St. Paul, MN – Today, the Minnesota House State Government Finance Division held a remote hearing on House File 3499, which transfers and appropriates funds made available by the Help America Vote Act (HAVA). Rep. Michael Nelson (DFL – Brooklyn Park), chair of the State Government Finance Division, authored and presented the legislation as Rep. Ginny Klevorn (DFL – Plymouth), vice chair of the State Government Finance Division, led the hearing.
“Minnesota is facing a lot of uncertainty in the months ahead with how the COVID-19 pandemic will further impact our state, but we can deliver some peace of mind and protection by properly funding and preparing for our upcoming elections,” said Rep. Nelson. “The new round of HAVA funds were important for our upcoming elections before this pandemic, and now it will be a crucial component in ensuring Minnesotans can vote in a secure and healthy manner.
Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon testified in favor of the legislation, highlighting the need for these funds to better help Minnesotans participate in the upcoming August primaries and November election without risking their health. Debby Erickson, representing Minnesota Association of County Officers, also testified in favor of the legislation.
“This is important legislation for the health of our state and the health of our elections,” remarked Rep. Ginny Klevorn. “I’m excited we have a bipartisan agreement on releasing the HAVA COVID-19 emergency election funds. It’s good for our democracy and the health of Minnesota voters and poll workers.”
The legislation was amended, but no final action was taken. Supporting documents from today’s hearing and other information can be found on the committee’s website. A video recording of the hearing can be found on the House Public Information’s YouTube channel.
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