Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1160

Introduced

4/7/25

Refer

4/7/25

Caption

In electronic voting systems, further providing for statistical sample.

Impact

The passage of HB 1160 would significantly impact state laws regarding elections and voting procedures in Pennsylvania. By implementing mandatory recounts of a statistical sample of ballots, it aims to address concerns about the reliability of electronic voting systems. This move could lead to increased transparency and scrutiny in the election process, potentially reducing occurrences of electoral fraud and mishaps. Furthermore, this bill aligns with growing national discussions about election security, as it seeks to ensure that all votes are accurately counted and verified.

Summary

House Bill 1160 amends the Pennsylvania Election Code to introduce measures for enhancing the integrity of electronic voting systems. Specifically, it mandates that county boards of elections conduct a statistical recount of a random sample of ballots after each election. This process is intended to ensure that the results of elections are accurate and trustworthy, thereby promoting greater confidence in the electoral process. The legislation requires a minimum of two percent of the votes or up to 2,000 votes, whichever is lesser, to be included in this statistical sample, and it also prescribes that three precincts must be randomly selected for a hand count of all ballots during each election.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 1160 appears to be largely supportive among proponents of election reform and integrity, who argue that such measures are necessary to restore public trust in electoral outcomes. There may be apprehension, however, from those concerned about the cost and logistical implications of conducting these additional recounts and hand counts. Critics may argue that these measures could prolong the election process and increase the administrative burden on election officials. Nonetheless, advocates stress that the benefits of ensuring accurate and secure elections far outweigh the potential downsides.

Contention

One of the primary points of contention surrounding HB 1160 may be the balance between enhancing security and maintaining the efficiency of the election process. Opponents might raise concerns about the potential for delays in election results and the resources required to implement these recounts effectively. Additionally, there could be debate regarding the impact of such measures on voter turnout, with some arguing that perceived inefficiencies could dissuade participation in future elections. As discussions evolve, the bill's supporters will need to address these concerns while advocating for the importance of election integrity.

Latest PA HB1160 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session HB1160

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB204

In electronic voting systems, further providing for returns.

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 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 HB155

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

PA HB1422

In voting by qualified mail-in electors, further providing for voting by mail-in electors.

PA SB192

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in qualifications of electors, further providing for rules for determining residence; in voting by qualified absentee electors, further providing for qualified absentee electors and providing for voting by absentee electors in correctional institutions; and imposing duties on the Department of State.

PA HB735

In nomination of candidates, further providing for casting of lots for position of names upon the primary ballots or ballot labels and notice to candidates; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot and providing for order of candidates on the ballot; in voting machines, further providing for demonstration of voting machines; and, in Pennsylvania Election Law Advisory Board, providing for ballot order randomization study.

PA HB2329

In voting by qualified absentee electors, further providing for voting by absentee electors and for canvassing of official absentee ballots and mail-in ballots; and, in voting by qualified mail-in electors, further providing for voting by mail-in electors.

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.

PA HB1298

In voting by qualified absentee electors, further providing for date of application for absentee ballot; and, in voting by qualified mail-in electors, further providing for date of application for mail-in ballot.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.