New Jersey Assembly Bill A4407

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/16/24
• Refer: 5/16/24

Caption

Increases daily compensation for election workers and increases additional compensation rate for election workers managing signature copy registers.

Impact

The bill modifies existing laws under R.S.19:45-6 and P.L.2001, c.245 to enhance reimbursements provided by the state to counties. Under the new provisions, the state will reimburse counties $325 for each election worker's payment, increasing from $225, thereby aiding counties in offsetting the higher compensation costs. This amendment is poised to strengthen the financial support structure for election management at the county level.

Summary

Bill A4407 aims to increase the daily compensation for election workers in New Jersey from $300 to $400 for each election they work, which includes the primary, general, or any special election. Additionally, the bill revises the compensation structure for election workers tasked with obtaining and returning signature copy registers. Under the previous law, compensation for these roles was set at $12.50 for one worker or $6.25 for each of two workers sharing the task; the new compensation rates will rise to $20 and $10, respectively. This change is intended to reflect the increasing demands and responsibilities that come with managing elections effectively.

Contention

Noteworthy areas of contention may arise from the financial implications for the state budget and local governments. Critics might argue that while increased compensation for election workers acknowledges their essential role, it places a substantial burden on state finances and could potentially lead to higher local taxes or reallocations of funds from other essential services. Conversely, supporters contend that the increased compensation is justified to attract and retain quality workers in a critical civic duty, ultimately enhancing the electoral process.