(AP) -- Gov. Chris Christie has rejected legislation calling for automatic voter registration when New Jersey residents apply for or renew their driver's license.

In a conditional veto message on Thursday, the Republican governor mocked the legislation and called it the "Voter Fraud Enhancement and Permission Act."

Under the bill, any resident applying for a permit, license, identification card or renewing a license at a state Motor Vehicles Commission location would be automatically registered to vote unless they decline.

Currently, residents may register to vote at the Motor Vehicle Commission, but it is not required.

Christie returned the bill to the Democrat-led Legislature recommending that victims of domestic violence or stalking may register to vote without disclosing their address. He says the change will provide greater protection to domestic violence victims.