This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to enhance public safety by enforcing judicially ordered firearms restrictions for individuals identified as abusing parties. It establishes a process for courts to issue orders that prohibit these individuals from possessing firearms if they pose a credible threat to victims or children. The bill mandates that the abusing party be informed of their prohibited status and requires them to transfer any firearms to a federally licensed dealer, law enforcement agency, or a lawful third party within three business days. Additionally, it introduces a compliance hearing requirement within ten business days of issuing a firearms restriction order to ensure that all firearms have been transferred and proofs of transfer submitted, with potential consequences for non-compliance.

The legislation also outlines the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies in preserving the quality and function of firearms transferred under these orders and specifies that if an abusing party poses an imminent risk of substantial bodily harm, law enforcement must take immediate possession of their firearms. It maintains existing provisions regarding the storage and disposal of firearms, allowing law enforcement to charge a reasonable fee for storage if the defendant does not provide written notice within three business days. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen protections for victims of domestic abuse by ensuring that firearms are removed from potentially dangerous situations and that compliance with transfer requirements is enforced.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 260C.201, 518B.01, 609.2242, 609.749