Gov. Tim Pawlenty has vetoed so-called Motor Voter legislation, which would have allowed automatic voter registration for anyone applying for a driver's license or state identification card, unless the applicant opts not to be registered.
Pawlenty, in a letter to Secretary of State Mark Ritchie and legislative leaders, said he rejected the bill Thursday because "registration to vote should be a voluntary, intentional act."
He added that changes in election law should have backing from both major parties, and "this bill does not does not reflect bipartisan support."
Ritchie and other Motor Voter supporters said the streamlined procedure would have been convenient for voters, reduced long lines at polling places, reduced the number of voters registering on Election Day by more than 70 percent and saved money for local governments.
Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482
