Bill > SF1815

This bill introduces a comprehensive framework for implementing ranked choice voting (RCV) in local elections across Minnesota, specifically for cities, school districts, and counties. After January 1, 2026, local jurisdictions may voluntarily adopt RCV through a ballot question, allowing voters to rank up to three candidates in order of preference, with a detailed, complex vote-counting process that progressively eliminates candidates with the fewest votes and transfers those votes to voters' next-ranked choices. The bill establishes precise definitions, tabulation methods for both single-seat and multiple-seat elections, and requires voting systems to have specific capabilities like supporting multiple rankings, capturing ballot data, and notifying voters of potential ballot errors. Local jurisdictions must provide clear ballot instructions, notify the secretary of state of their RCV adoption, and cannot implement RCV less than 20 weeks before an election. The bill also mandates detailed reporting requirements, including round-by-round vote tabulation summaries, and provides for election recounts and post-election reviews. Notably, the legislation requires the secretary of state to develop administrative rules for implementation and appropriates funding to support the transition to RCV, aiming to provide local governments with a flexible, alternative voting method that potentially allows for more nuanced voter expression.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1815&ssn=0&y=2025