MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Minnesota Senate Passes Gun Violence Prevention Package on Narrow 34–33 Vote

ST. PAUL, MN (May 5, 2026) The Minnesota Senate on Monday passed a comprehensive gun violence prevention bill on a 34–33 vote, sending the measure to the Minnesota House for consideration.

The legislation, Senate File 4067, combines more than a dozen policy provisions aimed at reducing firearm-related deaths, strengthening school safety, and expanding mental health intervention programs statewide.

What the Bill Does

According to legislative summaries, the bill includes:

• A ban on the sale of assault-style weapons
• A ban on large-capacity magazines over 17 rounds
• A prohibition on binary triggers, which increase firing rates
• A ban on untraceable “ghost guns”
• Restrictions on where firearms are permitted on school property
• Creation of an Extreme Risk Protection Order public awareness campaign
• Funding for the state’s Violence Prevention Project

The package also includes funding provisions:

• $20 million in school safety aid for Minnesota schools
• $2.7 million in school-linked behavioral health grants
• Support for anonymous school threat reporting systems

Lawmakers say the bill is designed to combine enforcement, prevention, and early intervention strategies.

Senate Leaders Frame Vote as Public Safety Response

Erin Murphy said the vote reflects a response to recent acts of violence across the state, including school shootings and other high-profile incidents.

Murphy stated the bill is intended to protect students, expand mental health resources, and limit access to high-risk firearms.

Zaynab Mohamed said the legislation does not force a choice between gun restrictions and school investment, describing the bill as a combined approach to safety.

Ron Latz said the package reflects public demand for action and is intended to reduce shootings and firearm-related injuries.

Additional Lawmakers Cite Community Impact

Doron Clark referenced gun violence incidents in South Minneapolis, including the Annunciation School shooting, in explaining his vote in favor of the bill.

Bobby Joe Champion, a coauthor, said the legislation is aimed at preventing future tragedies and protecting families across Minnesota.

Mary Kunesh highlighted the inclusion of her school safety funding proposal, stating it will support security improvements in schools statewide.

Next Step: House Consideration

The bill now moves to the Minnesota House, where lawmakers will determine whether to advance, amend, or reject the proposal.

The narrow Senate vote underscores the divided political landscape surrounding gun policy in Minnesota, setting up a closely watched debate in the House in the coming weeks.

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