Pennsylvania has selected Civix to implement a new election management system to improve the accuracy, security, and efficiency of its election processes. This phased update, scheduled for full implementation by 2028, will replace the current statewide SURE system and other reporting systems, enhancing voter registration and introducing a public portal for election information.
In a significant development, Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt announced that Civix has been selected to implement a comprehensive election management system for Pennsylvania. This system aims to enhance election accuracy and security, alongside improving voter registration and ballot tracking. By partnering with Civix, Pennsylvania joins the ranks of states such as Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Texas, and Connecticut, which are also upgrading their election management systems.
Schmidt emphasized the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to secure elections, stating the importance of a modern election management system for the state’s 67 county boards of elections and voters. He expressed enthusiasm for working with Civix to customize the new system, slated for full implementation by 2028.
Since 2003, Pennsylvania has utilized the Statewide Uniform Registry of Electors (SURE) system, which supports various functions such as updating voter registrations across counties and removing deceased individuals from the rolls. Schmidt noted that despite the upgrades over the years, a transition to Civix’s new system is necessary for continued effectiveness.
The Civix system will replace SURE as well as the current Election Night Reporting (ENR) system, alongside campaign finance and lobbying registration systems. It will feature a public portal for residents to access guidance and information regarding registered voters and upcoming elections, as well as unofficial election results shortly after polls close.
Civix is also set to integrate Pennsylvania’s current campaign finance website, enhancing transparency for reports filed by candidates and political committees. After a competitive bidding process, Civix was selected among seven proposals following careful evaluation by election staff and experts.
Phillip Braithwaite, CEO of Civix, expressed pride in partnering with Pennsylvania to create a system that meets current voter needs, emphasizing their commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in election administration. Civix aims to lead modernization efforts across various states, thus facilitating a more integrated approach to election management.
In conclusion, Pennsylvania’s selection of Civix to enhance its election management system marks a significant step towards more secure and efficient elections. The phased implementation scheduled for completion by 2028 aims to improve voter registration, ballot tracking, and reporting capabilities. As the state transitions from the long-standing SURE system, it aspires to modernize its electoral processes in alignment with national standards, ensuring greater transparency and accessibility for all voters.
Original Source: www.thedigitalcourier.com
