Section 1 reduces the statute of limitations for violations of the Minnesota antitrust law (combinations in restraint of trade) from four years to two years.

Section 2 reduces the general statute of limitations that requires various actions to be commenced within six years to four years.  It applies to actions based upon:

(1) a contract or other obligation as to which no other limitation is prescribed;

(2) liability created by statute, other than liability based upon a penalty or where a shorter period is provided for in section 541.07 (two or three-year limitations for certain actions);

(3) trespass;

(4) taking, detaining, or injuring personal property;

(5) criminal conversation or other injury to person or rights not arising under contract;

(6) fraud;

(7) enforcement of a trust and related actions;

(8) sureties upon an official bond;

(9) damages caused by a dam used for commercial purposes; or

(10) assault, battery, false imprisonment, or other personal injury tort if the conduct that gives rise to the cause of action constitutes domestic abuse.

Section 3 provides that sections 1 and 2 are effective August 1, 2011, and apply to causes of action occurring or accruing on or after that date.

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