New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1733

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Requires any individual seeking elective public office to disclose when filing petition of nomination whether he or she has been convicted of a criminal offense.

Impact

The introduction of A1733 would amend existing laws related to the nomination process, specifically chapters 13 and 23 of Title 19 of the Revised Statutes. Its enactment would obligate candidates to provide detailed information regarding their criminal convictions—including the type of offense, the date of conviction, and any penalties received. Consequently, it would standardize the information presented to voters, potentially impacting public perceptions of candidates with previous convictions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1733 is a legislative proposal that seeks to enhance transparency in the electoral process by requiring individuals who intend to run for elective public office in New Jersey to disclose their criminal history. Specifically, when filing a petition of nomination, candidates must indicate whether they have ever been convicted of a criminal offense. This requirement applies not only to offenses under New Jersey law but also to convictions from other states and countries if such crimes would be deemed unlawful within New Jersey. The bill aims to ensure that voters are informed about the candidates' backgrounds before electing them into public office.

Contention

While proponents of A1733 argue that such disclosure promotes accountability and public trust in the electoral process, there are notable concerns regarding its implications for individuals with past criminal convictions. Critics may argue that this requirement could disproportionately affect candidates who have served their sentences and seek to reintegrate into society, potentially limiting democratic participation for those individuals. The bill raises essential discussions about the balance between transparency and rehabilitation in the context of public service.

Companion Bills

NJ A713

Carry Over Requires any individual seeking elective public office to disclose when filing petition of nomination whether he or she has been convicted of a criminal offense.

Previously Filed As

NJ A713

Requires any individual seeking elective public office to disclose when filing petition of nomination whether he or she has been convicted of a criminal offense.

NJ A568

Requires candidate for elective public office to file with nominating petition specific affirmation that candidate has not been convicted of disqualifying crimes.

NJ A1454

Requires candidate for elective public office to file with nominating petition specific affirmation that candidate has not been convicted of disqualifying crimes.

NJ A2993

Requires elected public officials and candidates for elective public office to disclose if they ever filed for bankruptcy; requires financial disclosure by candidates for public office in county or municipality.

NJ A1411

Prohibits candidates from nomination for more than one elective office at primary or general election.

NJ A403

Prohibits candidates from nomination for more than one elective office at primary or general election.

NJ A3826

Allows candidates to file form attesting to their understanding of and adherence to ELEC rules and regulations with their nominating petitions.

NJ SB19

Relating to the ethics of public officers and employees, the disclosure of certain political contributions, and related requirements and procedures; creating criminal offenses.

NJ SB14

Relating to the ethics of public officers and related requirements; creating criminal offenses.

NJ SB1717

ELEC CD-NOMINATING PETITIONS

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