New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1527

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Establishes pilot project to permit voters in military service on active duty overseas, and their eligible family members, to vote in certain elections using the Internet; makes appropriation.

Impact

The legislation represents a significant step towards modernizing voting mechanisms in New Jersey, especially for those serving in the military. By creating a reliable Internet voting system, the bill aims to enhance accessibility for military families who often face challenges in casting their votes while stationed far from home. The bill also stipulates that the Secretary of State will need to provide sufficient public information to ensure that eligible voters are aware of how to participate in this new voting method.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1527 establishes a pilot project designed to facilitate voting for military personnel on active duty overseas, along with their eligible family members, by allowing them to vote via the Internet. This initiative aims to ensure that these voters can participate in both primary and general elections when they are unable to physically return to their place of residence in New Jersey due to military obligations. The bill mandates the Secretary of State to develop a secure Internet-based voting system that adheres to best practices and federal guidelines for voting.

Contention

There are potential concerns regarding the security and integrity of Internet voting, particularly about the authentication of voters and the safeguarding of ballots. Critics may argue that the shift to an Internet-based system could introduce vulnerabilities and questions about the reliability of the election process. Therefore, the Secretary is required to submit a report assessing the effectiveness of the pilot project within a specified timeframe, which could influence whether Internet voting is adopted permanently.

Additional_notes

The bill includes a stipulation for appropriating necessary funds from the General Fund to implement the pilot project's objectives. This pilot is set to expire upon the submission of the aforementioned report, ensuring that the pilot's outcomes are thoroughly evaluated before any permanent changes to voting laws are enacted.

Companion Bills

NJ S2132

Same As Establishes pilot project to permit voters in military service on active duty overseas, and their eligible family members, to vote in certain elections using the Internet; makes appropriation.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1715

Establishes pilot project to permit voters in military service on active duty overseas, and their eligible family members, to vote in certain elections using the Internet; makes appropriation.

NJ S2132

Establishes pilot project to permit voters in military service on active duty overseas, and their eligible family members, to vote in certain elections using the Internet; makes appropriation.

NJ A3929

Allows certain voters residing overseas to vote in certain elections in this State depending on overseas residency or intent to return.

NJ S2899

Allows certain voters residing overseas to vote in certain elections in this State depending on overseas residency or intent to return.

NJ HB1129

Relating to a program allowing certain military voters on active duty overseas to cast a ballot electronically.

NJ AB1403

Military and overseas voters.

NJ S3247

Establishes counseling program for eligible family members of active duty military members and disabled veterans.

NJ SB1115

Relating to a program allowing certain military voters on active duty overseas to cast a ballot electronically.

NJ HB1646

Relating to a program allowing certain military voters on active duty overseas to cast a ballot electronically.

NJ A4185

Establishes counseling program for eligible family members of active duty military members and disabled veterans.

Similar Bills

NJ S1715

Establishes pilot project to permit voters in military service on active duty overseas, and their eligible family members, to vote in certain elections using the Internet; makes appropriation.

NJ S2132

Establishes pilot project to permit voters in military service on active duty overseas, and their eligible family members, to vote in certain elections using the Internet; makes appropriation.

CA AB1403

Military and overseas voters.

CA AB558

State Bar of California: service members: legal services.

CA SB702

Legislative and gubernatorial appointments: report.

CA AB1908

Department of Veterans Affairs: internal audits.

CA SB694

Deceptive practices: service members and veterans.

CA SB1071

Public postsecondary education: Chancellor of the California Community Colleges: policy to award course credit for prior military education, training, and service.