Pennsylvania Voter Registration Application ID Match Directive Challenge

An anti-voting lawsuit seeking to invalidate a Pennsylvania policy that prevents counties from rejecting voter registration applications when identification numbers don’t match official records.

Background

Robert Rossman, a member of the Potter County Board of Elections, filed a lawsuit in state court against Secretary of State Al Schmidt (R) challenging a 2018 directive from the Pennsylvania Department of State. The directive prohibits counties from rejecting voter registration applications when the driver’s license or social security numbers provided do not match official databases. Rossman argues that state law requires election officials to verify voter identity and ensure applications are complete before registering applicants, and that the directive undermines both this requirement and voter list maintenance efforts. He is asking the court to invalidate the 2018 directive.

Why It Matters

This lawsuit seeks to roll back a directive that prevents counties from rejecting voter registration applications over minor mismatches in government databases – errors that often result from typos or outdated records. If successful, it would make it easier for officials to deny eligible voters the chance to register, creating unnecessary obstacles that make it harder for Pennsylvanians to register and participate in the democratic process.

Latest Updates

• Nov. 4, 2024: Plaintiff filed his complaint.