This bill establishes a Consumer Protection Restitution Account within Minnesota's special revenue fund to provide restitution to consumers affected by unlawful acts. It amends existing statutes to redirect funds that would have previously gone to the general fund into this new account when courts determine that victims cannot be easily identified or compensated. The bill defines terms such as "consumer enforcement public compensation" and "eligible consumer," and outlines the distribution process for funds to eligible consumers, including scenarios where distributions may be impractical. Additionally, it mandates the attorney general to publish an annual report on the account's activities and financial transactions, while clarifying that there is no private right of action regarding payments from the account.

Moreover, the bill modifies various sections of Minnesota Statutes concerning environmental projects and consumer enforcement compensation. It specifies that supplemental environmental projects funded through settlement agreements with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency are not civil penalties and should not affect community health board distributions. Community health boards are required to report on their use of these funds within a year of receipt. The bill also introduces a new provision treating consumer enforcement public compensation payments as a subtraction for tax purposes and modifies definitions and calculations related to income and exemptions, particularly for taxpayers with disabilities or those aged 65 and older. These changes will take effect for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2024, and for property tax claims payable in 2026 and beyond.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 8.31, 16A.151, 290.0132
1st Engrossment: 8.31, 16A.151, 290.0132, 290.0693, 290A.03
2nd Engrossment: 8.31, 16A.151, 290.0132, 290.0693, 290A.03
3rd Engrossment: 8.31, 16A.151, 290.0132, 290.0693, 290A.03
4th Engrossment: 8.31, 16A.151, 290.0132, 290.0693, 290A.03