MN SF2965

Amends the definition of "government" to explicitly include law enforcement agencies and clarify that it applies to branches, departments, agencies, officials, employees, and agents of federal, state, and local governments.

Adds a right to punitive damages in civil actions against individuals who report unlawful conduct to law enforcement in bad faith, if the action was brought to harass, cause financial distress, or interfere with the individual's legal rights.

Requires courts to award actual damages, reasonable attorney fees, and costs to individuals who prevail in civil actions and have been granted immunity under this section.

Establishes that an individual's actions are presumed to be in good faith if they constitute "public participation" as defined in Minnesota Statutes section 554.01, subdivision 6.

Effective August 1, 2014, and applies to civil actions commenced on or after that date.