This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to modify the provisions regarding earned sick and safe time for employees. Key changes include the introduction of a penalty waiver, which states that the Department of Labor and Industry will not impose any monetary penalties for initial violations of earned sick and safe time requirements until January 1, 2026. Additionally, the definition of "earned sick and safe time" is expanded to include provisions for employers with 25 or fewer full-time equivalent employees, allowing them to pay earned sick and safe time at half the employee's hourly rate. The bill also clarifies that during an employer's first 12 months of operation, they may choose to provide paid earned sick and safe time but are not required to do so.

Further amendments include a revised definition of "employee," which now excludes certain categories such as minors under 18, seasonal workers, and those working on a per diem basis. The bill also establishes new requirements for notice and documentation related to the use of earned sick and safe time, including a stipulation that employees must provide notice of their need for sick time as soon as practicable, and no less than two hours before their scheduled work if the need is unforeseeable. Employers are required to provide written policies regarding these procedures and must not deny pay for sick time if they have not provided the necessary documentation or notice policies to employees.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 177.50, 181.9445, 181.9446, 181.9447