New Jersey Assembly Bill A1056

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires commissioner of registration to move voters with undeliverable mail-in ballots to inactive file; removes such inactive voters from Statewide voter registration system following failure to vote in two consecutive federal general elections.

Impact

The implementation of A1056 could lead to a clearer and more organized voter registration process within the state. By regularly updating the voter rolls and removing individuals who are unlikely to vote, the state can expect a more accurate representation of active voters. This bill may enhance the efficiency of electoral processes, as it aims to reduce the number of inactive voters in the system, thereby streamlining election logistics and reducing the potential for fraud associated with outdated registrations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1056 addresses the issue of mail-in ballots sent to voters that are returned as undeliverable. The bill mandates that the commissioner of registration is responsible for moving these voters to an inactive file in the statewide voter registration system. If any of these voters do not participate in two consecutive federal general elections, they will be removed entirely from the voter registration system. This change aims to improve the integrity and accuracy of voter rolls by ensuring that inactive or unreachable voters are not counted in the electorate.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding A1056 is the potential for disenfranchisement of voters. Critics argue that the removal process could impact individuals who may have valid reasons for not voting, such as illness or mobility issues, and thus may not have cast a ballot in the last two elections. There are concerns that the definition of 'undeliverable' could lead to undue removals, especially for those facing challenges in receiving mail or those who move frequently. This tension between maintaining accurate voter rolls and ensuring voter access will be a significant point of debate as the bill is discussed further.