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 Under this bill, the governor's power to declare emergencies and issue orders with the force of law would be repealed, requiring a two-thirds vote from both legislative houses to declare an emergency, which would last a maximum of five days unless extended by a similar vote.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.

In addition to these changes, the bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to redefine "declared emergency" and modify the governor's powers during emergencies. It introduces new provisions for the legislative process of emergency declarations and clarifies the conditions under which the governor may exercise emergency powers. The bill also includes provisions for authorizing individuals to perform vaccinations or drug dispensing during emergencies, protecting them from liability for good faith actions. Furthermore, it repeals outdated statutes related to emergency declarations and clarifies conditions for abating penalties for late tax payments in areas affected by emergencies, aiming to streamline emergency response protocols and enhance public health safety measures.

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