Rep. Dave Baker

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the duties of Minnesota's Department of Human Services commissioner regarding how the state handles federal SNAP fiscal disallowances and sanctions. It adds a definition for MAXIS, the computer system used to determine eligibility for public assistance programs, and updates the commissioner's responsibilities to include developing performance measures that focus on reducing inequities, improving program coordination, and minimizing administrative burdens for families. The legislation also grants the commissioner expanded authority to monitor county agencies, enforce compliance with federal and state welfare laws, and adjust benefits when necessary to align with regulations. Additionally, it requires the commissioner to report biennially on grants received and program performance to legislative committees.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows small business employers in Minnesota with 30 or fewer employees and lower average wages to apply for financial assistance grants of up to $6,000 per year. The funds can be used to hire temporary workers or increase wages for existing employees when those workers take family or medical leave. To qualify, employers must have no private paid leave plan and must document that the costs are directly related to employee leave usage. The program is limited to a maximum of $5 million in grants per calendar year from existing state funds.

Maddy summaryHF 845 modifies Minnesota's net metering rules for small-scale renewable energy systems. It allows customers with systems under 40 kilowatts to choose between receiving compensation based on the utility's avoided costs or the average retail electricity rate. The bill clarifies key terms like "designated meter" and "contiguous property" to streamline billing for these systems. This directly affects residential and small business customers with solar panels or similar renewable installations who generate excess electricity for the grid.

Maddy summaryHF 2962 modifies Minnesota's paid leave program by clarifying who qualifies as an employee and employer under the law. It excludes seasonal hospitality workers (defined as those employed ≤150 days/year in hospitality with specific revenue patterns), self-employed individuals, and small employers unless they elect coverage. The bill also expands the definition of "family member" to include grandparents, grandchildren, in-laws, and up to one annually designated non-family individual with a close personal relationship. These changes directly affect workers and employers covered by Minnesota's paid leave law, particularly in hospitality and small businesses.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Minnesota's electrical licensing rules to clarify who can supervise electrical work and update requirements for unlicensed workers. It directly affects licensed electricians, contractors, and unlicensed individuals performing electrical tasks. The key changes allow unlicensed workers to be supervised by licensed contractors rather than requiring them to work under the same employer, while maintaining limits on how many unlicensed individuals a licensed person can supervise. The bill also updates experience requirements for journeyworker and power limited technician licenses and clarifies supervision rules for technology circuits.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows employees in Minnesota to choose not to participate in the state's paid family and medical leave program by submitting an opt-out form. The legislation requires the commissioner to create and provide both physical and online versions of this opt-out form for eligible workers. Once enacted, the change takes effect immediately, giving employees the option to decline participation in the benefit program. This policy adjustment directly impacts workers covered under Minnesota's paid leave system by adding an additional choice regarding their enrollment status.

Maddy summaryHF 13 would amend Minnesota Statutes section 609.06 to eliminate the requirement that individuals must attempt to retreat before using reasonable force in self-defense or defense of others. The bill specifically removes the "duty to retreat" provision, allowing people to use force without first trying to avoid confrontation if they reasonably believe it is necessary. This change would directly affect Minnesotans using force to defend themselves or others in situations where they perceive an immediate threat. The bill was introduced but not passed, as it was laid on the table during the 2025 legislative session.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires providers, vendors, and individuals applying for public funds to submit proof of recent operational history and financial records as part of their eligibility process. Applicants must demonstrate they have performed similar services over the past three years, provide audited financial statements or nonprofit tax forms from that period, and show good standing with the secretary of state if they are business or nonprofit entities. The law adds new requirements to Minnesota statutes governing financial screening for programs administered by state commissioners. These measures aim to establish clearer standards for verifying the legitimacy and financial stability of entities seeking government money.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Minnesota commissioner of employment and economic development to create new rules that allow individuals receiving medical assistance waivers to access the extended employment program, regardless of which specific waiver service they are currently using. The legislation mandates that participation in the program may require individuals to submit a form confirming they are not receiving duplicate services reimbursed by multiple programs simultaneously. Additionally, the bill directs the commissioner to remove an existing rule that currently restricts eligibility for the extended employment program. These changes would expand access to employment services for people on medical assistance waivers while maintaining safeguards against double reimbursement.

Maddy summaryHF 3752 temporarily allows Minnesota's commissioner of revenue to exclude certain delinquent businesses from liquor posting requirements. It applies to businesses (defined as "places of public accommodation") that are 10+ days late on specific taxes (like sales or liquor taxes) and have requested penalty abatement. The exemption is limited to taxpayers who filed formal requests to reduce penalties or interest under existing tax laws. This temporary authority expires December 31, 2026, and applies retroactively to taxes due after January 1, 2026.