Bill > SF1021

This bill eliminates the use of absentee ballot drop boxes in Minnesota by amending existing election laws. Specifically, the bill modifies section 203B.08 to remove language about drop boxes and prohibit election officials from providing drop boxes or similar receptacles for ballot collection. The bill also completely repeals section 203B.082, which previously established detailed security and integrity standards for absentee ballot drop boxes. Under the new provisions, voters can only return absentee ballots by personally delivering them to the county auditor or municipal clerk's office, mailing them, or having a designated agent (limited to delivering ballots for up to three voters) submit them in person. The bill effectively ends the practice of 24-hour accessible ballot drop boxes, which were introduced during recent election cycles to provide additional convenience and accessibility for voters. By removing the drop box option, the legislation aims to change how absentee ballots can be returned, potentially impacting voter accessibility and ballot submission methods.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1021&ssn=0&y=2025