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SF 3837

Extreme risk protection orders public awareness campaign appropriation

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Doron Clark and 3 co-sponsors

Minnesota bill funds public awareness campaign to educate residents about extreme risk protection orders—legal tools restricting firearm access for individuals posing immediate danger.

Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety
#appropriations #publicsafetyandpublicsafetydepartment
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Bill Summary · SF 3837

Legislative bill overview

SF 3837 appropriates state funding for a public awareness campaign about extreme risk protection orders (ERPOs) in Minnesota. ERPOs are legal tools that allow courts to temporarily restrict firearm access for individuals deemed an immediate danger to themselves or others. The bill aims to increase public knowledge about this existing legal mechanism and how to utilize it.

Why is this important

ERPOs remain underutilized in many states despite evidence suggesting they may prevent suicides and mass shootings. A public awareness campaign could increase community understanding of when and how to petition for an order, potentially encouraging family members, healthcare providers, and law enforcement to use this intervention tool. The effectiveness of ERPOs depends partly on public awareness—if people don't know the tool exists or how to access it, the law's protective potential remains unrealized.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Opponents may argue that promoting ERPOs represents government overreach into gun ownership rights, even though ERPOs include due process protections and are temporary measures
  • Implementation costs and scope: Questions about campaign budget adequacy, target audience reach, and whether awareness alone translates to meaningful public health outcomes
  • Due process safeguards: Debate over whether existing ERPO procedures include sufficient legal protections for respondents, and whether a campaign should emphasize both protective and civil liberty dimensions equally

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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