VITALE-BEACH VOTING LEGISLATION ADVANCES FROM SENATE COMMITTEE

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Joseph F. Vitale and Senator Jim Beach that modernizes the State of New Jersey’s voter registration system advanced today from the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee.

“Every American citizen has the right to vote, and automatic registration at license application or renewal will make it easier to access that right,” said Senator Vitale (D-Middlesex). “This law will make it easier for citizens to register to vote and encourage greater participation in the democratic process while protecting vulnerable individuals.”

“New Jerseyans deserve open and accessible elections,” said Senator Jim Beach, (D-Burlington/Camden), Chairman of the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee. “This bill will modernize our voter registration process, making voting more accessible for working New Jersey families, keeping our voter information accurate and private and improve the security of our elections. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate and the Assembly to advance our elections modernization agenda and move legislation to Governor Murphy’s desk.”

The bill (S-481 and 651) would automatically register to vote and update the voter registration for an eligible person when applying for a motor vehicle driver’s license, examination permit, probationary driver’s license or non-driver identification card.

The bill modernizes New Jersey’s outdated voter registration system and strengthens the security of elections, keeps voter data private and will save time and money. Automated Voter Registration (AVR) makes voting more accessible to working families in New Jersey by saving voters time on their registration process. Already, 10 states, plus the District of Columbia have passed AVR legislation (Alaska, California, Connecticut, Colorado, District of Columbia, Illinois, Georgia, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and West Virginia).

The Senate committee advanced (S-481 and 561) by a vote of 4-1.