Bill > SF1600

This bill eliminates the statute of limitations for the crime of arson in the first degree (section 609.561) in Minnesota, meaning that criminal charges can be brought against a person at any time after the offense is committed, regardless of how much time has passed. Currently, most criminal offenses have specific time limits within which prosecutors must file charges, typically ranging from three to six years after the crime occurs. By removing the statute of limitations for first-degree arson, this legislation allows law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue criminal charges indefinitely for this serious crime, which could help in cases where evidence emerges later or victims come forward after a significant period of time. The bill will become effective on August 1, 2025, and will apply to both crimes committed on or after that date and crimes committed before that date, as long as the limitations period had not already expired by August 1, 2025. This change aims to provide more flexibility in prosecuting serious arson cases and potentially offer more opportunities for justice for victims.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1600&ssn=0&y=2025