Minnesota lawmakers target disinformation in election bill

Mar 30, 20230

Shari L. Gross, Star Tribune count

Rep. Emma Greenman, DFL-Minneapolis, is sponsoring a House bill that would create new penalties for people who knowingly spread false information ahead of an election with intent to impede someone's ability to vote.

Seeking to crack down on the spread of disinformation, Minnesota legislators and state election officials are proposing new penalties for people who intentionally spread false information intended to prevent someone from voting.

The proposal, nearing a vote as part of a broader DFL-led elections package, would carry a gross misdemeanor penalty and allow the attorney general and others to bring civil action against someone who violates the law within 60 days of an election.

"In America, everyone has a right to be wrong," said Secretary of State Steve Simon. "What you can't do ... is intentionally, with the intent to impede someone's access to the polls, lie and say things that are not true. That is the cornerstone of the fight against disinformation."

https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-lawmakers-target-disinformation-in-election-bill/600262931/