MN SF1988

Expands the Commissioner of Labor and Industry's authority to investigate wage violations and issue compliance orders to employers, including adding section 181.165 to the list of enforceable statutes.

Creates new section 181.165 establishing strict liability for general contractors for unpaid wages, fringe benefits, and liquidated damages owed by subcontractors at any tier, regardless of contractual relationship.

Requires subcontractors to provide payroll records and worker information (names, contract dates, union status, contact information) to contractors upon request, with contractors authorized to withhold payments for non-compliance.

Allows employees to bring private civil actions for wage violations and permits the Attorney General to sue on employees' behalf; authorizes employees to designate third parties or unions to file wage claims on their behalf.

Effective August 1, 2023, applies to construction contracts entered into, renewed, modified, or amended on or after that date; exempts prevailing wage work and contractors with certain collective bargaining agreements.