Bill > SF1804

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for ranked choice voting (RCV) in local elections across Minnesota, allowing cities, school districts, and counties to voluntarily adopt this voting method after January 1, 2026. The bill defines ranked choice voting as an election method where voters rank candidates in order of preference, with votes being transferred between candidates until a winner is determined. Key provisions include allowing local jurisdictions to adopt RCV through a voter ballot question, requiring ballots to allow voters to rank up to three candidates, and establishing detailed rules for vote tabulation in both single-seat and multiple-seat elections. The bill mandates specific reporting requirements, including round-by-round tabulation results, and creates provisions for post-election reviews and recounts. Electronic voting systems used for RCV must meet new certification standards, including the ability to capture and report ballot data, handle multiple rankings, and notify voters of potential ballot errors. Local jurisdictions must provide clear instructions on how to mark RCV ballots and can only implement the system at least 20 weeks before an election. The secretary of state is tasked with adopting rules to implement these new RCV procedures, and an appropriation is included to support the implementation of the new voting method.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1804&ssn=0&y=2025