The proposed bill establishes the "Defend the Guard Act" in Minnesota, which introduces new legal provisions under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 192. It defines "active duty combat" as participation in armed conflict, hazardous services related to armed conflict in foreign states, or duties through instruments of war. Additionally, it clarifies that an "official declaration of war" refers to a declaration made by the United States Congress as outlined in the Constitution.

The bill stipulates that the Minnesota National Guard and its members cannot be deployed into active duty combat unless there is an official declaration of war or specific congressional action calling them forth. The governor is required to ensure compliance with these provisions. However, the bill also allows the governor to consent to the deployment of Minnesota National Guard members for defense support in civil authority missions within the U.S. and its territories, thereby maintaining some flexibility in their deployment.