This bill seeks to define and prohibit voter disenfranchisement in New Jersey, establishing penalties for such actions and creating a framework for enforcement. It introduces new legal definitions for terms like "disenfranchise," "election official," and "voter," while outlining specific actions that constitute voter disenfranchisement, such as intimidation, coercion, and providing false information about voting eligibility. The bill allows individuals who believe they have been disenfranchised to pursue a private cause of action and establishes an Independent Election Oversight Committee to monitor elections and investigate reports of disenfranchisement.

Additionally, the bill mandates that all polling places be accessible and conveniently located, prohibits state agencies from requiring voter identification, and requires election officials to be trained on recognizing and reporting disenfranchisement. It criminalizes providing false information regarding voter eligibility and voting procedures, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. The bill allocates $100,000 for public awareness campaigns to educate voters about their rights and the voting process, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the right to vote and deterring actions that could undermine this fundamental right.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 19:34-1.1