This bill aims to enhance victim notification processes related to public safety, specifically addressing violations of orders for protection and harassment restraining orders that are not prosecuted. It amends several sections of the Minnesota Statutes to clarify and update the requirements for law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in notifying victims of their rights and available services. Key changes include the requirement for peace officers to distribute initial notices of victims' rights at the time of contact, the inclusion of information on statewide crime victim help lines, and the obligation to inform victims about the process of seeking orders for protection without fees.

Additionally, the bill expands the definition of offenses that require victim notification to include violations of orders for protection and harassment restraining orders. It mandates that prosecutors make reasonable efforts to notify victims of decisions not to prosecute and provides specific guidelines for the content of these notifications. The bill also allows law enforcement and attorney's offices to use existing supplies of notices before implementing the new modifications, ensuring a smooth transition to the updated requirements. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve the support and information available to victims of domestic violence and related offenses.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 611A.02, 611A.0315, 629.341
1st Engrossment: 611A.02, 611A.0315, 629.341