“Only 65 percent of eligible New Jerseyans cast a ballot in this year’s election, marking the lowest turnout for a presidential race in State history,” said Senator Beach (D-Camden/Burlington). “One way to improve voter participation is to increase accessibility for young voters, many of whom are away at school during general elections. By providing them an opportunity to register for Vote by Mail upon their 18th birthday, we are empowering them to create a voting plan well in advance of Election Day.”
Under current law, a person who is at least 17 years old and will be 18 on the date of the next general election can to register to vote, provided they meet all other voter registration requirements.
“It is so important to get young people involved in civic life,” said Senator Zwicker (D-Middlesex/Mercer/Somerset/Hunterdon). “Studies have shown that when people start voting young, they form a habit and continue to do so throughout their lives. By sending new voters mail-in ballot application forms, we are making it easier than ever to participate in the electoral process.”
Under the bill, S-3617, the State would reimburse each county for additional direct expenditures required to implement the bill.
The bill was advanced in a 3-0 vote.
A committee in New Jersey has recently advanced a bill that would automatically send mail-in ballot applications to registered voters upon turning 18. This move is aimed at increasing voter participation and making it easier for young adults to exercise their right to vote.
The bill, which was approved by the Assembly State and Local Government Committee, would require the state to automatically send mail-in ballot applications to all registered voters within 30 days of their 18th birthday. This would ensure that young adults are aware of their voting rights and have the opportunity to participate in elections as soon as they become eligible.
Proponents of the bill argue that it would help to increase voter turnout among young people, who are often underrepresented at the polls. By making it easier for newly eligible voters to request a mail-in ballot, the bill aims to remove barriers to participation and encourage more young adults to engage in the democratic process.
Opponents of the bill, however, have raised concerns about the potential for voter fraud and misuse of mail-in ballots. They argue that sending out applications automatically could lead to an increase in fraudulent voting and undermine the integrity of the election process.
Despite these concerns, supporters of the bill believe that it is a necessary step towards expanding access to voting and ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to participate in elections. By making it easier for young adults to request a mail-in ballot, the bill could help to increase voter turnout and strengthen democracy in New Jersey.
The bill will now move to the full Assembly for consideration, where it is expected to face further debate and discussion. If passed, it could have a significant impact on voter participation in the state and serve as a model for other states looking to expand access to voting for young adults.