The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 363A.06, subdivision 1, to prohibit the Department of Human Rights from maintaining any collection or database on incidents of protected speech. It introduces new language that defines "protected speech" as any exercise of rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution or the Minnesota Constitution, including freedom of speech, 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 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 reinforcing the importance of First Amendment rights within the framework of human rights policies in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 363A.06