Bill > HF2358

This bill enhances criminal penalties for coercion crimes that result in great bodily harm or death to the victim. Specifically, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes section 609.27, subdivision 2, which deals with sentencing for coercion offenses. Under the current law, coercion crimes are punishable by varying levels of fines and imprisonment depending on the financial gain or loss involved. The bill adds a new provision that if a coercion violation (specifically under clause 6) directly causes great bodily harm or death to the victim, the offender can be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $30,000. Additionally, the bill requires the commissioners of public safety and education to conduct a public awareness campaign to educate the public, particularly students in elementary, middle, and high schools, about this legal change. The new provisions will become effective on August 1, 2026, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date. The aim of the bill appears to be to provide more severe consequences for coercion crimes that result in serious physical harm or death, and to increase public understanding of these legal modifications.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2358&ssn=0&y=2025