This bill mandates the exclusive use of paper ballots and open-source voting technology in New Jersey elections within five years of its enactment. It requires all county boards of elections to conduct voting at polling places using a paper ballot system with optical scanners or certified voting equipment, while prohibiting the use of electronic voting machines, except for limited access by individuals with disabilities. The legislation outlines specific requirements for the paper ballot system, including the ability to scan and tabulate hand-marked ballots, maintain records of votes, and comply with federal voting laws. It also establishes a two-year retention period for paper ballots post-election and includes a reconciliation process to verify election results. Notably, the bill removes references to electronic voting machines and emphasizes the use of open-source software to enhance transparency and accessibility.

In addition to the voting system changes, the bill enhances early voting procedures by requiring counties to verify registered voters' eligibility and establish a minimum number of early voting locations based on the registered voter population. It specifies that all early voting sites must be public facilities, prohibits the use of public school buildings, and allows voters to cast ballots at any early voting site within their county. The bill also introduces a new voter registration system, updates the roles of election officials, and clarifies procedures for assisting voters with disabilities. Furthermore, it includes provisions for electronically scanning ballots to identify technical errors, ensuring that valid ballots are counted while allowing voters to correct any issues. The bill also appropriates funds for replacing existing electronic voting machines with the necessary equipment for paper ballot tabulation and repeals statutes related to electronic voting machine certification and procurement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 19:4-11, 19:12-7.1, 19:15A-1, 19:31-31, 19:32-49, 19:32-53, 19:53B-1, 19:53B-3, 19:53B-5, 19:53B-10, 19:53B-11, 19:53B-12, 19:53B-20, 40:45-18, 40A:4-45.45