Minnesota State Representative James Gordon announced on May 1 that legislative activity has increased as the constitutional adjournment date of Sunday, May 17 approaches. Gordon said this period is focused on finalizing priorities and debating key bills that impact the district.
Gordon highlighted a bill he authored, HF 3589, which aims to update Election Day procedures. The bill would allow voters who need to briefly leave their polling place for an urgent reason to return and complete their vote. Under current law, voters risk losing their chance to vote if unexpected needs arise. The proposed legislation gives election judges discretion to let voters step out, spoil their original ballot, and receive a new one upon return. “I am a staunch supporter of free and fair elections, and this clarification simplifies the process by giving election judges a clear procedure to follow,” Gordon said. He added that it ensures voters are not penalized for real-life situations while maintaining voting integrity. The bill passed the House floor on Monday and is now awaiting Senate action.
Gordon also discussed HF 3719, another bill he carried as chief author this session. This legislation directs the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board to study whether local candidates can use state reporting software for campaign finance disclosures and launch a pilot program in several communities including Greater Minnesota. According to Gordon, “This approach helps identify ways to simplify reporting, improve consistency, and make the process more user-friendly without changing current requirements.” This measure also passed off the House floor on Monday and awaits further consideration in the Senate.
Addressing concerns about fraud involving publicly funded social service programs such as autism services and childcare providers in Minneapolis, Gordon reported that federal law enforcement executed over 20 search warrants this week as part of an ongoing investigation. He stated these actions highlight longstanding issues with oversight at the state level: “I am grateful to our federal partners for stepping in and taking action.” However, he criticized Governor Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison for not addressing these issues sooner: “At the same time it’s frustrating that this level of intervention was needed…and have instead turned a blind eye to fraud for many years.”
Gordon expressed optimism about progress on establishing an independent Office of Inspector General (OIG), noting its recent advancement through committee hearings: “It was heard in the Ways and Means Committee this week…and is now on the General Register.” He concluded by saying he hopes meaningful steps will be taken before adjournment: “I am hopeful we can get this across the finish line before adjournment and take meaningful steps toward preventing fraud and strengthening accountability in Minnesota.”
