This 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 the applicant's fingerprints. If the applicant has a criminal history, the court must report the name change to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the individual must also report the change within ten days. Failure to comply with this reporting requirement is classified as a gross misdemeanor.

Additionally, the bill specifies that a name change cannot be granted if it would relieve a risk level III predatory offender of their duty to register as such. The court is required to 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 individuals classified as high-risk offenders.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 259.11, 259.13