MN HF296

Proposes a constitutional amendment to abolish the office of lieutenant governor in Minnesota by removing the position from Article V of the Minnesota Constitution.

The executive department would consist of a governor, secretary of state, auditor, and attorney general, all chosen by state electors.

If a governor vacancy occurs, the secretary of state becomes governor during the vacancy; if both governor and secretary of state positions are vacant, the last elected presiding officer of the senate becomes lieutenant governor.

The governor must be at least 25 years old, a bona fide state resident for one year preceding election, and a United States citizen, with a four-year term of office.

The proposed amendment would be submitted to voters at the 2010 general election and take effect on the first Monday in January 2013 if approved.