New Jersey Assembly Bill A991

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Limits police presence at polling places and ballot drop boxes; prohibits electioneering within 100 feet of ballot drop box.

Impact

If passed, A991 would amend existing election laws to limit police visibility and interaction around polling sites. By effectively barring off-duty officers from serving as challengers in elections and regulating their actions and presence near polling locations, the bill thereby aims to enhance voters' confidence in the electoral process. Legal records of police dispatches related to polling places would have to be maintained, thereby increasing accountability and transparency in how law enforcement engages with elections.

Summary

Assembly Bill A991 seeks to regulate the presence of police officers at polling places and ballot drop box locations during elections. The primary aim of the bill is to establish a standard to ensure that voters can exercise their rights without intimidation or undue influence during the electoral process. It prohibits police officers from being assigned to polling places unless there is a specific request for assistance due to an emergency or disturbance. Consequently, this aims to create a more tranquil environment for voters and to reduce any potential perception of coercion at these critical sites.

Contention

While the bill is supported by those advocating for more secure and accessible voting processes, there are potential points of contention surrounding it. Critics might argue that limiting police presence could hinder law enforcement's ability to respond to incidents that could affect the election's integrity. Supporters of the bill maintain that the risks of intimidation outweigh these concerns and assert that local elections should be free from any appearance of coercion from law enforcement. The debate centers on balancing the need for safety with the imperative for an unobstructed voting atmosphere.