SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, the Minnesota House Labor Finance and Policy Committee approved legislation authored by Rep. Dave Lislegard (DFL – Aurora) to improve training requirements of workers employed by contractors at petroleum refineries. The bill, HF 10, would require a certain percentage of employees of the contractors to have registered apprenticeship-level training or have five years of equivalent experience.
“The heart of this bill remains safety, and registered apprenticeship programs are the gold standard for workers to develop the proper skills to do a proper job, especially at potentially hazardous workplaces where a poor choice or lack of knowledge could result in lasting, devastating effects,” Rep. Lislegard said. “This bill creates safer work conditions at our oil refineries and enhances public safety for the communities surrounding the facilities. As a former laborer and steelworker, I know the importance of worksite safety and the value of skilled professionals who take safety seriously. Thank you to the skilled workers whose effort and skills have built and maintained this nation.”
The legislation includes requirements for a skilled and trained workforce at an increasing percentage over three years. By January 1, 2024, at least 30% of the contractor’s workforce must have entered or completed a registered apprenticeship program in the building and construction trades. The minimum percentage increases to 45% on January 1, 2025 and again increases to 60% on January 1, 2026. The bill authorizes the Department of Labor and Industry to investigate complaints, issue compliance orders, and issue fines from $5,000 to $10,000 per violation.
Video is available on House Public Information Services’ YouTube page. Documents and additional information for the hearing are available on the committee webpage.
The bill will next be considered by the Judiciary Finance and Civil Law Committee.