SF1804

This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 1804, proposes the authorization and implementation of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) for local elections in Minnesota. It establishes procedures for adopting and conducting RCV elections for cities, counties, and school districts if approved by voters.

Key Provisions:

1. Local Governments Can Adopt RCV

   • Home rule charter and statutory cities, counties, and school districts may adopt Ranked Choice Voting after January 1, 2026, or upon the adoption of administrative rules.
     
   • Adoption or repeal of RCV must be decided through a ballot question presented to voters.
     

2. Ballot & Voting System Regulations

   • Ballots must allow voters to rank at least three candidates per office.
     
   • Voting machines used for RCV elections must be capable of processing and tabulating ranked choices.
     

3. RCV Tabulation Procedures

   • Single-seat elections (e.g., mayor) use the single transferable vote method, where candidates are eliminated in rounds until one reaches the required vote threshold.
     
   • Multiple-seat elections (e.g., city councils) use a similar method, but seats are filled as candidates reach the threshold.
     

4. Election Administration & Results Reporting

   • A Ranked Choice Voting Tabulation Center will be designated for counting votes.
     
   • Results must be publicly reported, including round-by-round tabulation details.
     

5. Recounts & Audits

   • Candidates defeated in the final tabulation round may request a recount under certain conditions.
     
   • Post-election reviews must be conducted in selected precincts to verify accuracy.
     

6. Electronic Voting System Requirements

   • Voting machines used for RCV must be certified, anonymous, and capable of detecting overvotes, skipped rankings, and repeat rankings.
     

7. Rulemaking Authority

   • The Secretary of State must adopt rules to facilitate the implementation of RCV elections.
     

Overall Impact:

If enacted, this bill would allow Minnesota's local jurisdictions to adopt Ranked Choice Voting, providing an alternative to traditional plurality elections. It outlines detailed procedures for conducting, tabulating, and auditing RCV elections to ensure accuracy and transparency.