HF 2161

as introduced - 92nd Legislature (2021 - 2022) Posted on 03/11/2021 02:46pm

A bill for an act
relating to state government; prohibiting closing of places of worship during an
emergency declaration; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes,
chapter 12.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1.

new text begin [12.281] ORDERS RELATING TO PLACES OF WORSHIP.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Definitions. new text end

new text begin (a) For purposes of this section, the terms in this subdivision
have the meanings given them.
new text end

new text begin (b) "Place of worship" means a building or grounds where religious activities are
conducted.
new text end

new text begin (c) "Public official" means any elected official or designated officer, employee or agent
of the state or political subdivision, or other public body established by law.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Prohibition on closing places of worship. new text end

new text begin A government agency or public
official may not issue an order under the authority of this chapter that closes or has the effect
of closing places of worship in the state or in a geographic area of the state.
new text end