The proposed bill aims to clarify and expand Minnesota's laws regarding the use of force in self-defense and defense of one's home. It codifies the state's self-defense laws, eliminating the common law duty to retreat when outside the home, and broadening the definition of "dwelling" to include various types of structures and vehicles. The bill establishes a presumption that individuals using deadly force have a reasonable belief of imminent threat when someone unlawfully enters their dwelling or occupied vehicle. Additionally, it extends the rights of individuals defending their homes to include protections for occupied vehicles.

Key amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.065, include the redefinition of justifiable use of force, the introduction of specific definitions for terms such as "deadly force," "forcible felony," and "dwelling," and the establishment of a burden of proof on the state in criminal trials involving claims of justifiable use of force. The bill also provides immunity from criminal prosecution for individuals who use force in accordance with the new provisions. The legislation is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, applying to incidents of deadly force occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.065