The "Unilateral Emergency Powers Repeal Act" proposes a significant shift in Minnesota's emergency management by transferring the authority to declare emergencies from the governor to the legislature. Under this bill, the governor's power to declare emergencies and issue orders with the force of law would be repealed, requiring a two-thirds vote in both legislative houses to declare an emergency, which would last a maximum of five days unless extended by a similar vote. The bill emphasizes the protection of citizens' rights during emergencies, ensuring that rights such as free speech, religious beliefs, assembly, and the right to operate a business are not infringed upon by the governor or state director.

Additionally, the bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to redefine "declared emergency" and modify the governor's powers during such situations. It introduces new provisions for the legislative process of emergency declarations and clarifies conditions for medical transactions during emergencies. The bill also repeals several existing statutes related to the governor's emergency powers, consolidating authority and streamlining the emergency response framework. Notably, it specifies that orders issued by the governor will only have the force of law when approved by the Executive Council and filed with the Secretary of State, ensuring that local regulations do not conflict with state emergency orders.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 12.03, 12.21, 12.25, 12.36, 12.45, 12.61, 14.03, 34A.11, 35.0661, 41B.047, 144.4197, 144E.266, 151.441, 270C.34, 295.50