New Jersey Senate Bill SR55

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22
• Report Pass: 2/2/23

Caption

Urges Congress to make Election Day federal holiday in US.

Impact

The bill highlights the importance of voting as a fundamental right enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, granting citizens the power to elect their leaders and influence public policies. It references other countries where elections are held on weekends, resulting in higher turnout rates, thereby suggesting that a similar approach in the U.S. could enhance civic engagement. Furthermore, the resolution notes that a federal holiday could help streamline the voting process at polling places by reducing the lines that form during rush hours, making the overall experience more efficient for voters.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 55 urges Congress to designate Election Day as a federal holiday in the United States. This initiative is driven by the belief that making Election Day a holiday would facilitate greater voter participation by removing obstacles like conflicting work or school schedules that typically prevent eligible voters from casting their ballots. With only about half of the eligible voters participating in national elections, the resolution emphasizes that increasing turnout is vital for a representative democracy.

Contention

While the resolution has garnered support for its intent to boost civic participation, it may face challenges in Congress, particularly from those who argue against the necessity of a federal holiday. Critics may state that it could disrupt normal business operations, create complications for certain sectors, or lead to the undermining of state control over election procedures. Nonetheless, the resolution positions the push for a federal holiday as essential to reinforcing democratic principles of liberty, justice, and equality.