New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2132

Introduced
3/7/22  

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 is set to impact the current electoral framework by introducing a new method of voting that utilizes technology to facilitate participation from those serving in the military. By allowing Internet voting, the bill seeks to address existing barriers that military voters face when attempting to vote from overseas. The Secretary of State is required to ensure that the voting system adheres to best practices and federal guidelines, potentially transforming how elections are conducted for this demographic in New Jersey. The anticipated outcomes include improved voter turnout among military personnel and their families and a contemporary approach to voting in the digital age.

Summary

Bill S2132 proposes a pilot project to enable voters in military service on active duty overseas, as well as their eligible family members, to vote via the Internet in certain elections, specifically during the primary and general elections of the calendar year in which the bill takes effect. This initiative aims to enhance electoral access for individuals who may be absent from their registered voting locations due to military obligations, thereby ensuring that they can still participate in the democratic process despite their geographical constraints. The bill mandates the Secretary of State to create an Internet-based voting system that prioritizes voter authentication, ballot security, and voting privacy.

Contention

However, the introduction of Internet voting may raise concerns regarding security and the integrity of the electoral process. Critics could argue that online voting opens the door to potential cyber threats, which could compromise election results and voter privacy. Nonetheless, the bill incorporates provisions to create an audit trail and uphold the integrity of the voting process, suggesting that the lawmakers have acknowledged these risks. Furthermore, discussions around the feasibility and permanent implementation of the Internet voting system are expected following the pilot project, highlighting the ongoing debate about balancing innovation with security in the electoral process.

Companion Bills

NJ A1527

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 A1527

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 S2899

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

NJ A3929

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 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 S3247

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

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 A1527

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.