This bill introduces a new legal provision in Minnesota Statutes, specifically section 559.206, which allows victims of domestic abuse or sexual assault to petition the court to terminate a perpetrator's interest in a contract for deed. The bill defines key terms such as "contract for deed," "domestic abuse," and "qualified third party," and outlines the process for petitioning, including the necessary documentation and the conditions under which a petition may be granted. The petitioner must demonstrate that they or a child residing with them has been subjected to abuse, that the respondent has not occupied the property for six months, and that the petitioner has made all required payments on the contract during that time.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes section 559.21 by adding a subdivision that clarifies that the provisions of this section do not apply to a vendee whose interest has been terminated under the new section 559.206. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026, and they will apply to contracts for deed entered into on or after that date. This legislation aims to provide legal recourse for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, allowing them to sever ties with their abuser in property agreements.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 559.21
1st Engrossment: 559.21