This bill amends Minnesota's laws regarding felony murder and aiding and abetting murder, introducing new legal language that clarifies the conditions for criminal liability in these cases. It emphasizes that a person can only be held liable for aiding and abetting murder if they intentionally aided or conspired with the intent to cause death. The bill also revises the definitions of first-degree murder and unintentional murder, specifying the circumstances and felonies that qualify under these categories. Additionally, it establishes a task force to examine aiding and abetting felony murder, with a report due by February 1, 2027.

Moreover, the bill provides a mechanism for retroactive relief for individuals convicted of aiding and abetting murder under certain conditions, allowing them to petition for their convictions to be vacated if they did not cause the death or intentionally aid in the murder. It outlines the petitioning process, which incurs no costs for the petitioner, and mandates that victims of the underlying offense be notified. The bill also sets criteria for eligibility and requires the court to document its reasoning for decisions made regarding the petitions. These provisions will take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.05, 609.185, 609.19
1st Engrossment: 609.05, 609.185, 609.19