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HF2392 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Photo ID required to register to vote and to vote, voter identification card created, provisional ballots established, identification of individuals providing assistance to a voter in a polling place required, certain voter registration and absentee voting activities prohibited, and money appropriated.

Related bill: SF2304

AI Generated Summary

Purpose

The purpose of this bill, titled the "Minnesota Elections Integrity Act," is to enhance the integrity of elections in Minnesota by requiring voters to present photo identification both for voter registration and when casting their vote. It also aims to establish new protocols for absentee voting and addresses various election-related activities perceived as vulnerable to fraud.

Main Provisions

  • Voter ID Requirement: The bill mandates that individuals must present a government-issued photo identification card to register and vote, both in-person and absentee. This includes the establishment of a new voter identification card to be created for those who do not have existing acceptable forms of ID.

  • Provisional Ballots: Introduces the use of provisional ballots for voters who fail to provide the required photo ID at the time of voting. These voters will need to return with proper identification within a certain period for their votes to be counted.

  • Absentee Voting: Tightens the procedures for absentee voting by requiring photo ID for absentee ballot agents and those assisting voters. Enhances monitoring measures for absentee ballots to prevent misuse.

  • Criminal Penalties and Reporting: Increases criminal penalties for fraudulent activities related to voter registration and absentee voting. Requires additional reporting from election officials to ensure transparency and accountability.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • The bill amends numerous Minnesota Statutes to incorporate the new ID requirements, modify the absentee voting process, and increase penalties for election fraud. It also proposes repealing certain older provisions that conflict with the new requirements or processes.

  • It introduces changes that affect data governance related to voter identification to maintain privacy while ensuring the secure issuance and management of voter IDs.

Relevant Terms

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

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 16, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toElections Finance and Government Operations

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "New procedures for determining precinct and mailing absentee ballots using statewide voter registration system."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This section outlines the absentee voting process for program participants, with amendments affecting registration and precinct ballot preparation.",
      "modified": [
        "Rules for absentee ballot application are modified for program participants registered as permanent absentee voters."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "5B.06",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Incorporates a requirement for the Secretary of State to review ballots per existing standards."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "Amendments involve reviewing and certifying absentee ballots for compliance.",
      "modified": [
        "Specification of handling compliant ballots from program participants."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "203B.121",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  }
]

Sponsors