This bill aims to enhance public safety by establishing criminal penalties for bribing or corruptly influencing jurors in Minnesota. It introduces a new section, designated as [609.421], which outlines two specific offenses: offering bribery and receiving bribery. Under this new law, individuals who offer or promise benefits to jurors with the intent to influence their decisions will be guilty of a felony, as will jurors who accept such offers. The penalties for these offenses include imprisonment for up to ten years, a fine of up to $20,000, or both. The law will take effect on August 1, 2026, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.425, to include jurors alongside legislators in the context of corrupt influence. The revised language specifies that attempts to influence a juror's vote or duties through corrupt means will also be subject to penalties, which may include a fine of up to $10,000. This amendment, like the new section on bribery, will also take effect on August 1, 2026, and apply to crimes committed thereafter.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.425