SF634 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Local elections in cities of the first class date modification authorization
Related bill: HF69
AI Generated Summary
Senate File No. 634 is a proposed bill that addresses the scheduling of general elections for cities, towns, and school districts in Minnesota. Here's a simplified breakdown of what the bill entails:
Uniform Election Dates: The bill mandates that general elections for cities, towns, and school districts be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of every even-numbered year.
Flexibility for Major Cities: Cities of the first class (larger cities) can choose to hold their elections either in odd-numbered or even-numbered years. This choice is made through an ordinance passed by the city council.
Transition Plans: Cities, towns, and school districts affected by this change are required to create a transition plan. This involves possibly adjusting the length of terms for elected officials to align with the new election schedule.
Notification Requirements: When a city of the first class changes its election date, it must notify the county auditor and secretary of state in writing.
Referendum Option: If the decision to change election years is contentious, citizens can petition for a referendum. If enough signatures are gathered (10% of voters from the last election), a referendum will be held, allowing all voters to decide on the change.
Weather Postponements: The bill allows for elections scheduled in odd-numbered years to be postponed due to inclement weather.
Special Provisions for Towns and School Districts: Towns and school districts also have the option to choose their election years and must include a transition plan to manage term lengths and align election schedules.
This bill aims to streamline election processes, possibly reduce administrative burdens, and increase voter turnout by consolidating election dates across different levels of government within the state.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 26, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
| January 26, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
| January 26, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Referred to | Elections |
| January 26, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Elections |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Allows elections to be held in either even or odd-numbered years for cities of the first class."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This amendment updates the date for municipal general elections.",
"modified": [
"Adjusts the procedures for changing the year of election in cities."
]
},
"citation": "205.07",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Clarifies the petition process for requesting a referendum."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Amends the ordinance referendum process for changing election years in cities.",
"modified": [
"Specifies conditions under which an ordinance can be reconsidered."
]
},
"citation": "205.07",
"subdivision": "subdivision 3"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Allows town general elections in either even or odd-numbered years."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Changes the alternate date for town general elections.",
"modified": [
"Incorporates procedures for ordinance effectiveness upon voter approval."
]
},
"citation": "205.075",
"subdivision": "subdivision 2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Specifies the resolution requirement for holding primaries."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Modifies the conditions under which a school district holds primaries.",
"modified": [
"Clarifies procedures for when primaries are necessary."
]
},
"citation": "205A.03",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Updates the scheduled date for school district primary elections.",
"modified": [
"Changes the primary date to comply with newer election schedules."
]
},
"citation": "205A.03",
"subdivision": "subdivision 2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Provides options for holding elections in odd or even-numbered years."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Adjusts the general election dates for school districts.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "205A.04",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Applicability of election postponements for inclement weather.",
"modified": [
"Specifies the applicability of postponement rules for non-state or federal elections."
]
},
"citation": "205A.055",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "General rules for postponing municipal general elections.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "205.105",
"subdivision": ""
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Contains authorization for holding special elections.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "205.10",
"subdivision": "subdivision 3a"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Procedures for giving notice of school district primaries.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "205A.07",
"subdivision": ""
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Regulations for postponement due to weather in school district elections.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "205A.055",
"subdivision": ""
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [
"Repeals existing subdivision on postponement procedures due to inclement weather."
],
"summary": "Repealer of subsection concerning postponed school elections.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "205A.04",
"subdivision": "subdivision 3"
}
]