This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.52, subdivision 3, to increase the penalties for theft of motor vehicles. The new language specifies that individuals convicted of theft involving a motor vehicle will face harsher penalties, including imprisonment for up to ten years or a fine of up to $20,000 if certain circumstances are met. Additionally, the bill clarifies the conditions under which different penalties apply, including a new provision that explicitly states the theft of a motor vehicle is a significant factor in determining the severity of the sentence.

The bill also introduces several insertions and deletions to refine the language regarding sentencing for theft offenses. Notably, it removes previous conditions related to the value of stolen property and replaces them with clearer criteria, including specific references to motor vehicles. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2025, and they will apply to crimes committed on or after that date. Furthermore, the bill instructs the revisor of statutes to make necessary cross-reference changes to ensure consistency within Minnesota Statutes and Minnesota Rules.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.52