Liability and vicarious liability for trespass to critical infrastructure created, and crime for recruiting or educating individuals to trespass on or damage critical infrastructure created.
Impact
If enacted, HF1445 will amend existing Minnesota statutes to impose stricter penalties for individuals who damage or unlawfully enter critical public service properties. The bill establishes felonies for significant disruptions to these services and imposes substantial fines or imprisonment for violators. It also requires that perpetrators—if convicted—be liable for the damages they cause, which may have implications for individuals engaged in protest activities or civil disobedience focused on environmental or corporate issues.
Summary
House File 1445 seeks to enhance public safety by creating liability for individuals who trespass on critical infrastructure, such as utility facilities and pipelines. The bill proposes that anyone arrested or convicted of such trespassing may be held liable for damages incurred during the act. Additionally, those who recruit, train, or conspire to assist individuals in committing trespass will also be held vicariously liable for any damages caused. This legislation aims to deter trespass and potential sabotage against essential services that are vital for public welfare.
Contention
The legislative discussions surrounding HF1445 indicate that while proponents advocate for the protection of vital infrastructure, raising accountability for trespassing, some opponents express concerns over potential implications for civil liberties and freedom of assembly. Critics are wary that the bill could stifle legitimate protest actions and dissent related to critical infrastructure projects, particularly those addressing environmental concerns. The balance between ensuring public safety and maintaining civil rights will be pivotal in the ongoing discourse around this bill.
Similar To
Critical infrastructure liability and vicarious liability for trespass to critical infrastructure establishment; recruiting or educating individuals to trespass on or damage critical infrastructure crime creation
Critical infrastructure liability and vicarious liability for trespass to critical infrastructure establishment; recruiting or educating individuals to trespass on or damage critical infrastructure crime creation
Public safety; various provisions modified relating to data held by law enforcement agencies; agency bail or bond notice; sex trafficking minimum sentences; Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission; legislative approval; reason for dismissing charges; dismissals report information; county attorney required action; liability and vicarious liability; crime created for recruiting or educating individuals to trespass or damage critical infrastructure; assaulting a police officer penalty; crime of fleeing in a motor vehicle or failing to obey traffic laws crime established; presence in a stolen vehicle; penalties increased for obstructing trunk highway, airport, or transit traffic; tracking device placement and requirements and expanded uses; criminal penalties; and money appropriated.
Including aboveground and belowground lines, cables and wires in the definition of a critical infrastructure facility used for telecommunications or video services for the crimes of trespassing on a critical infrastructure facility and criminal damage to a critical infrastructure facility.
Crimes and punishments; display of harmful materials; trespass with respect to critical infrastructure facilities; criminal liability for loitering in certain places. Effective date.