Purpose of the Bill

The primary purpose of this bill is to establish a civil cause of action for individuals who experience nonconsensual removal of a condom during a sexual act, an act referred to as "stealthing." The bill aims to provide legal recourse and establish penalties for those who commit this act.

Main Provisions

• Definition of Terms:

  • A condom is defined as a thin sheath worn on a person's penis during a sexual act for contraception or protection against infection.
  • "Intimate part" is defined to include the sexual organs, anus, groin, buttocks, or the breast of a female.
  • "Sexual battery" is described as contact made between a sexual organ from which a condom has been removed and the intimate part of another person without their verbal consent.

• Civil Action for Damages:

  • Individuals who commit sexual battery by nonconsensually removing a condom can be held liable for various damages. This includes general, special, and punitive damages.
  • Courts may impose a civil penalty up to $10,000 against the responsible party.
  • Additional relief can include equitable remedies such as injunctions, reasonable attorney's fees, and any other appropriate relief.

• Confidentiality:

  • The bill includes provisions for confidentiality, allowing for private filings to protect the plaintiff's privacy in such cases.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill introduces new legal provisions in Minnesota Statutes, specifically by adding a section that allows victims of nonconsensual condom removal to initiate civil lawsuits. Additionally, it outlines specific penalties and remedies which were not previously codified in existing Minnesota law. This addresses a gap in legal protection for individuals affected by this particular form of sexual battery.

Relevant Terms

nonconsensual condom removal, stealthing, condom, intimate part, sexual battery, civil action, damages, confidentiality