Minnesota House Bill HF1235

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/25
• Refer: 2/20/25

Caption

Statewide voter registration system data classified.

Impact

The implications of HF1235 are multifaceted, especially concerning the balance between public access to voter information and the safeguarding of individual privacy. This bill alters existing Minnesota Statutes, making important distinctions between types of voter data, which could impact how local and state entities manage and disclose such information. The changes aim to strengthen protections against potential misuse of voter registration data, which is crucial as concerns around voter privacy and data breaches rise.

Summary

House File 1235 addresses the classification of data within the statewide voter registration system in Minnesota. The bill specifically modifies the privacy status of various voter-related data, ensuring that some data remains public while significantly protecting personal information. For instance, data concerning voters' dates of birth, driver's license numbers, and portions of Social Security numbers are classified as private data. The motivation behind these amendments is to enhance the security of voters’ personal information while maintaining transparency regarding voting history and participation.

Contention

The bill may spark debate among legislators and stakeholders regarding the access and availability of public data for election purposes. Proponents may argue that restricting personal data is essential for voter safety and privacy, while opponents could express concerns that excessive restrictions might hinder transparency and accountability in the electoral process. Furthermore, the bill's repeal of certain existing statutes indicates a significant shift in the approach to voter data management that may elicit varied reactions depending on the perspectives of different political and advocacy groups.