Bill Summary

• Extends independent contractor registration pilot program for construction contractors from June 30, 2014 to ongoing requirement with biennial registration expiration on odd-numbered years.

• Modernizes Minnesota apprenticeship program to align with federal regulations (Code of Federal Regulations, title 29, parts 29 and 30), establishing new standards for program registration, apprentice wages, related instruction requirements (minimum 144 hours per training cycle), and dispute resolution procedures.

• Restructures municipal building code enforcement by allowing municipalities to enter into agreements with the commissioner to administer public buildings and state-licensed facilities, with separate processes for comprehensive projects and reserved projects like roof replacements and exterior maintenance.

• Creates exception to high pressure boiler attendance requirements for sawmills in counties with population under 8,000 that utilize electronic monitoring systems and meet specified safety conditions; appropriates $100,000 for updating boiler rules.

• Requires Department of Labor and Industry workgroup to study and report recommendations on plumbing requirements at resorts classified as class 1c or 4c property by January 1, 2015.