SF3261 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Constitutional amendment allowing a governor to select a lieutenant governor to fill a vacancy
AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
The bill aims to propose an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution. The amendment would allow a sitting governor to appoint a new lieutenant governor if there is a vacancy in that position.
Main Provisions
- The amendment specifies that if the office of the lieutenant governor becomes vacant for any reason, the governor can appoint a successor.
- The change seeks to streamline the succession process and ensure continuity in leadership.
- It maintains that if the governor is unable to fulfill their duties, the lieutenant governor will assume those responsibilities.
Significant Changes
- Currently, if there is a vacancy in the lieutenant governor's office, the role is filled by the last elected presiding officer of the senate. The amendment changes this process to allow direct appointment by the governor.
- This amendment will be presented to voters in the 2026 general election for approval.
Relevant Terms
- Constitutional Amendment
- Governor
- Lieutenant Governor
- Vacancy
- Succession
- Minnesota Constitution
- Election
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 02, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
| April 02, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | State and Local Government |