Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to modify existing definitions related to controlled substances offenses near designated zones in Minnesota. These definitions impact legal penalties for controlled substance violations in specific areas.

Main Provisions

• Park Zone Redefinition: The bill changes the definition of a "park zone" as an area around public parks. The specified area for penal enhancements relating to controlled substances is revised from within 300 feet or one city block of a park boundary to within 100 feet or one city block, whichever distance is greater.
• School Zone Redefinition: It alters the definition of a "school zone." Previously, the zone extended 300 feet or one city block beyond school property. This distance is now proposed to be reduced to 100 feet or one city block, again, whichever is greater. This change applies to properties used for educational activities from grades one through twelve and includes areas where extracurricular activities occur and within school buses during student transport.
• Public Housing Zone Redefinition: The bill also changes the "public housing zone" definition from within 300 feet of the property to 100 feet or one city block, whichever is greater, for areas around public housing projects or developments.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The redefined zones significantly reduce the distance from which enhanced penalties for controlled substance offenses can be applied. This shift affects areas surrounding parks, schools, and public housing, making the zones smaller and potentially impacting the prosecution of drug-related offenses within these areas.

Relevant Terms

park zone, school zone, public housing zone, controlled substances, legal penalties, drug-related offenses, public safety, legislative changes