This bill introduces ranked choice voting as an option for local elections in Minnesota, allowing various jurisdictions, including home rule charter cities, school districts, and counties, to adopt this voting method. It establishes procedures for the adoption and implementation of ranked choice voting, requiring jurisdictions to present a ballot question to voters for approval. The bill specifies that ranked choice voting can only be used for local offices during general or special elections and outlines the timeline for its adoption and repeal. Key amendments include new definitions and procedures related to ranked choice voting, such as the establishment of a tabulation center and the requirement for ballots that allow voters to rank candidates by preference.

Additionally, the bill introduces regulations for vote tabulation in ranked choice elections, addressing both single-seat and multiple-seat elections. It mandates that any recess during the vote counting process be publicly announced, with all electronic voting data secured. The bill outlines the procedures for recording write-in votes and specifies the methods for tabulating votes, including the "single-seat single transferable vote" and "multiple-seat single transferable vote" methods. It emphasizes transparency and accountability by requiring public reviews and detailed reporting of results, and mandates that voting systems meet specific technical requirements and undergo testing to ensure compliance with federal guidelines. The bill also includes an appropriation for the Secretary of State to cover implementation costs in fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 204B.35, 204C.21, 204D.07, 205.13, 206.57, 206.83