The bill may have significant implications for the treatment of election judges in Minnesota. By clarifying that these individuals are not considered employees of the appointing authority, it eliminates the requirement for them to comply with employment conditions that are unrelated to their duties as election judges. This may lead to changes in how election judges are recruited, trained, and compensated, impacting the operational dynamics of Minnesota's election processes.
Summary
House File 5119 (HF5119) proposes to clarify the employment status of election judges within the state of Minnesota. The bill specifically amends Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 204B.19, adding a new subdivision that explicitly states that being an election judge does not establish an individual as an employee of the appointing authority. This change is aimed at clarifying the relationship between election judges and the authorities that appoint them, potentially influencing the administrative practices surrounding elections in the state.
Contention
While the text of the bill presents a straightforward legislative change, there may be underlying discussions regarding accountability and the responsibilities of elected officials who oversee elections. By delineating the employment status of election judges, the bill may face scrutiny regarding how it affects the recruitment of individuals willing to take on this essential role. Public discussions may arise about the adequacy of support and training provided to election judges under this new classification, as well as concerns over the potential lack of benefits typically afforded to employees that might otherwise enhance the recruitment of qualified individuals.
Counties authorized to establish pools of election judges by random selection, and counties and cities allowed to require appointed registered voters to serve as election judges.