Minnesota House passes bill that would expand voter access

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Home Thursday night handed a sweeping elections invoice dubbed the “Democracy for the Folks Act.“

The invoice permits these ages 16 and 17 to pre-register to vote, creates a everlasting absentee poll listing and implements automated voter registration.

Twenty-two states and Washington, D.C. have automated voter registration, in accordance with the Nationwide Convention of State Legislatures. 

The act additionally would require voting directions and pattern ballots to be offered in non-English languages.

“Our laws will strengthen the liberty to vote, shield our democratic establishments and Minnesota voters, and empower voters, not companies or rich particular pursuits in our elections,” Home Speaker Melissa Hortman mentioned.

GOP lawmakers expressed concern with the marketing campaign finance adjustments, which embrace increasing what kinds of impartial expenditures want disclosure. It additionally prohibits foreign-influence companies from making direct contributions.

“The Shield Democracy Act feels a little bit extra like ‘let’s shield democratic victories’ act,” Rep. Paul Torkelson mentioned.

The invoice handed 70-57.