2025 Minnesota Statutes

211B.066 DISTRIBUTION OF ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICATIONS AND SAMPLE BALLOTS.

Subdivision 1.Definitions.

(a) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given.

(b) "Person or entity" means any individual, committee, or association as defined in section 10A.01, subdivision 6.

(c) "Sample ballot" means a document that is formatted and printed in a manner that so closely resembles an official ballot that it could lead a reasonable person to believe the document is an official ballot. A document that contains the names of particular candidates or ballot questions alongside illustrations of a generic ballot or common ballot markings is not a sample ballot as long as the document does not closely resemble an official ballot and would not lead a reasonable person to believe the document is an official ballot.

Subd. 2.Requirements.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, any person or entity that mails an absentee ballot application or sample ballot to anyone in the state must comply with this section. This section does not apply to a unit of government or employee of that unit of government when discharging official election duties.

(b) The person or entity mailing the absentee ballot application or sample ballot must include the following statement: "This mailing is not an official election communication from a unit of government. This [absentee ballot application or sample ballot] has not been included at the request of a government official." If a sample ballot is enclosed, the statement must also include the following: "This is a sample ballot, not an official ballot. You cannot cast the enclosed sample ballot."

(c) The statement required in paragraph (b) must be printed in a typeface and format designed to be clearly visible at the time the mailing is opened. The person or entity sending the sample ballot or absentee ballot application must include the person or entity's name and street address in the return address position on the mailing envelope.

(d) If an absentee ballot application is included, the space on the application to indicate the applicant's preference to join the permanent absentee voter list must be left blank and may only be marked by the applicant.

History:

2025 c 39 art 7 s 18