This bill aims to prohibit civil arrests of individuals attending court proceedings in Minnesota, specifically those who are parties, witnesses, potential witnesses, or court companions. It introduces new definitions related to civil arrests, court companions, and court proceedings, and establishes that individuals in these categories are privileged from civil arrest while attending court. The bill outlines specific locations where this privilege applies, including the courthouse and areas surrounding it, and clarifies that this does not prevent the execution of criminal arrest warrants. Additionally, it allows courts to issue orders to protect this privilege and ensures that existing rights are not diminished.

Furthermore, the bill provides civil remedies for violations of the civil arrest prohibition, allowing individuals to seek damages for false imprisonment, including statutory damages of $10,000 if the violator knew or should have known the individual was attending court. It also includes provisions for equitable relief and the awarding of attorney fees to prevailing plaintiffs. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 629.30, to include a clause that civil arrests are prohibited under section 480C.02, thereby reinforcing the protections for individuals attending court proceedings. The effective date for these provisions is set for August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 629.30