This bill seeks to improve public safety by instituting a lifetime ban on firearm possession for individuals convicted of specific misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor domestic assault offenses. It amends Minnesota Statutes to require courts to inform defendants of their lifetime prohibition on firearm possession if they are convicted of violating an order for protection while using a firearm or if the offense is classified as a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. The bill also clarifies that the court's failure to provide this information does not affect the enforcement of the prohibition and introduces a process for the forfeiture of firearms used in the commission of these offenses.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which individuals convicted of domestic assault may regain firearm possession, stating that restrictions will only expire if the individual receives an expungement or pardon, unless otherwise specified. It mandates that law enforcement agencies must transfer firearms to federally licensed dealers or legally permitted third parties upon receiving written notice from the individual, with specific requirements for documentation. The bill expands the list of individuals prohibited from firearm possession, establishing a lifetime ban for those who have used a firearm during domestic assaults or have been convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence. It also clarifies that participation in a medical cannabis program does not disqualify individuals from firearm possession and ensures that certain prohibitions do not apply retroactively.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 518B.01, 609.2242, 624.713