Crime of disruption of worship services established.

This bill creates a new crime in Minnesota specifically for disrupting worship services at religious establishments. It applies to individuals who enter a clearly identified place of worship with the intent to interfere with a scheduled service and commit a crime there. A first offense is classified as a gross misdemeanor, while a second or subsequent violation becomes a felony punishable by up to five years in prison or a fine of $10,000. The law defines a religious establishment as a building used for worship that is marked with a sign or other clear identification. These provisions will take effect on August 1, 2026, and only apply to crimes committed on or after that date.