The bill aims to enhance public safety by increasing penalties for certain crimes committed after unlawful reentry into the United States or for the benefit of a transnational crime organization. It introduces new legal language that defines "removal" and establishes that individuals who commit felonies after being deported or removed from the U.S. may face significantly longer sentences. Specifically, the statutory maximum for such crimes is set to be five years longer than the underlying crime, and ten years longer if the victim is a child under 18. This section will take effect on August 1, 2024, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes to clarify the definition of a "transnational crime organization" and expands the scope of crimes associated with criminal gangs to include those involving transnational crime organizations. The amendments specify that a transnational crime organization is involved in the international trafficking of drugs, humans, or weapons. These changes will also take effect on August 1, 2024, and apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.229