Bill > HF1872

This bill modifies the requirements for filing an affidavit of candidacy in Minnesota by adding more stringent verification of a candidate's residential address. Specifically, candidates must now include a signed statement from two district residents (who are not related to the candidate) attesting to personally knowing the candidate resides at the address listed on the affidavit. Candidates must also present a valid driver's license, state ID, or other authorized proof of residence that matches the address on their affidavit. If the addresses do not match, the filing officer cannot accept the affidavit. The bill introduces a new criminal penalty for willfully making false statements on an affidavit of candidacy, which could result in up to 90 days in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. While these new requirements do not apply to judicial offices, county attorneys, or county sheriffs, they aim to enhance the integrity of the candidate registration process by requiring additional verification of a candidate's actual residence. The bill will take effect the day after final enactment and will apply to candidacy filing periods beginning on or after that date.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1872&ssn=0&y=2025