S.F. No. 2715 Summary

• Recodifies domestic abuse no contact orders from section 518B.01, subdivision 22 to new section 629.75, establishing them as independent court orders in criminal and delinquency proceedings.

• Expands tampering with a witness crime by creating third-degree offense for intimidating witnesses or obstruction of law enforcement, effective August 1, 2010.

• Increases maximum bail from six times to ten times the highest cash fine for misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor violations of domestic abuse orders and domestic assault charges.

• Exempts domestic abuse and sexual attack victim support programs from data practices law requirements if employees and volunteers are not under direct government supervision.

• Authorizes a pilot project in any judicial district allowing courts to order electronic monitoring of domestic abuse offenders as a condition of pretrial release, with reporting requirements by January 15, 2013.

• Modifies stalking statute definition and procedures, including expanded venue provisions for electronic communications and adding violation of no contact orders as a qualifying offense for pattern stalking charges.