SF1021 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Absentee ballot drop boxes authorization repealer

Related bill: HF598

AI Generated Summary

The legislative bill S.F. No. 1021 aims to change how absentee ballots are handled in Minnesota. Mainly, it proposes the removal of absentee ballot drop boxes, which were previously authorized for voters to deposit their completed absentee ballots. This means that voters who choose to vote absentee would have to return their ballots either by mail, or in person directly to the office of their county auditor or municipal clerk. The bill also repeals specific standards and definitions related to the security and operation of these drop boxes, including how often ballots must be collected from them and security measures to ensure their integrity.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
February 05, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
February 05, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toElections

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Clarifies the procedure for voters or their agents to return absentee ballots by mail or in-person."
      ],
      "removed": [
        "Repeals the allowance for drop boxes as a means to return absentee ballots directly."
      ],
      "summary": "This bill modifies the handling of absentee ballots under section 203B.08.",
      "modified": [
        "Sets a deadline for in-person delivery by 8:00 p.m. on election day."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "203B.08"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "summary": "This bill references the existing statute for prohibiting electioneering within specified distances.",
      "modified": [
        "Applies electioneering prohibitions within 100 feet of absentee ballot drop boxes until they are repealed."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "211B.11"
  }
]