This bill aims to strengthen immigration enforcement in Minnesota by increasing criminal penalties for human trafficking offenses, prohibiting the employment of unauthorized individuals, and banning sanctuary cities. Key provisions include the requirement for state departments to report annually on governmental assistance provided to individuals without legal status, and the establishment of penalties for employers who knowingly hire unauthorized individuals. The bill also introduces a definition of "sanctuary city" and prohibits any city from enacting policies that restrict cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Additionally, the bill amends several sections of the Minnesota Statutes to enhance penalties for various human trafficking crimes. For instance, it increases the maximum imprisonment terms and fines for labor trafficking and sex trafficking offenses, particularly when minors are involved. New legal language specifies that using a fictitious or fraudulent driver's license for employment verification is a felony, and it establishes a framework for investigating and penalizing employers who violate the prohibition on hiring unauthorized individuals. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2025, applying to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 171.22, 609.282, 609.283, 609.322