This bill amends existing election laws in New Jersey to extend the early voting period for primary elections and adjust the deadline for the appointment of election challengers. Specifically, the deadline for filing the appointment or application for challengers is changed from the second Tuesday preceding an election to the third Tuesday preceding an election. Additionally, the early voting period is modified to start on the 7th calendar day before both non-presidential and presidential primary elections, and it will end on the second calendar day before the respective elections. The bill also stipulates that early voting locations must be designated based on the number of registered voters in each county, ensuring accessibility and compliance with federal regulations.

Furthermore, the bill appropriates $6 million from the General Fund to the Department of State for the implementation of these changes and provides for additional state aid to counties and municipalities conducting early voting. This funding aims to support the necessary infrastructure and resources for early voting, including the establishment of public locations and the provision of voting equipment. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 19:15A-1
Advance Law: 19:15A-1