This bill, H.F. No. 1542, introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives by Representative Schultz, proposes amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2024, Section 181.9445, regarding earned sick and safe time benefits.

Key Changes Proposed:

1. Employer Participation in Earned Sick and Safe Time:

   • The bill makes employer participation in these benefits optional rather than mandatory.

2. Definition of "Employee" (Subdivision 5 Amendments):

   • An “employee” is defined as someone who:
     1. Is expected to work at least 80 hours per year for the employer in Minnesota.
     2. Only qualifies for benefits if the employer chooses to provide them.
   • Certain individuals are excluded from this definition, including:
     • Independent contractors.
     • Volunteer and paid on-call firefighters, as well as certain ambulance personnel.
     • Elected officials or individuals appointed to fill an elected office.
     • Seasonal farm laborers working 28 days or less per year.

3. Definition of "Employer" (Subdivision 6 Amendments):

   • An “employer” is any person or entity that chooses to provide benefits under the earned sick and safe time statutes.
   • Includes individuals, corporations, nonprofits, government entities (state, counties, cities, school districts, and towns), staffing agencies, and professional employer organizations.
   • The United States government is explicitly excluded from being considered an employer under this law.

Summary of Impact:

• The bill removes the requirement for Minnesota employers to provide earned sick and safe time to employees.
• Employees will only be eligible for such benefits if their employer voluntarily chooses to offer them.
• This represents a shift from mandatory paid sick leave provisions to an optional, employer-determined benefit structure.

This proposed legislation could significantly weaken worker protections, particularly for low-income and part-time workers who may rely on mandatory paid leave policies for medical and safety-related absences.