Minnesota Employment Law Changes for 2026 - HR ALERTS

Minnesota Employment Law Changes for 2026

Effective: January 1, 2026 (unless noted)

Minnesota has enacted several employment law updates for 2026 that affect paid leave programs, meal and rest breaks, and sick leave requirements. These changes apply to employers with Minnesota employees, including remote workers, regardless of where the employer is headquartered.

Key 2026 Minnesota Updates

Paid Family and Medical Leave (High Priority)

• Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) benefits and employer and employee contributions begin

Paid Sick and Safe Leave

• Expands qualifying reasons and clarifies accrual and carryover requirements

• Minneapolis paid sick leave amendments take effect December 31, 2025

Meal and Rest Breaks

• Clarifies employer obligations to provide meal and rest breaks based on shift length, reinforcing reasonable timing and employee access during work shifts

What Employers Should Do Now

Minnesota employers should review PFML payroll setup, leave policies, break practices, timekeeping procedures, and local ordinance compliance, particularly for employees working in Minneapolis.

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Get day-to-day updates on Minnesota Employment Law Changes for 2026 visit the Vida HR Knowledge Center (Vida HR Clients Exclusive).