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Bill

SF 3772

Specific chemical compound found in tear gas sale and usage prohibition provision

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Boldon and 4 co-sponsors

Minnesota bill would prohibit sale and use of specific tear gas chemical compound, limiting law enforcement crowd control options while raising enforcement and alternative safety questions.

Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety
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Bill Summary · SF 3772

Legislative bill overview

SF 3772 would prohibit the sale and usage of a specific chemical compound found in tear gas in Minnesota. The bill was introduced in February 2026 and is currently under review by the Judiciary and Public Safety Committee. The sponsors include several Democratic state senators focused on public safety and civil rights issues.

Why is this important

Tear gas has become a contentious tool in law enforcement and crowd control, with debates over its safety, effectiveness, and appropriate use. Restricting specific chemical compounds could affect how police departments conduct riot control and crowd management operations. The bill reflects ongoing national discussions about police tactics and civilian protection during protests or emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement capability concerns – Police departments may argue that removing tear gas options limits their crowd control tools and could endanger officer or public safety during volatile situations
  • Specificity questions – The bill targets "a specific chemical compound" rather than all tear gas components; unclear which compound(s) are prohibited and whether alternatives are equally effective or safer
  • Implementation and enforcement – Defining how existing tear gas inventory would be handled, whether exemptions exist for specific uses (military, border security), and how violations would be prosecuted remain unaddressed

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

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