This bill aims to enhance the political contribution refund program in Minnesota by requiring the commissioner of revenue to establish an online system for claiming refunds. It modifies existing laws to facilitate electronic information transfer between the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board and the Department of Revenue. Key amendments include the introduction of provisions for treasurers to enter and store electronic records, which are classified as nonpublic data, and the ability for the board to access specific data for administering refunds. Additionally, the bill mandates that refund receipts be issued electronically and include unique validation numbers for verification purposes.

The bill also sets maximum refund limits of $75 for individuals and $150 for married couples filing jointly, while stipulating that claims must be filed electronically or accompanied by a refund receipt. It establishes that claims must be for a minimum of $10 and introduces a requirement for the commissioner to provide a daily receipt validation report to ensure proper tracking of contributions. Furthermore, the bill appropriates funds for the implementation of the electronic filing system, with an effective date set for January 1, 2027, for certain provisions and for contributions made after December 31, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 10A.02, 10A.322, 290.06
1st Engrossment: 10A.02, 10A.322, 290.06