The bill amends R.S.19:16-3 and R.S.19:16-4 to provide clearer guidelines for counting votes and determining the validity of ballots in New Jersey elections. It establishes that the district board or county board has the discretion to assess whether marks on a ballot were intended to identify a candidate or distinguish the ballot itself. Specifically, it allows for votes to be counted even if the marks are not perfectly placed within designated squares, as long as the intent to vote for a candidate or public question is clear. Additionally, it clarifies that ballots will be deemed null and void if they are wholly blank, contain more names than there are positions available, or if both "Yes" and "No" are marked on public questions.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions that ensure ballots are not invalidated due to minor errors, such as misprints of candidate names or the use of non-black ink. It mandates the Secretary of State to create uniform guidelines in consultation with county boards of elections to assist in the assessment of ballot validity. This aims to streamline the process and ensure consistency across different jurisdictions in New Jersey, ultimately enhancing the integrity and accessibility of the electoral process.