This 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 increased by five years, or ten years if the victim is a child under 18. This section will take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.229, to clarify the definition of a "transnational crime organization" and expands the scope of crimes committed for the benefit of such organizations. The amendments specify that a transnational crime organization is involved in international trafficking or smuggling activities. The effective date for these changes is also set for August 1, 2025, applying to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.229