Signed by Governor Mikie Sherrill

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends the process for filling vacancies from New Jersey in the United States House of Representatives.

Highlights:

• Requires the Governor to call an election to fill a vacancy in the U.S. House of Representatives within 10 days of the beginning of the vacancy, unless the former representative had less than 135 days left of their term (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that the Governor is authorized to call an election to fill a vacancy in the U.S. House of Representatives, even if the former representative’s term will expire in less than 135 days (Sec. 1).

• Requires the drawing for positions to fill a vacancy that will appear on a special general election ballot to be held as soon as practicable after the special primary election (Sec. 2).

• Requires the board of each county to publish the Governor’s call for an election to fill a vacancy at least 45 days before the primary, general, or special election in which the vacancy is to be filled (Sec. 5).

• Establishes required timelines for the scheduling of a special election to fill a vacancy depending on the time that the vacancy begins (Sec. 6).

• Specifies that this Act takes effect immediately upon passage (Sec. 7).

Full Bill Text