On Monday, the Minnesota House approved legislation allowing for the utilization of federal Help America Vote Act (HAVA) funds, and additional measures to ensure Minnesota’s elections remain safe and secure.  State District 27B Representative Jeanne Poppe, DFL’er from Austin spoke with KAUS News and stated that she’s hopeful that the bill, which passed with strong bi-partisan support will continue making its way toward the desk of Governor Tim Walz…

In addition to improving accessibility and modernizing election security, HAVA funds will be used to ensure the health and safety of election officials and in-person voters. This includes preparation for increased absentee voting, new polling place locations, the purchase of sanitation and disinfectant supplies, and public outreach for implementing social distancing guidelines related to voting. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, additional funds were made available for virus-specific measures through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.