New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3648

Introduced
9/26/24  

Caption

Removes prohibition on police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places.

Impact

The implications of S3648 are significant for the conduct of elections in New Jersey. By allowing police officers to be present, supporters believe that the bill will help maintain order and deter potential criminal activities at polling places and ballot drop box sites. This change is especially relevant in areas with a history of violence or voter intimidation. However, the bill's impact on voter turnout is uncertain, as critics express concerns about the psychological effect of police presence on voters, particularly among marginalized communities who may feel less safe with law enforcement nearby.

Summary

Senate Bill S3648 aims to amend existing New Jersey election laws by removing the prohibition against police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places. Under the current law established in 2021, law enforcement was restricted from being present within 100 feet of these areas to prevent possible intimidation or interference with voters' rights. By lifting this restriction, the bill proposes that police can once again be stationed close to polling places, which proponents argue could enhance security and peace during elections.

Contention

The bill has sparked considerable debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents, including some law enforcement officials, argue that a visible police presence could bolster confidence in the electoral process and protect against fraud or disturbances. Conversely, opponents contend that this approach could lead to intimidation and discourage vulnerable populations from voting, thereby undermining democratic participation. There is concern that reinstating police presence may replicate past tensions between law enforcement and the communities they serve, especially in an electoral context.

Companion Bills

NJ A4243

Same As Removes prohibition on police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places.

NJ A4452

Carry Over Removes prohibition on police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places.

Previously Filed As

NJ A4452

Removes prohibition on police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places.

NJ A4243

Removes prohibition on police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places.

NJ A991

Limits police presence at polling places and ballot drop boxes; prohibits electioneering within 100 feet of ballot drop box.

NJ A3509

Specifies placement of early voting locations and ballot drop boxes.

NJ S855

Permits police officers to travel to and from and remain within police station located within 100 feet of polling place; permits Class Three special law enforcement officers to be assigned to certain polling places.

NJ S2219

Permits police officers to travel to and from and remain within police station located within 100 feet of polling place; permits Class Three special law enforcement officers to be assigned to certain polling places.

NJ S1614

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ A3542

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ S3143

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

NJ A4809

Requires at least one drive-up ballot drop box in each county; requires certain information to be posted at ballot drop boxes and locations.

Similar Bills

NJ A4243

Removes prohibition on police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places.

NJ A4452

Removes prohibition on police presence at ballot drop boxes and polling places.

NJ A991

Limits police presence at polling places and ballot drop boxes; prohibits electioneering within 100 feet of ballot drop box.

NJ S855

Permits police officers to travel to and from and remain within police station located within 100 feet of polling place; permits Class Three special law enforcement officers to be assigned to certain polling places.

NJ S2219

Permits police officers to travel to and from and remain within police station located within 100 feet of polling place; permits Class Three special law enforcement officers to be assigned to certain polling places.

NJ S2912

Provides police officers may be present at senior residential center or school being used as polling place under certain circumstances; requires school to establish election day security plan.

NJ A3862

Provides police officers may be present at senior residential center or school being used as polling place under certain circumstances; requires school to establish election day security plan.

NJ S2531

Provides police officers may be present at senior residential center or school being used as polling place under certain circumstances; requires school to establish election day security plan.