This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to enhance ballot access and related provisions for minor political party candidates. It redefines a "minor political party" by requiring these parties to maintain an organization within the state, adhere to their own constitution and rules, and file a certification with the state. New provisions mandate that minor party candidates must declare their party membership and endorsement on their affidavits of candidacy, and include a nomination certificate prepared by the party's chair and secretary. The bill also clarifies the nomination process, allowing minor party candidates to apply for a place on the general election ballot, and details the procedures for filling nomination vacancies.

Additionally, the bill addresses the nomination and ballot access for presidential electors and candidates, ensuring that names of candidates nominated by petition for president and vice president are placed on the general election ballot after those nominated by major parties. It establishes that presidential electors for minor parties will be nominated by their state executive committees, aligning their process with that of major parties. The legislation mandates uniform presentation of candidates' names on the ballot for both major and minor parties, introduces the title "Minor Party Ballot Access Act," and specifies that it will take effect for elections after November 3, 2026, aiming to provide clearer guidelines for minor political party participation in presidential elections.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 200.02, 204B.03, 204B.06, 204B.09, 204B.12, 204B.13, 204D.07, 204D.12, 204D.13, 208.03, 208.04