New Jersey Senate Bill S373

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Requires electronic voting system vendors disclose financial ties prior to electronic voting system approval by Secretary of State.

Impact

The passage of S373 would amend existing laws under P.L.1973, c.82 and supplement Chapter 53A of Title 19 of the Revised Statutes. It introduces a clear mandate for disclosure that aligns New Jersey with recent actions taken by other states, such as Maryland and North Carolina, which have implemented similar requirements to address vulnerabilities in their electoral processes. This legislative move is anticipated to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process by ensuring that potential financial conflicts within voting system vendors are identified and evaluated before certification.

Summary

Senate Bill S373 aims to enhance the integrity of New Jersey's electoral process by requiring electronic voting system vendors to disclose any financial ties prior to receiving approval from the Secretary of State. The legislation responds to heightened concerns over election security and the potential influence of external entities on voting systems. By compelling vendors to reveal ownership details, particularly those with a five percent or greater stake in the company or its subsidiaries, the bill seeks to mitigate risks associated with conflicts of interest in the election technology sector. This requirement signifies a push for more transparency in how voting systems are managed and operated.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from lawmakers who prioritize election security, it may face criticism from vendors who argue that the financial disclosure requirements could hinder their ability to operate effectively. Opponents may also express concerns that overly stringent regulations could limit competition among vendors or slow down the certification process, potentially impacting the state’s ability to deploy modern voting technology efficiently. Balancing rigorous transparency with the need for a robust, efficient election infrastructure presents a key challenge for lawmakers as they consider the practical implications of this bill.