New ‘Red Flag’ Law Takes Effect in Minnesota

Minnesota’s controversial “red flag” law took effect Monday. It allows household members, law enforcement, prosecutors, or a guardian to ask the court for an “extreme risk protection order”, banning someone from possessing firearms for up to a year if they’re judged a danger to themselves or others.

New Hope Democrat Cedrick Frazier, during House floor debate said it does not confiscate guns without due process. He says, “the reality of this is, we’re trying to save lives here. We’re trying to prevent more mass shootings in our communities.”

Pennington Republican Matt Bliss warned law enforcement will confiscate the firearms, however, “They’re gonna leave that person in the house with this person that they’re saying is a danger to themselves or others, with hammers, knives, fists.” Republicans unsuccessfully argued a 72-hour mental health hold is a better way.