Issues
Issues

Committee of Seventy focuses on a variety of issues affecting voters in Pennsylvania and Philadelphia. Browse the issues we're currently working on, or review our archive for ongoing and past issues.
Get Informed
Get Informed

Find out more information about being an active and engaged citizen in your community. From voting information to staying informed throughout the year, Committee of Seventy has resources for you.
Take Action
Take Action

Learn more about how to get involved with Committee of Seventy's work.
About
About

The Committee of Seventy was established in 1904 to combat corruption in Philadelphia, playing a major role in the adoption of civil service reforms and the passage of the 1919 and 1951 Home Rule Charters. A nonprofit and nonpartisan organization, Seventy does not endorse candidates or represent any special interests.
Latest Updates
Latest Updates

For over one hundred years, the Committee of Seventy has been the voice of good government and reform. For press inquiries, please contact us at 617-785-6991.
Interactive Voter Guide

Committee of Seventy Releases Statement on Commonwealth Court Ruling on Mail-In Ballot Envelope Dating

For Immediate Release: Friday, August 30, 2024
Contact: Genevieve Greene, [email protected], 617-785-6991

Philadelphia, PA - President and CEO of the Committee of Seventy, Lauren Cristella, released the following statement regarding today’s Commonwealth Court ruling on mail-in ballot envelope dating:

“Every voter should feel confident casting their ballot by mail, knowing that minor mistakes will not keep them from making their voice heard. We have always maintained that the requirement to date the mail-in ballot envelope is unnecessary and we are glad to see today’s Commonwealth Court decision confirm that long-standing belief.

Pennsylvania Law requires ballots to be in the hands of counties by 8:00pm on Election Day. Counties have always been able to determine if a ballot is received on time regardless of an incorrect or missing date on the return envelope, meaning the dating requirement is, and always has been, immaterial.

While we anticipate further appeals and will continue following this issue closely, this is an important milestone in safeguarding the rights of Pennsylvania voters. Ensuring that no one is disenfranchised due to a simple mistake is vital to maintaining a fair and accessible voting process.”