Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB812

Introduced

5/30/25

Refer

5/30/25

Caption

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.

Impact

If enacted, SB 812 will have significant implications for how electronic voting systems are managed and utilized in Pennsylvania elections. The bill requires that counties report any malfunctions related to these systems within a specified timeframe following elections, detailing the nature and impact of any issues encountered. This requirement aims to hold electoral authorities accountable and ensure that any complications are transparently communicated to the public. Additionally, the Department of State is directed to make these reports publicly accessible, which could influence how future elections are conducted and perceived by voters.

Summary

Senate Bill 812 aims to amend the Pennsylvania Election Code, specifically focusing on the examination and approval processes of electronic voting systems by the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The bill introduces a comprehensive framework for ensuring that these systems are both functional and secure for public elections. This not only involves technical assessments but also mandates public demonstrations of the voting systems, thereby promoting transparency in the electoral process. By establishing clear guidelines for evaluating and certifying these systems, the legislation seeks to enhance voter confidence and ensure that election procedures meet high standards of integrity.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 812 appears to lean positively, particularly among those who advocate for improvements in electoral systems and voter security. Supporters argue that the transparency measures proposed in the bill, including public demonstrations and detailed reporting, will bolster public trust in the electoral process. However, certain groups may express concerns about the potential costs and administrative burdens associated with implementing these new standards, indicating a need for careful consideration of resource allocation among counties.

Contention

Notably, the bill emphasizes the need for public accessibility during the examination of electronic voting systems, which may raise questions about how to balance security with transparency. Critics could argue that while public demonstrations are crucial, they must be managed in a way that does not compromise the integrity of the systems being tested. Furthermore, the reporting of malfunctions may lead to debates regarding accountability and the root causes of any failures, prompting discussions on whether additional resources or training are necessary for election officials.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB204

In electronic voting systems, further providing for returns.

PA HB1160

In electronic voting systems, further providing for statistical sample.

PA HB154

In voting machines, further providing for examination and approval of voting machines by the Secretary of the Commonwealth, for requirements of voting machines and for preparation of voting machines by county election boards.

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 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 HB2327

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; and, in county boards of elections, further providing for powers and duties of county boards.

PA HB759

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; and, in county boards of elections, further providing for powers and duties of county boards.

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 HB909

In provisions relating to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for explanation of ballot question; and, in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot.

Similar Bills

PA HB703

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA SB446

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for powers reserved to the people.

PA HB1207

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for explanation of ballot question and providing for wording of ballot question; in dates of elections and primaries and special elections, further providing for elections on proposed constitutional amendments; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot; in voting machines, further providing for form of ballot labels on voting machines; and, in preparation for and conduct of primaries and elections, further providing for publishing constitutional amendments.

MA S295

Relative to a business entity

US HB362

Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025 This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish a visa waiver program for nationals of certain countries to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands.Specifically, the bill expands an existing program that authorizes nonimmigrant visa waivers for nationals of certain countries to enter Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands to also authorize waivers for entry to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Under this program, DHS may provide a waiver admitting a nonimmigrant visitor for up to 45 days if the waiver does not represent a threat to the welfare, safety, or security of the United States or its territories or commonwealths.

PA HB1262

In primary and election expenses, further providing for reporting by candidate and political committees and other persons, for late contributions and independent expenditures, for oath of compliance, perjury, disqualification from office and commercial use, for residual funds and for place of filing, providing for manner of filing and for inability to file reports or statements electronically by deadline and further providing for late filing fee and certificate of filing, for additional powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for reports by business entities and publication by Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA HB909

PA HB336

Amending the act of June 13, 1907 (P.L.560, No.373), entitled "An act designating the official flag of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and describing the same; providing for the carrying of such flag by the regiments of the National Guard of Pennsylvania; authorizing the Secretary of the Commonwealth to provide, and have deposited in the office of Secretary of the Commonwealth, a model of said flag, and making an appropriation therefor," further providing for title of act; and providing for the proper procedure to fold the designated flag of the Commonwealth.