This bill aims to clarify and expand Minnesota's laws regarding the use of force in self-defense and defense of one's home. It codifies the state's self-defense laws, eliminating the common law duty to retreat when defending oneself outside of the home. The bill also broadens the definition of "dwelling" to include various types of structures and vehicles, and establishes a presumption that individuals using deadly force against someone unlawfully entering their dwelling or occupied vehicle have a reasonable belief of imminent threat. Additionally, it extends the rights of individuals defending their homes to include those defending their occupied vehicles.

Key amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.065, include the rephrasing of the title to "Use of Deadly Force in Defense of Home and Person," and the introduction of several definitions related to self-defense, such as "deadly force," "dwelling," and "forcible felony." The bill also specifies circumstances under which the use of deadly force is justified, removes the requirement to retreat, and establishes that individuals using such force are immune from criminal prosecution. Furthermore, it places the burden of proof on the state in criminal trials involving claims of justifiable use of force. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on August 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.065