SF2605

Purpose of the Bill:

The bill aims to modify the existing laws in Minnesota concerning earned sick and safe time for employees. It seeks to provide clarity around the accrual and use of this leave, update the notification requirements, and allow for a penalty waiver period for initial violations of the mandate.

Main Provisions:

• Penalty Waiver: No monetary penalties will be imposed for initial violations of earned sick and safe time requirements until after January 1, 2026.
• Accrual and Usage: Employees will accrue one hour of sick and safe time for every 40 hours worked. The maximum accrual limit is set to 48 hours per year, and employees can carry over unused time into the next year up to a total of 80 hours.
• Variations for Small Employers: Employers with 25 or fewer full-time employees can pay at half the hourly rate, and new businesses have an initial 12-month period during which they are not required to provide paid sick and safe time.
• Employee Definition: Includes temporary and part-time employees anticipated to work at least 80 hours a year but excludes minors under 18, farm employees working less than 28 days a year, and individuals in certain other roles.
• Family Member Definition: Expanded to include those related by blood or whose close association equates to a family relationship, allowing employees to designate one individual annually as a family member.
• Notice and Documentation Requirements: Employers may require reasonable notice for foreseeable leave and must establish a written policy for notifying the employer of leave usage. Documentation requirements for using this time have been clarified.

Significant Changes to Existing Law:

• Changes the definition of an employee and family member for the purposes of sick and safe time.
• Adjusts the accrual method and conditions for carrying over unused earned sick and safe time.
• Establishes new employer requirements for notice and documentation without mandatory penalties until 2026.

Relevant Terms:

earned sick and safe time, penalty waiver, accrual, temporary and part-time employees, family member, advance notice, documentation requirements, monetary penalty