U.S. Justice Department to monitor polls in Pa. for compliance with federal voting laws

The U.S. Department of Justice says it’s posting monitors in 64 jurisdictions in 24 states to monitor local compliance with federal voting laws.

“Since the passage of the Voting RIghts Act of 1965, the Civil Rights Division has regularly monitored elections in the field in jurisdictions around the country to protect the rights of voters,” the agency said in a Monday statement. 

“The Civil Rights Division will also take complaints from the public nationwide regarding possible violations of … federal voting rights laws through its call center,” the Justice Department said.

The Justice Department said it’s posting monitors in Berks, Centre, Lehigh, Luzerne, and Philadelphia counties.

You can call 800-253-3931 to file a complaint about possible violations of federal law, or fill out a complaint form on the Justice Department’s website.

People with questions or concerns about Americans with Disabilities Act issues can call 800-514-0301 or 833-610-1264 (TTY calling), or submit a complaint online. 

Complaints about disruptions at polling places always should be directed to local elections officials. Threats of violences, actual violence, or intimidation should be directed to local police department, the Justice Department said. People also should notify the agency after they have called local law enforcement, the DOJ said in its statement.