This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.27, subdivision 2, to enhance penalties for certain coercion crimes that result in great bodily harm or death to the victim. The new legal language introduces a tiered sentencing structure based on the pecuniary gain or loss associated with the violation, with penalties ranging from imprisonment for up to 90 days and fines of up to $1,000 for minor offenses, to imprisonment for up to 15 years and fines of up to $30,000 for violations that cause great bodily harm or death.

Additionally, the bill mandates a public awareness campaign led by the commissioner of public safety, in collaboration with the commissioner of education, to inform the public, especially students in schools, about the changes in the law. This campaign is required to be conducted by September 15, 2025, and will be repeated every two years. The new provisions will take effect on August 1, 2026, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.27