Bill > HF1784

This bill, known as the "Anti-Lawfare Law," establishes new provisions related to legal actions brought by government entities in Minnesota. Specifically, the bill mandates that if a government entity (defined as a state agency or municipality) files a lawsuit against a person and does not ultimately prevail in court, the government entity must reimburse the defendant for all defense-related costs, including attorney fees, disbursements, and other legal expenses. The law defines "person" explicitly as not including government entities, and it applies to any legal actions commenced on or after August 1, 2025. The purpose of this bill appears to be protecting individuals and organizations from potentially costly legal actions initiated by government entities when those actions do not result in a successful outcome for the government. By requiring government entities to cover defense costs in unsuccessful lawsuits, the bill aims to discourage frivolous or unnecessarily aggressive legal proceedings and provide a financial safeguard for defendants. The bill does not limit other potential legal remedies and will take effect in August 2025.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1784&ssn=0&y=2025