Sen. Ron Latz

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Minnesota's false claims laws by expanding the definition of ownership or investment interest to include various equity holdings and fund pools, and clarifies which attorneys have authority to prosecute false claim cases involving state or political subdivision funds. It adds a new ground for liability covering false records related to unemployment insurance benefits over $15,000 per year and clarifies that a government decision to pay a claim despite knowing about fraud does not eliminate liability. The legislation also adjusts penalty calculations to include consequential damages and interest, while maintaining provisions for reduced penalties when individuals cooperate with investigations. These changes directly affect businesses, individuals, and organizations that interact with Minnesota state funds or programs.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows victims of domestic violence in Minnesota to ask a court for a specific order that removes them from a shared wireless phone plan with their abuser. The legislation amends existing state laws to add this relief option to the list of protections available in domestic violence restraining orders. By including this provision, the bill aims to help victims reduce contact with their abusers and improve their safety without needing to terminate the entire phone service. The court would issue this order upon request and after a hearing, making it part of the broader set of protections already available to domestic violence victims.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates funding for a public awareness campaign to promote Minnesota's state program fraud tip line and whistleblower reporting procedures. The money will come from the general fund in fiscal year 2027 and can be used to contract with a private organization to run the campaign. The funds are designated for one-time use to increase public knowledge about how to report fraud against state-funded programs. The bill directly affects the commissioner of public safety, who would oversee the campaign implementation.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Minnesota's Strengthen Minnesota Homes program to better support homeowners in improving their properties against weather damage. It allows grant funds to be used alongside repairs from wind or hail damage, requires projects to be completed within six months, and mandates that certified properties receive insurance premium discounts or rate reductions. The legislation also establishes eligibility criteria that prioritize homeowners with household incomes at or below 115 percent of the area median income. Additionally, it appropriates $35 million in fiscal year 2026 to fund grants and administer the program.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes special tax increment financing rules for the city of Hopkins, specifically extending the time period for using funds from a designated development district. It changes the existing law by allowing the city to use tax increment revenue from District 1-6 (325 Blake) for ten years instead of five, and permits continued use of those funds for eleven years after the initial five-year period ends. The changes become effective only after the city government completes specific administrative requirements with the state. This legislation directly affects the city of Hopkins and its ability to finance local development projects through this specific financing mechanism.

Maddy summarySF 3847 amends Minnesota's legal definition of "crime of violence" to include specific animal cruelty offenses under statute 609.343 (prevention of cruelty to animals). This change means convictions for severe animal cruelty will now be classified as violent crimes under state law. The bill directly affects individuals convicted of these specific animal cruelty offenses, potentially influencing sentencing or eligibility for certain programs. The amendment takes effect August 1, 2026, applying to crimes committed on or after that date.

Maddy summaryThis resolution condemns Hinduphobia and anti-Hindu bigotry while reaffirming Minnesota's commitment to religious freedom and inclusion. It directly addresses the Hindu-American community, which has over four million members in the United States and contributes significantly to Minnesota's economy and culture. The bill calls on state agencies, educational institutions, and law enforcement to enhance their understanding of Hinduphobia and include the Hindu community in diversity initiatives and anti-bias training programs. It also directs state employees to enforce existing anti-discrimination laws and asks the Secretary of State to distribute copies of the resolution to relevant officials. This legislative action does not create new laws but serves as a formal statement of the Legislature's position on religious intolerance.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits Minnesota law enforcement agencies from hiring or licensing individuals who were sworn officers with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or U.S. Border Patrol on or after January 20, 2025. The measure applies to both current and future peace officer positions, preventing agencies from employing these federal agents and the state Peace Officer Standards and Training Board from issuing licenses to them. The law takes effect the day after final passage and specifically targets those seeking initial licensure or employment as peace officers on or after that date.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows the city of Edina to issue social district licenses that permit the consumption of alcoholic beverages in designated outdoor areas, such as parks or patios, without allowing sales or service of alcohol in those spaces. The legislation requires the city to clearly define district boundaries with posted signs, establish management plans for public safety, and set specific days and hours for alcohol consumption. License holders must use non-glass containers with unique district markings and responsible drinking warnings, and beverages must be consumed only within the designated area or returned to the place of purchase. This change directly affects the city of Edina and businesses holding on-sale liquor licenses that wish to participate in the social district program.

Maddy summaryMinnesota's SF 3655 would ban possession of specific semiautomatic firearms and large-capacity magazines. It defines "semiautomatic military-style assault weapons" to include models like AR-15s, AK-47s, and similar firearms, plus weapons with features like pistol grips, folding stocks, or magazines holding more than 10 rounds. The bill amends existing laws to prohibit owning these items, imposing criminal penalties for violations. It directly affects Minnesota residents who currently possess these banned firearms or magazines. The legislation focuses on restricting specific weapon types and magazine capacities, not broader firearm ownership.