This Minnesota Senate bill (S.F. No. 1854) seeks to amend Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 10A.36 to prohibit reprisals against individuals or associations for refusing to communicate with public or local officials regarding legislative, administrative, or political subdivision actions.

Key Provisions:

1. Prohibited Actions:

   • It is illegal for any individual or association to engage in economic reprisals, employment threats, or physical coercion against a person or group based on:
     • Their political contributions or political activities.
     • Their refusal to communicate with government officials about legislative, administrative, or political matters.

2. Exception:

   • The law does not apply if political affiliation or viewpoint is a bona fide occupational qualification for a specific job. This means that certain jobs where political affiliation is an essential requirement would not be protected under this statute.

3. Penalty:

   • Violating this provision is classified as a gross misdemeanor under Minnesota law, which carries significant legal consequences.

Purpose of the Bill:

This legislation aims to protect individuals from retaliation based on their political choices, particularly their decision to not engage in discussions with government officials. It strengthens free speech rights by ensuring that people cannot be coerced, threatened, or economically punished for choosing to stay silent on political or legislative matters.

Would you like me to clarify any specific part?