New JerseyVoters could require lawmakers to approve lieutenant governor replacements
If lawmakers put this amendment on the ballot and voters approve it, the governor's choice for a vacant lieutenant governor seat would need approval from both the Senate and Assembly.
What it does
If lawmakers put the amendment on the ballot and voters approve it, the governor's choice to fill a lieutenant governor vacancy would need majority approval from both the Senate and Assembly before taking office.
Argument forIf voters approve the amendment, votes in both houses could give elected lawmakers a say in who fills the vacant seat.
Argument againstIf voters approve the amendment, waiting for votes in both houses could leave the lieutenant governor seat empty longer.
More detail
The Senate and Assembly would each have to approve the governor's choice by a majority vote before that person could take office. This applies to a person the governor chooses to fill a vacant lieutenant governor seat for the rest of its term. Lawmakers must first agree to send the amendment to voters, and voters must approve it. If lawmakers agree to the amendment, voters would consider it at the next general election more than three months later.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Oct 8Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation CommitteeIntroduced
Government & Ethics