SF1874

This bill, S.F. No. 1874, seeks to amend Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 624.7192, to prohibit the closure of shooting ranges during a state of emergency.

Key Provisions:

1. Law Enforcement Restrictions:

   • A peace officer may temporarily disarm a lawfully detained individual if necessary for immediate safety.
   • Before releasing the individual, the officer must return any seized firearms, ammunition, and related equipment unless:
     • The individual is taken into custody for criminal activity.
     • The items are seized as evidence for a crime.

2. Prohibition on Government Actions Against Firearms:

   • During a state of emergency, no government entity, official, or law enforcement officer may:
     1. Prohibit, regulate, or curtail the lawful possession, carrying, or use of firearms, ammunition, and related accessories.
     2. Seize, commandeer, or confiscate firearms or related items, except as expressly permitted.
     3. Suspend or revoke valid firearm permits unless explicitly permitted by law.
     4. Close or limit operating hours of businesses (including shooting ranges) providing firearm sales, servicing, or training—unless such restrictions apply equally to all commerce.

3. Legal Recourse for Violations:

   • Individuals affected by violations of this section can seek legal remedies, including:
     • Damages, injunctive relief, or other forms of redress in court.
     • Immediate return of seized firearms and related items.
   • Courts must award reasonable attorney fees and court costs to prevailing plaintiffs enforcing this law.

This bill ensures that gun stores, shooting ranges, and firearm training facilities cannot be forcibly closed during a government-declared emergency unless all commerce is equally restricted.