Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to establish and define the crime of residential protesting in the state of Minnesota. The intent is to regulate protests that occur at or near someone's residence to protect individuals from harassment or intimidation in their private homes.

Main Provisions

• Definition of Crime: The bill defines "residential protesting" as protesting in front of or around a person's home or dwelling. This excludes cases where a residence serves as a place of business.
• Exemption: Peaceful protests at recognized meeting places or areas meant for discussing public interest issues are not covered by this restriction.

Penalties

• Misdemeanor: Any individual who engages in residential protesting is generally guilty of a misdemeanor.
• Gross Misdemeanor: The crime escalates to a gross misdemeanor in cases where:
  • The offender has a previous conviction for residential protesting.
  • The protestor is under a court order like an order for protection, restraining order, domestic abuse no-contact order, or any other legal directive to avoid harassment or contact with the occupants.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill introduces a new legal category specifically for residential protesting, providing a framework for penalties. This is an addition to Minnesota's legal statutes under Chapter 609, aiming to protect residents from intrusive or intimidating protests at their homes.

Relevant Terms

residential protesting, misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, order for protection, restraining order, harassment, no-contact order, domestic abuse, civil procedure