The bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes concerning workers' compensation, incorporating recommendations from the Workers' Compensation Advisory Council. Notable changes include an updated definition of "employee" to explicitly include voluntary uncompensated workers engaged in direct support services, with provisions for calculating their daily wage based on similar paid services. The definition of "executive officer of a corporation" has also been aligned with existing statutes. Additionally, the bill clarifies the responsibilities of personal care assistance provider agencies regarding workers' compensation insurance for their employees and outlines exclusions for certain employments, such as family farms and closely held corporations. Employers are mandated to provide comprehensive medical treatment and rehabilitation services for injured employees, including coverage for family members providing nursing services.

Further amendments address the ownership of customized items for injured workers, extending the time limits for filing compensation claims to three years after notification, with a maximum of six years from the date of the injury. The bill increases the exemption amount for compensation claims from $1,000,000 to $10,000,000 and introduces provisions for owner- and contractor-controlled insurance programs, requiring commissioner approval and mandating an attestation for zero estimated exposure policies. It also establishes guidelines for insurance policy forms and rates, including maintaining payroll records for three years post-project completion and ensuring compliance through audits. The effective dates for these changes vary, with some provisions taking effect immediately after final enactment and others set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 176.011, 176.041, 176.135, 176.151, 176.175, 176.361, 176.421
1st Engrossment: 176.011, 176.041, 176.135, 176.151, 176.175, 176.361, 176.421, 176.185