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SF2212 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Crime to obstruct certain first responders by approaching or remaining too closely after being warned; Criminal penalty increase for assaulting a firefighter, EMS personnel, or certain health care providers

Related bill: HF2173

AI Generated Summary

This bill proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.50, subdivision 1, making it a crime to obstruct certain first responders by approaching or remaining too close after receiving a warning.

Key Provisions:

  1. The bill expands the existing obstruction statute to penalize interference with:

    • Peace officers,
    • Firefighters, and
    • Ambulance service personnel while they are performing official duties.

  2. New Offense:

    • It is a crime to approach or remain within 25 feet of a peace officer, firefighter, or ambulance personnel if:
      1. The individual knows or should know that the responder is performing official duties.
      2. The responder has given a verbal warning not to approach.
      3. The person intends to impede or interfere with the responder’s duty.

Purpose:

  • The bill aims to enhance public safety by preventing interference with emergency responders while they perform their duties.
  • It seeks to establish clearer boundaries for interactions with first responders in emergency situations.

Penalty:

  • Violations would be punishable as outlined in subdivision 2 of the statute, which typically provides for misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor charges, depending on circumstances.

This bill was introduced in the Minnesota Senate (S.F. No. 2212) and referred to the Judiciary and Public Safety Committee for further consideration.

Bill text versions

Past committee meetings

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 06, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 06, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toJudiciary and Public Safety
April 01, 2025SenateFloorActionComm report: To pass as amended
April 01, 2025SenateFloorActionSecond reading
SenateNoteActionRule 47, returned toJudiciary and Public Safety

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill increases the penalties for assaulting certain emergency personnel under section 609.2231.",
      "modified": [
        "Increases potential fine and imprisonment years for felony assault on emergency workers."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "609.2231",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "New penalties for obstruction-related offenses."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill addresses obstruction of first responders under section 609.50.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "609.50",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  }
]

Progress through the legislative process

17%
In Committee

Sponsors