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NJ S2834

NJ S2834
Concerning noncitizens voting in local elections and conduct in office by local government officers.


summary

Introduced
06/13/2022
In Committee
06/13/2022
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/08/2024

Introduced Session

2022-2023 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill concerns conduct by local government officers while in office by declaring the actions of any local unit to authorize or permit individuals who are not citizens of the United States to vote in elections of the local unit to be against public policy and declare any such policies null and void. The bill maintains that, pursuant to Article II, Section I, paragraph 3 of the New Jersey Constitution and Title 19 of the New Jersey Statutes, only individuals who are citizens of the United States are eligible to vote in elections held in the State, and specifically prohibits elected local government officers from voting or acting to approve any ordinance or resolution which would allow individuals who are not citizens of the United States to vote in elections of the local unit. At least 14 municipalities in various states allow noncitizens to participate in certain elections. The bill also amends the "Local Government Ethics Law" to include violations of an elected local government officer's oath of office by a local government officer as a violation under the "Local Government Ethics Law," and subject to potential fine.

AI Summary

This bill prohibits local governments in New Jersey from passing any policies that would allow non-U.S. citizens to vote in local elections, declaring such policies to be against public policy and null and void. It also amends the "Local Government Ethics Law" to include violations of an elected local government officer's oath of office, such as approving a policy allowing non-citizens to vote, as a violation subject to potential fines. The bill cites the New Jersey Constitution and state statutes, which limit voting to U.S. citizens, as the basis for these provisions. This is in response to at least 14 municipalities in various states that currently allow non-citizens to participate in certain local elections.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee (on 06/13/2022)

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