Westmoreland Review

Rep. Jill Cooper (R-Westmoreland) has introduced legislation aimed at improving the accuracy of voter rolls in Pennsylvania. The proposal seeks to enable residents to better communicate with their county election offices if they suspect outdated voter information at their address.

Cooper explained the motivation behind the bill by describing a common scenario where new homeowners receive mail addressed to previous occupants, including political materials and applications for mail-in ballots. "Addressing confusion like this is why I am introducing legislation that would allow a resident to better communicate with their county election office if they suspect voter information at their address is outdated," she stated.

The proposed legislation does not alter existing laws regarding voter roll maintenance, which include specific guidelines for removing voters due to inactivity and requirements for contacting voters before removal. Instead, it creates a pathway for new property owners to inform their county's election office about current residents, potentially triggering verification processes for outdated records.

"My proposal provides just one more pathway for voter roll maintenance and ultimately improves public confidence in our election system," Cooper added.

In addition to her legislative proposal, Cooper highlighted the ongoing debate over requiring voter identification at each election. Despite bipartisan support, such measures have yet to be enacted into law in Pennsylvania.

"Regardless of who you are planning to vote for, you and every Pennsylvanian should have complete confidence that every vote cast is legitimate and whoever wins an election, the process was secure and fair," Cooper emphasized.

Cooper also reminded constituents about school bus safety as students return to class. Pennsylvania law mandates that motorists stop at least 10 feet away from school buses when red lights are flashing and the stop arm is activated. Violations can result in fines, points on driving records, and license suspensions.

Additionally, Cooper informed hunters about the availability of Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) permits on various public and private lands across Pennsylvania. The program aims to help landowners manage deer populations and habitats effectively.

For further details or inquiries, constituents can contact Rep. Jill Cooper's office through Media Contact Jordan Frei at 724-875-8450.