Minnesota’s presidential primary is one month from today. As voters prepare to cast their ballot, administrators say new policies are in place in hopes of making the process easier—including for seniors.
Minnesota got attention last year for approving high-profile election changes, such as automatic voter registration.
But other tweaks are flying under the radar, such as removing limitations on how many people an individual can assist while accompanying others to a polling location.
Blue Earth County Elections Director Mike Stalberger said an example is a group from an assisted-living facility brought in by a staff member.
“In that instance,” said Stalberger, “this staff that may be chaperoning that group or bringing that group down here could provide assistance to an unlimited number of voters.”
Staff from assisted-living facilities have also been added to the list of those who can vouch for a voter who doesn’t have documentation of their permanent address.
Early voting for the upcoming primary began on January 19.
Organizations such as AARP have shared research showing how more people aged 50 and older are taking on new jobs to supplement their income.
Stalberger noted that Minnesota has expanded the opportunity for staff to leave work without penalty to cast their ballot.
“And what the Legislature said this last session is that Election Day is no longer just one day in Minnesota,” said Stalberger. “It’s actually the 46 days that lead up to the election and Election Day. And so, they’ve expanded that right to be able to vote during that 46-day period and be away from work for a reasonable amount of time.”
There’s also more wiggle room to turn in your absentee ballot in person. The previous deadline was 3 p.m. on Election Day. That’s been pushed back to 8 p.m.
AARP Minnesota has more information about voting in 2024 on its website.
Mike Moen writes for Minnesota News Connection.
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