Our Democracy 2022

Protect no-excuse vote-by-mail

In 2019, the Pennsylvania legislature passed Act 77, the first major update of Pennsylvania’s election law in over 80 years. Passed with strong bipartisan support, Act 77 acknowledged the right of all Pennsylvania citizens to cast their ballot by mail, joining 34 other states that permit no-excuse mail voting.

Despite overwhelming public support for vote-by-mail, some legislators have chosen to ignore the voice of the people and target Act 77’s vote-by-mail provisions for repeal. Voters have the right to cast their ballots easily and securely, and vote-by-mail has been proven to be a secure way to vote.

Support citizen funding of elections

Since the 2010 Supreme Court decision in Shelby v. Holder, big-money donations to political campaigns have increasingly drowned out the voices of small-money campaign contributors. A significant portion of total campaign donations come from a tiny fraction of donors, and the views of these few wealthy donors are much more influential on elected officials than the views of ordinary citizens.

Citizen funded elections can help break down barriers to participating in democracy and create a government that is more reflective and representative of the people. Small-donor match – where small-dollar donations are matched at a predetermined rate by government-provided funds – can help curb corruption and amplify the voices of ordinary citizens of modest means.

Make voting easier

Voting is a right and a privilege for all American citizens, but some legislators want to make it harder for citizens to vote. Common Cause PA supports the right for all voters to cast their ballots safely, securely, and easily without unnecessary obstructions.

Automatic voter registration allows voters the option of registering to vote through their interactions with government agencies. It’s an efficient and safe way to streamline our voter registration system and keep records up-to-date. 22 states and Washington D.C. provide for automatic voter registration.

Election Day/same day voter registration allows voters to register to vote or update their voter registration and cast their ballots on the same day. Strict voter registration deadlines inherently disenfranchise many citizens who did not or couldn’t register on time, but still want to vote. 20 states allow voters to register to vote on Election Day.

Allowing voters to cast their ballots before Election Day can relieve congestion at the polls, alleviate pressure on voters with caregiver or occupational responsibilities, and encourage voter turnout. 38 states allow voters to cast their ballots before Election Day.