Minnesota § 645.17 - PRESUMPTIONS IN ASCERTAINING LEGISLATIVE INTENT
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 645.17 — PRESUMPTIONS IN ASCERTAINING LEGISLATIVE INTENT, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 645.17. PRESUMPTIONS IN ASCERTAINING LEGISLATIVE INTENT
In ascertaining the intention of the legislature the courts may be guided by the following presumptions:
(1) the legislature does not intend a result that is absurd, impossible of execution, or unreasonable;
(2) the legislature intends the entire statute to be effective and certain;
(3) the legislature does not intend to violate the Constitution of the United States or of this state;
(4) when a court of last resort has construed the language of a law, the legislature in subsequent laws on the same subject matter intends the same construction to be placed upon such language; and
(5) the legislature intends to favor the public interest as against any private interest.
History:
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Source: official Minnesota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 645.17
What does Minnesota Statutes § 645.17 cover?
Section 645.17 ("PRESUMPTIONS IN ASCERTAINING LEGISLATIVE INTENT") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Minnesota § 645.17?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 645.17" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 645.17 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.