Today, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that the Upper Midwest Law Center’s clients did not have standing as taxpayers to challenge the new Felon Voting Law. UMLC is disappointed that this decision makes it more difficult for Minnesota taxpayers to hold their government accountable and leaves the important constitutional questions in this case unanswered.
“We are deeply frustrated that the Minnesota Supreme Court chose to limit our clients’ rights as taxpayers to challenge their government’s unlawful actions in the courts,” said Doug Seaton, President and Founder of UMLC. “This decision sidesteps the necessary constitutional scrutiny and leaves Minnesotans without a clear resolution on the legality of significant changes to our voting laws.”
Importantly, UMLC continues to represent clients challenging the new Minnesota Speech Code that restricts free speech around election-related issues, including speech about the eligibility to vote in Minnesota elections. With the Minnesota Supreme Court’s decision today, our clients—and all Minnesotans—remain uncertain about whether, consistent with the Minnesota Constitution, individuals convicted of a felony can vote in Minnesota. Our clients could still potentially face civil or criminal penalties for talking about voter eligibility, and we anxiously await guidance from the federal District of Minnesota in this case.
UMLC remains committed to defending the Minnesota Constitution and ensuring that all legislation passed in Minnesota abides by our State’s supreme law. We will continue to advocate for a balanced approach that respects the Constitution, the rule of law, and the legislative process.
Click here to read the Court’s decision.
