This bill amends existing legislation regarding retroactive relief for certain felony murder convictions in Minnesota. It clarifies the criteria under which a petitioner may be entitled to relief, specifically for those convicted under Minnesota Statutes, section 609.185 and section 609.19. The bill outlines the necessary evidence a petitioner must present to qualify for relief, including proving they did not cause the death of a human being or were not a major participant in the underlying felony. Additionally, it establishes procedures for the court to follow if a petitioner is granted relief, including vacating the original conviction and potentially resentencing the petitioner for remaining offenses.
Notably, the bill introduces new language that mandates the court to ensure that any new conviction entered under this subdivision retains the same date as the original conviction. This provision aims to maintain consistency in the legal record. The bill also specifies that relief granted under this section will not be considered an exoneration under the Incarceration and Exoneration Remedies Act. The effective date for this amendment is set for the day following its final enactment.