The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically section 203B.04, to enhance voter verification processes for absentee ballot applications. It requires that applications submitted electronically must include the applicant's email address and either their Minnesota driver's license number, state identification card number, or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Additionally, the Secretary of State is mandated to verify the application information against government databases before processing the application. If the application cannot be verified, it must be reviewed for suspicious activity and reported to law enforcement if necessary. The bill also introduces a new requirement for county auditors or municipal clerks to electronically submit applications that meet certain criteria to the Secretary of State for verification.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a process for maintaining the status of permanent absentee voters. It mandates that the Secretary of State validate the information of each permanent absentee voter against government databases 60 to 75 days before each primary and general election. If a voter's information cannot be verified, their status will be changed to "challenged," and they will be notified of their removal from the permanent absentee voter list. This aims to ensure the integrity of the absentee voting process by confirming that voters remain eligible to receive ballots.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 203B.04