This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes related to the classification of data in the statewide voter registration system. It introduces new provisions that classify certain voter data as private, including a voter's date of birth, driver's license number, and parts of their Social Security number. Additionally, it allows voters to request that their names be withheld from public records for safety reasons. The bill also stipulates that any individual requesting public data must confirm in writing that the information will not be used for purposes unrelated to elections, political activities, or law enforcement.
Furthermore, the bill repeals existing provisions that previously governed access to registered voter lists and certain data restrictions. It clarifies that the county auditor must provide a public information list containing basic voter information while ensuring that private data is not disclosed. The secretary of state is tasked with maintaining a list of voters who participated in presidential nomination primaries, and this information is also classified as private, with specific exceptions for political party chairs. The act is set to take effect the day following its final enactment and applies to data requests made thereafter.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 13.607, 201.022, 201.091