Who is recognized as the official repository for microfilm of county clerk's and surrogate records?

The designation of the State Archives as the official repository for microfilm of county clerk's and surrogate records is based on its role and responsibilities. The State Archives is tasked with preserving New Jersey's historical records, which include microfilm and other formats. This ensures that important documents are maintained in a secure and controlled environment, preserving them for future generations and making them accessible for research purposes. The State Archives serves both institutional needs and public interests by safeguarding vital records that are essential for legal, genealogical, and historical research.

In contrast, the County Clerk Office primarily manages and processes documents at the county level but does not serve the function of a state repository. The State Records Committee oversees the state’s records management but does not directly act as a repository for microfilm. The Department of State has a broader role in overseeing education and cultural affairs but is not specifically designated for the microfilm records. Therefore, the correct response aligns with the established protocol for record preservation in New Jersey.