Candidate elected to the office of state senator or state representative permitted to resign the position prior to the commencement of the term for which the candidate was elected, and procedures established for the conduct of a special election in the event of an expected vacancy.

HF 2702 allows candidates elected to Minnesota's state Senate or House of Representatives to resign before their term begins, creating an "expected vacancy" instead of leaving the seat permanently. If a resignation occurs, the governor must issue a special election writ within five days, requiring the election to be held within 35 days. The winner of the special election takes office at the start of the term or immediately if the legislature is already in session. This bill amends Minnesota election law and applies to candidates elected on or after November 3, 2026.