HF2648

Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to enhance public safety by limiting the access of certain sex offenders to social media platforms. The bill specifically targets offenders who have committed crimes against minors.

Main Provisions

• Restrictions on Social Media Access: The bill mandates that sex offenders on parole, state-supervised probation, or supervised release for crimes against minors are prohibited from using social media platforms where users under 18 are active.
• Account Information Disclosure: Offenders must provide all social media account details, including usernames and passwords, to their parole or probation officer.
• Annual List: The commissioner is required to annually compile and publish a list of platforms that meet the criteria of a social media platform as defined by the bill.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 243.055, by adding a new subdivision that introduces more stringent conditions for sex offenders interacting with social media.
• The change specifically targets offenses involving victims under 18 and imposes new supervision conditions not previously required under the statute.

Relevant Terms

sex offenders, social media platforms, parole, probation, supervised release, minors, user-generated content