Bill > SF1609

This bill clarifies the legal process for retroactive relief for individuals previously convicted of certain felony murder charges, specifically those under Minnesota Statutes sections 609.185 (first-degree murder) and 609.19 (second-degree murder). The bill provides a detailed framework for how courts should handle petitions from individuals seeking to challenge their convictions by requiring them to prove they did not cause the death or intentionally aid in causing death, or were not a major participant in the underlying felony. If the court determines the petitioner is entitled to relief, it can vacate the original conviction and resentence the individual for the most serious remaining offense, enter a conviction for a predicate felony, or impose a sentence for a lesser included offense. The bill also ensures that victims are notified and have an opportunity to submit statements, prohibits increasing the total period of confinement, and mandates that any new conviction retain the original conviction date. Importantly, the relief granted is not considered an exoneration, and the bill provides specific procedural guidelines for courts to follow when reviewing such petitions, with the goal of ensuring fair and consistent treatment of felony murder cases.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1609&ssn=0&y=2025