SF2489

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to improve the integrity and reliability of voting systems in Minnesota by enhancing the processes used to test these systems before elections.

Main Provisions

• Extended Testing Period: The bill proposes to extend the period during which voting systems must be tested. It changes the timeframe for testing voting equipment from "at least three days" to "at least ten days" before they are used for absentee ballots.
• Public Notice Requirements: The bill increases the public notice period for the testing of voting systems from "at least two days" to "at least five days," ensuring greater community awareness and transparency.
• Observation and Participation: The bill requires that the testing be observed by at least two election judges from different major political parties. It also mandates that the tests be open to representatives from political parties, candidates, the press, and the public.
• Comprehensive Testing Procedures: The bill outlines specific testing procedures, including:
  • Processing a pre-audited group of ballots to test the accuracy of voting systems with predetermined, unique votes.
  • Using ballots that exceed legal vote limits to ensure systems can correctly reject these votes.
  • Testing the use of assistive technologies, such as electronic ballot markers and audio ballot readers, to accommodate accessible voting needs.
• Error Rectification and Record Transparency: If an error is found during testing, it must be corrected before the system is used in actual voting. A detailed precinct report must be made available to the public within 24 hours of the test completion.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Longer Testing and Public Notice Periods: The existing law is changed to extend both the testing period and the notice period for the public, enhancing the transparency and reliability of election processes.
• Inclusive Testing with Assistive Technologies: The bill introduces specific provisions for utilizing and testing assistive technologies, reinforcing the inclusivity of voting systems.

Relevant Terms

• Voting systems
• Election testing
• Absentee ballots
• Assistive technology
• Electronic ballot markers
• Public notice
• Election judges