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HF2956 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Cap on reasonable attorney fees and punitive damages for certain actions in places of public accommodation alleging discrimination.

Related bill: SF2891

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to modify existing laws related to civil actions in Minnesota by removing caps on reasonable attorney fees and punitive damages in certain discrimination cases occurring in places of public accommodation.

Main Provisions

  • The bill seeks to amend Minnesota Statutes section 604.12, subdivision 3.
  • It specifically addresses cases where individuals experience discrimination in public accommodations.
  • Removes the existing cap of $500 on punitive damages that can be awarded.
  • Eliminates the cap of $500 on reasonable attorney fees recoverable in these civil actions.
  • Individuals affected by such discrimination can seek injunctive relief as well as actual and punitive damages without the previous financial limitations.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • Previously, attorney fees and punitive damages were limited to a maximum of $500 in actions related to discrimination in public places. This bill proposes to remove these financial caps entirely, potentially allowing for higher compensation in alignment with actual attorney fees and applicable punitive damages.
  • This change aims to strengthen the ability of affected persons to seek fair compensation and remedies in cases of discrimination.

Relevant Terms

  • Civil actions
  • Attorney fees
  • Punitive damages
  • Discrimination
  • Public accommodation
  • Injunctive relief
  • Minnesota Statutes section 604.12

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 31, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toJudiciary Finance and Civil Law

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [
        "Removes cap on reasonable attorney fees and punitive damages."
      ],
      "summary": "This bill modifies the civil cause of action related to attorney fees and punitive damages under section 604.12.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "604.12",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 3"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This section relates to punitive damages procedures as referenced in the bill.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "549.191",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Referenced in relation to punitive damages.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "549.20",
    "subdivision": ""
  }
]

Sponsors