This bill establishes ranked choice voting as an option for local elections in Minnesota, allowing various jurisdictions, including home rule charter cities, statutory cities, school districts, and counties, to adopt this voting method. It outlines the necessary procedures for adoption, implementation, and use, requiring jurisdictions to present a ballot question to voters for approval. The bill specifies that ranked choice voting is applicable only for local offices during general or special elections and sets timelines for its adoption and repeal. Key amendments include new definitions and procedures for counting votes, ballot formats that allow voters to rank candidates, and the establishment of a ranked choice voting tabulation center.

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 tabulation process be publicly announced with specific details, and it requires secure handling of electronic voting data and ballots during such recesses. The bill also outlines procedures for recording and tabulating write-in votes, and it emphasizes transparency by requiring precincts to provide summary statements of first-choice votes. Local election officials are tasked with conducting a review of ballots post-election, reporting results to the county auditor and the public, and ensuring that voting systems comply with federal guidelines. An appropriation is included for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support the implementation costs associated with this act.

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