Bill > A4969

This bill modifies New Jersey election law to give county and district election boards more discretion when determining the validity of ballots. The bill allows these boards to use their judgment when evaluating whether a ballot should be counted, even if it has unusual markings or does not strictly comply with traditional voting instructions. Specifically, the bill enables election boards to count votes where the voter's intent appears clear, even if the mark is not precisely in the designated square or is made in a slightly unconventional manner. The bill adds provisions that allow boards to interpret voter marks more flexibly, such as counting votes where a mark is reasonably close to a candidate's name or square, or where a voter's intention seems evident despite technical irregularities. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of State to establish uniform statewide guidelines to help county and district election boards consistently assess ballot validity. The changes are designed to ensure that voter intent is prioritized and that technical errors do not unnecessarily invalidate ballots, while still maintaining safeguards against intentional ballot identification or manipulation.

Government Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4969