This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to enhance public safety by enforcing judicially ordered firearms restrictions for individuals identified as abusing parties. It establishes a process for courts to issue orders that prohibit these individuals from possessing firearms if they pose a credible threat to victims or children. The bill requires that the abusing party be informed of their prohibited status and mandates the transfer of any firearms they possess to a federally licensed dealer, law enforcement agency, or a lawful third party within three business days. Additionally, it introduces a compliance hearing requirement within ten business days of issuing a firearms restriction order to ensure that all firearms have been transferred as ordered, with the court empowered to take appropriate actions for non-compliance.

Moreover, the bill outlines the responsibilities of local law enforcement agencies in managing firearms during domestic abuse incidents, including the preservation of firearms quality and function. It mandates that firearms be returned to individuals upon request after a specified prohibiting period, provided they are not otherwise prohibited from possession. The bill also allows law enforcement agencies to impose reasonable storage fees if a defendant does not provide written notice regarding their firearms within three business days. New provisions clarify the need for affidavits and proofs of transfer, and the bill ensures that individuals are notified before any disposal of abandoned firearms occurs.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 260C.201, 518B.01, 609.2242, 609.749