This 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" to explicitly include voluntary uncompensated workers involved in direct support services, emergency management, and local social services programs. The bill clarifies the responsibilities of personal care assistance provider agencies and financial management services providers regarding workers' compensation insurance for these workers. It also updates the definition of "executive officer of a corporation" to align with existing statutes and introduces exclusions for certain employments, such as those related to closely held corporations and family farms, while ensuring coverage for medical treatment and rehabilitation services for injured employees.

Additionally, the bill addresses insurance policies for construction projects, particularly focusing on owner-controlled and contractor-controlled insurance programs. It mandates that project sponsors or contractors replace insurance or compensate subcontractors if a policy is canceled before project completion and imposes a nonrefundable application fee for insurance program approval. The bill prohibits zero estimated exposure policies for contractors on approved projects and establishes standards for policy forms, rates, and deductibles. It also requires maintaining payroll records for three years post-project completion and mandates that all contractors and subcontractors receive copies of their insurance policies. The commissioner is granted authority to conduct audits for compliance, with specific provisions taking effect on 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
1st Unofficial Engrossment: 176.011, 176.041, 176.135, 176.151, 176.175, 176.361, 176.421, 176.185