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, employing optical scanners or other certified voting equipment, while prohibiting the use of electronic voting machines except for limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the election process by requiring that all paper ballots be retained for at least two years post-election and outlines a verification process for official election results. Notably, the bill removes references to electronic voting machines and replaces them with broader terms like "voting equipment," ensuring transparency and public access to the technology used.

Additionally, the bill enhances early voting procedures by mandating that counties verify registered voters' eligibility and establish early voting locations based on the number of registered voters. It specifies the minimum number of early voting sites required for different population sizes and prohibits the use of public school buildings for these sites. The legislation also introduces a new system for managing voter registration and ballot security, including a Statewide voter registration system and the use of electronic devices for provisional ballots. Overall, the bill aims to modernize election administration, improve accessibility for voters, and ensure the integrity of the voting process.

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