The bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes concerning workers' compensation, incorporating recommendations from the Workers' Compensation Advisory Council. Notable changes include an expanded definition of "employee" in section 176.011, which now explicitly includes voluntary uncompensated workers involved in direct support services, emergency management, and local social services programs. The responsibilities of personal care assistance provider agencies and financial management services providers regarding workers' compensation insurance for these workers are also clarified. Additionally, the definition of "executive officer of a corporation" is updated to reference section 302A.011, and exclusions from coverage in section 176.041 are revised to specify conditions under which executive officers and family members of farmers and closely held corporations may be excluded from workers' compensation.

The bill further addresses ownership of customized items for injured workers, establishing that such items are their property and outlining employer liability for expenses if necessary items are not provided. It extends the time limits for filing compensation claims to three years after the commissioner is notified, with a maximum of six years from the date of the accident. The exemption amount for compensation claims is increased from $1,000,000 to $10,000,000. New provisions regarding owner- and contractor-controlled insurance programs require commissioner approval and mandate specific information in applications. The bill also introduces a nonrefundable application fee of $2,500 for these insurance programs and prohibits zero estimated exposure policies for contractors or subcontractors. The effective date for most provisions is set for the day following final enactment, while some will take effect for policies issued or renewed after specific dates.

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
1st Unofficial Engrossment: 176.011, 176.041, 176.135, 176.151, 176.175, 176.361, 176.421, 176.185