This bill modifies Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 268B.26, to establish new requirements and penalties related to employer compliance with the Minnesota Paid Leave Law.

Key Provisions:

1. Employer Notice Requirements:

   • Employers must display a workplace notice (prepared by the commissioner) about paid leave benefits in a conspicuous location.
   • The notice must be in English and any other language spoken by at least five employees or independent contractors if available from the department.
   • Employers must provide written information to employees within:
     • 30 days of employment or
     • 30 days before premium collection begins (whichever is later).
       
   • This written notice must include:
     • Explanation of family and medical leave benefits
     • Rights to reinstatement and health insurance continuation
     • Premium deductions and employer obligations
     • Employer contact details and identification number
     • Instructions for filing a claim
     • Department contact information

2. Acknowledgment of Receipt:

   • Employees must provide written or electronic acknowledgment of receiving the notice.
   • If an employee refuses to acknowledge, the employer must demonstrate how the notice was provided.

3. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

   • Beginning January 1, 2027, employers who fail to comply may face:
     • A $50 civil penalty per employee for the first violation.
     • A $300 civil penalty per employee for each subsequent violation.
   • Employers bear the burden of proving compliance.

4. Electronic Notices:

   • If notices are provided electronically, employers must provide access to a workplace computer during working hours to review and print them.

5. Uniform Employee Notice:

   • The department will create a standardized notice form in the five most common languages spoken in Minnesota.

6. Seasonal Employee Exemption:

   • Employers must inform seasonal employees (as defined in section 268B.01, subdivision 35) that they are not eligible for paid leave benefits.
   • This notice must be given:
     • When making an employment offer OR
     • By November 1, 2025, for existing seasonal employees.

This bill aims to enhance employer transparency and ensure employees are properly informed about their rights under Minnesota’s Paid Leave Law.