HF2092 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Prosecuting authorities required to seek protective order for certain evidence clearly offensive to common sensibilities.
Related bill: SF2983
AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
The bill seeks to introduce measures to protect sensitive evidence in criminal proceedings from public disclosure. It aims to prevent the release of evidence that could invade privacy or cause severe emotional distress to victims or third parties.
Main Provisions
- The bill mandates prosecuting authorities to file certain offensive evidence under seal with the court if its public release might cause significant disruption to privacy or intense emotional distress.
- Prosecuting authorities must seek a protective order from the court for evidence that could be unsettling, including, but not limited to, audio recordings of 911 calls made for law enforcement, fire, or medical emergencies.
- Particular attention is required when considering evidence involving minors to ensure their protection.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- This bill proposes a new section in Minnesota Statutes chapter 634 that establishes guidelines for handling and protecting sensitive evidence in court proceedings.
- It creates a formal process for sealing such evidence and requires a protective order to limit unnecessary disclosure, balancing the need for privacy with the rights of the defendant to access evidence under the Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Relevant Terms
- Protective order
- Evidence sealing
- Emotional distress
- 911 recordings
- Victim privacy
- Criminal procedure
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 09, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Judiciary Finance and Civil Law |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill requires prosecuting authorities to seek protective orders for evidence offensive to common sensibilities and references the definition of 'victim' found in section 611A.01.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "611A.01"
}
]