MN SF1617

Expands harassment definition to include single incidents of entry into buildings without consent and clarifies that harassment includes physical/sexual assault, intrusive acts, targeted residential picketing, and patterns of attending public events after notification of unwanted presence

Allows minors age 16-17 to petition for restraining orders independently against spouses, former spouses, or persons with whom they have children in common if court determines sufficient maturity and best interests

Reduces response time for hearing requests from 45 days to 20 days after temporary restraining order is served and permits service by published notice if personal service cannot be completed

Establishes filing fee waivers for petitions alleging acts constituting violations of stalking statutes or domestic abuse crimes, with court directing payment of service costs and potentially requiring respondent to pay petitioner's fees

Prohibits employers from discharging or discriminating against employees who take reasonable time off to obtain harassment restraining orders, with penalties including misdemeanor charges, back wages, and job reinstatement

Effective date: August 1, 2015