Workplace Issues in Minnesota
Key Minnesota Law
Minnesota Statutes Section 363A.08 (Minnesota Human Rights Act)
The Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, public assistance status, familial status, local human rights commission activity, sexual orientation, and age (18-70). It applies to employers with 1 or more employees for most protected classes.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Minnesota
Minnesota Agencies & Resources
Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR)
Investigates employment discrimination complaints under the MHRA. Workers have one year from the discriminatory act to file — longer than most states.
Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Labor Standards
Enforces Minnesota minimum wage, paid sick and safe leave, and wage payment laws.
EEOC Minneapolis Area Office
Handles federal employment discrimination charges for Minnesota workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Minnesota?
Minnesota's Human Rights Act provides a one-year filing deadline with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights — significantly longer than the federal 180/300-day EEOC deadlines. MHRA covers employers with one or more employees and protects a broad list of characteristics. Workers may file with MDHR or in state court directly within this timeframe.
Does Minnesota require paid sick leave?
Yes. Minnesota's Earned Safe and Sick Time law, effective January 1, 2024, requires employers to provide at least 48 hours (6 days) of paid safe and sick leave per year. Leave accrues at one hour for every 30 hours worked and may be used for illness, preventive care, or to address domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking situations.
What is Minnesota's minimum wage?
Minnesota's minimum wage in 2024 is $10.85 per hour for large employers (gross revenues over $500,000 annually) and $8.85 for small employers. Minneapolis and St. Paul have substantially higher local minimums. Minnesota's minimum wage adjusts annually for inflation.
Will Minnesota have paid family and medical leave?
Yes. Minnesota enacted a Paid Family and Medical Leave program, with benefits anticipated to begin in 2026. The program will provide up to 20 combined weeks of paid leave for qualifying family and medical events, funded by employee and employer contributions.
Related Workplace Issues Scenarios
Can I sue for wrongful termination?
Understanding when firing might be illegal and what your employment rights are.
Can I sue for unpaid wages?
Understanding your rights when an employer doesn't pay what you're owed.
Can I sue for retaliation after reporting workplace safety concerns?
Legal protection against employer retaliation for reporting safety violations or refusing unsafe work.
Can I sue for disability discrimination when employer won't accommodate?
Legal options when employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabilities.
Have a Specific Situation in Minnesota?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.