The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.066, subdivision 2, to clarify the conditions under which a peace officer may use deadly force in the line of duty. It specifies that the use of deadly force is justified only if an objectively reasonable officer believes, based on the totality of the circumstances known to or perceived by them, that such force is necessary to protect themselves or another person from death or great bodily harm. The bill outlines specific criteria that must be met for this justification, including the need for the threat to be articulated with specificity, reasonably likely to occur without action, and requiring immediate response.

Additionally, the bill establishes that a peace officer is prohibited from using deadly force against a person based solely on the danger that person poses to themselves unless it is determined that they also pose a threat of death or great bodily harm to others. This amendment aims to ensure that the use of deadly force is carefully regulated and only employed in situations where there is a clear and immediate threat to life.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.066
1st Engrossment: 609.066