Public Safety Committee Hears Rep. Bahner’s Bill to Strengthen Domestic Violence Prevention Laws
SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, the House Public Safety Committee heard HF 424, a bill that would expand the list of qualified domestic violence-related offenses.
A conviction of a qualified domestic violence-related offense (QDVRO) can be used to enhance the severity and penalty of certain crimes. HF 424 expands that list to include third-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, second-degree manslaughter, kidnapping, false imprisonment, and burglary in the first-degree involving assault.
Rep. Kristin Bahner (DFL – Maple Grove) is the author of the legislation and presented the bill in committee today.
“This bill strengthens our domestic violence laws by giving prosecutors and law enforcement more tools in their toolbox when dealing with these serious offenses,” Rep. Bahner said. “Domestic violence-related laws have languished for a long time and need modernizing. This bill will help improve justice for those impacted and make sure that offenders are held fully accountable.”
The bill was laid over for future discussion. Future agendas for the Public Safety Committee will be posted on the committee webpage.
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