The Minnesota State Legislature has introduced Senate Bill 1330, aimed at enhancing public safety by mandating consecutive sentences for certain assaults committed by inmates in local correctional facilities. The bill, introduced on February 13, 2025, seeks to amend Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically section 609.2232, which governs sentencing for assaults within correctional settings.

The primary focus of Senate Bill 1330 is to impose stricter penalties on inmates who commit assaults while incarcerated. Under the proposed legislation, if an inmate is convicted of specific assault-related offenses—such as those outlined in sections 609.221 through 609.224—their sentence for the assault will run consecutively to any existing sentences. This means that inmates will not receive credit for time served on previous sentences when serving time for the new assault conviction. The bill applies to both state prison inmates and those in local facilities, with particular emphasis on assaults against county sheriffs or deputies.

The introduction of this bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers regarding its potential impact on inmate behavior and overall safety within correctional facilities. Proponents argue that the legislation will deter violent behavior among inmates, thereby enhancing safety for both correctional staff and fellow inmates. Critics, however, raise concerns about the implications of longer sentences on prison overcrowding and the effectiveness of punitive measures in reducing violence.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, it has been referred to the Judiciary and Public Safety Committee for further consideration. The outcome of this bill could have significant implications for Minnesota's correctional system, potentially reshaping how violent offenses are addressed within local jails and prisons. Stakeholders, including law enforcement and advocacy groups, are closely monitoring the developments surrounding Senate Bill 1330 as it progresses through the legislature.