Cap on reasonable attorney fees and punitive damages for certain actions in places of public accommodation alleging discrimination.
Summary
HF 2956 would amend Minnesota’s civil rights-related remedies for certain discrimination lawsuits involving places of public accommodation. Under current law, a person injured by a violation may bring a civil action for actual damages, punitive damages, injunctive relief, and reasonable attorney fees, but the statute places a $500 cap on punitive damages and a $500 cap on reasonable attorney fees. The bill removes those caps, allowing courts to award punitive damages and attorney fees without the existing statutory dollar limits, while leaving the rest of the cause of action intact.
The measure is narrowly focused on the remedies available in private civil actions alleging discrimination in public accommodations, such as businesses and other places open to the public. It does not change the underlying prohibition on discrimination itself; instead, it changes the potential financial exposure for defendants and the potential recovery available to plaintiffs who prevail under Minnesota Statutes section 604.12, subdivision 3.
Impact
If enacted, HF 2956 would amend Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 604.12, subdivision 3, by eliminating the statutory caps on reasonable attorney fees and punitive damages in certain discrimination cases involving places of public accommodation. This would increase possible litigation costs and damages exposure for covered defendants, while potentially improving access to counsel and remedies for individuals bringing discrimination claims. The bill would affect civil rights enforcement, public accommodations, businesses, and other entities subject to Minnesota’s anti-discrimination laws.
Sentiment
The available record shows no committee transcript, vote tally, or recorded debate, so there is no direct evidence of support or opposition from the legislative discussion. Based on the bill’s authorship and subject matter, the proposal appears to be framed as a civil-rights enforcement measure intended to strengthen remedies for discrimination victims. Because no votes or hearing testimony are provided, the overall sentiment cannot be assessed beyond the bill’s apparent remedial purpose.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the removal of the $500 caps on punitive damages and attorney fees. Supporters would likely argue that the current limits are too low to deter discrimination or make legal representation practical, while opponents may view uncapped fee and punitive-damage exposure as increasing litigation risk and costs for businesses and other public accommodations. The bill does not alter liability standards, so the dispute centers on the size of remedies and the balance between enforcement and potential burdens on defendants.
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