HF2392 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Photo ID required to register to vote and to vote, voter identification card created, provisional ballots established, identification of individuals providing assistance to a voter in a polling place required, certain voter registration and absentee voting activities prohibited, and money appropriated.

Related bill: SF2304

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

This Minnesota legislative bill, named the "Minnesota Elections Integrity Act," aims to enhance the security and integrity of the election process in Minnesota. It specifically focuses on implementing photo identification requirements for voters, changes in the handling of absentee voting, and new rules surrounding voter registration and assistance.

Main Provisions

  • Voter Identification Requirement: The bill requires voters to present a photo ID to register to vote and to cast their vote in elections. It introduces a new voter identification card for those who do not have other forms of photo ID.
  • Provisional Ballots: Establishes a provisional ballot system, allowing individuals who do not present the required identification to cast a provisional ballot, which will be counted only after their identity is confirmed.
  • Absentee Voting Changes:
    • Individuals acting as an agent for an absentee voter must show identification.
    • Those assisting voters in polling places are required to provide identification.
    • Alters the absentee voting application process for participants registered as permanent absentee voters.
  • Prohibited Activities and Penalties: The bill prohibits certain activities related to voter registration and absentee voting, increasing penalties for violations.
  • Reporting and Funds Appropriation: Requires reports on the implementation and effects of these changes. Appropriates funds necessary for these initiatives.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • Amended various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to integrate the requirement of a photo ID for voting.
  • Introduces a new requirement to not list the names and addresses of absentee program participants in the statewide voter registration system, ensuring privacy.
  • Adds new subdivisions in the Minnesota Statutes to govern data related to voter identification cards.

Relevant Terms

  • Photo ID
  • Voter identification card
  • Provisional ballot
  • Absentee voting
  • Voter registration
  • Election integrity
  • Criminal penalties
  • Transparency and reporting

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 16, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toElections Finance and Government Operations

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "A new subsection clarifying disbursement rules."
      ],
      "removed": [
        "Eliminates previous requirement for municipal matching funds."
      ],
      "summary": "This bill modifies pension fund eligibility for volunteer firefighters under section 353G.06.",
      "modified": [
        "Adjusts pension payment schedule from annual to quarterly."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "353G.06"
  }
]