This bill, Senate File No. 2200, aims to establish confidentiality protections for participants in restorative justice practices in Minnesota. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.6905 and introduces new provisions in chapter 595.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

1. Definitions (Subd. 1):

   • "Individual data" includes personal information of participants such as name, date of birth, and contact information.
   • "Restorative justice practice" refers to conferences, circles, or other participatory processes where a person who caused harm voluntarily engages with harmed individuals and community members to address the harm and its underlying causes.
   • "Restorative justice practice participant" includes facilitators, the person who caused harm, the person who was harmed, community members, and other attendees.

2. Confidentiality Protections (Subd. 2):

   • Individual data about restorative justice participants is confidential and cannot be used in judicial or administrative hearings.
   • Statements or actions made during the restorative justice process (including preparation and follow-up) are also confidential and not subject to discovery.

3. Exceptions (Subd. 3):

   • Summary data can be shared without identifying individuals.
   • Reporting obligations under Minnesota laws on child abuse and vulnerable adult protection still apply.
   • Participants can disclose their own data and authorize others to disclose it.
   • If a person is court-ordered to participate, the restorative justice facilitator may confirm whether they complied.
   • Evidence that is independently admissible in court remains admissible.
   • Data can be disclosed to prevent a crime, death, or serious bodily harm.
   • Reports of professional violations or abuse within restorative justice practices are not protected.

4. Data Classification (Subd. 4):

   • Government data on restorative justice practice participants is classified as private.

Purpose of the Bill:

• Protects the confidentiality of restorative justice participants, encouraging open and honest participation.
• Defines exceptions to confidentiality to ensure compliance with mandatory reporting laws and public safety concerns.
• Helps maintain trust in restorative justice programs by safeguarding sensitive personal information.

This bill seeks to balance confidentiality with accountability and legal obligations while promoting the use of restorative justice practices in Minnesota.