Important Changes to Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Law – What Injured Workers Need to Know
If you’ve been hurt on the job in Minnesota, it’s essential to stay updated on changes to the workers’ compensation system — because those changes could affect your rights, benefits, and how your case is managed.
Recent amendments to Minnesota’s workers’ compensation statutes (Chapter 176) include key modifications that impact how claims are processed and how benefits are calculated. Minnesota DLI+1 Below is a breakdown of what’s new and how it affects injured workers.
1. Expanded Definition of “Employee” in Certain Support-Service Roles
Effective with the new law, the definition of “employee” under Minnesota workers’ compensation is clarified to more fully include direct-support workers who provide services through DHS programs. Minnesota DLI What that means: if you are working under a grant program or in a community support role and you get injured on the job, you may now have clearer eligibility for benefits.
2. Compensation Rate Updates
One of the changes increases the limit above which workers’ compensation benefits can be assigned, and other technical tweaks to filing procedures have been adopted. Minnesota DLI+1 While the core benefit levels remain largely the same, these changes refine the rules and may affect how quickly benefits are paid and under what conditions.
3. Procedural Changes for Claims & Rehabilitation
The amendments also include changes to how claims for rehabilitation benefits must be handled, including who can file certain notices (employer or insurer) and clearer obligations before benefits or services may be discontinued. SFM Mutual Insurance+1 For an injured worker, this means your legal representative (or you) must pay closer attention to whether your employer/insurer followed all required procedures before discontinuing benefits or rehabilitation services.
What This Means for You
- Report your injury promptly — If you’re in a qualifying role, you’ll want to ensure your employer knows about your injury and treats it under the proper classification.
- Review your claim paperwork — With new definitions and filing requirements, there may be additional review needed to ensure no procedural deadlines or employer/insurer obligations were missed.
- Seek advice if benefits are denied or discontinued — Because some of the changes affect how rehabilitation benefits may be cut off, you’ll want to consult a lawyer if you suspect the insurer failed to comply with the updated rules.
- Keep detailed records — Medical documentation, claim forms, correspondence, and any rehabilitation notices are all more important than ever under the new rule set.
How We Can Help
At Carrie O’Brien Law, we specialize exclusively in workers’ compensation and personal injury cases in Minnesota. If you’ve been injured at work, or if your claim has been denied or benefits discontinued, we’re here to walk you through the new rules, evaluate your case, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
Disclaimer: The information above is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each case is unique, and you should consult a licensed attorney about your specific situation.
No Comments