The bill establishes a new crime known as "disruption of worship services" under Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.28. It introduces a new subdivision, Subd. 2a, which makes it a gross misdemeanor for a person to enter a religious establishment with the intent to disrupt a scheduled worship service and commit a crime within that establishment. If a person violates this provision a second time, it escalates to a felony, with potential penalties of up to five years of imprisonment or a fine of up to $10,000, or both. This new section will take effect on August 1, 2026, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Additionally, the bill amends subdivision 3 of section 609.28 to clarify the definition of a religious establishment, stating that it is identified by a posted sign or other means. The effective date for this amendment is also set for August 1, 2026. Overall, the bill aims to enhance public safety by addressing disruptions during worship services and establishing clear legal consequences for such actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.28