LANCASTER, PA — In a unanimous decision that underscores the value of civic service, the Lancaster County Board of Elections approved a resolution on Wednesday, February 28, to raise the compensation rates for poll workers. This is the first increase in poll worker pay since 2016 and represents a significant step towards acknowledging these individuals’ crucial role in maintaining democracy.
The new compensation scale will see Judges of Election’s pay rise from $140 per election to $200 per election, a figure that aligns with the maximum single-day pay allowed for poll workers by state law. Meanwhile, Majority and Minority Inspectors will see their pay increase from $110 to $175 per election. Each Clerk and Machine Inspector can also expect a bump in their remuneration, with their pay increasing from $100 to $150 per election.
In addition to this, election officers who attend training sessions provided by the Board of Elections office ahead of Election Day will now receive $20 per session, a $10 increase from the previous rate. This move not only compensates them for their time but also encourages ongoing professional development and knowledge acquisition, which ultimately contributes to the smooth running of elections.
Lancaster County’s election machinery relies heavily on the support of over 1,400 volunteers on Election Day. These volunteers form the backbone of the 240 polling precincts across the county, ensuring that every citizen has a fair and equal opportunity to cast their vote. Additionally, the Board of Elections also coordinates a dedicated team of volunteers responsible for managing the mail-in ballot canvass.
“We are fortunate in Lancaster County to have a vibrant team of staff and volunteers that make our elections efficient, safe, and secure,” said Commissioner Ray D’Agostino, Chairman of the Board of Elections. “We have heard from other counties across the Commonwealth where recruiting and maintaining poll workers is a struggle. We appreciate the work of those who serve on Election Day in Lancaster County, and this increase in compensation says, ‘thank you’ and will help to maintain our poll workers for future elections.”
This pay increase may seem like a straightforward policy change, but its implications are far-reaching. It not only acknowledges the essential role that these poll workers play in ensuring fair and free elections but also incentivizes more people to consider participating in this civic duty.
Poll workers are the unsung heroes of every election, often working long hours to ensure every vote is accurately counted. Their role is particularly critical in a time when faith in the electoral process is being tested. By increasing their compensation, Lancaster County is signaling its commitment to supporting these individuals and ensuring the sustainability of its pool of dedicated poll workers.
Moreover, the pay increase could potentially have a positive ripple effect across the Commonwealth, prompting other counties to revisit their compensation scales. This could ultimately lead to a statewide improvement in the conditions for poll workers, thereby strengthening the democratic process as a whole.
For those interested in serving as a poll worker, sign-up information is available on the Lancaster County website. The increase in compensation marks an exciting opportunity for Lancaster County residents to get involved in the electoral process and make a difference in their community.
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