MN HF1940

Defines booking photographs as public data but allows law enforcement to temporarily withhold access if it affects active investigations.

Requires individuals requesting booking photographs to submit their name, address, purpose of request, and all intended publication locations/formats to the law enforcement agency maintaining the photograph.

Prohibits websites or publications from charging fees to remove booking photographs and requires clear removal processes; individuals not convicted must have photos deleted immediately, while convicted individuals can request name be limited to first name and last initial.

Imposes civil liability of $500 per posted photograph for violations, increasing to $1,500 per image (treble damages) for failure to remove photos within 30 days or for non-disclosure violations.

Exempts transfers of booking photographs to law enforcement agencies, government entities, judicial branch, the photographed individual's attorney, and bona fide news organizations from disclosure requirements.