Urges Congress to appropriate additional federal funds for election security and voting equipment purposes.
Impact
The implementation of AR85, if acted upon by Congress, would facilitate the provision of additional resources to states for the purpose of modernizing their electoral infrastructure. Specifically, New Jersey is projected to receive around $9.8 million from the 2018 HAVA funds, with a required state match of $487,000. However, the resolution argues that these funds are insufficient when considering the total costs involved in replacing aging voting machines used in numerous counties across the state. The intended upgrades are expected to foster increased voter confidence during elections by ensuring that the voting process is secure and transparent.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 85 (AR85) urges the United States Congress to appropriate additional federal funds specifically aimed at enhancing election security and upgrading voting equipment. This resolution recognizes the significant financial investment already made under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) but highlights the ongoing need for further funding in light of outdated election technologies that many states, including New Jersey, are still utilizing. The resolution calls attention to the necessity for updated systems that verify votes through paper records and protect against potential cyber threats.
Contention
AR85 reflects a broader national concern regarding election integrity and security. While the resolution serves as a means to advocate for necessary funding, it also underscores the challenges faced by states trying to keep up with technological advancements in the electoral process. Proponents of the resolution emphasize the urgency of these upgrades to ensure a secure voting experience for citizens, while critics may argue about the efficiency and effectiveness of federal spending in addressing state-level needs. The resolution seeks to represent the interests of New Jersey residents in securing more substantial federal support for these crucial updates.
Inaction Has Consequences Act This bill withholds the salaries of Members of a chamber of Congress that has not passed each of the annual appropriations bills before the beginning of the fiscal year, beginning with FY2024. Salaries are released on the earlier of (1) the date on which the chamber of Congress passes the bills, or (2) the last day of the Congress.
Citizen Legislature Anti-Corruption Reform of Congress Act or the CLEAN Congress Act This bill (1) requires bills, orders, resolutions, or votes submitted by Congress to the President to include only one subject that is clearly and descriptively expressed in the measure's title; and (2) makes ineffective any provision of law that excludes its application to a Member of Congress or to an employee in a Member's office.
Citizen Legislature Anti-Corruption Reform of Congress Act or the CLEAN Congress Act This bill (1) requires bills, orders, resolutions, or votes submitted by Congress to the President to include only one subject that is clearly and descriptively expressed in the measure's title; and (2) makes ineffective any provision of law that excludes its application to a Member of Congress or to an employee in a Member's office.