This bill aims to enhance public safety by modifying the penalties associated with the crime of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle. It introduces new legal provisions that establish heightened penalties for fleeing in a culpably negligent manner and for failing to obey certain traffic laws while fleeing. Specifically, the bill adds subdivisions to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.487, which define the crimes of fleeing with culpable negligence and fleeing while violating traffic signs. The penalties for these offenses include potential imprisonment and fines, with specific durations and amounts outlined for each new subdivision.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to clarify the revocation of a driver's license for individuals convicted of these offenses, specifying the duration of revocation based on the nature of the offense. It also authorizes the expanded use of tracking devices on fleeing motor vehicles, allowing law enforcement to better manage pursuits. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2025, applying to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 171.174, 609.487, 626A.35