The bill amends New Jersey's voter registration laws to simplify and enhance the registration process, particularly for individuals applying for a motor vehicle driver's license or identification card through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). It allows these applicants to simultaneously register to vote or update their existing voter registration, replacing the previous requirement of completing a separate voter registration form. The MVC is mandated to electronically transmit personal information of eligible applicants, such as name, date of birth, and citizenship status, to the Secretary of State, while also ensuring that individuals have the option to decline automatic voter registration. The bill also introduces new procedures for processing changes in residence and name, allowing for online submissions and outlining the responsibilities of county commissioners in maintaining accurate voter registration records.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to protect the confidentiality of individuals who choose not to register and establishes a process for verifying voter registration status using information from the statewide voter registration system. It emphasizes that the MVC will not require documentation of citizenship solely for voter registration purposes and clarifies that individuals who are not entitled to vote will not face penalties if they are registered under this new process, provided they did not knowingly make false statements. Key changes also involve the removal of certain paragraphs related to voter registration declines and the establishment of guidelines for processing records without a digitized signature. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, with the Secretary of State authorized to take necessary administrative actions prior to this date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 19:31-6.5, 19:31-6.14, 39:2-3.2, 39:3-10