SF2305

Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to address immigration issues by increasing penalties for human trafficking, restricting employment of unauthorized individuals, prohibiting sanctuary cities, and mandating state reporting of assistance to those without legal status.

Main Provisions

• Increased Penalties for Human Trafficking: The bill enhances criminal penalties related to human trafficking offenses.
• Prohibition of Employment for Unauthorized Individuals: Employers are prohibited from hiring individuals without legal authorization to work in the United States.
• Prohibition of Sanctuary Cities: Establishes a ban on sanctuary cities, which are jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
• Mandatory Reporting: Requires state departments or agencies to report annually on the total amount of governmental assistance provided to individuals without legal status in Minnesota.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Driver’s License and Identification Violations: Amending existing statutes to increase penalties for the unlawful use of driver's licenses and Minnesota identification cards, including:
  • Making it a felony to use a fraudulent driver's license for employment verification, punishable by up to two years in prison, a fine up to $5,000, or both.
  • Classifying certain other violations related to identification fraud as gross misdemeanors or misdemeanors.

Relevant Terms

• Human trafficking
• Unauthorized employment
• Sanctuary cities
• Governmental assistance
• Driver’s license fraud
• Identification card fraud