Requires automatic recount for local elections with vote difference of 10 votes or less at candidate's request; provides for geographic regions for judges to adjudicate election recounts and contests; establishes certain adjudication and hearing timelines.

This bill requires automatic recounts in New Jersey county or municipal elections where the vote difference is 10 votes or less, triggered by a candidate's request within 24 hours of results certification. It establishes three geographic regions (Northern, Central, Southern) for assigning Superior Court judges to handle recount cases, with the Chief Justice considering population and past case volume when assigning judges. The bill mandates that recounts occur within three days of certification and sets strict timelines for hearings (36 hours for initial filings, 24 hours for appeals). It directly affects candidates in closely contested local races, election boards, and the judiciary, ensuring faster resolution before elected officials assume office. The state covers all costs for automatic recounts under this provision.