Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of the bill is to update and revise various aspects of election administration in Minnesota, focusing on voter registration, absentee voting, election judge appointments, and election timelines. It aims to clarify terms, modify procedures, and enhance election integrity.

Main Provisions

• Voter Registration Changes: Updates the requirements for Election Day registration. Voters can register by providing proof of residence through specified identification documents or by being vouched for by a registered voter or an employee of a residential facility.

• Student Registration: Provides additional ways for students to prove residency using their student ID and a certified housing list provided by educational institutions. Institutions must agree to provide accurate housing lists.

• Absentee Voting Modifications: Adjustments to the application process for absentee ballots, including the option for electronic submission through a secure website. Specific identity verification through government records is emphasized.

• Election Judge Appointments: Changes the process for appointing election judges, requiring more detailed information and possible training to ensure the integrity of the election process.

• Timeline Adjustments: Updates are made to election timelines, particularly in relation to annexation laws and the preparation of voter registration.

• Repealing and Reallocating Funds: The bill repeals the voting equipment grant account and proposes reallocation of these funds, though it does not detail where these funds will be directed.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Registration Proof: Limits the number of voters that can be vouched for to ensure authenticity and reduces potential for fraudulent registration activities.

• Absentee Voting: Introduces more stringent identity verification requirements for absentee ballot applications to enhance security.

• Voter Information Confidentiality: Protects sensitive voter information like Social Security numbers from being publicly disclosed.

• Repeals and Transfers: Certain outdated statutes are repealed to streamline election-related laws, and funds previously allocated to the voting equipment grant account are to be reallocated.

Relevant Terms

• Election Day registration
• Absentee voting
• Voter registration
• Election judges
• Residential facilities
• Student housing lists
• Identity verification
• Annexation laws
• Voting equipment grant account