New Jersey Senate Bill S1715

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

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 bill mandates the Secretary of State to design and implement an Internet-based voting system that ensures voter authentication, ballot security, and privacy. It encourages the use of federal guidelines and best practices from existing Internet voting projects in other states and countries. The objective is not only to enhance voter participation among military members but also to streamline the voting process, thereby aligning state laws with modern technological advancements in election management.

Summary

Senate Bill 1715 establishes a pilot project that allows voters in military service on active duty overseas, as well as their eligible family members, to cast their votes via the Internet. This initiative aims to facilitate voting for service members who may be absent from their registered voting districts during important elections, including the primary and general elections occurring in the year the bill becomes effective. The provisions outlined in the bill are intended to address the challenges faced by military personnel and ensure their voices are heard in the democratic process.

Contention

One of the main points of potential contention surrounding SB 1715 may relate to concerns about the security and integrity of Internet voting, particularly regarding how to protect against fraud and ensure that the voting process is rigorously audited. Proponents argue that this system could significantly benefit service members who are often away from home during elections, while critics may raise issues regarding the reliability of Internet-based systems in safeguarding electoral integrity. Additionally, the bill includes a provision for the Secretary of State to provide a report to the Governor and the Legislature, assessing the pilot's feasibility and effectiveness, which may play a crucial role in determining whether this voting method can be adopted permanently.