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HF598 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Absentee ballot drop boxes authorization repealed.

Related bill: SF1021

AI Generated Summary

The legislative bill H.F. No. 598 proposes to remove the authorization for using absentee ballot drop boxes in Minnesota. Currently, absentee voters can return their ballots to a drop box, but this bill intends to amend the state law to prohibit such drop boxes. Instead, absentee ballots would need to be returned by mail or directly to the office of the county auditor or municipal clerk. Additionally, the bill repeals existing provisions that establish specific security and integrity standards for the use of drop boxes. Essentially, if passed, the bill would eliminate the option for voters to use drop boxes to submit their absentee ballots.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
February 12, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toElections Finance and Government Operations

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill modifies the marking and returning process of absentee ballots under section 203B.08.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies the return methods and deadlines for absentee ballots."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "203B.08"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill references section 211B.11 regarding electioneering prohibition around absentee ballot drop boxes.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "211B.11"
  }
]

Sponsors