This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.27, subdivision 2, to enhance criminal penalties for specific violations of coercion crimes that result in great bodily harm or death to the victim. The existing penalties for coercion are structured based on the pecuniary gain or loss involved, with sentences ranging from imprisonment for up to 90 days or a fine of up to $1,000 for minor offenses, to imprisonment for up to ten years or a fine of up to $20,000 for more severe violations.

The new provisions introduce additional penalties for violations that lead to significant harm. Specifically, if a violation is a substantial factor in the victim suffering great bodily harm, the offender may face up to ten years of imprisonment or a fine of up to $20,000. If the violation results in the victim's death, the penalty increases to a maximum of 15 years of imprisonment or a fine of up to $30,000. The bill also establishes an effective date of August 1, 2026, applying to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.27
1st Engrossment: 609.27