SF2891

Purpose of the Bill

The main purpose of this bill is to address limitations in legal actions concerning discrimination in public accommodations. It aims to remove existing caps on reasonable attorney fees and punitive damages in such civil actions.

Main Provisions

• Removal of Cap on Attorney Fees and Punitive Damages: The bill proposes eliminating the current monetary cap on reasonable attorney fees and punitive damages for lawsuits that are filed as a result of discrimination in places of public accommodation.
• Amendment of Current Law: It amends the Minnesota Statutes section 604.12 subdivision 3, allowing for potentially higher compensation to individuals who successfully prove discrimination in these circumstances.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill significantly alters existing legal constraints by removing the limits on the amounts that can be awarded for attorney fees and punitive damages. Previously, these amounts were capped at a maximum of $500 each. The removal of these caps could lead to larger financial rewards or penalties in discrimination cases within public accommodations.

Relevant Terms

• Public accommodation
• Discrimination
• Civil actions
• Attorney fees
• Punitive damages