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. Key amendments include new definitions and procedures related to the counting of votes, the format of ballots that allow voters to rank candidates, and the establishment of a ranked choice voting tabulation center to ensure transparency during the vote counting process.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific regulations for tabulating votes in both single-seat and multiple-seat elections, including the "single-seat single transferable vote" and "multiple-seat single transferable vote" methods. It mandates that precincts provide a summary statement of first-choice votes and allows candidates defeated in the final round to request a recount. The bill also requires a postelection review process to verify the accuracy of vote counting and establishes new requirements for voting systems used in ranked choice elections, including compliance with federal guidelines and testing capabilities. An appropriation is included to cover the costs associated with implementing these changes.

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