Requires additional notice of certain penalties for voter fraud.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Al Barlas and 3 co-sponsors

The bill requires enhanced notices about voter fraud penalties to inform potential voters where and what penalties are, aiming to deter fraud.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee

Summary of Bill A 5174 (Session 222, New Jersey)

Purpose and intent

A 5174 requires additional notice regarding certain penalties for voter fraud. The bill aims to ensure that individuals are more fully informed about the penalties that could result from committing voter fraud, potentially affecting decisions to participate in elections.

Key provisions and changes

Enhanced notice requirement: The bill mandates that specific notices about penalties for voter fraud be provided in situations or materials where relevant individuals might be influenced to participate in voting or where information about penalties is typically disclosed.

Scope of penalties: The notice would address the penalties applicable to voter fraud offenses under state law, including potential criminal sanctions and any associated fines or imprisonment terms as defined by existing statutes.

Placement and timing: The proposed requirement sets forth where and when the notice must be given, aiming to ensure that potential voters are repeatedly informed about the consequences of fraudulent acts related to voting.

Compliance mechanisms: The bill outlines procedures for entities responsible for distributing notices (which could include government offices, election officials, or vendors involved in the electoral process) to confirm that the notices have been provided.

Who or what would be affected

Voters and potential voters: Individuals who participate in or are considering participation in elections would be the primary audience for the enhanced notices.

Election-related entities: State and local election officials, poll workers, and any contractors or organizations responsible for disseminating voting-related information would need to implement the notice requirements.

Legal and enforcement frameworks: The bill aligns with existing voter fraud statutes, reinforcing awareness of penalties within enforcement and prosecutorial contexts.

Procedural and timeline aspects

The bill outlines effective dates and any transitional periods needed for agencies and entities to implement the new notice requirements.

It may include definitions clarifying which actions constitute voter fraud and the corresponding penalties, ensuring consistent application across jurisdictions.

Potential alignment with existing notice duties in elections administration to minimize administrative burden while achieving greater awareness.

Potential impact and considerations

Public awareness: By increasing visibility of penalties, the bill could deter fraudulent activities and clarify consequences for potential offenders.

Administrative workload: Implementing enhanced notices may require updates to forms, notices, and distribution workflows, with a need for training or guidance for staff.

Equity and accessibility: If notices are to be disseminated broadly, considerations should be given to accessible formats and languages to reach diverse populations.

Note: This summary is based on the bill title and sponsors’ roles. For a complete and precise understanding, including full statutory language, exact notice content, penalties described, and any fiscal impact, consulting the bill’s text, committee analyses, and fiscal notes from the New Jersey Legislature is recommended.