This bill seeks to enhance the protections and remedies available under Minnesota's Safe at Home program, which supports individuals at risk of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Key amendments include the introduction of definitions for "emancipated minor" and "guardian acting on behalf of an eligible minor," as well as clarifications to the application process for participants. The bill also prohibits discrimination against program participants in various services, allowing individuals to pursue civil actions if they face discrimination. Furthermore, it establishes criminal penalties for violations of the program's provisions, including a gross misdemeanor charge for actions resulting in bodily harm. The bill ensures that participants' addresses remain confidential during legal proceedings unless a court finds a compelling reason for disclosure and mandates the appointment of a Safe at Home coordinator within state agencies.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 480.30, subdivision 1, to improve the judicial education program for district court judges on issues related to child and adolescent sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and harassment. New training components will address the specific needs of victims, the causes of sexual abuse and family violence, and culturally responsive approaches to serving victims, particularly regarding the impact of domestic abuse on children in parenting time and custody decisions. A new requirement for judges to receive information on the Safe at Home program is also introduced, while certain phrases are removed from existing law to streamline the focus on understanding domestic abuse allegations. Overall, these changes aim to better equip judges to handle cases involving domestic and sexual abuse, thereby enhancing the judicial response to these critical issues.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 5B.02, 5B.03, 5B.05, 5B.11, 5B.13, 171.01, 171.0605, 480.30, 626.8469
1st Engrossment: 5B.02, 5B.03, 5B.05, 5B.11, 5B.13, 171.01, 171.0605, 480.30
2nd Engrossment: 5B.02, 5B.03, 5B.11, 5B.13, 171.01, 171.0605, 480.30