Bill > S1371

Introduced Session

This bill requires an automatic machine recount and, if necessary hand recount, of the results of any election, other than a primary election or school election that produces a tie between two or more candidates for elective office. The bill also requires a special election be held in the event of a tie following a hand recount. Candidates and voters of this State can request recounts through a judge of the Superior Court for any election in which they have reason to believe that an error has been made in counting the votes. Under current law, either party may contest an election result that is a tie. Additionally, current law further provides a process for filling a vacancy in a primary election or school election that results in a tie. This bill requires that an automatic machine recount of the votes cast at an election, other than a primary election or school election, in any district or districts would occur within 48 hours following the initial result of a tie between two or more candidates for elective office. If the automatic machine recount results in a tie, an automatic hand recount would take place within 48 hours following the automatic machine recount. If the automatic hand recount results in a tie, a special election between the candidates that remain ties would take place within 60 days of the original election. The appropriate board of elections or boards of elections would conduct the automatic recount. The State would reimburse the costs incurred for conducting an automatic recount.

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Joe Lagana (D)*, 

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee (on 01/13/2026)

Official Document