New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3759

Introduced
5/2/22  

Caption

Requires sample ballots to be watermarked as sample ballots.

Impact

The primary impact of A3759 is its amendment of existing state laws regarding the preparation and presentation of sample ballots, specifically changing R.S.19:14-22 and R.S.19:23-31. With the introduction of watermarks and color distinctions, the state aims to maintain a higher standard of election visibility. This amendment directly affects the guidelines for election officials, ensuring that sample ballots provide clear and accessible voting information, thereby enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3759, introduced on May 2, 2022, mandates that sample ballots for both general and primary elections in New Jersey must be watermarked. This legislation aims to improve the clarity and security of election materials, ensuring voters can easily distinguish sample ballots from official ballots used on election day. By mandating specific features, such as color differentiation from official ballots and clear visibilities indicating that these ballots cannot be voted on, the bill seeks to prevent voter confusion.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, there are underlying concerns regarding its implementation. Critics might argue the additional requirements could impact the operational costs for local election officials, with potential delays in ballot preparation. Although the bill intends to prevent voter confusion, opponents may raise questions about the feasibility of enforcing the watermark requirement across various municipalities, particularly in areas that may struggle with budget constraints.

Additional_notes

Overall, A3759 represents a proactive approach to refining the electoral process in New Jersey, with a focus on ensuring voter clarity and confidence. As it stands, the bill does not seem to have generated significant contention, but its implementation and logistics will be closely monitored by election officials and stakeholders.

Companion Bills

NJ S1510

Same As Requires sample ballots to be watermarked as sample ballots.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1510

Requires sample ballots to be watermarked as sample ballots.

NJ S1460

Requires sample ballots to be watermarked as sample ballots.

NJ A2348

Requires sample ballots to be watermarked as sample ballots.

NJ SB2589

Ballots; require certain information on the front of and require watermark on absentee voter ballots.

NJ HB2804

Sample ballots; mailing date

NJ HB806

Revise requirements for absentee ballots

NJ A2034

Requires certain information to increase public awareness and use of voting by mail; requires certain mail-in ballots received by county board within 48 hours be considered valid; requires certain mail-in ballots to be retained.

NJ A2216

Requires certain information to increase public awareness and use of voting by mail; requires certain mail-in ballots received by county board within 48 hours be considered valid; requires certain mail-in ballots to be retained.

NJ HF2428

Various laws related to election administration modified, absentee voting requirements and procedures modified, timelines modified, notice with absentee ballot applications and sample ballots required, and filing period for certain local offices modified.

NJ HB1522

Requiring the use of ballots with embedded security and relative to chain of custody of absentee ballots.

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