Pennsylvania is adopting an computerized voter registration system for anybody who obtains a driver’s license or different state identification card, state Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) introduced on Tuesday.
Pennsylvanians can nonetheless select to not register when they’re acquiring ― or renewing ― their IDs, however they should proactively decide out of the method to take action.
Shapiro had the ability to make the change with out passing a brand new legislation.
“Pennsylvania is the birthplace of our democracy, and as Governor, I’m committed to ensuring free and fair elections that allow every eligible voter to make their voice heard,” Shapiro mentioned in a press release. “Automatic voter registration is a commonsense step to ensure election security and save Pennsylvanians time and tax dollars.”
Pennsylvania is the twenty fourth state to undertake computerized voter registration.
Studies have discovered that the coverage’s adoption is tied to each greater registration and better voter turnout.
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Democrats have lengthy argued that making it simpler to register to vote, in addition to to vote, results in expanded voter participation. They additionally are inclined to imagine that their social gathering advantages from greater turnout amongst low-income residents and different individuals who vote much less continuously, although that principle has been disputed in recent times.
In Pennsylvania, 8.7 million residents have been registered to vote as of December 2022, even because the U.S. Census suggests that 10.3 million individuals are eligible to register.
The Keystone State is predicted to be a vital battleground within the 2024 presidential election that might decide whether or not President Joe Biden stays within the White House. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) can be up for reelection in 2024 in a race that’s anticipated to be carefully fought.
