Minnesota's Senate Bill 1166 is making waves as it seeks to tighten the regulations surrounding absentee voting in the state. Introduced on February 13, 2025, the bill aims to enhance the integrity of absentee ballots by implementing stricter identification requirements for voters.

At the heart of the legislation is a new certificate of eligibility that will be printed on the back of absentee ballot signature envelopes. This certificate mandates voters to provide their Minnesota driver's license number, state ID number, or the last four digits of their Social Security number. For those without such identification, the bill allows for a declaration indicating the absence of these numbers. This move is designed to ensure that the identification provided matches what was submitted in the absentee ballot application, thereby reducing the potential for fraud.

The bill also introduces a witness requirement for absentee voting. Voters must have their ballots marked in the presence of a witness who is at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen. This witness must attest to the voting process, confirming that the voter marked their ballot without revealing their choices, or if unable, directed someone else to do so. Additionally, the witness must be a registered voter in Minnesota or a notary public, further tightening the voting process.

Debate surrounding Senate Bill 1166 has been intense, with proponents arguing that these measures are essential for maintaining election integrity. Critics, however, contend that the bill could disenfranchise voters, particularly those who may struggle to meet the new identification and witness requirements. The implications of this legislation could be significant, potentially affecting voter turnout and the accessibility of absentee voting in Minnesota.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain. Advocates for voting rights are mobilizing to challenge the proposed changes, while supporters maintain that the integrity of the electoral process must come first. The outcome of Senate Bill 1166 could set a precedent for absentee voting regulations in Minnesota and beyond, making it a critical issue to watch in the coming months.