The proposed bill establishes a new crime known as "residential protesting" in Minnesota, codified under section 609.73 of the Minnesota Statutes. It defines residential protesting as the act of protesting in front of or about the residence of any individual, with the exception of residences used as places of business. The bill clarifies that peaceful protests at locations where meetings or assemblies on public interest topics are held are not prohibited.
The bill outlines penalties for violations of this new law, categorizing them as misdemeanors, with escalated penalties to gross misdemeanors for repeat offenders or those violating court orders related to harassment or contact with occupants of the residential building. Specific court orders that would elevate the offense include orders for protection, restraining orders, and domestic abuse no contact orders. The law is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to offenses committed on or after that date.