HARRISBURG, PA — A Pennsylvania House committee advanced legislation Thursday that would clarify the state’s restrictions on law enforcement officers within 100 feet of polling places, moving the election-law proposal to the full House for consideration.
House Bill 2758, introduced by state Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, was reported out of the House Judiciary Committee on Sept. 24. Reps. Chris Pielli, Liz Hanbidge, Paul Friel and Perry Warren are co-sponsors.
Pennsylvania’s existing Election Code already states that a police officer generally may not be within 100 feet of a polling place during a primary or election, with exceptions including voting, serving warrants, and responding when called to preserve the peace.
Kenyatta’s legislation would amend the Election Code to make the prohibition explicit for law enforcement officers. The sponsors frame the measure as a voter-intimidation safeguard and contend that clarification is necessary amid concerns about potential federal law enforcement activity around elections.
“Our legislation is intended to do two things,” Kenyatta stated. “First, to ensure that every Pennsylvanian understands that our elections will be free and fair and that they can vote without fear. Second, to make abundantly clear to any federal agent that may be confused that you cannot operate with impunity in Pennsylvania.”
Kenyatta attributed the need for the legislation to statements and actions by the current federal administration. That characterization reflects the bill sponsor’s position.
Warren described the measure as clarifying that Pennsylvania’s protections against interference and intimidation apply “to all levels of law enforcement.”
Hanbidge similarly framed the legislation as a barrier between law enforcement authorities and the voting process, arguing that keeping federal, military and law enforcement authorities outside that process protects voters from undue influence.
The sponsors stated that Pennsylvania would become the 29th state with similar voter-protection laws if the measure clears the General Assembly.
House Bill 2758 now moves to the full House for consideration.
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