HF285 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Right to carry without a permit provided, and optional permit to carry provided.
Related bill: SF280
AI Generated Summary
This Minnesota legislative bill, proposed by Representative Heintzeman, is aimed at changing the laws regarding carrying firearms. The main points of the bill are:
Individuals will no longer need a permit to carry a firearm in most public places if they are not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing firearms.
The definition of a "public place" is clarified, including government-owned properties and private properties open to public but excluding private residences, businesses, or land owned by the firearm holder.
Despite the "no-permit-required" rule, individuals can still apply for an optional permit to carry a pistol. The criteria for issuing this permit include necessary training, age, citizenship or resident status, a clean criminal record, and not being listed on a criminal gang database.
The bill also adjusts the application process for a permit, the information required from applicants, and the conditions under which a permit is issued or denied.
There will be standardized permit cards with specific details, and these permits will expire after five years, with provisions for renewal.
A database maintained by the commissioner will track those who have received permits and those whose applications are denied or permits revoked.
Regular reports will be provided to the legislature concerning issued, suspended, revoked, and denied permits, including detailed demographic data.
The bill also repeals several current statutes that require a permit to carry pistols in public places.
In essence, the bill significantly loosens gun control measures by allowing most individuals to carry firearms without a permit while still providing an option to obtain a permit.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| February 09, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Public Safety Finance and Policy |
| February 16, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Author added |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Modifications of criteria for an optional permit to carry a firearm ensure no permits are issued to individuals prohibited under section 518B.01 subdivision 14.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "518B.01"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Conditions of permit issuance now exclude individuals restricted under section 609.224 subdivision 3.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "609.224"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Individuals under restrictions from section 609.2242 subdivision 3 are not eligible for firearm carry permits.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "609.2242"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Exclusion criteria for firearm carry permits now cite section 609.749 subdivision 8.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "609.749"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Eligibility for firearm carry permits aligns with exclusions listed under section 624.713.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "624.713"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Criteria for firearm carry include restrictions prescribed by section 624.719.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "624.719"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Section 629.715 subdivision 2 is referenced as a restriction for firearm carry permits.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "629.715"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Restrictions from section 629.72 subdivision 2 are part of the permit eligibility criteria.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "629.72"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Applicants listed in the criminal gang investigative data system under section 299C.091 are not eligible for firearm carry permits.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "299C.091"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Compliance with Title 42 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) sections 2.31 to 2.35 regarding consent for the release of substance abuse records in relation to firearm permits.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "42 CFR sections 2.31 to 2.35"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Definition of a peace officer relevant to firearm carrying without a permit under section 626.84 subdivision 1.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "626.84"
}
]