New Jersey Assembly Bill A1420

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Prohibits approval of voting machine or voting system if vendor is foreign company, if domestic vendor exports technology overseas, or due to major non-citizen ownership.

Impact

If passed, A1420 will significantly amend existing laws regarding the approval and use of voting machines within the state. Specifically, it aims to guarantee that all vendors, whether foreign or domestic, meet stringent ownership and operational criteria to ensure their alignment with national security standards. The bill stipulates that a thorough vetting process must occur before any contract for voting systems is awarded, thereby increasing the accountability of vendors supplying equipment for elections in New Jersey. Compliance reviews will be mandatory every year before primary elections to assess vendor adherence to the newly established regulations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1420 seeks to enhance the security and integrity of voting systems in New Jersey by prohibiting the Secretary of State from approving any voting machines or systems if the vendor is a foreign company or if a domestic vendor exports technology overseas. This legislation proposes new eligibility criteria aimed at preventing potential manipulation or interference from external entities, thereby instilling greater public trust in the electoral process. The bill asserts that it is essential to ensure that voting technology is produced and managed domestically by companies with American ownership and oversight.

Contention

Opponents of A1420 may raise concerns regarding the potential economic repercussions of restricting access to foreign voting technology, which could limit competition and innovation in this sector. Furthermore, criticism may arise regarding the feasibility and cost associated with complying with the bill’s requirements, particularly for smaller, local businesses that might struggle with the extensive vetting process. Advocates for the legislation argue it is a necessary precaution against threats to election integrity, emphasizing a strong nationalistic approach to securing critical infrastructure involved in the electoral process.