“Red Flag” Law Now in Effect in Minnesota

January 4, 2024

As of January 1, families and law enforcement in Minnesota can use an extreme risk protection order (ERPO) to temporarily restrict firearm access for those at risk of harming themselves or others.  

Often referred to as a “red flag law,” this new legislation allows families and law enforcement to petition a court to temporarily restrict firearm access.   

“This new law will temporarily remove a firearm when a person is in crisis,” said MMA President Laurel Ries, MD. “It is an important step that has shown to reduce firearm death and injury in states that have adopted this.” 

Minnesota is now among 20 states with similar legislation. Other states that have implemented similar laws have seen decreases in firearm-related deaths, specifically steep declines in firearm-related deaths by suicide. 

The MMA advocated on behalf of this law during the 2023 legislative session.  

For more information on ERPOs, click here.  

Latest News

Allina Health Physicians Vote to Authorize Strike

July 9, 2026

More than 130 Allina Health hospital physicians represented by Doctors Council SEIU voted last week, by a 90% margin, to authorize a strike after nearly two years of bargaining.  

MMA Launches New Program to Strengthen Physician Well-being

July 9, 2026

The MMA is launching a new program, exclusive to members, to strengthen physician well-being, reduce professional isolation, build a culture of connection, and foster sustained peer connections over time.  

State Pursuing Medicaid Expansion to Treat Incarcerated People

July 9, 2026

Minnesota is pursuing a new initiative that, if approved by the federal government, will allow state Medicaid programs to cover certain behavioral health services and medical care for chronic health conditions for incarcerated people, for up to 90 days before release.