New Jersey Assembly Bill A4638

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/22/22
• Refer: 9/22/22

Caption

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.

Impact

The bill also repeals the automatic designation of voters as mail-in ballot voters, which was established for individuals who voted by mail in previous election years. Furthermore, the legislation removes the requirement for county clerks to conduct an educational campaign informing voters about the change and the potential to lose mail-in voting status. By requiring annual applications, the bill aims to streamline preparations for mail-in voting but may pose hurdles for voters accustomed to automatic mail-in ballot provisions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4638 focuses on changing the protocols related to mail-in voting in New Jersey. The primary requirement introduced by this bill mandates that a voter must complete an application for a mail-in ballot each calendar year. Under prior legislation, voters could apply for mail-in ballots for all future elections without the need for annual reapplication, but this bill eliminates that option. Each voter will have to express their intent annually either to vote by mail in all elections or select specific ones within that year, thus increasing the administrative responsibilities of both voters and county clerks.

Contention

There may be contention surrounding this bill as it alters long-standing practices regarding mail-in voting. Advocates might argue this change fosters a more organized voting process, reducing the risk of ballot misuse. In contrast, opponents may raise concerns that it complicates the voting process for individuals, especially those who have relied on automatic voting in the past and may not be aware of the changes. Some factions believe that requiring annual applications could disenfranchise voters who are unable to keep track of the new requirements.