The bill proposes a series of amendments and technical corrections to Minnesota's judiciary provisions, focusing on data practices, family law, guardianships, public defense, and civil law. Key insertions include classifying personal information of judicial officials as private data, establishing penalties for unlawful publication of such information, and defining "judicial official" to include various judges and employees within the Minnesota judicial system. The bill also allows judicial officials to request the removal of their personal information from the internet, with violations potentially resulting in misdemeanor or felony charges. In family law, the bill introduces gender-neutral language in antenuptial contracts and ensures that existing agreements remain valid regardless of the same-sex status of the parties involved.

Additionally, the bill modifies the structure and responsibilities of the State Board of Public Defense, ensuring diverse membership and independence from judicial branch control. It clarifies the appointment and duties of public defenders, stipulating that they must be qualified attorneys and prohibiting them from engaging in general law practice. The bill also includes provisions for the establishment of ABLE accounts for individuals under guardianship, outlines the process for guardians to resign, and mandates the reporting of statistical data and budget information by public defenders. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2024, applying to causes of action commenced on or after that date, thereby enhancing the efficiency and accountability of Minnesota's guardianship and public defense systems.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 117.042, 171.182, 253B.02, 331A.02, 480.15, 518B.01, 593.50, 609.748, 645.11
1st Engrossment: 519.11, 117.042, 171.182, 253B.02, 331A.02, 480.15, 593.50, 645.11, 524.5, 611.215, 611.24, 611.26, 611.263, 611.265, 611.27, 548.251, 604.02