Bill > HB154

This bill updates Pennsylvania's Election Code to enhance voting machine examination, approval, and testing processes. The legislation requires the Secretary of the Commonwealth to more thoroughly examine voting machines, including testing all software, mechanical components, and operational reliability, and to produce a detailed written report for each approved machine. The bill mandates that any changes to approved voting machines must be pre-approved, and introduces new requirements for voting machines, such as being manufactured in the United States, utilizing open-source software, and complying with the latest Voluntary Voting System Guidelines. For county election boards, the bill establishes more rigorous public testing procedures for voting machines and tabulation equipment, including requirements for advance public notice, video recording of tests, and detailed record-keeping. Importantly, these new requirements will only apply to voting machines newly examined or approved after 2026, ensuring that counties are not forced to immediately replace existing equipment. The bill aims to increase transparency, reliability, and security in Pennsylvania's election technology infrastructure, with provisions designed to ensure accurate vote counting and provide public confidence in the electoral process.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=154