Bill > SF2468

This bill modifies Minnesota's existing law on malicious punishment of a child by establishing mandatory minimum sentences and strengthening penalties for different levels of child abuse. The bill creates increasingly severe criminal penalties based on the extent of harm caused to a child, ranging from gross misdemeanors to felonies. For less serious cases causing minimal harm, offenders may face up to 364 days in jail and/or a $3,000 fine. More serious offenses involving bodily harm to children under four, multiple bruises, or substantial/great bodily harm will now require mandatory commitment to the commissioner of corrections for a minimum of one to two years, with potential additional fines between $10,000 and $20,000. The bill also includes an enhancement provision that applies harsher penalties if the offender has previous convictions for similar crimes within the past five years. Notably, the language shifts from permissive sentencing (using "may be sentenced") to more mandatory language (using "shall be committed"), which indicates a more stringent approach to punishing child abuse. The new provisions will take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2468&ssn=0&y=2025