Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to revise election procedures in Minnesota to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the voting process. It aims to amend several provisions related to voter registration, particularly concerning election day registrations, and to standardize the handling of provisional ballots.

Main Provisions

• Provisional Ballots for Election Day Registrations: Voters who register on election day will be required to cast provisional ballots. This process involves signing a provisional ballot roster, completing a registration application, and affirming eligibility.
• Identification Requirements: The bill specifies acceptable forms of identification for registering on election day, including tribal identification cards. Expired IDs are updated with detailed requirements for security features and authenticity.
• Handling of Absentee Ballots: Clarifies procedures for processing absentee ballots, including rules for accepting or rejecting ballots and handling incomplete registrations.
• Electronic Rosters: Updates technology requirements for electronic rosters used in elections, stressing security and proper functionality.
• Public Awareness Campaign: Directs the Secretary of State to conduct an awareness campaign encouraging voter registration before election day.
• Role of Election Judges: Sets duties and limits for election judges, particularly those involved in election day registrations.
• Canvassing Adjustments: Changes timelines for county and state canvassing boards to finalize election results.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Introduces the requirement for election day registrants to use provisional ballots.
• Adjusts the timelines and procedures for canvassing votes after elections.
• Expands the clarity and security requirements for acceptable identification cards, including specific provisions for tribal IDs.
• Repeals certain statutes related to voter registration and ballot processing to streamline and improve the voting procedure.

Relevant Terms

• Provisional Ballots
• Election Day Registration
• Tribal Identification Cards
• Voting Procedures
• Voter Registration
• Absentee Ballots
• Electronic Rosters
• Canvassing Boards