Session: 2021-2022

ACLU-PA Position: Opposes

HB 1663 would amend the Pennsylvania Election Code to require that voting machines be manufactured in the United States and sold by a vendor with a primary place of business within the United States.

First, it is not always clear where voting machines are manufactured. Some are assembled fully in the United States with components that are manufactured in other countries. Second, HB 1663 was purportedly introduced to address election problems in Fayette County. However, those problems resulted from ballots being printed without barcodes, not a problem with its machines. Third, and most importantly, if enacted, HB 1663 would take effect in 60 days. Without knowing which machines are used in each of the 67 counties in the commonwealth, HB 1663 may result in widespread decertification of non-compliant voting machines. It would then, of course, require those counties to purchase new machines, including those who have just recently acquired new voting machines that comply with paper trail requirements.

Check the bill's status here.

Sponsors

Representative Matthew Dowling

Session

2021-2022

Bill number

Position

Oppose