New Jersey Assembly Bill AR85

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Urges Congress to appropriate additional federal funds for election security and voting equipment purposes.

Impact

The implementation of AR85, if acted upon by Congress, would facilitate the provision of additional resources to states for the purpose of modernizing their electoral infrastructure. Specifically, New Jersey is projected to receive around $9.8 million from the 2018 HAVA funds, with a required state match of $487,000. However, the resolution argues that these funds are insufficient when considering the total costs involved in replacing aging voting machines used in numerous counties across the state. The intended upgrades are expected to foster increased voter confidence during elections by ensuring that the voting process is secure and transparent.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 85 (AR85) urges the United States Congress to appropriate additional federal funds specifically aimed at enhancing election security and upgrading voting equipment. This resolution recognizes the significant financial investment already made under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) but highlights the ongoing need for further funding in light of outdated election technologies that many states, including New Jersey, are still utilizing. The resolution calls attention to the necessity for updated systems that verify votes through paper records and protect against potential cyber threats.

Contention

AR85 reflects a broader national concern regarding election integrity and security. While the resolution serves as a means to advocate for necessary funding, it also underscores the challenges faced by states trying to keep up with technological advancements in the electoral process. Proponents of the resolution emphasize the urgency of these upgrades to ensure a secure voting experience for citizens, while critics may argue about the efficiency and effectiveness of federal spending in addressing state-level needs. The resolution seeks to represent the interests of New Jersey residents in securing more substantial federal support for these crucial updates.