Requirements related to the return of absentee ballots on election day modified, and absentee voting period modified for certain voters.
Impact
If passed, HF1253 will directly impact current election laws by reducing the timeline in which absentee ballots must be mailed to voters, specifically changing the period to no fewer than 28 days prior to elections. This shortened timeframe aims to increase the efficiency of election processes and is expected to facilitate greater voter participation, especially among those who rely on absentee voting due to health, distance, or other constraints. Moreover, the bill emphasizes ensuring accessibility for individuals who may have difficulties reaching polling places or who cannot vote in person on election day.
Summary
House File 1253 (HF1253) is a legislative proposal aimed at modifying various aspects of absentee voting in Minnesota. The bill intends to amend several sections of the Minnesota Statutes concerning the return of absentee ballots on election day while also altering the absentee voting period for certain voters. Notably, the modifications include establishing a more streamlined process for voters to apply for and return absentee ballots, as well as ensuring that ballots reach voters well ahead of the election dates. Furthermore, it seeks to improve the functionality related to the management of absentee voting through collaboration with local election officials.
Contention
The bill has not been free from controversy. Advocates for the changes argue that these measures are essential for modernizing the voting process and making it more inclusive, citing increased voter turnout as a crucial goal. Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential for complications in the hastening of ballot delivery and tracking. They worry that the changes might lead to logistical issues, particularly in ensuring that all ballots are received on time for counting, as well as the security of the absentee voting process. The dialogue around HF1253 reflects a broader debate on how to balance efficient election administration with the safeguarding of voter rights and ballot integrity.
Similar To
Absentee ballots return on election day requirements provisions modifications and certain voters absentee voting period modifications provision
Voters allowed to join permanent absentee voter list, and absentee ballots required to automatically be sent before election to voters on permanent absentee voter list.
Voter registration and absentee voting provisions modified; voting instructions and sample ballot required to be multilingual and interpreters required to be provided; intimidation, deceptive practices, and interference regulated; campaign finance provisions modified; and money appropriated.
Conditions under which a voter may vote by absentee ballot provided, state general election day established as official state holiday, early voting provisions repealed, and use of absentee ballot drop boxes provisions repealed.
Voter registration, absentee voting, and campaign finance provisions modified; voting instructions, sample ballots, and election judges required to be multilingual; intimidation, deceptive practices, and interference with voter registration and voting regulated; Democracy Dollar coupon program established; political contribution refund program repealed; and definition of express advocacy expanded.
Election administration provisions modified, voter registration requirements modified, voting instruction and sample ballot requirements amended, tabulation process and equipment requirements amended, notification timeline provided to counties amended, and vacancy in nomination process amended.
Wage credits modified and reimbursement provided, general fund transfers authorized, unemployment insurance aid provided, report required, and money appropriated.
Governor's budget bill for early childhood programs; child welfare and child care licensing provisions modified; technical changes to early childhood law made; Department of Children, Youth, and Families recodification updated; and money appropriated.