Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB125

Introduced

6/14/23

Refer

6/14/23

Refer

6/27/23

Report Pass

6/28/23

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, SB 125 would introduce significant changes to the management of voter registration within Pennsylvania. The bill requires the development of a system, potentially involving a private sector data provider, to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. Costs for implementing this system are capped, ensuring that it remains financially feasible. Additionally, provisions are included that require state election commissions to remove individuals from the voter rolls promptly upon notification of ineligibility, which could impact individuals with felony records or those who have moved out of state.

Summary

Senate Bill 125 aims to amend Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by introducing an interstate voter registration cross-check mechanism. This legislative effort is intended to maintain an accurate statewide voter registration list and prevent duplicate registrations across different states or jurisdictions. The bill mandates the state secretary to collaborate with other states to compare voter registration records to identify individuals who have changed addresses, those with felony convictions, or instances of dual registrations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 125 reflects a growing tension regarding voting laws and election integrity. Supporters of the bill argue that this cross-check system is essential for maintaining clean voter rolls and enhancing public confidence in the electoral process. Conversely, critics have raised concerns, emphasizing that such measures could disproportionately affect minority voters and those who may have difficulty keeping their registrations up-to-date due to socioeconomic factors. The overall public discussion indicates a polarized view on how to balance election security with equitable access to voting.

Contention

Notable points of contention in discussions around SB 125 center on its potential implications for voter disenfranchisement. Opponents fear that the implementation of stringent checking processes may inadvertently lead to eligible voters being removed from registration lists without due process. The bill's reliance on private sector databases also raises questions about data security and privacy. Overall, while SB 125 aims to reinforce the integrity of voter registration, it simultaneously ignites significant debate on the methodologies employed and their broader social consequences.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2629

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.

PA HB1061

PA HB2665

In provisions contingent on Federal law, further providing for removal of electors.

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 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 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 LD1431

An Act to Implement an Interstate Voter Registration Cross-check Program

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 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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.