This bill aims to enhance the protection of personnel data accessed by prosecuting authorities in Minnesota, specifically concerning "Brady-Giglio material," which refers to potentially exculpatory or impeaching data about public employee witnesses. It introduces a new section in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 634, that mandates all prosecuting authorities to implement a written policy for seeking, reviewing, and disclosing personnel data deemed Brady-Giglio material in criminal actions. The policy must outline specific procedures, including how to determine what constitutes Brady-Giglio material, notification processes for public employers and employees, and measures to protect this sensitive data from public disclosure.

Additionally, the bill prohibits the establishment of blanket "do not call" lists for public employee witnesses, emphasizing that decisions must be made on a case-by-case basis. It also includes provisions for maintaining the original classification of personnel data when disclosed in criminal actions, ensuring that such data is only shared as required by law. The district court is tasked with safeguarding this data, especially when it involves pro se defendants, and may issue protective orders to restrict further disclosure. Overall, the bill seeks to balance the need for transparency in criminal proceedings with the protection of sensitive personnel information.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 626.89