Bill > SF1071

This bill provides a comprehensive framework for implementing ranked choice voting (RCV) in local elections across Minnesota, starting from January 1, 2026. The bill allows home rule charter and statutory cities, school districts, and counties to adopt RCV for local offices through a ballot question, with specific guidelines for implementation. Under RCV, voters can rank up to three candidates in order of preference, which enables a more nuanced voting process where voters can express their true preferences without fear of "wasting" their vote. The bill establishes detailed procedures for how votes will be tabulated in both single-seat and multiple-seat elections, including complex rules for transferring votes when candidates are eliminated. To support this new voting method, the bill requires electronic voting systems to be capable of handling ranked choice voting, including the ability to capture and report ballot data, handle multiple rankings, and notify voters of potential ballot errors. Local jurisdictions must provide clear ballot instructions, and the secretary of state is tasked with adopting rules to govern RCV implementation. The bill also includes provisions for recounts and post-election reviews to ensure accuracy, and appropriates funds to the secretary of state to support the implementation of ranked choice voting across Minnesota's local elections.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1071&ssn=0&y=2025