Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1013

Introduced
9/17/25  

Caption

Providing for a report by the Department of State on complaints relating to elections.

Impact

If enacted, SB1013 will impact the existing framework under which election complaints are managed and reported within the state. By requiring formal documentation, it aims to create a more structured approach to understanding voter experiences and issues faced during elections. Moreover, this might lead to changes in how the Department of State interacts with local election authorities, possibly standardizing procedures for handling complaints across counties.

Summary

SB1013 is a legislative measure that mandates the Department of State to report on complaints related to elections. The objective of this bill is to enhance transparency and accountability in the electoral process by systematically documenting any complaints received. This legislative move is seen as a step towards improving the general public's confidence in the election system by addressing grievances that might affect electoral integrity.

Sentiment

The sentiment concerning SB1013 appears to be predominantly positive among proponents, who argue that it is a necessary measure to inject transparency into the electoral process. Advocates believe that detailed reports will help identify recurring issues and allow for timely interventions. However, there are concerns from some legislators regarding the potential bureaucratic burden this legislation could impose on the department responsible for election oversight.

Contention

The main points of contention around SB1013 are related to the feasibility and implications of increased reporting requirements. Some opponents worry that it could lead to the misallocation of resources within the Department of State, diverting attention from other critical areas of election oversight. Additionally, the bill's implementation timeline and its alignment with existing complaint processes have raised questions among legislators.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB798

In powers and duties in general, further providing for departmental reports.

PA HB115

Providing for ballot access; and imposing duties on the Department of State.

PA SB436

In child protective services, further providing for definitions, for reporting procedure, for disposition of complaints received, for responsibility for investigation, for access to information in Statewide database, for information in Statewide database and for release of information in confidential reports.

PA HB1607

In child protective services, further providing for definitions, for reporting procedure, for disposition of complaints received, for responsibility for investigation, for access to information in Statewide database, for information in Statewide database and for release of information in confidential reports.

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 HB2133

Providing for rights of employees and for filing complaints.

PA HB284

Providing for secure and fair elections and the authentication of United States citizenship.

PA SB421

Providing for disclosure of complaints filed against physicians.

PA HB1218

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; in county boards of elections, further providing for powers and duties of county boards; in voting by qualified absentee electors, further providing for canvassing of official absentee ballots and mail-in ballots; and, in recounts and contests, providing for independent prosecutor and for election integrity officers.

PA SB1112

Providing for access to contraceptives; imposing duties on the Insurance Department and the Department of Human Services; providing for severability; and imposing penalties.

Similar Bills

CA AB424

Alcohol and other drug programs: complaints.

CA SB1316

Employment.

CA SB329

An act to add Section 11834.

TN SB1050

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 48, relative to unauthorized filings with the secretary of state.

TN HB1341

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 48, relative to unauthorized filings with the secretary of state.

TN HB0460

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 48, relative to unauthorized filings with the secretary of state.

TN SB0545

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 48, relative to unauthorized filings with the secretary of state.

CA AB935

State agencies: complaints: demographic data.