MN SF1854

Prohibits employers, individuals, and associations from engaging in economic reprisals, threatening job loss, or using physical coercion against individuals for their political contributions, political activity, or running for elected public office

Adds new protection prohibiting reprisals against employees who refuse to communicate with public or local officials to influence legislative, administrative, or political subdivision decisions

Creates exemptions when political affiliation is a bona fide occupational qualification or when an employee's job duties specifically include communicating with government officials

Establishes a civil cause of action allowing injured parties to sue in district court for damages, injunctive relief, attorney fees, and reinstatement of employment

Makes violations a gross misdemeanor, defines "employer" broadly to include private and public entities with one or more employees, and takes effect August 1, 2025