Requires automatic recount in elections decided by less than 0.5 percent of votes cast; provides for recount in certain other elections upon timely application; requires deposit of funds pending results of recount.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Greg McGuckin

Establishes automatic recount for races decided by less than 0.5% margin and allows timely recounts in other elections with required deposit to cover recount costs.

Summary of Bill A-5148 (New Jersey, 222nd Session)

Purpose and intent

The bill establishes procedures related to automatic recounts in elections with very narrow margins and provides for recounts in certain other elections upon timely application. It also creates a mechanism for depositing funds pending the results of a recount.

Key provisions and changes

Automatic recount trigger

Elections decided by less than 0.5 percent of votes cast would automatically trigger a recount.
The exact threshold: less than one-half of one percent margin separating the top candidates or winning candidates, calculated using the total votes cast for the contest.

Recount upon timely application (in other elections)

For elections not covered by the automatic recount threshold, a recount may be initiated if a timely application for a recount is filed (the bill specifies the timeframe and any required certifications or signatures, though exact deadlines are not detailed here).
The provision outlines the process for determining eligibility to request a recount, including who may file (e.g., candidates, political committees, or others as defined by statute) and the required grounds or standards for requesting a recount.

Financial provisions pending recount results

The bill requires a deposit of funds to cover the costs associated with conducting a recount.
The deposit is intended to be held pending the final results of the recount, with provisions for the handling of any refunds if the recount does not occur or if funds are not needed.

Who/what is affected

Elections under New Jersey law that determine winners by vote totals in which the margin is under 0.5% would be subject to an automatic recount.

Other elections (not automatically triggered for recount) where a timely recount application is filed would be subject to a recount process if eligible.

Candidates, political committees, or other authorized parties seeking a recount would be affected by procedural requirements and financial deposits.

Election officials and state/local election authorities responsible for conducting recounts, verifying results, and managing funds pending recounts.

Procedural and timeline aspects

The bill sets a defined automatic threshold (0.5% margin) to trigger a recount without a separate application.

For non-automatic recounts, the bill specifies timely application requirements, though precise deadlines and filing procedures would be outlined in the statute (not fully specified in the summary).

Financial timing: funds must be deposited to cover recount costs and held pending recount results, implying a timeline for when deposits are required and when refunds or reallocations occur.

Potential impacts and considerations

Increased accuracy and public confidence in close election outcomes due to automatic recounts in very close races.

Administrative and cost implications for election officials due to mandated recounts and the need to secure deposits for recount operations.

Clarity for candidates and parties on when they can request a recount and what financial assurances are required.

Potential delays in finalizing results due to recount processes, particularly in tightly contested races.

Note

The summary reflects the bill’s stated provisions as of its introduction. For precise procedural details (e.g., exact filing deadlines, eligible offices, deposit amounts, and specific procedures for conducting recounts), refer to the enacted text and any accompanying fiscal or committee analyses.