SF180 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Highway obstruction action for damages and civil penalties imposition
Related bill: HF367
AI Generated Summary
Senate File No. 180 is a proposed law that wants to address public safety on highways. It allows people or entities to seek damages (financial compensation) if someone intentionally interferes with or blocks a highway, making it unsafe or difficult to use. The bill also covers the cost of attorneys' fees and other legal expenses for the individuals who were harmed by such actions.
Additionally, the bill specifies that if someone's actions might be subject to this new law and also a criminal law, then the government agency involved can choose whether to pursue a civil lawsuit for damages or a criminal case, but not both.
Moreover, the bill makes an exception for certain professionals like law enforcement, emergency responders, and utility workers. When these professionals are carrying out their official duties and impact highway conditions, they are not liable under this law.
In essence, if someone blocks or interferes with a highway on purpose, they can be held financially responsible for any harm that results, unless they are specific professionals performing their duties.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
January 15, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
January 15, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Judiciary and Public Safety |
Citations
[ { "analysis": { "added": [ "Provides an option for civil remedies as an alternative to criminal prosecution." ], "removed": [], "summary": "This bill refers to Minnesota Statutes section 609.74 in relation to choosing remedies for highway obstruction offenses.", "modified": [ "Clarifies the election of remedies between civil action and criminal prosecution." ] }, "citation": "609.74" } ]