Pennsylvania Selects Civix for Comprehensive Election System Overhaul

Pennsylvania has selected Civix to implement a new election management system aimed at improving election accuracy, security, voter registration, and ballot tracking. This system will replace the existing SURE and Election Night Reporting systems, offering enhancements such as a public portal and improved reporting capabilities. The implementation is planned to be completed by 2028 and will follow a phased approach.

In Pennsylvania, Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt announced that Civix has been selected to implement a new election management system. The project aims to enhance the accuracy and security of elections, as well as improve voter registration and ballot tracking across the state. This initiative places Pennsylvania alongside states such as Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Texas, and Connecticut in adopting modern election management systems.

The implementation of this system will occur in phases and is part of the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to secure elections. Schmidt emphasized, “A modern, streamlined election management system is a critical tool that our 67 county boards of elections need, and our voters expect.” The aim is to finalize implementation by 2028.

Pennsylvania has utilized the Statewide Uniform Registry of Electors (SURE) since 2003, allowing counties to coordinate voter registration efforts. Schmidt mentioned that the existing SURE system has been extensively upgraded over the years, and it will continue to serve voters until the new system is ready.

The Civix system will supersede the SURE and the Election Night Reporting (ENR) systems, alongside campaign finance and lobbying disclosure registration and reporting systems. It will feature a public portal for Pennsylvanians to access information on registered voters, upcoming elections, and election data.

With the new Civix system, unofficial election results will be made available promptly after polls close on election nights. Users will have access to a location-based feature to view relevant data based on their county. Civix will also integrate the Department’s current campaign finance reporting website, enhancing the transparency of campaign finance activities.

Civix was selected from seven bids following a May 2024 call for proposals, with a team of election experts evaluating the submissions. Phillip Braithwaite, CEO of Civix, stated, “Civix is proud to partner with Pennsylvania to implement a scalable, secure, and adaptable system that meets the evolving needs of voters.” He emphasized the importance of delivering innovative solutions in election management and the commitment to enhance transparency and accessibility in the electoral process.

The announcement of Civix as the contractor for Pennsylvania’s new election management system marks a significant step in modernizing the state’s electoral process. This system is designed to bolster election security, enhance voter registration and ballot tracking, and ultimately improve transparency and efficiency. As Pennsylvania prepares for implementation by 2028, the partnership aims to address the evolving needs of both voters and election officials in a secure manner.

Original Source: www.myleaderpaper.com