Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to modify Minnesota's existing paid leave program by updating definitions and provisions related to employee coverage and eligibility.

Main Provisions

• Definition of Employee: The bill amends the definition of "employee" to clearly specify who is and isn't covered under the paid leave program. It states that an employee is a person performing services for an employer but explicitly excludes:

  • Employees of the United States.
  • Self-employed individuals.
  • Independent contractors.
  • Seasonal employees as defined in subdivision 35.
  • Employees of small employers unless they choose to opt into the paid leave program.

• Employee Opt-In for Small Employers: Employees working for small employers are not automatically covered by the paid leave program but can opt into it under specific conditions outlined in section 268B.11, subdivision 1.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Expansion and Clarity of Coverage: This bill refines the definition of employees and stipulates conditions under which small employer employees can elect to receive paid leave benefits. This change clarifies and narrows the scope of who is covered compared to previous statutes.

Relevant Terms

• Economic development
• Paid leave program
• Employee definition
• United States employees
• Self-employed individuals
• Independent contractors
• Seasonal employee
• Small employer
• Opt-in provision