Requires voter who wishes to vote by mail to complete application for mail-in ballot each calendar year; repeals automatic vote-by-mail designation.
Impact
The introduction of this legislation is expected to significantly impact how mail-in voting is conducted in New Jersey. By requiring annual applications, the bill promotes a more informed electorate that actively participates in the voting process, thereby reducing potential voter complacency. On the other hand, this may also lead to confusion or inconvenience for voters accustomed to the prior system. Additionally, this modification could affect voter turnout, especially among those who may forget to apply each year or find the process cumbersome.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4236 mandates that any voter wishing to vote by mail must submit a new application for a mail-in ballot each calendar year. This bill aims to modernize the voting process in New Jersey, ensuring that voters actively want to receive mail-in ballots rather than being automatically designated as such. The bill repeals the previous automatic vote-by-mail designation for voters who cast mail-in ballots in the years 2016, 2017, and 2018, which allowed them to receive ballots in future elections without needing to reapply.
Contention
Debate surrounding bill A4236 may arise regarding the balance between ensuring voter participation and maintaining a streamlined voting process. Proponents argue that requiring annual applications could enhance election integrity and ensure that mail-in ballot requests are current, while opponents could raise concerns about voter suppression and the potential disenfranchisement of those who may struggle with the application process. Legislators will need to consider these factors as they discuss the implementation of this bill.
Same As
Requires voter who wishes to vote by mail to complete application for mail-in ballot each calendar year; repeals automatic vote-by-mail designation.
Carry Over
Requires voter who wishes to vote by mail to complete application for mail-in ballot each calendar year; repeals automatic vote-by-mail designation.
Carry Over
Requires voter who wishes to vote by mail to complete application for mail-in ballot each calendar year; repeals automatic vote-by-mail designation and required education program for certain vote-by-mail changes.
Requires voter who wishes to vote by mail to complete application for mail-in ballot each calendar year; repeals automatic vote-by-mail designation and required education program for certain vote-by-mail changes.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Requires voter who wishes to vote by mail to complete application for mail-in ballot each calendar year; repeals automatic vote-by-mail designation and required education program for certain vote-by-mail changes.