This bill establishes the Minnesota Victims of Crime Account within the special revenue fund, aimed at providing grants to crime victim service providers. The account will be funded through various sources, including increased fees and penalties, as well as transfers from the general fund. The bill outlines that the funds will be appropriated to the commissioner of public safety for the Office of Justice Programs, which will use the money to support direct services and advocacy for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, among others. Additionally, it mandates that up to ten percent of the appropriation can be used for grant administration and requires annual reporting on the account's financial activities.

The bill also amends existing statutes related to civil marriage license fees, increasing the standard fee from $115 to $125 and the fee for those who have completed premarital education from $40 to $50. Furthermore, it introduces new penalties for corporate offenders, requiring courts to impose significant assessments based on the severity of the crime, which will also be deposited into the Minnesota Victims of Crime Account. Lastly, it establishes a victim services assessment for certain offenses, with collected funds directed to the same account, ensuring a dedicated source of funding for victim services in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
1st Engrossment: 517.08
2nd Engrossment: 517.08