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Bill

HB 154

An Act amending the act of June 3, 1937 (P.L.1333, No.320), known as the Pennsylvania Election Code, in voting machines, further providing for examination and approval of voting machines by the Secretary of the Commonwealth, for requirements of voting machines and for preparation of voting machines by county election boards.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Doyle Heffley and 3 co-sponsors

HB 154 strengthens state oversight of Pennsylvania voting machines by expanding the Secretary of Commonwealth's approval authority and updating county election board preparation standards.

Referred to State Government
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 154

Legislative bill overview

HB 154 modifies Pennsylvania's Election Code (originally from 1937) to update procedures governing voting machine examination, approval, and preparation. The bill grants the Secretary of the Commonwealth enhanced authority over voting machine approval processes and adjusts requirements for how county election boards must prepare and maintain voting machines for use in elections.

Why is this important

Voting machine regulations directly affect election security, accessibility, and public confidence in election integrity. Updates to these procedures can influence how rigorously machines are tested, who oversees that testing, and what standards counties must follow—ultimately impacting whether elections run smoothly and results are trusted across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Centralized vs. Local Control: Expanding state-level (Secretary of Commonwealth) authority over voting machines may reduce county election board autonomy in selecting and managing equipment, raising federalism concerns among some local officials
  • Modernization vs. Caution: Changes to 1937-era voting machine requirements could accelerate modernization or, conversely, face resistance from those concerned about transitioning away from proven systems
  • Cost and Implementation: New preparation and examination requirements could impose unfunded mandates on county budgets, creating compliance challenges for under-resourced election offices

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

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