Allows voter who received mail-in ballot to cancel ballot and be issued new one not less than 7 days before election.
Impact
The modification proposed by A2602 could significantly impact state voting laws by aligning New Jersey's mail-in voting process with practices in other states. Currently, several states allow voters to cancel their mail-in ballots before Election Day, thus empowering voters with more control over their voting decisions. This change seeks to modernize the voting framework and ensure that it accommodates the changing views of voters as the election date approaches.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2602 aims to enhance the voting process in New Jersey by allowing voters who have received a mail-in ballot the option to cancel their ballot and request a new one at least 7 days prior to an election. The bill mandates the Secretary of State to create a form that voters can use to facilitate this process. This addresses a potential need for voters to adjust their decisions based on new information or circumstances that may arise post-ballot issuance, particularly in light of events that have occurred in previous elections, such as the 2016 general election, where voters felt the need for a change in their voting intentions.
Contention
While the initiative behind A2602 focuses on increasing voter convenience and flexibility, it may also raise concerns regarding the integrity of the voting process. Opponents might argue that allowing voters to cancel mail-in ballots could lead to confusion or potential misuse. Emphasis will likely be placed on ensuring that adequate measures are in place to maintain election security and verify valid requests for cancellation and reissuance of mail-in ballots. Given the broad implications for election administration, the bill could face scrutiny and debate during legislative discussions.
Reduces standard voter registration deadline to eight days before election; allows voter registration at polling place on election day and at offices where mail-in ballots are issued within 45 days before election.
Reduces standard voter registration deadline to eight days before election; allows voter registration at polling place on election day and at offices where mail-in ballots are issued within 45 days before election.
Requires driver's license or nondriver identification card and Social Security card to vote; changes general election voter registration deadline; requires mail-in ballots be received at least 7 days before election.
Allows voters to submit application to vote by mail using electronic mail-in ballot application form through website maintained by Secretary of State up to seven days before election.
Allows voters to submit application to vote by mail using electronic mail-in ballot application form through website maintained by Secretary of State up to seven days before election.
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.
Changes certain mail-in ballot deadlines; permits opening and canvassing of mail-in ballots prior to election day; permits pickup schedule for certain mail-in ballots; requires confirmation notice when voter changes party affiliation at MVC.
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 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.