audits. Some concerns could center around the practicality of conducting audits in a way that is timely and respects the rights of candidates and constituents. Additionally, while the bill seeks to ensure bipartisan participation in the audit process, questions might be raised regarding how bipartisan teams are formed and whether they can effectively manage potential biases. Balancing thoroughness in the audit process with efficiency and avoiding unnecessary delays in the certification of results are likely to be topics of debate during discussions on the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1160

In electronic voting systems, further providing for statistical sample.

PA HB1396

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in district election officers, further providing for compensation of district election officers; in election districts and polling places, providing for ballot drop boxes; in electronic voting systems, further providing for definitions and for supplies, preparation of the voting system and of polling places, providing for pre-election logic and accuracy testing, repealing provisions relating to statistical sample and providing for post-election ballot audit; providing for electronic poll books and for electronic poll books and election infrastructure equipment bonds; in preparation for and conduct of primaries and elections, further providing for manner of applying to vote, persons entitled to vote, voter's certificates, entries to be made in district register, numbered lists of voters and challenges and for deadline for receipt of valid voter registration application; providing for in-person early voting; in voting by qualified absentee electors, further providing for date of application for absentee ballot, for approval of application for absentee ballot, for envelopes for official absentee ballots and for voting by absentee electors; in voting by qualified mail-in electors, further providing for applications for official mail-in ballots, for date of application for mail-in ballot, for approval of application for mail-in ballot, for envelopes for official mail-in ballots and for voting by mail-in electors; in returns of primaries and elections, further providing for computation of returns by county board, certification and issuance of certificates of election; in Election Integrity Grant Program, further providing for funding for elections; in recounts and contests, further providing for opening ballot boxes upon petition of electors alleging fraud or error and deposit or bond, for recanvassing voting machines upon petition of electors alleging fraud or error and for correction of returns, decision not to be final and evidence for prosecution; in penalties, further providing for interference with primaries and elections, frauds and conspiracy; making an appropriation; and making an editorial change.

PA HB204

In electronic voting systems, further providing for returns.

PA HB1683

In electronic voting systems, further providing for returns.

PA HB1235

In electronic voting systems, further providing for definitions and for supplies and preparation of the voting system and of polling places and providing for pre-election logic and accuracy testing.

PA SB812

In electronic voting systems, further providing for examination and approval of electronic voting systems by the Secretary of the Commonwealth and providing for malfunction and certification reporting; and making an editorial change.

PA HB2060

In electronic voting systems, further providing for election day procedures and the process of voting.

PA HB1263

In conduct of elections, providing for voting system audits.

PA SB1293

In electronic voting systems, further providing for definitions and for supplies and preparation of the voting system and of polling places and providing for pre-election logic and accuracy testing; and, in penalties, providing for falsification of election-related documentation regarding pre-election logic and accuracy testing.

PA SB313

In electronic voting systems, further providing for definitions and for supplies and preparation of the voting system and of polling places and providing for pre-election logic and accuracy testing; and, in penalties, providing for falsification of election-related documentation regarding pre-election logic and accuracy testing.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.