This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to enhance the protection of certain court records and evidence, particularly in cases involving crimes of violence. It requires prosecuting authorities to seek protective orders for evidence that is deemed clearly offensive to common sensibilities, especially when such evidence could significantly disrupt the privacy or cause severe emotional distress to victims or third parties, with special consideration given to minors. The bill also clarifies that images and recordings that are part of inactive investigative files and are clearly offensive will be classified as private or nonpublic data, regardless of whether they were presented as evidence in court.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section titled the "Jay Boughton Minor Protection Evidence Access Act," which outlines specific types of evidence that must be protected from unnecessary public disclosure, including audio recordings of 911 calls made by minor victims or their family members, and video footage showing minor victims captured by law enforcement. The bill ensures that while defendants retain the right to access evidence, protective orders may limit further dissemination of such evidence. The provisions of this bill will take effect on August 1, 2026, and will apply to proceedings initiated on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 13.82