Certain retired law enforcement officers permitted to carry firearms in schools.

HF 896 amends Minnesota law to permit certain retired law enforcement officers who are authorized to carry firearms to possess them on school property, changing the penalty from a felony to a misdemeanor. It directly affects retired officers with valid firearm authorization, allowing them to carry weapons in schools under specific conditions. The key provision modifies Minnesota Statutes § 609.66, subdivision 1d, to exempt these officers from the general prohibition on firearms in schools (which typically carries felony penalties), while clarifying that such firearms cannot be forfeited. The bill applies to authorized officers on school property but does not override existing rules for active officers or other exceptions. It becomes effective August 1, 2025.