Law on use of force in self-defense clarified, common law duty to retreat in cases of self-defense outside the home expanded, and presumption of right to self-defense created.

HF 3130, the "Minnesota Stand Your Ground Act," eliminates the requirement to retreat when using self-defense outside one's home and expands the definition of "dwelling" to include temporary living spaces like hotels, tents, and vehicles. It creates a legal presumption that a person using force in self-defense reasonably believed it was necessary, shifting the burden to prosecutors to prove otherwise. The bill affects all Minnesotans using self-defense in public or non-home settings and amends Minnesota Statutes sections 609.06 and 609.065. It takes effect August 1, 2025.