Contact: Elizabeth Randol Election Reform Campaign Manager Common Cause/PA (570) 575-3320 erandol@commoncause.

org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 30, 2013

DAY OF ACTION FOR PA VOTERS ATTRACTS RARE BIPARTISAN SUPPORT

A broad bipartisan coalition, agrees that Online Voter Registration will save money, improve
accuracy, and give voters expanded options Harrisburg, PennsylvaniaOn Tuesday, October 1st, the Day of Action for PA Voters coalition will formally call on members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to take action on SB 37, the Online Voter Registration bill. The event begins with a press conference at 10:00am in the Capitol Main Rotunda followed by legislative visits with constituents from every region of the Commonwealth. Many coalition partners are also asking legislators to consider no excuse absentee and early voting to increase the participation of eligible voters in PA.

In the spring of 2013, the Senate unanimously passed SB 37, sponsored by Senator Lloyd Smucker (R-PA). It is awaiting action from the House State Government Committee. Organizers of The Day of Action intend to urge the House to pass SB 37 and join 17 other states with similar legislation. This is a common-sense reform that should make the electoral process more accessible and convenient for Pennsylvanians, Sen. Lloyd Smucker said. This measure will result in cost-savings for the Commonwealth and its residents. "We believe that Online Voter Registration would benefit both taxpayers and our elections processes," said Matthew J. Brouillette, President and CEO of the Commonwealth Foundation. While we are cautious concerns about making any changes that can potentially threaten the integrity of our elections process, we believe that Online Voter Registration has sufficient safeguards and will improve the current system." Thinking of his own 11th grade son, Christopher Nicholas, Political Director for the PA Business Council remarked, Employing an online voter registration option will allow the Commonwealth to remain relevant and engaged with the younger generation which does just about everything online. Let's make this happen as soon as possible. Speakers at the press conference include Sen. Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), Christopher Nicholas, Political Director for the PA Business Council, and Pat Coulter, President/CEO of the Urban League of Philadelphia. The coalition represents over 50 diverse organizations including the ACLU PA, the PA Council of Churches, Keystone Research Center, and the Disability Rights Network. 150 supporters are expected to attend the press event and over 30 people are meeting with their state representatives in Harrisburg. More information on the Day of Action for PA Voters, the coalition, and the issues are on our website at www.DayofAction4PA.org. ###