This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 363A.06, subdivision 1, by introducing new provisions that prohibit the Department of Human Rights from maintaining any collection or database on incidents of protected speech. The bill defines "protected speech" as any exercise of rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution or the Minnesota Constitution, including freedom of speech, press, assembly, petition, and association. Additionally, the Department is barred from offering rewards for reporting incidents of protected speech.

The bill retains the existing responsibilities of the commissioner of the Department of Human Rights, which include formulating policies, investigating charges of unfair discriminatory practices, and developing educational programs to eliminate discrimination. However, it emphasizes that the Department must not engage in activities that could infringe upon protected speech, thereby ensuring that the rights of individuals to express themselves freely are upheld while the Department carries out its duties.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 363A.06