This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes concerning the paid leave program, particularly focusing on definitions and eligibility criteria for employees and employers. A significant change is the introduction of a new definition for "small employer," defined as an employer with 15 or fewer employees. Employees of small employers will not be automatically included in the paid leave program unless they choose to opt in. Additionally, the definition of "employee" is modified to exclude those working for small employers unless they elect coverage. The definition of "family member" is also revised, removing siblings and adding a provision for a designated individual who relies on the applicant for care.

The bill further updates the benefit structure for the paid leave program, capping benefits at 12 weeks per benefit year, with an additional two weeks available for serious health conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth. It establishes requirements for private plans providing medical and family benefits to ensure they meet or exceed public program standards. The bill also addresses premium payments and benefits for self-employed individuals, requiring them to pay an annual premium based on their self-employment income and allowing those whose small employers do not provide coverage to opt in. The effective dates for these changes vary, with some provisions taking effect immediately and others set for future dates, including July 1, 2025, and January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 268B.01, 268B.04, 268B.10, 268B.11, 268B.14