SF3359

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to establish the crime of residential protesting within the state of Minnesota. It aims to define and penalize the action of protesting outside private residences to help maintain public safety and personal privacy.

Main Provisions

• Definition of Residential Protesting: The bill specifies that it is illegal to protest in front of or near the residence of an individual, unless the residence is also being used as a business location. Peaceful protests at locations typically used for public meetings or discuss public issues are still allowed.

• Penalty for Violating the Law:

  • Generally, individuals found guilty of residential protesting will be charged with a misdemeanor.
  • A gross misdemeanor can be applied if the offender has previously been convicted of the same crime or is in violation of specific court orders such as orders for protection, restraining orders, domestic abuse no contact orders, conditions of pretrial release, or any temporary restraining orders or injunctions.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• This bill introduces a new criminal offense specifically targeting protests at residential properties, distinguishing it from other forms of protests and public assemblies.
• It adds specific legal consequences and increased penalties for repeat offenses or when specific legal conditions (like existing court orders against the offender) are violated in the context of residential protesting.

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Relevant Terms - Residential protesting - Misdemeanor - Gross misdemeanor - Order for protection - Restraining order - Domestic abuse no contact order