Minnesota Senate Passes Bill Barring Masked Federal Agents in Schools

The vote took place in St. Paul after weeks of public outcry over a federal operation that targeted immigrants and community activists across the state. Lawmakers framed the legislation as a response to what they described as a “retribution campaign” by the Trump administration.

Senate File 3699 moves to the House for further consideration. The bill’s core provision adds federal officers to Minnesota’s existing prohibition on masking—wearing face coverings to conceal identity—when they operate in public settings. The measure also creates a civil‑action pathway for residents to sue federal officers who violate constitutional rights.

Other components of the package require the state’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to investigate any death involving a federal agent, protect schools, child‑care centers, health facilities, colleges and courthouses from entry without a warrant, and prohibit civil arrests in courtrooms. The legislation also bars denial of education based on immigration status and allows lawsuits when that right is denied.

Senator Mary Kunesh, the bill’s author, said Minnesotans “peacefully stood up against the Trump administration’s campaign of ‘retribution’ against our neighbors.” She emphasized that schools and other essential spaces must remain free from the threat of masked federal agents. Kunesh expressed confidence the House will pass the package.

If enacted, the law would give state authorities the power to enforce mask bans on federal officers and provide new civil remedies for residents. It also signals a broader push by state Democrats to limit federal immigration enforcement actions within Minnesota.

Watch for the House’s vote and potential legal challenges from federal agencies, which could shape the balance between state authority and federal law‑enforcement powers.