The Voter Protection and Law Enforcement Neutrality Act is designed to enhance voter access and protect the electoral process in New Jersey by regulating the presence and conduct of law enforcement officers near polling places and ballot drop box locations. The bill prohibits law enforcement officers, whether on or off-duty, from remaining within 200 feet of these locations during elections, unless they are responding to a specific request for assistance or executing a judicial warrant. This expands the previous restriction from 100 feet to 200 feet and includes specific exceptions for officers voting, assisting others, or responding to disturbances. The act also clarifies that it does not obstruct federal officers performing their official duties.

In addition to these provisions, the bill amends existing laws to prohibit police officers from wearing uniforms or carrying weapons at polling places and ballot drop boxes. It mandates that ballot drop boxes be accessible and secure, with guidelines for their placement and operation. The Attorney General is tasked with creating a reporting process for alleged violations and publishing an aggregate report after each general election to assess incidents and recommend improvements. The act will take effect 90 days after enactment, allowing time for the Attorney General and Secretary of State to prepare necessary guidance and training standards for law enforcement and election officials.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 19:6-15.1, 19:63-16.1