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Bill

HB 231

An Act amending the act of June 3, 1937 (P.L.1333, No.320), known as the Pennsylvania Election Code, in nomination of candidates, further providing for petition may consist of several sheets and statement of circulator.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Cerrato and 13 co-sponsors

HB 231 amends Pennsylvania election law to simplify nomination petition procedures for candidates, allowing multi-sheet petitions and revising circulator statement requirements to reduce filing barriers.

Referred to State Government
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 231

Legislative bill overview

HB 231 amends Pennsylvania's 1937 Election Code to modify procedural requirements for nominating candidates, specifically regarding how nomination petitions can be formatted and documented by circulators who collect signatures. The bill streamlines administrative processes for candidates seeking ballot access by clarifying rules about multi-sheet petitions and circulator statements.

Why is this important

Nomination petitions are the primary mechanism for non-major-party candidates and primary challengers to gain ballot access in Pennsylvania. Clarifying these technical requirements reduces barriers to candidate filing, affects who can run for office, and influences electoral competition and voter choice. The procedural changes could impact thousands of candidates during each election cycle.

Potential points of contention

  • Petition integrity vs. accessibility: Changes making it easier to submit multi-sheet petitions could either increase democratic participation or potentially weaken verification controls against fraudulent signatures
  • Administrative burden on election officials: Clarified rules may shift compliance costs between candidates and local election boards responsible for validation
  • Scope of "further providing": The vague language leaves uncertainty about exactly which petition requirements are being modified and whether additional regulations accompany these changes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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