Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF216

Introduced
1/11/23  

Caption

Aggravated sentences required for violent offenders, consecutive sentences required for violent offenders, and offenders required to serve the entire announced sentence in custody.

Impact

HF216 amends current Minnesota statutes regarding sentencing guidelines, instituting a framework that compels judges to extend sentences for individuals convicted of violent felonies, particularly those with previous offenses. This modification seeks to alter the trajectory of criminal behavior by disincentivizing repeat offenses through longer incarceration periods, reflecting a tougher stance on crime within the state justice system. The bill's implementation is expected to affect the state's prison populations and could influence parole eligibility, as it stipulates that offenders must serve their entire sentence without the possibility of parole until the term is completed.

Summary

House File 216 (HF216) is a legislative proposal focused on enhancing penalties for violent offenders in Minnesota. The bill specifically mandates aggravated sentences for certain violent offenders who have prior convictions, requiring judges to impose longer sentences and consecutive terms for those committing multiple violent crimes. These measures aim to strengthen public safety by ensuring that serious offenders are held accountable more rigorously under state law.

Contention

The discussion surrounding HF216 highlights several points of contention, particularly its implications for judicial discretion and its potential impacts on overcrowded correctional facilities. Proponents argue that the bill is crucial for enhancing community safety and deterring violent crime through stricter sentencing. However, critics express concerns that the mandatory nature of the bill may reduce judges' ability to consider individual circumstances of cases, potentially leading to unjust punishments. There are also apprehensions regarding the bill’s effectiveness in curtailing violent crime rates compared to alternative rehabilitation-focused approaches.

Companion Bills

MN SF853

Similar To Aggravated sentences for certain violent offenders requirement; consecutive sentences for certain violent offenders establishment; certain offenders requirement to serve the entire announced sentence in custody establishment

Previously Filed As

MN HF765

Aggravated sentences required for violent offenders, consecutive sentences required for violent offenders, offenders required to serve the entire announced sentence in custody.

MN SF853

Aggravated sentences for certain violent offenders requirement; consecutive sentences for certain violent offenders establishment; certain offenders requirement to serve the entire announced sentence in custody establishment

MN SF1466

Aggravated sentences requirement for certain violent offenders

MN HF4277

Mandatory minimum sentences for offenses involving possession or use of firearm or other dangerous weapon eliminated, victim crime reporting requirements modified, Task Force on Mandatory Minimum Sentences created, grants related to alleviating gun violence established, and money appropriated.

MN HB906

State offenders serving sentences in county jail; may serve sentences in any county jail.

MN HB217

Commutation of sentences; require for certain nonviolent offenders.

MN HB283

Commutation of sentences; require for certain nonviolent offenders.

MN HB580

Commutation of sentences; require for certain nonviolent offenders.

MN HB230

Commutation of sentences; require for certain nonviolent offenders.

MN SB412

Modifying criminal sentencing rules applicable in multiple conviction cases where consecutive sentences may be imposed by the sentencing judge and the sentence for the primary crime is a nonprison sentence.

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