Pennsylvania plans to test out internet-connected pollbooks in 2026 primary
The Pennsylvania Department of State is launching a pilot program to try out the use of internet-connected electronic pollbooks, and the devices would be deployed as early as the May primary election.
More than half of Pennsylvania counties are already using or have tested out electronic pollbooks, or e-pollbooks. But the state doesnt currently allow those systems to be connected to the internet, limiting their utility, proponents say, and some county election officials have been petitioning the state to change that.
Proponents point out that internet-connected pollbooks could reduce administrative burdens and allow counties to check results more quickly. But some county officials are concerned that connecting them to the internet could compromise election security.
Amy Gulli, a spokesperson for the Department of State, said that on Jan. 28, the department informed e-pollbook vendors about how to to apply to participate in the pilot program, which is still in the early stages, and will assess whether internet-connected EPBs allow county election officials to respond to polling place issues faster and more efficiently.
https://www.votebeat.org/pennsylvania/2026/02/12/electronic-pollbook-internet-connectivity-pilot-program-2026-primary/