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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Mike Sturla
| State Rep. Babette Josephs
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House Democratic Policy Committee examines impact
of PA’s new voter ID law
PHILADELPHIA, May 17 – The House Democratic Policy Committee heard from voting rights advocates, city officials and senior groups at a public hearing today in Philadelphia to determine the potential impact of Pennsylvania’s new requirement for voters to show an authorized photo ID card at the polls, said Chairman Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster.
State Rep. Babette Josephs, D-Phila, Democratic chairwoman of the House State Government Committee requested the hearing and served as co-chairwoman. The hearing looked at the obstacles being met by some Pennsylvanians, including seniors, the disabled and college students in acquiring an approved identification card in order to vote. The law’s slow roll out allowed for people to vote in last month’s primary election without ID, but those voting in November’s general election will be required to present one.
"Although only a few months old, Pennsylvania’s voter ID law has already created complications and costs for residents across the state," Sturla said. "While this law is still being fought in court, we need to ensure that we’re also educating and assisting residents so that they are prepared on Election Day. Representative Josephs was a leader in opposing the measure when it was a poor piece of legislation and now is working to inform residents about the even worse law it is."
Josephs added, "Republicans like to say they’re for less government. Yet, with this law, Governor Corbett and legislative Republicans will spend millions of dollars to disenfranchise certain Pennsylvanians. This law is the very definition of waste, fraud and abuse in state government."
Those testifying at the hearing included: Stephanie Singer, chairwoman, Philadelphia City Commissioners; Andy Hoover, legislative director, ACLU Pennsylvania; and Desiree Hung, lawyer, associate state director-advocacy, AARP Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania Department of State, the agency tasked with implementing the voter ID measure, was invited to testify, but declined.
For additional information about the Policy Committee and for hearing materials, visit www.pahouse.com/PolicyCommittee.