AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
This bill aims to modify the procedures related to the handling of ballots by election judges in Minnesota. It ensures that the number of ballots is accurately counted and verified before voting begins in each precinct.
Main Provisions
- Ballot Certification: Before voting starts, at least two election judges are required to verify and certify the number of ballots delivered to a polling precinct. They must cross-check the total number against prepackaged totals to ensure accuracy.
- Ballot Initialing: Election judges are responsible for initialing the backs of all ballots either before voting begins or shortly thereafter to authenticate them. Other forms of marking are not allowed to ensure the ballots remain unaltered beyond the initialing.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- Discrepancy Logging: If there is a discrepancy in the ballot count, it must be documented in the incident log. This amendment emphasizes the need for careful tracking and transparency in case of any inconsistency during the ballot counting process.
Relevant Terms
election judges, ballot certification, prepackaged ballots, ballot count, initialing ballots, discrepancy log, voting procedures, polling precincts.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 19, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Elections Finance and Government Operations |
| March 31, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Committee report, to adopt | |
| March 31, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Second reading |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This legislation modifies election judge provisions under section 204C.09, subdivision 1.",
"modified": [
"Specifies that at least two election judges must certify the number of ballots and initial the backs of all ballots before voting begins."
]
},
"citation": "204C.09",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
}
]