New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S1614

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

Impact

The bill is positioned to impact the state's election laws significantly by expanding the options available for voting and improving the efficiency of the mail-in voting process. With the addition of drive-up ballot drop boxes, voters will benefit from greater accessibility and flexibility, which could potentially increase voter turnout. Furthermore, guidelines established by the Secretary of State regarding the security and positioning of these drop boxes will enhance the integrity and safety of the voting process, addressing concerns about potential ballot tampering.

Summary

Senate Bill S1614 mandates that each county in New Jersey establish at least one drive-up ballot drop box for mail-in voters. The drive-up drop box is defined as a secure location designed to be accessible, featuring an adequate turning radius for vehicles, handicap parking availability, and clear visibility for voters. The legislation aims to enhance voter convenience and accessibility, ensuring that voters can securely deposit their completed mail-in ballots in a manner that accommodates various needs, including those of disabled individuals.

Contention

However, the implementation of drive-up ballot drop boxes may generate contention among various stakeholders. Opponents of the legislation may raise concerns regarding the potential for increased voter fraud or logistical challenges related to maintaining the security of the ballot boxes. Additionally, there may be apprehensions around proper electioneering practices, as the bill includes provisions to establish a 100-foot electioneering boundary around each drop box to prevent undue influence or disturbance at voting sites. These provisions reflect an effort to balance convenience and security in the electoral process.

Companion Bills

NJ A3542

Same As Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ S3143

Carry Over Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ A4809

Carry Over Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

Previously Filed As

NJ S3143

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ A3542

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ A4809

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ S63

Requires county boards of elections to establish ballot drop boxes at each office of municipal clerk.

NJ A3509

Specifies placement of early voting locations and ballot drop boxes.

NJ S1619

Permits county board of elections to open certain ballot drop boxes for fire district elections.

NJ S3324

Permits county board of elections to open certain ballot drop boxes for fire district elections.

NJ A467

Permits county board of elections to open certain ballot drop boxes for fire district elections.

NJ A4299

Permits county board of elections to open certain ballot drop boxes for fire district elections.

NJ S3648

Removes prohibition on police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places.

Similar Bills

NJ S3143

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ A4809

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ A3542

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ S3850

Permits county boards of elections to extend distance within which electioneering is prohibited.

NJ A5356

Permits county boards of elections to extend distance within which electioneering is prohibited.

KY SB4

AN ACT relating to protection of information and declaring an emergency.

KY HB672

AN ACT relating to protection of information and declaring an emergency.

NJ A991

Limits police presence at polling places and ballot drop boxes; prohibits electioneering within 100 feet of ballot drop box.