The bill amends New Jersey's election laws to strengthen voter identification requirements and update procedures for challenging voters regarding proof of identity. Starting with the first election after January 1, 2025, voters will be required to present valid identification, such as a New Jersey driver's license or other government-issued documents that include a photo, name, and expiration date. If a voter fails to present the required identification, they will be issued a provisional ballot unless they can establish a religious objection to being photographed. The bill also clarifies the roles of election challengers and district board members in verifying voter eligibility, allowing them to examine identification documents and ask necessary questions.
Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions for voters who change their residence and enhances the voter registration process by requiring first-time mail registrants to provide identification details. It specifies that voters denied a ballot due to lack of identification or a religious objection affidavit can receive a provisional ballot, which must be validated by providing the necessary identification by the close of business on the second day after the election. The legislation aims to improve the integrity and security of the voting process while ensuring that all eligible voters can participate in elections, including those with disabilities and those using provisional ballots.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 19:15-18.1, 19:15-18.2, 19:15-18.3, 19:31-3.3, 19:31-6.4, 19:31-31, 19:31A-8, 19:53C-1, 19:63-3, 19:63-6, 39:3-29.7