Mandatory minimum sentences for the malicious punishment of a child establishment provision

SF 2468 amends Minnesota Statutes § 609.377 to establish mandatory minimum sentences for severe child punishment. It directly affects parents, guardians, or caretakers who cause specific harm, including head/eye injuries to children under four, multiple bruises, substantial bodily harm, or great bodily harm. The bill sets mandatory prison terms (1-10 years) and fines ($1,000-$20,000) based on harm severity: 1-5 years for substantial harm or repeat offenses, and 2-10 years for great bodily harm. These penalties apply to crimes committed on or after August 1, 2025. The law does not create new offenses but increases sentencing requirements for existing violations.