SF1815

This bill proposes to establish ranked choice voting (RCV) as an authorized voting method in Minnesota for local elections. Here are the key points:

1. Authorization for Local Jurisdictions:

   • Cities, counties, and school districts may adopt RCV via a voter-approved ballot measure.
   • Jurisdictions using RCV must notify the Secretary of State and county auditors.

2. Election Procedures & Implementation:

   • The bill establishes RCV voting procedures, including ballot design, tabulation of votes, and reporting results.
   • Allows electronic voting systems to be used for RCV, provided they meet certification requirements.
   • Provides detailed definitions for terms like inactive ballots, mathematically impossible candidates, overvotes, skipped rankings, and more.

3. Ballot Rules & Counting Process:

   • Requires ballots to allow voters to rank at least three candidates per race.
   • Establishes different tabulation methods for single-seat and multiple-seat elections.
   • If a candidate receives enough first-choice votes to meet a winning threshold, they are elected; otherwise, votes are redistributed in subsequent rounds.

4. Post-Election Procedures:

   • Establishes rules for reporting results, including round-by-round vote breakdowns.
   • Requires a post-election review in randomly selected precincts to verify accuracy.
   • Allows for candidate-requested recounts, with procedures laid out based on margin of victory or candidate request.

5. Voting Equipment Requirements:

   • Electronic voting systems used for RCV must meet federal certification standards.
   • New voting systems must be able to capture, store, and report rank choice data while maintaining voter anonymity.
   • Machines should notify voters of ballot errors such as overvotes, skipped rankings, and repeat candidate rankings.

6. Rulemaking & Implementation Timeline:

   • The Secretary of State must adopt rules for RCV implementation.
   • RCV can be adopted beginning January 1, 2026, or once rules are established.

This bill aims to provide a standardized legal framework for local jurisdictions that wish to implement ranked choice voting, ensuring clear procedures for counting, reporting, and certifying elections.