SF3075 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Counties providing of administrative penalties for certain violations of park ordinances authorization provision

Related bill: HF2917

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to give counties in Minnesota the power to issue administrative penalties for certain violations of park-related ordinances. This offers an alternative to criminal charges, allowing more flexibility in enforcement.

Main Provisions

  • Administrative Penalties: Counties will be able to opt for administrative penalties instead of charging individuals with misdemeanors for certain park ordinance violations.
  • County Ordinance System: If a county chooses to implement administrative penalties, they must establish this system through their own ordinances.
  • Supplement to City Ordinances: These county ordinances and penalties are not meant to override existing city ordinances but are to act as complementary measures.
  • Fines Management: Any fines collected from these administrative penalties will be directed into the county park fund, supporting park maintenance or development.

Significant Changes

The bill modifies the current system by providing an alternative to misdemeanor charges, which traditionally have more severe legal implications. Counties will now have more localized control in handling violations, promoting efficient and potentially less punitive measures.

Relevant Terms

  • Administrative penalties
  • Park ordinances
  • Misdemeanor
  • County ordinance
  • Fines
  • County park fund

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 26, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 26, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toState and Local Government

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Provides option for counties to impose administrative penalties instead of misdemeanors."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This bill allows counties to provide administrative penalties for park ordinance violations under section 398.34.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies relation of county ordinances to city ordinances."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "398.34",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 3"
  }
]