The bill introduces significant revisions to the design and procedures of primary election ballots in New Jersey, mandating that all ballots be arranged in an office block format to group candidates for the same office together. It establishes uniform design standards aimed at reducing voter confusion, such as using plain language, maintaining consistent spacing, and clearly labeling candidate positions. Additionally, candidates are permitted to include a slogan or endorsement of up to six words next to their names, provided they adhere to specific guidelines. The bill also removes State committee members from the primary election process, allowing their election to be conducted by county committee members instead.
Moreover, the legislation clarifies the procedures for drawing candidates' names and specifies that if only one candidate is running for an office, that candidate will automatically be placed first on the ballot. It allows county clerks to choose between landscape or portrait orientations for ballots and prohibits practices that separate candidates for the same office or mix candidates from different offices. The Division of Elections is tasked with collecting data on the implementation of these changes and will submit a report to the Governor and Legislature after two primary elections, assessing the impact of the new ballot designs and procedures on voters and election officials.