Bill > SF2131

This bill introduces a comprehensive framework for implementing ranked choice voting (RCV) in local elections across Minnesota. After January 1, 2026, home rule charter or statutory cities, school districts, and counties can adopt ranked choice voting through a ballot referendum, with the method being applicable only to local general or special elections. The bill establishes detailed procedures for how RCV elections will be conducted, including ballot design, vote counting methods for both single-seat and multiple-seat elections, and specific tabulation rules. Under RCV, voters can rank up to three candidates in order of preference, and the voting system will redistribute votes from less popular candidates to voters' next choices until a candidate reaches the victory threshold. The bill mandates specific reporting requirements, allows for recounts, and requires postelection reviews to ensure voting system accuracy. Jurisdictions must adopt RCV at least 20 weeks before a state primary or 90 days before filing for local elections, and voting systems must meet new technical certification standards to support multiple candidate rankings and provide voter error notifications. The bill also appropriates funding to the secretary of state to support implementation and requires the development of administrative rules to govern the new voting method.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2131&ssn=0&y=2025