Minnesota House Bill HF573

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23

Caption

Photo ID required to register to vote and to vote; voter ID card created; provisional ballots established; compensation methods prohibited; identification of individuals acting as agent for absentee voter or providing assistance to voter required; counties, municipalities, and school districts prohibited from accepting contributions; absentee voting requirements amended; and money appropriated.

Impact

If enacted, HF573 would amend various Minnesota Statutes regarding voter registration and election conduct. This includes provisions that prohibit counties, municipalities, and school districts from accepting certain contributions for election expenses, thereby aiming to reduce perceived influences on election outcomes. Furthermore, the act introduces enhanced criminal penalties for violations related to absentee voting and establishes stricter requirements for individuals acting as agents or providing assistance to voters during elections. These changes seek to clarify and enhance the integrity of the electoral process across Minnesota.

Summary

House File 573, known as the Minnesota Elections Integrity Act, introduces several significant changes to the state's election laws. Most notably, it mandates the use of photo identification to register and vote, creating a voter identification card. The bill also establishes procedures for provisional ballots, thus ensuring that voters who may face identification issues can still participate in elections, albeit conditionally. This measure is intended to bolster election security and ensure that all eligible voters can reliably prove their identity when voting.

Contention

The bill has generated notable debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that requiring photo ID will safeguard elections against fraud and reinforce public confidence in the electoral system. Critics, however, contend that the requirement could disenfranchise eligible voters, particularly those without easy access to photo identification. Various stakeholders emphasize the potential barriers this could create for certain demographics, including the elderly, low-income voters, and those living in remote areas. As such, the discussions surrounding HF573 are deeply rooted in broader issues of voter access and election security.