MN HF3666

Creates new criminal prohibition (gross misdemeanor) against intimidation, interference, and obstruction of election officials, including threats of force, coercion, violence, restraint, damage, harm, loss of employment, or economic reprisal.

Prohibits knowingly disseminating personal information (home address, directions, photographs) about election officials or their family members without consent when it poses imminent and serious threat to their safety.

Establishes civil remedies allowing the attorney general or injured election officials to seek injunctions, recover damages, investigation costs, attorney fees, and up to $1,000 civil penalty per violation, with two-year statute of limitations.

Exempts violations of the new section from the standard election complaint process in sections 211B.31 to 211B.36, allowing enforcement directly through civil and criminal actions.

Appropriates $178,000 in fiscal year 2023 from the general fund to the attorney general for enforcement of the new protections, effective July 1, 2022.