The proposed bill aims to address the issue of misrepresentation in campaign authority by prohibiting individuals from falsely claiming to represent candidates, political parties, or organizations with the intent to defraud. It establishes specific prohibitions against misrepresentation, including soliciting money or other valuables under false pretenses. The bill introduces new legal language under section 211B.065, which outlines these prohibitions and specifies that violations will be classified as gross misdemeanors. Additionally, it allows for civil actions to be brought by the attorney general, county attorneys, or individuals harmed by such misrepresentations, enabling them to recover damages and impose civil penalties.

Furthermore, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 211B.32, to clarify that complaints related to violations of the newly established section 211B.065 can be enforced as specified within that section, rather than following the standard complaint process outlined in sections 211B.31 to 211B.36. The effective date for these provisions is set for August 1, 2025, applying to offenses committed and causes of action accruing on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 211B.32