SF3407

Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to update and clarify the definitions and provisions related to workers' compensation in Minnesota by incorporating recommendations made by the Workers Compensation Advisory Council.

Main Provisions

• Amendment of Employee Definition: The bill updates the definition of "employee" in the Minnesota Statutes to include various groups and individuals performing services for compensation or voluntarily under specific conditions. This encompasses a broad range of roles like law enforcement, volunteer workers in governmental services, and students in medical education programs.

• Inclusion of Volunteers and Uncompensated Workers: It addresses the inclusion of voluntary and uncompensated workers in certain roles, such as emergency management, social services, and education, specifying that such individuals' compensation for injury or death will be based on the prevailing wage for similar paid work.

• Specific Occupational Inclusions: The bill elaborates on who qualifies as an employee, including military personnel in active service, University of Minnesota faculty, and voluntary emergency service providers such as ambulance drivers and civil air patrol members.

• Insurance Responsibilities: Specifies responsibilities for maintaining workers' compensation insurance for different agencies and participants involved in consumer-directed support services.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Expanded Coverage: The definition of "employee" is expanded to cover more voluntary and nonprofit roles in specific state-recognized capacities, ensuring broader workers' compensation coverage.

• Repeal of Certain Rules: The bill proposes repealing Minnesota Rules part 5220.2840, implying changes to certain procedural or administrative elements within the workers' compensation framework.

Relevant Terms

• Workers' Compensation
• Voluntary Workers
• Military Forces
• Emergency Management
• Personal Care Assistance
• Consumer Support Grant
• Medical Reserve Corps
• Faculty Members
• Civil Air Patrol
• Prevailing Wage