SF173 Summary

• Creates a free voter identification card issued by the Department of Public Safety, requiring proof of U.S. citizenship, identity, and Minnesota residence; card expires every 4 years (8 years for seniors).

• Establishes provisional ballot system for voters unable to provide required identity and residence proof on election day; ballots counted if voter satisfies requirements within 7 days after election.

• Requires photo ID or alternate acceptable documents (per section 200.035) for voter registration and voting; allows voter registration applications without ID by casting provisional ballot.

• Appropriates $608,000 for voter registration system updates, $1,360,000 for public education campaign, and $1,694,000 for voter identification card account; provides free birth records for card applicants.

• Effective June 1, 2023; contains multiple conforming changes to driver's license and identification card statutes to integrate voter identification card provisions into existing identification systems.