This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes concerning workers' compensation, primarily to implement the 2026 recommendations of the Workers' Compensation Advisory Council. Key provisions include stipulations for insurers withdrawing from the reinsurance association, ensuring they remain bound by the plan of operation and settle any outstanding amounts. The bill also modifies the handling of liabilities for insolvent members, grants the reinsurance association rights against the estates of these members, and introduces new responsibilities for the association, such as the equitable distribution of premiums and collection of deficiency assessments. Additionally, it establishes procedures for the distribution of excess surplus and deficiency assessments, clarifying the roles of the board in these processes, and allows active compensation judges to be assigned to cases in the Workers' Compensation Court of Appeals as needed.

Further amendments establish presumptions for certain diseases, including myocarditis and specific cancers, as occupational diseases for emergency service employees, contingent upon prior physical examinations. The bill also recognizes mental impairments, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, as occupational diseases under certain conditions and outlines the rebuttal process for employers. It modifies attorney retainer agreement requirements, increases maximum legal fees, and revises timelines for temporary total compensation payments. The bill details the refund process for policyholders based on their premium contributions, requiring refunds within 60 days of obtaining necessary information, and addresses unclaimed refunds. Overall, these changes aim to enhance the operational efficiency and financial stability of Minnesota's workers' compensation system.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 326B.107
1st Engrossment: 79.34, 79.35, 79.36, 79.362, 79.38, 175A.05, 176.011, 176.081, 176.101, 176.155, 176.221, 176.322