Pennsylvania has contracted Civix to develop a new election management system to enhance accuracy and security, improve voter registration, and facilitate ballot tracking. The system will replace the current SURE and ENR systems, making Pennsylvania part of a broader trend among states modernizing their election processes. Implementation is anticipated by 2028, focusing on efficiency and transparency in election administration.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has appointed Civix to develop a new election management system, announced by Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt. This system will be implemented in phases and aims to enhance election accuracy and security, streamline voter registration, and improve ballot tracking. By collaborating with Civix, Pennsylvania joins states like Georgia, Texas, and Connecticut in modernizing its election framework.
The Shapiro Administration prioritizes this contract as part of its commitment to secure elections. Schmidt emphasized the need for a modern system for the 67 county boards of elections, expressing excitement to customize and implement this system by 2028. The existing Statewide Uniform Registry of Electors (SURE) system, in use since 2003, will remain operational until the new Civix system is ready.
The updated Civix system will effectively replace SURE and existing Election Night Reporting (ENR), alongside campaign finance and lobbying disclosure systems. It will feature a public portal providing voters with information on registered voters, upcoming elections, and official election data. Additionally, it will enable quick access to unofficial election results each election night through a county-specific interface.
Civix will also revamp the current campaign finance website to enhance transparency regarding financial reports from candidates and political committees. Civix was selected from seven bids after a proposal call in May 2024, followed by evaluations from elections staff, IT experts, and county officials to determine the best system.
Phillip Braithwaite, CEO of Civix, expressed pride in partnering with Pennsylvania to create a robust, secure system that evolves with voter and official needs. He highlighted Civix’s commitment to innovative solutions that improve transparency and efficiency in election administration across the state. As states continue to modernize their systems, Civix sees itself as a leading partner in this transformation.
The partnership between Pennsylvania and Civix aims to implement a modernized election management system by 2028. This initiative seeks to enhance election security, improve voter registration processes, and provide timely election results. Civix’s experience and commitment to innovation will aid Pennsylvania in achieving a streamlined and reliable electoral framework. Overall, this move reflects a broader trend of states upgrading their election systems for better governance and transparency.
Original Source: www.myleaderpaper.com
