MN SF1629

Establishes a statutory right for individuals to engage in lawful occupations free from substantial regulatory burden unless government demonstrates a compelling public health or safety interest and uses the least restrictive regulatory means.

Creates a hierarchy of occupational regulations from least to most restrictive: private civil action, inspection, bonding/insurance, registration, certification, and licensing.

Allows individuals to assert the right to engage in lawful occupations as a defense or bring legal action for declaratory or injunctive relief against occupational regulations that violate the chapter, with courts required to make independent findings without deference to legislative or administrative determinations.

Exempts from the chapter occupational regulations of government employees, statutory fiduciaries, and individuals required by federal law to be regulated in order to engage in lawful occupations.

Preserves existing collective bargaining rights established in Minnesota Statutes sections 179.10 and 179A.06.