This bill aims to enhance public safety and support for victims of domestic abuse and missing and murdered individuals by amending various sections of the Minnesota Statutes. It introduces provisions that classify research data created or maintained by the Department of Public Safety as private, particularly concerning the Office for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives and the Office for Missing and Murdered Black Women and Girls. The bill also updates terminology throughout the statutes, replacing "battered women" with "domestic abuse victims" to reflect a more inclusive approach. Additionally, it clarifies residency requirements for assistance units and documentation needed for family violence waivers.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new responsibilities for the Office of Justice Programs, including the appointment of a director focused on domestic violence and sexual assault prevention. This director will advocate for victims' rights, coordinate resources, and oversee a grant program for shelters supporting domestic abuse victims. The bill emphasizes the importance of data privacy and mandates non-discrimination in service provision, ensuring that victims receive appropriate support and resources. Overall, the amendments aim to modernize legal language, improve data protection, and enhance advocacy for vulnerable populations in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 13.69, 13.6905, 13.871, 116L.362, 119A.37, 142G.12, 142G.53, 203B.06, 203B.11, 256D.02, 256G.02, 257.75, 260E.02, 299A.85, 299A.90, 518B.02, 609.605, 609.7495, 611A.31, 629.72