Criminal penalty increase for impersonating a peace officer

Minnesota Senate File 3735 (SF3735) is a proposed law that aims to increase the penalties for individuals who falsely pretend to be peace officers. The bill seeks to make it a more serious crime to impersonate a peace officer, especially when the impersonator is carrying a firearm. It also requires individuals who present themselves as peace officers to clearly identify themselves as such. The bill proposes higher fines and longer prison sentences for those convicted of these offenses. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/MN/text/SF3735/id/3402064/Minnesota-2025-SF3735-Engrossed.pdf?utm_source=openai))

MN SF3735 is a senate bill in the Minnesota 94th Legislature 2025-2026, sponsored by John Hoffman (D), currently “Introduced” since February 23, 2026.

We track 10,590 Minnesota bills this session, 177 of them sponsored by John Hoffman.

While specific media coverage on SF3735 is limited, similar legislation in Minnesota has been well-received. For instance, House File 3404 (HF3404), which also aimed to increase penalties for impersonating a peace officer, passed the legislature and was signed into law on May 18, 2026. This suggests a bipartisan consensus on the importance of strengthening laws against impersonating peace officers. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/MN/legislation/2026?status=passed&type=bill&utm_source=openai))

There is no significant media coverage indicating opposition to SF3735. However, the bill's passage may face challenges due to concerns about the potential for overcriminalization and the impact on individuals who may unintentionally misrepresent themselves. Additionally, debates may arise regarding the balance between public safety and individual rights.