This bill amends existing election laws in New Jersey to grant district boards of elections and county boards of elections the discretion to make the initial determination of the validity of cast ballots. Specifically, it allows these boards to assess whether any marks, signs, or other indications on a ballot were intended to identify or distinguish the ballot, which could lead to its rejection. The bill emphasizes that the boards will also have the authority to determine if marks made next to a candidate's name were intended to cast a vote for that candidate, regardless of whether the marks are perfectly placed within the designated area.

Additionally, the bill introduces several provisions that clarify the conditions under which ballots may be deemed null and void. It states that ballots will not be invalidated due to unauthorized marks unless the board is satisfied that such marks were intended to identify the ballot. Furthermore, it specifies that ballots cannot be declared invalid due to misprints of candidates' names or the color of the marks made. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the ballot counting process and ensure that voters' intentions are respected while maintaining the integrity of the election process.