Early Voting Expansion For Municipal Elections In New Jersey

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has signed legislation which expands early voting for the nonpartisan municipal elections that are held in May.

The legislation from both Houses of the New Jersey Legislature are A4745 & S420.

Early Voting Period Doubles

It was previously 4 days before Election Day. Now, early voting will be available for 8 days prior to Election Day for May nonpartisan elections.

Early Voting Ends 2 Days Before Election Day

This remains unchanged. Voters will now have a total of 7 days of early voting before Election Day.

“New” New Jersey Legislation Is Required

The state of New Jersey hasn’t yet properly addressed a significant time crunch for May, nonpartisan municipal elections.

City Commission Form of Government

For example, in the immediate past Margate City Commission elections, the City of Margate actually performed the oath of office and swore-in three city commissioners prior to the Atlantic County Clerk certifying the election.

Prior Format Has Not Kept-Up With Modern Changes In Voting

Unlike partisan elections which take place in early November and the winners take office in early January … In a May nonpartisan election, the winners take office just seven days after election day.

This is simply not enough time to properly certify the results of the election in time to legally and properly seat the new government.

For inexplicable reasons, the state of New Jersey simply refuses to address this important deficiency.