Minnesota Voting Roster Upgrade Could Happen Slowly

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - A Minnesota task force studying a higher-tech voter verification process appears unlikely to push for electronic poll books in every precinct for the 2014 statewide election.

Several panel members highlighted concerns Monday over equipment costs, security protocols and timing while describing a full-scale rollout by next fall as a tall order. The task force will deliver final recommendations to the Legislature in January.

A limited pilot project during a small-turnout 2013 election highlighted the complexities of implementing the rosters statewide in place of low-tech paper binder voters are accustomed to seeing at their polling place.

Advocates of the e-poll books say they'll add another layer of election integrity, cut wait times and reduce data entry errors. Discussion has shifted away from requiring photos be part of the electronic rosters, however.