The Safe Workplaces for Meat and Poultry Processing Workers Act aims to improve workplace safety for meat-processing workers in Minnesota by introducing new definitions related to the industry and establishing a meatpacking industry worker rights coordinator. This coordinator, appointed by the commissioner of labor and industry, will enforce safety regulations, conduct inspections, and submit annual reports. The bill grants workers the right to refuse dangerous work conditions without fear of discrimination and outlines enforcement mechanisms, including administrative actions and civil penalties for noncompliance. Additionally, it requires employers to implement a safe worker program to prevent musculoskeletal disorders, provide ongoing safety training, and prohibits retaliation against workers who report safety concerns.

The legislation also introduces specific requirements for meat-processing employers, particularly during public health emergencies. Employers must provide training in a language understood by employees, ensure that medical personnel are licensed, and maintain detailed records of worker visits to medical personnel and ergonomic injuries for at least five years. The bill includes pandemic protections such as social distancing, free personal protective equipment (PPE), and access to sanitation facilities. It mandates paid sick time for workers, prohibits retaliation for using sick time, and requires employers to notify workers of their rights. The commissioner is given authority to enforce compliance, and funds are appropriated to support the implementation of these measures.

Statutes affected:
1st Engrossment: 182.654
2nd Engrossment: 182.654
3rd Engrossment: 182.654
1st Engrossment: 182.654
2nd Engrossment: 182.654
3rd Engrossment: 182.654