The bill amends New Jersey election laws to strengthen voter identification requirements and clarify the procedures for challenging a voter's eligibility. Starting with elections after January 1, 2025, all voters will be required to present valid proof of identification that includes their name, a photograph, an expiration date, and is issued by the federal government or the state of New Jersey. Voters who registered by mail after January 1, 2003, without providing identification will be allowed to vote in federal elections after January 1, 2004, provided they present valid identification. The bill also mandates provisional ballots for voters who fail to present the necessary identification, with exceptions for those with religious objections to being photographed. Additionally, it emphasizes the confidentiality of personal identification information and prohibits challenges based on race, color, or national origin.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the voter registration process by requiring individuals to provide identification information when registering to vote, particularly for first-time mail registrants. It establishes that the right to challenge voters remains until the ballot is deposited, and all challenges must be recorded in the signature comparison record. The bill also outlines procedures for voters changing their residence and enhances the voter registration system by requiring additional identification information. Provisional ballots must be clearly marked and uniform, and the county clerks are responsible for preparing necessary materials for provisional voting. Overall, the legislation aims to improve the integrity of the voting process while ensuring that eligible voters can still exercise their right to vote.

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