SF 3477

as introduced - 93rd Legislature (2023 - 2024) Posted on 02/29/2024 04:18pm

A bill for an act
relating to public safety; prohibiting dangerous weapons in public libraries;
imposing criminal penalties; amending Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 609.66,
by adding a subdivision.

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

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 609.66, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 1i. new text end

new text begin Possession in libraries; penalty. new text end

new text begin (a) As used in this subdivision:
new text end

new text begin (1) "dangerous weapon" has the meaning given in section 609.02, subdivision 6; and
new text end

new text begin (2) "public library" has the meaning given in section 134.001, subdivision 2.
new text end

new text begin (b) Except as provided under paragraphs (c) and (d), whoever knowingly possesses,
stores, or keeps a dangerous weapon while inside a public library building is guilty of a
felony and may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than five years or to payment
of a fine of not more than $10,000, or both.
new text end

new text begin (c) Notwithstanding paragraph (b), it is a misdemeanor for a person authorized to carry
a firearm under the provisions of a permit or otherwise to carry a firearm on or about the
person's clothes or person inside a public library building. Notwithstanding section 609.531,
a firearm carried in violation of this paragraph is not subject to forfeiture.
new text end

new text begin (d) This subdivision does not apply to licensed peace officers.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective August 1, 2024, and applies to crimes
committed on or after that date.
new text end