Bill Authorizing Online Voter Registration Approved

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Before a court order can kick in, Minnesota lawmakers have moved to restore the secretary of state's ability to operate an online voter registration system.The Senate approved a bill Tuesday authorizing the new registration system, sending the measure to Gov. Mark Dayton.

A day earlier, a Ramsey County judge ruled Secretary of State Mark Ritchie had overstepped his bounds by establishing the virtual sign-up unilaterally last fall. The judge ordered that the system be shut down by midnight.

Republicans who voted against the bill argued there weren't enough security safeguards and accountability measures built in. They say the bill has proceeded too hastily.

Democrats said it was important to maintain another convenience for people exercising their right to vote.