House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

In the near future I plan to reintroduce House Bill 27 of 2011, which would extend the deadline for submitting absentee ballots.

Under current Pennsylvania law, the deadline for submitting absentee ballots is 5 o’clock on the Friday before the primary or election. While this has proven to be convenient for most, there are often times when unforeseen circumstances can arise, which could prevent a person from exercising their right to vote. My legislation amends the Act of June 3, 1937 (P.L.1333, No.320), otherwise known as the Pennsylvania Election Code, by changing the deadline for absentee ballots to the close of business on the Monday prior to the primary or election. It is important to note that this legislation will not be applicable to any elector who submits an emergency application and receives an absentee ballot on the day of the election.

Any measure that increases access to elections and improves voter turnout should warrant serious consideration. Please join me by co-sponsoring this important proposal.