This bill aims to enhance the legal protections surrounding searches and seizures conducted by conservation officers in Minnesota. It explicitly prohibits conservation officers from conducting searches or seizures without a warrant or court order, except in specific circumstances such as preventing imminent danger to human life or when consent is given. Additionally, the bill mandates that officers provide receipts to individuals from whom property is seized. The bill introduces new legal language under section 84.0287, which outlines these provisions and ensures that any existing laws granting authority to conservation officers align with these new restrictions.

The bill also amends several sections of the Minnesota Statutes to incorporate the new requirements regarding searches and seizures. For instance, it modifies sections related to the seizure of property, including vehicles and equipment used in violations of game and fish laws, to ensure that such actions are conducted in accordance with the new provisions. The amendments clarify the conditions under which property can be seized and emphasize the necessity of providing receipts to individuals affected by such actions. Overall, the bill seeks to balance the enforcement of conservation laws with the protection of individual rights.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 84.7741, 84.89, 97A.221, 97A.223, 97A.225, 97B.021, 97C.355