This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, 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 bill mandates that the Secretary of State must verify the application information against government databases before processing the absentee ballot. If an application cannot be verified, it must be reviewed for suspicious activity and reported to law enforcement if necessary. The bill also introduces new requirements for the county auditor or municipal clerk to electronically submit applications that meet specific criteria to the Secretary of State for verification.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new procedure for maintaining the status of permanent absentee voters. It requires the Secretary of State to validate the information of each permanent absentee voter against government databases 60 to 75 days before primary and general elections. 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 are eligible and their information is accurate.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 203B.04