This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to allow chiefs of police and sheriffs to access certain expunged records to determine an individual's eligibility to purchase, receive, or carry a firearm. Specifically, it modifies section 260B.198, subdivision 6, to permit the opening and exchange of expunged records for this purpose, particularly for records expunged on or after January 1, 2015. The new language clarifies that these records can be used in investigations related to firearm eligibility and outlines the responsibilities of law enforcement when handling such records.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 609A.037, which details the conditions under which expunged records may be accessed by law enforcement without a court order. It stipulates that if an expunged record is used to deny a firearm permit or application, the individual must be notified and provided with a copy of the record upon request. The bill emphasizes the need for proper handling and storage of these records to ensure they are only used for the intended investigations, while still maintaining the integrity of the expungement order.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 260B.198