Moving Democracy into the 21st Century with Online Voter Registration, Apps & More

Last week, Governor Wolf and Secretary of State Cortés made a historic announcement: Pennsylvania is now offering online voter registration. This is an important step to move our democracy into the 21st century. With increased access, more Pennsylvanians can register to vote and make their voices heard. In just the first day of online voter registration, more than 1000 applications were submitted. If you or someone you know would like to register to vote online, you can do so at www.register.votespa.com. Please note that the last day to register to vote for the November 3rd election is October 5th.

Online voter registration isn’t the only new technology to increase engagement in our commonwealth this month. Did you know that you can now check the status of construction projects and plans in your community through PennDOT’s website? On www.Projects.PennDOT.gov you will find maps and explanations of current projects, improvements underway or in development from Act 89 and projects included in the Department’s 4 and 12-year plans. This is a great new resource to stay informed about roadwork in the area.

Our state has also developed apps to help citizens stay informed and up-to-date. Pennsylvania Emergency Preparedness Agency (PEMA) recently unveiled an app called ReadyPA that allows Pennsylvanians to access emergency alerts and guides, and create emergency preparedness kits and checklists. The app can be found on iTunes and Google Play.

Health Insurance Expands in PA

On Tuesday, Governor Wolf completed the expansion of Medicaid into a single benefits package that broadens income eligibility to include hundreds of thousands of additional individuals. You can visit http://www.medicaid.gov/Medicaid-CHIP-Program-Information/By-State/pennsylvania.html to view the new Medicaid and CHIP income eligibility guidelines.

As a part of meeting Affordable Care Act standards, CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) coverage will be expanded in Pennsylvania. Beginning December 1st, CHIP coverage will include:

• No annual and lifetime dollar limitations for specific services classified as essential health benefits, including durable medical equipment, vision services and dental/orthodontic services;
• Preventative care coverage with no cost-sharing;
• Coverage of prescribed over-the-counter medications and supplements;
• Parity between mental health and substance abuse coverage, and between medical and surgical benefits

If you would like to find out if you qualify for coverage under Medicaid, or your child may qualify for CHIP, stop by one of my district offices and a staff member will be happy to assist you.

Dare to care,

Art Haywood
State Senator
4th District

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