SF1854

SF1854 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Reprisals prohibition for refusing to communicate with public or local officials, political activity prohibited reprisals clarification provision, and civil cause of action provision

Related bill: HF1930

AI Generated Summary

This bill, S.F. No. 1854, amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 10A.36, to prohibit reprisals against individuals or associations for refusing to communicate with public or local officials regarding legislative, administrative, or political subdivision actions.

Key Points:

Expands protections against economic reprisals, employment threats, or physical coercion based on:
1. Political contributions or political activity.
2. Refusing to communicate with public or local officials about legislative or administrative matters.
Exceptions: Does not apply if political affiliation or viewpoint is a bona fide occupational qualification for the job.
Penalty: Violating this section is classified as a gross misdemeanor.

This legislation strengthens protections for individuals and organizations against coercion or retaliation related to political engagement or non-engagement.

Bill text versions

Introduction PDF file
1st Engrossment PDF file

Actions

Date	Chamber	Where	Type	Name	Committee Name
February 23, 2025	Senate	Floor	Action	Introduction and first reading
February 23, 2025	Senate	Floor	Action	Referred to	Elections
March 05, 2025	Senate	Floor	Action	Comm report: To pass and re-referred to	Judiciary and Public Safety
March 05, 2025	Senate	Floor	Action	Author added
March 31, 2025	Senate	Floor	Action	Comm report: To pass as amended and re-refer to	Elections

Citations

[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "A provision prohibiting reprisals for refusing to communicate with public or local officials."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill amends the section 10A.36 concerning reprisals related to political contributions or activities.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies conditions under which compensation and employment considerations are exempt."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "10A.36"
  }
]