New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2378

Introduced
2/7/22  

Caption

Permits voter to take photograph of own voted ballot and share it on Internet-based social media.

Impact

The bill's implementation would alter the legal framework governing the visibility of ballots. Under current law, voters are forbidden from showing their ballots to others, which is designed to protect the integrity and privacy of the voting process. By allowing individuals to photograph and share their ballots, A2378 could introduce new dynamics into the voting landscape, enabling transparency and personal agency over one's vote, while also raising concerns about the ramifications such public sharing could entail.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2378, introduced in New Jersey, seeks to amend existing laws regarding the secrecy of voted ballots. The main provision of the bill allows voters to take a photograph of their own voted ballot while in the polling booth. Furthermore, it permits voters to share these photographs on social media platforms. This amendment is particularly significant as it challenges traditional norms surrounding ballot privacy, which generally prohibit any display or sharing of votes once cast.

Contention

Notably, the introduction of this bill may result in contention regarding the balance between transparency and privacy in the election process. Supporters argue that the capability to share one's vote can empower voters and validate their choices, emphasizing individual rights in a democratic society. Conversely, critics may raise issues about potential coercion or undue influence, where voters might feel pressured to share their ballots or face repercussions based on their voting decisions. These debates underscore the complexity of modern electoral practices in the digital age.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2900

Permits voter to take photograph of own voted ballot and share it on Internet-based social media.

NJ A287

Permits voter to take photograph of own voted ballot and share it on Internet-based social media.

NJ S09801

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NJ A00318

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NJ S00661

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NJ A01542

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NJ S01844

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NJ HB1894

ELEC CD-PHOTOGRAPHING BALLOTS

NJ LD397

An Act to Require a Voter to Show Photographic Identification

NJ A2487

Permits counting of mail-in ballots that are mailed, delivered, or deposited prior to death of voter; repeals laws requiring rejection of such ballots.

Similar Bills

TX SB973

Relating to the periodic reappraisal of property by, and the prohibition on posting on the Internet certain information held by, an appraisal district.

NJ S2900

Permits voter to take photograph of own voted ballot and share it on Internet-based social media.

NJ A287

Permits voter to take photograph of own voted ballot and share it on Internet-based social media.

IL HB1894

ELEC CD-PHOTOGRAPHING BALLOTS

DE HB59

An Act To Amend Title 11 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Release And Publication Of The Name And Photograph Of Individuals Charged With Crimes Or Delinquency.

SC H4770

Traffic safety

NC H446

Prohibition on Disclosing Booking Photographs

MI HB4483

Weapons: concealed; QR code on concealed pistol licenses; provide for. Amends sec. 5c of 1927 PA 372 (MCL 28.425c). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4481'25