Minnesota Court of Appeals says Mille Lacs County Judge acted "independently" in attempt to declare new voting law unconstitutional

(St. Paul, MN) -- The Minnesota Court of Appeals has told a district court judge that he had no authority to deny the restoration of voting rights to felons on probation or parole.

The court vacated orders issued by Mille Lacs County Judge Matthew Quinn. Minnesota lawmakers approved a measure this year that restored voting rights to any felon who completes their prison sentence.

“As your Attorney General, it’s my job to help Minnesotans live with dignity, safety, and respect, and voting is an exercise of dignity. I am pleased the Court of Appeals ruled against one judge’s unjustified and unprompted attack on the right to vote and the dignity of Minnesotans. Today’s decision is a victory for our democracy and our entire judicial system. This incident serves as a reminder that the right to vote is precious and often hard-won. I encourage all eligible Minnesotans, particularly those who were formerly incarcerated, to register to vote and vote in our upcoming elections."

Judge Quinn called the new law unconstitutional "independently... without the issue being raised by any party" according to the Court of Appeals ruling.The Court of Appeals says Judge Quinn did not have the authority to issue a supplemental sentencing order that declared a legislative act unconstitutional.