Allegations that Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie misused his authority by working against the proposed voting amendment will be aired Friday at a probable cause hearing.

State Sens. Mike Parry of Waseca and Scott Newman of Hutchinson, both Republicans, filed an administrative complaint against Ritchie last week, claiming:

• Ritchie is providing inaccurate and biased information to voters about the potential costs and effects of the amendment.
• He has acted in his official capacity as secretary of state to oppose the amendment.
• He and his staff are using public funds to campaign against the amendment.

Administrative law judge Bruce Johnson called for the probable cause hearing after determining that, if true, the allegations would constitute a violation.

If probable cause is found at Friday's hearing, the judge will schedule a further hearing. If no probable cause is found, the complaint will be dismissed.