Watershed districts allowed to self-insure for certain employee health benefits, and technical changes made.

HF 3571 allows watershed districts in Minnesota to cover their own employee health insurance costs (excluding life insurance) instead of purchasing group policies, a change previously limited to cities, counties, and school districts. The bill requires these self-insurance plans to meet state certification standards, provide all legally required benefits, and involve consultation with employee representatives before implementation or dissolution. It also permits multiple watershed districts to jointly self-insure under shared rules and clarifies that employees represented by unions may opt into the district’s plan at their own expense. The legislation updates existing statutes to include watershed districts in these health benefit options while maintaining key safeguards for employees.