ASL version

If you are DeafBlind or prefer to watch the video in a high contrast format, watch the DeafBlind friendlier ASL version instead. To adjust the video speed, use YouTube's playback speed tool.

English version

Minnesota has new laws that expand the freedom to vote! These new laws include the following:

Restoring the vote

Before Minnesotans who have not yet completed their sentence such as probation or parole could not vote. Now your criminal record does not affect your right to vote unless you are currently incarcerated for a felony. If you are not incarcerated, even if you are on probation or parole, or owe restitution, you can vote.

Automatic voter registration

In 2024, Minnesota established automatic voter registration. People applying for an instructional permit, driver’s license or state ID, will also be registered to vote if they meet all eligibility requirements, including citizenship. In addition to making it easier to vote, this will allow elections officials to streamline the process of updating voter rolls, which makes the process more secure. Minnesotans are able to opt-out of registering to vote within 20 days of their registration being processed.

Pre-registration for 16- and 17-year-olds

Now, 16- and 17-year-old Minnesotans can submit a voter registration form, and have their registration take effect on their 18th birthday. They are also pre-registered when they get a driver's license. Minnesota is a national leader in youth engagement, and getting young people to think of themselves as future voters is a big part of that.

Ongoing vote from home

Many Minnesotans enjoy the convenience of voting from home with an absentee ballot. Any eligible voter may vote this way, and as of June 2024 they will be able to request to be added to a list to automatically be sent an absentee ballot during the early vote period, instead of needing to apply again ahead of every election. This will save time for voters who know they want to continue voting from home. Folks can submit this request by re-registering to vote.

Language provisions

Starting in January 2024, voter instructions in the three most commonly spoken non-English languages will be provided in every polling place statewide. This is Spanish, Hmong, and Somali.

Additional language access will be provided at qualifying polling places, according to data collected in the most recent census.

• Precincts with at least 3% of the population speaking English “less than very well” will provide translated voting instructions and sample ballots.
• Precincts with at least 20% of the population speaking English “less than very well” will, upon request, provide translation services in their precinct on Election Day.
• If their language is not being provided in their precinct, voters can also submit a request with at least 10 signatures from eligible voters from their precinct.

For further information about those new voting laws, check out the MNVotes website or call 1-877-600-VOTE.

Credits

The Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State and the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind & Hard of Hearing thank:

Jer Loudenback for ASL talent.

Becky Lukkason for voiceover. 

Keystone Interpreting Solutions for film production.