The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.101, subdivision 2, to include children's advocacy centers as a recognized victim assistance program eligible to receive a portion of certain fines imposed by the court. Specifically, the bill stipulates that when a court sentences an individual for specific violent crimes, it must impose a minimum fine that is at least 30 percent of the maximum fine allowed by law. The court is required to allocate 70 percent of the fine to a local victim assistance program, which can now include children's advocacy centers, while the remaining 30 percent goes to the general fund.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "victim assistance program" to encompass various support services, including domestic abuse victim programs and children's advocacy centers, thereby expanding the scope of organizations that can benefit from the fines collected. The changes aim to enhance support for victims of crime by ensuring that a portion of the fines collected is directed towards programs that provide essential services to those affected by violence.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.101
1st Engrossment: 609.101