This bill mandates that general elections for cities, towns, and school districts in Minnesota be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of even-numbered years. However, it allows cities of the first class the option to conduct their general elections in either odd-numbered or even-numbered years, provided they adopt an orderly transition plan. The bill amends several sections of the Minnesota Statutes, including provisions related to the timing of elections and the terms of office for elected officials. Notably, it repeals a section that previously allowed school boards to change the year of their general elections by resolution.

Additionally, the bill specifies that affected governing bodies must adopt a transition plan by January 1, 2026, to facilitate the shift to even-numbered year elections. This plan may include adjustments to the terms of office for elected officials, which can be lengthened or shortened by one year. The effective date of the act is set for July 1, 2025, and it applies to elections conducted on or after January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 205A.04, 205.07, 205.075, 205A.03, 205A.055