New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2106

Introduced
3/3/22  

Caption

Requires do not forward label on mail-in ballot envelopes; allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or detached certificate; requires certain voter data be entered into voter file within 30 days.

Impact

The implementation of S2106 will necessitate adjustments in how counties manage mail-in ballots and voter registration processes. Specifically, when a mail-in ballot is returned for any reason, it must be forwarded to the commissioner of registration within 30 days. If the return is due to the voter's death, the corresponding procedures to transfer that individual's status to the death file must be followed. This procedural shift aims to improve the accuracy of voter records and decrease incidences of fraudulent voting by ensuring that deceased individuals are not listed as active voters.

Summary

Senate Bill S2106 seeks to enhance the process surrounding mail-in voting in New Jersey. One of the bill's central provisions is the requirement that mail-in ballot envelopes include a 'do not forward' label, ensuring that ballots are only delivered to the intended recipient. In cases where a letter is returned for reasons such as the voter being deceased or having moved, residents at that address can return the unopened ballot to the county clerk, enhancing transparency and responsiveness in the electoral process. Additionally, the bill outlines that certain voter information must be correctly filed and updated regarding deceased registrants to maintain the integrity of the voter rolls.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding S2106 may stem from concerns over voter accessibility and the potential complexity introduced by the new provisions. Critics may argue that the additional steps for curing ballots, particularly concerning the missing or detached voter certificate, could disenfranchise voters who may be unaware of the requirements or unable to navigate the new processes effectively. Advocates assert that these changes are essential for maintaining ballot integrity and ensuring public confidence in the electoral system.

Companion Bills

NJ A365

Same As Requires do not forward label on mail-in ballot envelopes; allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or detached certificate; requires certain voter data be entered into voter file within 30 days.

Previously Filed As

NJ S847

Requires do not forward label on mail-in ballot envelopes; allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or detached certificate; requires certain voter data be entered into voter file within 30 days.

NJ A365

Requires do not forward label on mail-in ballot envelopes; allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or detached certificate; requires certain voter data be entered into voter file within 30 days.

NJ A3200

Requires do not forward label on mail-in ballot envelopes; allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or detached certificate; requires certain voter data be entered into voter file within 30 days.

NJ A2009

Allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing certificate.

NJ A1824

Allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing certificate.

NJ S1235

Requires outer envelope for mailing of voted mail-in ballot by voter to include postage prepaid.

NJ A3104

Requires outer envelope for mailing of voted mail-in ballot by voter to include postage prepaid.

NJ A3658

Allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or unsealed inner envelope.

NJ A3820

Prohibits unaffiliated mail-in voters from receiving mail-in ballot for primary election; requires election officials to provide such voters certain notices; prohibits mail-in ballot envelopes from containing visible political affiliation or designation for certain elections.

NJ S2869

Prohibits unaffiliated mail-in voters from receiving mail-in ballot for primary election; requires election officials to provide such voters certain notices; prohibits mail-in ballot envelopes from containing visible political affiliation or designation for certain elections.

Similar Bills

NJ A3200

Requires do not forward label on mail-in ballot envelopes; allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or detached certificate; requires certain voter data be entered into voter file within 30 days.

NJ S847

Requires do not forward label on mail-in ballot envelopes; allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or detached certificate; requires certain voter data be entered into voter file within 30 days.

NJ A365

Requires do not forward label on mail-in ballot envelopes; allows mail-in voter to cure mail-in ballot due to missing or detached certificate; requires certain voter data be entered into voter file within 30 days.

NJ A4909

"Protecting Mail-in Voters Act"; requires those who vote by mail to enclose copy of personal identification.

NJ S2863

Requires ballot privacy sleeves at polling place; makes various changes to early and mail-in voting procedures; creates online form to update name and residence on existing voter registration record.

NJ A3817

Requires ballot privacy sleeves at polling place; makes various changes to early and mail-in voting procedures; creates online form to update name and residence on existing voter registration record.

NJ A3823

Requires enhanced review of death records two months prior to election; permits remote training for certain election workers; exempts election worker compensation from taxation and remuneration.

NJ A3964

Allows voter to vote in any political party primary by changing party affiliation at polling place on primary election day; allows mail-in voter to complete any political primary ballot.