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For Immediate Release
March 5, 2012
Contact: David Atkinson
717-787-6535
 
Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Voter ID Plan
Voter ID is an issue on which people have strong views, with those contacting
me deeply divided in their perspectives on proposed legislation (House Bill
934). Those who favor it are concerned about ensuring votes are legitimately
cast. Those who oppose it contend such a requirement may disenfranchise some
voters.
As the bill was initially presented, it struck me as too narrowly drawn. The
measure now working its way through the Senate broadens the field on acceptable
ID, offering a better balance.
Today, the bill came out of the Senate Appropriations Committee. To become
law, it still needs action by the full Senate, and House accord with the changes
approved by the Senate.
If a bill is passed soon, the Corbett Administration plans a "soft" rollout
for the primary election. This means the requirement will be tested, but not
enforced. This will yield a factual basis for making a judgment on how voting
is affected, and allow for any needed fixes before the general election.
This debate prompted me to take a look at the broader track record on voter
registration and turnout. I am convinced we are failing to use technology to
increase the number of eligible voters. I will soon introduce a bill to open up
on-line registration. | 
