Bill > SF863

This bill clarifies and strengthens protections for employees against political activity reprisals in Minnesota. Specifically, the bill expands existing law to explicitly prohibit employers from engaging in economic reprisals, threatening job loss, or using physical coercion against employees because of their political contributions, political activities, or candidacy for elected public office. The bill defines "employer" using the standard definition from Minnesota labor law and maintains an exception for situations where political affiliation is a legitimate job requirement. Importantly, the bill creates a new civil cause of action, allowing individuals or associations who experience such reprisals to sue in district court for damages, injunctive relief, attorney fees, and potential reinstatement of employment. Violations of this provision would be considered a gross misdemeanor. The bill is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to violations and causes of action from that date forward, giving employers and employees clear guidance on political activity protections in the workplace.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF0863&ssn=0&y=2025