Pennsylvania residents can apply to vote by mail can apply to vote by mail

Voters concerned about the impacts of COVID-19 on the upcoming Pennsylvania Primary Election can apply now for a mail-in ballot.

This marks the first year that Pennsylvanians can vote by mail (also known as “no-excuse absentee voting”). Voters can apply for mail-in ballots online or by mail via applications available at www.votespa.com.

For voters who plan on using a mail-in ballot in the Primary Election (currently scheduled for Tuesday, April 28) completed applications must be received in the county office by 5 p.m. on April 21. The deadline to return voted absentee or mail-in ballot is 8 p.m. on April 28.

“I know many voters are rightfully concerned about public health and the upcoming primary election. I encourage you to consider applying for a mail-in ballot,” said state Sen. Andy Dinniman, D-19th, of West Whiteland. “Please do not wait until the deadline because there are concerns that an influx of applications at the last minute could negatively impact the system.”

Gov. Tom Wolf recently said that Pennsylvania may consider delaying the primary due to the coronavirus pandemic. Wolf said his administration is currently considering that and other possibilities in conjunction with discussions with officials at the Pennsylvania Department of State and Pennsylvania Department of Health.

The Pennsylvania Department of State released the following statement to the media:

“The Department of State is having comprehensive discussions about a range of potential options for the April primary election. Those discussions are being held in consultation with the Department of Health, the governor’s office, the legislature and the counties. Our focus is on best ways to protect the integrity of the election while safeguarding public health. We will immediately notify the public if there are to be any changes in primary or special-election voting. In the meantime, we remind Pennsylvania voters that the new mail-in ballot option provides a valuable alternative and can be used for any reason or no reason at all.”

In addition, Dinniman noted that while his and many other state legislative offices remain temporarily close to the public due to COVID-19 concerns, state government is continuing to operate with many employees working remotely or from home.

That includes legislative operations with the Pennsylvania House recently passing temporary rules that allow members to vote remotely.