This bill aims to enhance protections for victims of vehicle theft and related crimes in Minnesota. It prohibits charging victims for towing or impounding their vehicles and mandates that a crime victim's vehicle cannot be sold for 180 days after it has been reported stolen or involved in a crime. Additionally, the bill ensures that victims are not liable for any fines or fees associated with the recovery of their stolen vehicles. Law enforcement agencies are required to investigate reports of stolen vehicles and provide updates to the vehicle owners within 60 days.

Key provisions include the definition of a "crime victim's vehicle," the establishment of a right for victims to reclaim their vehicles without fees within 180 days, and a requirement for government units to reimburse victims if their vehicles are sold prematurely. The bill also amends existing statutes to clarify that any fees related to towing or impoundment should be assessed against the person convicted of the theft, not the victim. These changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and apply to incidents occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 168B.011, 168B.051, 168B.06, 168B.07, 168B.08, 169.042, 611A.675