New Minnesota Bill Passes Senate Honoring Fallen Heroes—Awaiting Governor’s Signature

In a unanimous vote, the Minnesota Senate passed legislation this week to ensure that public safety officers and their families receive meaningful support and recognition when tragedy strikes. The bill, authored by Senator Zach Duckworth, is a direct response to the devastating 2024 shooting in Burnsville that claimed the lives of three first responders.

House File 124, which passed the House in March with a sweeping 132-0 vote, allows local governments to accept certain gifts—such as plaques, morale-boosting services, or financial contributions—within 24 months of an officer being killed in the line of duty. Previously, Minnesota law prohibited public employees from accepting most gifts, even in the aftermath of heartbreaking loss.

“When tragedy strikes and a first responder makes the ultimate sacrifice, their loved ones are changed forever, and their colleagues are left grieving while still carrying out their public service duties,” said Sen. Duckworth. “This bill ensures that departments and communities can come together to honor the fallen, support their fellow officers, care for their family, and strengthen morale in the wake of loss.”

The legislation was inspired by the tragic deaths of Police Officers Matthew Ruge and Paul Elmstrand, and paramedic-firefighter Adam Finseth, who were killed in Burnsville while responding to a domestic disturbance involving seven children. Though all the children were rescued, the loss sent shockwaves across Minnesota’s public safety community.

Duckworth emphasized that the measure is about cutting through red tape to allow communities to express gratitude and unity.

“Our public safety officers put their lives on the line for us every day,” Duckworth said. “In the wake of tragedy, we should be able to come together and cut any bureaucratic red tape standing in the way of honoring their memory, caring for their family, or supporting their fellow first responders.”

The bill also includes provisions for local governments to spend public funds on funerals, memorial services, and travel to national memorials for fallen officers, ensuring their families and colleagues have the resources to properly grieve and honor their sacrifice.

Importantly, any gifts must align with existing gift policies and be used as the donor intends within one year of receipt. Agencies will also be required to report and publish gift information to ensure transparency.

With full support in both chambers, the bill now heads to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.

If enacted, the law will take effect immediately.