This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes concerning workers' compensation, incorporating recommendations from the Workers' Compensation Advisory Council. It introduces new definitions and provisions for the classification of employees, particularly focusing on voluntary uncompensated workers and their eligibility for compensation. The bill clarifies the responsibilities of personal care assistance provider agencies and financial management services providers regarding workers' compensation insurance. Additionally, it modifies existing definitions related to executive officers, allowing those with less than 22,880 hours of payroll in the preceding year to be excluded from coverage if they own at least 25% of the corporation's stock. The bill also expands employer responsibilities for medical treatment and supplies, including coverage for family members providing nursing services.

Moreover, the bill establishes new guidelines for insurance policies related to construction projects, particularly for owner-controlled and contractor-controlled insurance programs. It requires project sponsors or contractors to replace insurance or compensate for replacement insurance if a policy is canceled before project completion, and mandates a nonrefundable application fee of $2,500 for approval of these insurance programs. The bill also sets specific requirements for insurance policy forms and rates, including a minimum deductible of $50,000, and mandates the maintenance of payroll records for three years post-project completion. Most provisions will take effect the day following final enactment, while specific insurance-related provisions will be effective for policies issued or renewed on or after 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