Bill
HF 991
Summary of HF 991: Local governments prohibited from accepting certain contributions for election expenses Main Purpose and IntentThis bill would prohibit local governments in Minn
This bill would prohibit local governments in Minnesota from accepting private contributions to fund election-related expenses. The intent is to ensure that election administration and expenses are funded solely through public sources, rather than private donations.
Ban on private election funding: The bill would prohibit any county, city, township or other local government unit from accepting donations, grants or other private funding to pay for any expenses related to elections. This includes staffing, equipment, voter education efforts, and other election-related costs.
Requirement for public funding: Instead, the bill mandates that all election expenses at the local level must be covered by public funds appropriated through state and local government budgets.
Enforcement and penalties: Local officials who knowingly accept private election funding would be subject to civil penalties of up to $25,000. The Minnesota Secretary of State would be responsible for monitoring compliance and enforcing the law.
Local governments: Counties, cities, townships and other local jurisdictions in Minnesota would be prohibited from seeking or accepting private donations to support their election operations.
Nonprofit organizations: Groups that have previously provided private funding to assist with local election administration would no longer be able to do so under this legislation.
Voters: The bill's supporters argue it will help ensure the integrity and non-partisanship of election administration. Critics contend it could make it harder for cash-strapped local governments to adequately fund elections.
The bill was introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives on April 7, 2025 and has been referred to the Elections Finance and Government Operations committee for further consideration.
It has a companion bill, SF 641, which has been introduced in the State Senate.
If passed by the Legislature and signed into law, the prohibition on private election funding would take effect for the 2026 election cycle and all subsequent elections.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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