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SF2304 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Minnesota Elections Integrity Act

Related bill: HF2392

AI Generated Summary

Purpose

The bill aims to enhance the integrity of elections in Minnesota by introducing new requirements for voter identification and the voting process. It seeks to ensure that only eligible voters can register and vote while increasing transparency and security in the elections.

Main Provisions

  • Photo ID Requirement: The bill mandates that individuals must present a photo identification to register to vote and to cast their vote. This includes creating a new voter identification card for those who do not have one.
  • Provisional Ballots: Establishes the use of provisional ballots for voters who fail to present the required identification. These ballots will only be counted once the voter's eligibility is confirmed.
  • Absentee Voting: Requires individuals acting as agents for absentee voters to show identification. Additionally, anyone assisting a voter in a polling place must also provide identification.
  • Criminal Penalties: Increases penalties for illegal activities related to voter registration and absentee voting, ensuring stricter enforcement of election laws.
  • Reporting Requirements: Implements requirements for detailed reporting on election activities and any violations, aiming to increase transparency.
  • Funding: Appropriates funds to implement the proposed changes.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • The bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to incorporate the new voter ID requirement and associated processes, such as provisional voting, into existing election law.
  • It proposes new statutory sections to support the implementation of voter ID and to manage the data related to voter identification cards.
  • The legislation also repeals specific sections that are inconsistent with the new requirements.

Relevant Terms

  • Voter ID
  • Provisional Ballot
  • Absentee Voting
  • Election Integrity
  • Photo Identification
  • Criminal Penalties

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 09, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 09, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toElections
March 12, 2025SenateFloorActionAuthor added

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Clarifies the role of the secretary of state in determining precincts and mailing ballots to program participants."
      ],
      "removed": [
        "Eliminates requirement for the secretary of state to send an absentee ballot application prior to each election to permanent absentee voters."
      ],
      "summary": "This bill amends the provisions for absentee voting by program participants under section 5B.06.",
      "modified": [
        "Alters processes involving the Minnesota statewide voter registration system for preparing and mailing ballots."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "5B.06"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "New procedures describe the secretary of state's method for certification and forwarding of ballots."
      ],
      "removed": [
        "-"
      ],
      "summary": "This section outlines the handling and review of absentee ballots.",
      "modified": [
        "Adjustments to review and certification procedures for absentee ballots from program participants."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "203B.121"
  }
]

Sponsors