This bill aims to improve the mail-in voting process in New Jersey by allowing voters to address deficiencies in their mail-in ballots, ensuring that their votes are counted. It amends existing laws to permit voters to correct issues such as missing signatures or unsealed envelopes. The county board of elections is mandated to issue a "Cure Letter" to voters whose ballots are rejected, outlining the reasons for rejection and providing instructions for rectification. Furthermore, voters who receive a mail-in ballot and a cure letter can opt to vote in-person using a provisional ballot instead of curing their mail-in ballot.
Key provisions include the requirement for county boards of elections to allow voters to cure deficiencies without needing to submit hard-copy identification documents and to provide new mail-in ballots when necessary. The bill also emphasizes the importance of timely processing by mandating more frequent meetings of county boards of elections in the weeks leading up to elections. Additionally, it highlights the need for educational materials for election officials regarding mail-in ballot acceptance and rejection standards, ensuring that voters are well-informed about the voting process. Overall, this legislation seeks to enhance voter participation and protect the integrity of the electoral process.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 19:53C-1, 19:63-17, 19:63-20