This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.487, by adding a new subdivision that establishes the crime of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle while failing to obey certain traffic laws. Specifically, it defines the offense as a felony if an individual flees from a peace officer who is performing their official duties and knowingly or reasonably should know they are a peace officer. The bill outlines that such an individual may face imprisonment for up to five years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both if they fail to obey traffic signs, signals, or markings, or do not keep to the proper side of the road.

The new legal language includes the insertion of Subdivision 3a, which details the specific violations that constitute the crime of fleeing, including disobeying traffic signs and failing to maintain proper road positioning. The bill also specifies that it will take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.487