New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3817

Introduced
3/24/22  
Refer
3/24/22  
Refer
5/12/22  
Refer
6/9/22  
Report Pass
6/13/22  
Engrossed
6/29/22  
Engrossed
6/29/22  
Enrolled
6/29/22  
Chaptered
7/28/22  

Caption

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.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws regarding election procedures, enhancing voter privacy and security. It amends the New Jersey Revised Statutes to improve existing procedures for hand-marked paper ballots and introduces provisions for electronic submission of voter registration changes. This modernization aims to streamline the voting process and facilitate easier access for voters to participate in elections, while also maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of their votes.

Summary

Bill A3817, which was approved on July 28, 2022, addresses key aspects of voting procedures in New Jersey, focusing on mail-in and early voting, as well as the processes for updating voter registration records. The legislation mandates that all voters be provided with privacy sleeves when voting, ensuring the secrecy of their ballots, and outlines requirements for proper handling and submission of mail-in ballots. It establishes guidelines for electronic applications for mail-in ballots beginning on January 1, 2026, making the process more accessible for voters.

Sentiment

The sentiment around A3817 appears to be generally positive among supporters who believe it enhances the voting experience and protects voter privacy. However, there are concerns from some advocacy groups and political opponents who argue that not all changes are sufficient to prevent issues such as voter fraud or that they may complicate the voting process for certain populations who may struggle with electronic submissions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over the extent and effectiveness of the privacy protections being implemented, particularly regarding the use of electronic voting systems and mail-in ballots. Critics argue that while improvements are made, potential loopholes could arise that compromise the integrity of elections. Furthermore, the timeline for implementing the electronic voting application process has raised questions about readiness and accessibility.

Companion Bills

NJ S2863

Same As 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.

Previously Filed As

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 A3201

Requires ballot scanning machines to have privacy screen, shield, or curtain; requires use of privacy screens and shields at polling places.

NJ A3543

Requires ballot scanning machines to have privacy screen, shield, or curtain; requires use of privacy screens and shields at polling places.

NJ A5701

Allows voter registration at polling place on election day or at early voting site during early voting period.

NJ A925

Allows voter registration at polling place on election day or at early voting site during early voting period.

NJ S1193

Allows voter registration at polling place on election day or at early voting site during early voting period.

NJ A2967

Creates online form to update name and residence on existing voter registration record; allows change of residence notice to update existing record when voter moves to another county.

NJ S238

Requires use of paper ballots during conduct of election; requires use of open source voting technology; makes appropriation.

NJ S381

Requires use of paper ballots during conduct of election; requires use of open source voting technology; makes appropriation.

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.

Similar Bills

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 S1636

Changes MVC voter registration procedures.

NJ A4206

Changes MVC voter registration procedures.

NJ S4044

Changes MVC voter registration procedures.

NJ A2967

Creates online form to update name and residence on existing voter registration record; allows change of residence notice to update existing record when voter moves to another county.

NJ S3651

Requires certain documentation as proof of voter identity to vote; updates procedures for challenging voters regarding proof of identity.

NJ A4248

Requires certain documentation as proof of voter identity to vote; updates procedures for challenging voters regarding proof of identity.

NJ S1687

Requires certain documentation as proof of voter identity to vote; updates procedures for challenging voters regarding proof of identity.