Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF1893

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Right of citizens to be secure from unreasonable searches and seizures provided to include protection against unreasonable searches and seizures of electronic communications and data, and constitutional amendment proposed.

Impact

If passed, the amendment would directly affect Article I, Section 10 of the Minnesota Constitution, broadening its scope to explicitly include electronic communications and data. This alteration would mean that law enforcement agencies must obtain a warrant based on probable cause before accessing any electronic information of individuals. The impact could resonate broadly across various facets of law enforcement, privacy rights, and citizens' access to their communicated data, potentially limiting overreach by authorities in digital surveillance and initiating a more rigorous standard for obtaining warrants regarding electronic data.

Summary

House File 1893 is a proposed constitutional amendment in Minnesota that aims to enhance citizens' rights to privacy. Specifically, it seeks to ensure that the right to be secure from unreasonable searches and seizures extends to electronic communications and data. This bill represents a significant shift in recognizing digital privacy as a critical component similar to physical privacy that is protected under the law. The important clause included in the amendment asserts that all citizens, in their electronic communications, shall similarly enjoy these protections which are so pivotal in this digital age of technology dependency.

Contention

Despite the bill's intention to protect citizens' rights, there may be notable points of contention among legislators and the public. Opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential implications of this amendment on law enforcement's ability to investigate crimes that involve digital evidence. Additionally, the amendment's broad language could lead to interpretations that complicate existing investigative procedures and reduce law enforcement effectiveness. There may also be an ongoing debate about the balance between privacy rights and public safety, with arguments centered on finding an appropriate middle ground that ensures both rights are adequately protected.

Companion Bills

MN SF951

Similar To Constitutional amendment proposition to provide that the right of citizens to be secure from unreasonable searches and seizures to include protection against unreasonable searches and seizures of electronic communications and data

Previously Filed As

MN SF452

Constitutional amendment providing the right of citizens to secure from unreasonable searches and seizures includes protection against unreasonable searches and seizures of electronic communications and data

MN SF707

Constitutional amendment providing the right of citizens to be secure from unreasonable searches seizures including protection against unreasonable searches and seizures of electronic communications and data

MN SF2389

Constitutional amendment providing that the right of citizens to be secure from unreasonable searches and seizures includes protection against unreasonable searches and seizures of electronic communications and data

MN SF951

Constitutional amendment proposition to provide that the right of citizens to be secure from unreasonable searches and seizures to include protection against unreasonable searches and seizures of electronic communications and data

MN HF2631

Right of citizens to be secure from unreasonable searches and seizures expanded to include unreasonable searches and seizures of electronic communications and data.

MN SJR1

Constitutional amendment; prohibiting unreasonable search and seizure of electronic data and communications.

MN SJR1

Constitutional amendment; prohibiting unreasonable search and seizure of electronic data and communications.

MN HJR23

Relating to the prohibition of unreasonable searches and seizures.

MN SJR29

Constitutional amendment; prohibiting unreasonable search and seizure of certain data and communications.

MN HB2242

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for security from searches and seizures.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.