A new bill would increase the number of poll watchers eligible at precincts in Pennsylvania.
The number of poll watchers would go up to three per party. It would also allow strengthen penalties on election officials who interfere with the duties of poll watchers and ensure poll watchers can observe the pre-canvassing of ballots.
However, Democratic State Senator Jay Costa has reservations about this bill.
“We shouldn’t have somebody from Erie County coming into Philadelphia for the expressed purpose of intimidation,” Costa said. “This is going to be something that is going to increase and enhance the opportunity for individuals to intimidate voters through this process.”
Costa also says counties are asking for more time for pre-canvassing to ensure a timely outcome in the future.
