Senate Floor Session - 05/02/2022

On a divided 40-26 vote, the Senate gave its final approval to HF 4293, the omnibus state government, elections, veterans and transportation policy and supplemental funding bill. The consideration of the measure Monday, May 2, resulted in a seven hour marathon session, with Senators debating about 30 proposed changes or amendments.

With the intent to bring greater transparency and security to the election process, the bill requires the recording and streaming of ballot submissions at ballot drop boxes, and requires each voter to submit their own ballot. Ballot boxes would have to be located within 100 feet of the county auditor or municipal clerk's office. The bill further requires absentee ballots to be printed on paper with a security marking.

As for state government changes, the bill would automatically transition Minnesota to standard time should the federal government fail to pass a national daylight saving time by 2030. Also, the bill prohibits state agencies from adopting rules that limit vehicle fuel choices.

In the area of transportation, the bill provides $5.7 billion in funding, including the full dedication of the sales tax revenue from auto parts sales to road and bridge improvements. In addition, the bill calls for the termination of the Northstar commuter rail line and prevents further state funding for any light rail projects. The bill further disallows state funding for the Northern Lights Express rail line between Duluth and the Twin Cities.