Legislation to Improve Vote-by-Mail Signed into Law

Trenton – Legislation that will increase voter participation in the 2020 election, and beyond, as well as increase voting accessibility, and improve the vote-by-mail processes was signed into law today.

“The sanctity of our elections is paramount to the continuation of our democracy. With the pandemic continuing to spread across the country, we are once again voting by mail for the upcoming elections,” said Senator Singleton (D-Burlington). “However, it is becoming clearer by the day that voters need alternative ways to deliver their ballots. This is why every county should have drop boxes where people can directly submit their ballots. This increased accessibility will encourage voters to partake in this civic duty.”

“Voting is the most fundamental right in our democracy. As elected officials we must advance the expansion of greater voter access,” said Senator Gill (D-Essex/Passaic). “The problems in May and June highlighted the vulnerabilities within our voting system and underscored the need to improve the process.”

“We cannot allow the pandemic to determine this election,” said Senator Gopal (D-Monmouth). “It’s our job as elected officials to make sure every New Jerseyan eligible to vote can do so easily, confidently and safely. This is the most important election of my lifetime and I am glad the Senate, with this legislation, is addressing the many challenges our current public health crisis presents and ensuring it does not hinder our ability to hold a fair election.”

“With the Governor’s announcement to send every voter a mail-in ballot this November, it is critical we provide expansive access to drop boxes throughout the state, inclining greater voter participation during the upcoming election,” said Senator Beach (D-Burlington/Camden).

“As we approach one of the most important elections in our lifetime it is crucial that we do what we can to make the voting process operate effectively and safely. We want voters to know they should not be deterred from participating in the election process because of the pandemic. Voting by mail has shown itself to be an important tool, because It provides for increased turnout, reduced cost, and even increased safety, particularly as the need to limit social interaction. These bills will help serve that goal,” said Senator Sarlo (D-Bergen/Passaic).

S.2580 – The bill, sponsored by Senator Troy Singleton, Senator Paul Sarlo, and Senator James Beach, will require county boards of election to establish ballot drop boxes in each county at least 45 days before the election.

S.2598/2699 – The bill, sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal, Senator Paul Sarlo, and Senator Gill, will prohibit county board of elections from rejecting any mail-in or provisional ballot with a missing signature or a signature mismatch unless the voter is provided the opportunity to address the signature discrepancy.

S.2633 – The bill, sponsored by Senator Gopal and Senator Paul Sarlo, will require a public awareness campaign to promote voting by mail and increase awareness for how mail-in ballots work. In addition, the bill will extend the deadline for submitting mail-in ballots.