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Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB314
Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session
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Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB314

Introduced
2/26/25  

Caption

In changes in records, further providing for death of registrant.

Impact

By mandating a more efficient communication protocol between the Department of Health and election commissions, SB314 is expected to enhance the accuracy of voter registration databases in Pennsylvania. This shift aims to eliminate delays in updating the records, thus minimizing the chances of deceased individuals remaining on the electoral roll. The consequence of this bill may also lead to a smoother operation of the electoral process, as controversies related to voter registration inaccuracies could be reduced. Overall, the proposed changes are a step towards strengthening the foundations of election integrity in the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 314 seeks to amend Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically addressing the procedure surrounding the death of registered voters. The bill stipulates that the Department of Health must notify the relevant electoral commission within seven days of a registered voter's death. This change is intended to streamline the process by which elector registration records are updated in the state, ensuring that deceased individuals are promptly removed from voter rolls to maintain the integrity of the elections process. Such amendments highlight the importance of accurate voter registration records in preventing potential electoral fraud.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB314 appears to be generally supportive among legislators who emphasize the necessity of maintaining updated and accurate voter records. Proponents argue that enhanced communication regarding elector's death will prevent potential issues in future elections, such as wrongful voting or confusion on voting day. However, as with many legislative actions relating to elections, there could be concerns over compliance and effectiveness of the amendments when put into practice. Discussions may arise regarding the Department of Health's capacity to handle new responsibilities and whether additional resources will be allocated to meet these needs.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB314 may lie in the balance between automation and human oversight in the voter registration process. While the quick removal of deceased individuals from electoral rolls is certainly a positive measure, stakeholders must consider how the implementation of these changes will be managed at the local level. Critics may raise questions about data privacy, the accuracy of death notifications, and the overall effectiveness of the protocol in reaching its intended outcomes. Additionally, discussions may focus on whether the bill adequately addresses the nuances of death registrations, particularly in light of cases involving those who pass away outside of traditional healthcare settings.

Latest PA SB314 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session SB314

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB488

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.

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 HB1061

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 HB1851

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in death and fetal death registration, further providing for information for certificates and for coroner referrals.

PA HB1312

In death and fetal death registration, providing for nonbinary designation.

PA HB1981

In registration of vehicles, further providing for vehicles exempt from registration; and, in fees, further providing for farm vehicles.

PA HB1153

In records, further providing for fees for copies.

PA HB479

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for same-day voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications.

PA HB2233

In registration of vehicles, further providing for vehicles exempt from registration.

PA HB1008

In registration of vehicles, further providing for renewal of registration.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.