Bill > HF2351

This bill addresses several key areas related to immigration and criminal penalties in Minnesota. First, it requires state departments to annually report the total amount of governmental assistance provided to individuals without legal status in the state, including goods, services, credits, and money. Second, the bill strengthens employment regulations by prohibiting employers from knowingly hiring unauthorized individuals, with potential penalties including license suspension and fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 per violation. Third, it creates a new definition and prohibition of "sanctuary cities," preventing local municipalities from restricting public safety officials' ability to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. The bill also significantly increases criminal penalties for human trafficking offenses, specifically expanding prison sentences and fine amounts for labor trafficking and sex trafficking crimes involving victims under 18 or occurring over extended periods. Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws to create new criminal penalties for using fraudulent identification documents to verify employment status, with potential felony charges carrying up to two years in prison or a $5,000 fine. Most of these provisions will become effective on August 1, 2025, and apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

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https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2351&ssn=0&y=2025