The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.5151, to enhance penalties related to the crime of doxxing, which involves the unauthorized dissemination of personal information. The revised language broadens the scope of the crime to include not only law enforcement officials but also their family or household members. The definition of "personal information" is updated to encompass a person's home telephone number, personal cell number, personal email address, and name, while removing references to law enforcement officials specifically.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new penalty structure for violations of this section. A violation is classified as a misdemeanor unless the victim is a law enforcement official or their family member, in which case it escalates to a gross misdemeanor. Furthermore, if the violation involves a law enforcement official or their family member, it is classified as a felony, with potential penalties including imprisonment for up to two years and fines up to $4,000. The bill also stipulates that individuals convicted of subsequent violations will face felony charges. The changes will take effect on August 1, 2026, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.5151