This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 629.72, subdivision 2, to enhance judicial procedures regarding the release of individuals arrested for specific domestic violence-related offenses, including domestic abuse, harassment, and violations of protection orders. The bill mandates that judges must make their release decisions on the record, considering whether the release poses a threat to the alleged victim or public safety, and whether the individual is likely to appear for future proceedings. The judge is required to review the facts surrounding the arrest and detention, and the prosecutor must present relevant information from the victim or their family.

Additionally, the bill allows judges to impose conditions of release to protect the alleged victim and ensure the individual's appearance at subsequent court proceedings. These conditions may include prohibitions on contact with the victim, restrictions on firearm possession, and requirements to stay away from the victim's residence. The bill also introduces a provision for temporary restraining orders or orders for protection to be issued as a condition of release. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2025, applying to pretrial release decisions made on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 629.72