The bill amends Minnesota Statutes to limit the use of force and criminal defenses related to a victim's sexual orientation or identity. Specifically, it introduces a new subdivision to section 609.06, stating that force cannot be used against another person based on the victim's actual or perceived sexual orientation, including gender identity and expression. This includes situations where the victim may have made an unwanted nonforcible romantic or sexual advance towards the actor or if there was a prior romantic or sexual relationship. Additionally, the bill modifies section 609.075 to clarify that acting on the basis of a victim's sexual orientation is not a valid defense in criminal cases.

The bill also includes an effective date of August 1, 2024, meaning that these provisions will apply to crimes committed on or after that date. The changes aim to enhance public safety by ensuring that biases related to sexual orientation or identity do not justify the use of force or serve as a defense in criminal proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.06, 609.075, 609.20
1st Engrossment: 609.06, 609.075