On February 24, 2025, the Minnesota State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 1815, a significant legislative measure aimed at enhancing the integrity and reliability of the state's voting systems. The bill proposes amendments to Minnesota Statutes, specifically section 206.83, which governs the testing of voting equipment prior to elections.

The primary purpose of Senate Bill 1815 is to ensure that all voting systems are thoroughly tested at least three days before their use in elections. This testing is designed to confirm that the systems can accurately mark and count ballots, including those cast through ranked choice voting and assistive technologies. The bill mandates public notice of the testing schedule, requiring that it be published in official newspapers at least two days in advance. Furthermore, the testing process must be observed by at least two election judges from different political parties, as well as representatives from political parties, candidates, the press, and the public.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for a preaudited group of ballots to be processed during the test, ensuring that the voting system can reject invalid votes. Additionally, if ranked choice voting is utilized, the equipment must be tested to verify that each candidate's rankings are recorded correctly. Should any errors be detected during testing, the bill stipulates that these must be addressed and corrected before the voting system can be used in an election.

The bill also includes a financial component, proposing appropriations from the general fund for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to cover the costs associated with implementing these new testing protocols.

Senate Bill 1815 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and election officials regarding its implications for electoral integrity and public confidence in the voting process. Supporters argue that the enhanced testing requirements will bolster voter trust and ensure that elections are conducted fairly and accurately. However, some critics express concerns about the potential costs and logistical challenges associated with implementing these measures.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its outcomes could have lasting effects on Minnesota's electoral framework, potentially setting a precedent for other states to follow in strengthening their voting systems. The next steps will involve further debates and possible amendments as lawmakers consider the bill's provisions and implications for future elections.