Minnesota

The death penalty in Minnesota was abolished in 1911. Between 1860 and 1906, the State of Minnesota executed 27 people by hanging, although more were executed under territorial government prior to statehood. The exact number of state-sanctioned executions is unknown because the Office of Governor Execution only has complete records from 1889 to 1910.

Minnesota has seen a number of unsuccessful attempts to reinstate the death penalty since 1911, including bills in 1913, 1915, 1919, 1921, 1923, 1927, 1931, 1933, 1937, 1974, 1975, 1986, 1989, 1991, 1992, 1995, 1996, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2004, and 2005.  Many of these efforts arose out of high-profile homicides.  Nevertheless, due to the efforts of legislators and organizations such as The Advocates for Human Rights and Minnesotans Against the Death Penalty (MNADP), attempts at reinstatement have thus far failed to pass the legislature.  

For more information and ways to get involved, contact your state's organizations:

Minnesota Catholic Conference

The Minnesota Catholic Conference (MCC) is the public policy voice of the Catholic Church in Minnesota. Central to the mission of the MCC is the principle that all life is sacred. The MCC advocates for public policies that promote and support life across the lifespan – from conception through natural death.

The Advocates for Human Rights

The Advocates for Human Rights helps individuals fully realize their human rights in the United States and around the world. For more than 25 years, The Advocates’ innovative programming has touched the lives of refugees and immigrants, women, ethnic and religious minorities, children, and other marginalized communities whose rights are at risk.

More Information at Death Penalty Center