Posted: | October 29, 2024 11:54 AM |
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From: | Representative Kathleen C. Tomlinson and Rep. Joe Hogan, Rep. Shelby Labs, Rep. Kristin Marcell, Rep. Craig T. Staats |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Keeping “On Demand Voting” Open for all Voters |
Pennsylvania has been named the Battleground of all battlegrounds in this year’s election cycle. For those who may not be familiar with “On Demand Voting” it is not in our election code, but instead a service offered by some Counties’ Board of Elections. With this service, a registered voter can apply for a mail in ballot at an election office, be handed the ballot after the application has been processed, fill the ballot out, and return it immediately. This is essentially a cumbersome means of early voting. In Bucks County we have seen a staggering increase in what County officials are calling “On Demand Voting.” Our offices have been inundated with calls from voters from all parties, who are showing up to vote “On Demand” during hours posted by the Board of Election, only to be turned away due to a lack of staffing and resources. We have been told that some voters are showing up 2 hours before the posted closing time only to be turned away. In response, we will be introducing legislation that will require Counties that choose to offer this service, be required to treat “On Demand Voting” as we do Election Day voting. If you are in line before the posted time of closing, you shall get the opportunity to “On Demand Vote.” While we understand this is one of many election reforms that the legislature must address, we believe this critical issue has a simple solution. Please join us in cosponsoring this legislation. |