SF 2212 Minnesota Senate · 2025-2026 Regular Session

Crime to obstruct certain first responders by approaching or remaining too closely after being warned; Criminal penalty increase for assaulting a firefighter, EMS personnel, or certain health care providers

This bill amends Minnesota law to make it a crime for someone to approach or remain within 25 feet of a firefighter, emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, or certain healthcare providers who are providing emergency care, after being verbally warned not to do so and with the intent to interfere. It directly affects first responders and healthcare providers working in emergency situations, as well as individuals who violate this restriction. The key provision requires that the person must know the responder's status, have received a warning, and intend to impede their duties. The law becomes effective August 1, 2025.

Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared

Introduction

Mar 2025

Committee Review

Floor Vote

Governor

Introduced Mar 6, 2025 Last action Apr 1, 2025

Maddy AI version diff · 1 comparison

What changed between versions

Introduction → 1st Engrossment · 4 edits · Apr 1, 2025

MODERATE

The bill was updated from its introduction to its first engrossment, adding new sections that significantly expand the scope of public safety protections. The most important change is the addition of a new provision that increases criminal penalties for assaulting firefighters, EMS personnel, or healthcare providers in emergency departments, raising the maximum fine and potential prison time. The bill also adds a new section number (2.29) and updates the description to reflect these expanded protections.

Scope change

The bill's scope was expanded to include increased penalties for assaulting healthcare providers in emergency departments, in addition to the existing protections for first responders.

REQUIREMENT

Added new section 2.29 which increases criminal penalties for assaulting firefighters, EMS personnel, or healthcare providers in emergency departments from a gross misdemeanor to a felony with higher fines and imprisonment terms.

TIMELINE

Added an effective date provision stating the new assault penalty section applies to crimes committed on or after August 1, 2025.

TECHNICAL

Updated the bill title and description to reflect the new expanded scope including healthcare provider protections.

Added new section numbers 2.10 through 2.28 between existing sections, indicating new content was inserted in the bill text.

Floor votes

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions

Key actions

Committee

Apr 1, 2025

Upper · Passed

Comm report: To pass as amended

upper

Mar 6, 2025

Committee

Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety

upper

Mar 6, 2025

Introduced

Introduction and first reading

upper

1 primary · 3 co-sponsors