HF395

This legislative bill pertains to changing how the governor of Minnesota can issue orders and rules during what is termed a "peacetime emergency." It amends existing statutes to include several new stipulations:

1. Consultation and Public Notice: For any order or rule introduced ten days or more after declaring a peacetime emergency, the governor must:

   • If possible, consult with organizations that represent the people who will be affected by the orders or rules.
   • Provide a public notice at least seven days before these orders or rules take effect, unless an earlier date is approved by a legislative body known as the Legislative Coordinating Commission.

2. Enforcement: The bill specifies that private individuals or businesses should not be burdened with enforcing these orders or rules without their consent. However, businesses may be required to display notices regarding the emergency measures.

3. Expiration: Any order or rule issued during a peacetime emergency will expire 30 days after it becomes effective or when the peacetime emergency ends, whichever is sooner, unless extended by a majority approval from both houses of the state legislature.

In essence, the bill aims to refine the governor’s authority during peacetime emergencies, ensuring greater consultation, notice, and legislative oversight, and making clear the terms of enforcement and duration of emergency rules.