How Coronavirus Outbreak Could Impact PA Primary

PHILADELPHIA — As concerns grow over the new coronavirus, known as COVID-19, a Philadelphia and Montgomery County state representative is introducing a bill that would mail ballots to voters.

State Rep. Kevin Boyle (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery County) said with the April 28 primary election coming, he introduced House Bill 2367 Thursday to require all voters to be mailed a ballot.

"PA needs to be realistic about the Apr 28 election," he said on Twitter. "We don’t know what the future beholds or whether in person voting will be safe let alone viable for citizens & election workers alike."

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the bill would set aside $40 million for ballots to be sent in prepaid, pre-return addressed envelopes.

Many polling places are in schools, nursing homes, and other large gathering areas.

Giving voters the option to avoid such places is in line with the social distancing guidance urged by health officials.

State Rep. Tim Briggs (D-Montgomery County) is a cosponsor of the bill.

To vote by a mail-in ballot, you must request a mail-in ballot. You can do so here.