New Jersey Senate Bill S1713

New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

Requires voter who wishes to vote by mail to complete application for mail-in ballot each calendar year; repeals automatic vote-by-mail designation.

Impact

By enforcing this requirement, S1713 modifies existing election laws primarily concerning P.L.1974, c.30 and P.L.2009, c.79. It establishes that voters cannot simply rely on past elections to receive mail-in ballots; instead, they must actively express their intent for each year. This change could lead to a more organized electoral system but may also result in some eligible voters unintentionally missing out on voting opportunities if they forget to submit their annual application.

Summary

Senate Bill S1713, introduced in New Jersey for the 222nd Legislature, aims to change the process of voting by mail by requiring voters to submit a new application for a mail-in ballot every calendar year. This bill repeals the existing provision that designates voters who previously utilized mail-in voting as automatic recipients of ballots for all future elections, unless they opted out. The intent of the legislation is to ensure that all voters affirm their desire to vote by mail on a yearly basis, potentially enhancing the accuracy of voter rolls and the management of mail-in ballots by election officials.

Contention

The bill could face contention related to concerns about accessibility and the potential disenfranchisement of voters. Critics might argue that requiring an annual application could burden certain groups, such as the elderly or disabled individuals, who may have difficulty navigating the application process. Additionally, the removal of the automatic mail-in designation may complicate voting for those accustomed to receiving their ballots without reapplication, leading to fears about decreased voter turnout due to increased barriers.