The bill amends Minnesota Statutes to establish that name changes for individuals classified as risk level III predatory offenders are public information. It introduces new requirements for the court when processing name change applications, specifically mandating that the court conduct a background check through the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension using fingerprints. If the individual has a criminal history, the court must report the name change to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the individual is also required to report the change within ten days. Failure to comply with this reporting duty is classified as a gross misdemeanor.

Additionally, the bill specifies that name changes cannot be granted to individuals if it would relieve them of their obligation to register as risk level III predatory offenders. The court must also report any name changes for these offenders to the Department of Corrections, state patrol, and local law enforcement agencies, ensuring that the information is disclosed to the public. This legislation aims to enhance public safety by maintaining transparency regarding the identities of high-risk offenders.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 259.11, 259.13