Common Cause report outlines improved voting laws

ST.PAUL, Minnesota—Meanwhile, Common Cause Minnesota issued the Minnesota Election Report, which recommends that Minnesota election law be changed to simplify the voting registration process, to improve training of election judges and to allow voters more time to cast ballots before the general election. In recent weeks, there has been news coverage of the report and the topic of early voting, along with an editorial endorsing election reforms.

The report recommended that the state adopt a “No Excuse Mail-in Voting,” which would allow any individual to vote by mail without the need for an excuse. Under current law, voters requesting an absentee ballot must choose one of four reasons for voting early. The new provision would increase participation and make it easier for absentee voters, the report said.

Another suggestion made by Common Cause was that Minnesota follow the lead of 32 other states and allow early voting. That would shorten lines at the polls on Election Day by allowing voters to cast ballots when it’s convenient for them.

Links:

Startribune: Common Cause advises voting changes

Post Bulletin: Would early voting reduce Minnesota’s election problems?