New Minnesota Laws Taking Effect on January 1, 2026

As 2026 approaches, Minnesota introduces several new laws that will impact various sectors, particularly voting, workplace regulations, and hunting practices.

Voting Changes in Minnesota

The upcoming year brings significant updates to absentee ballot applications. Starting from January 1, 2026, individuals applying online will need to provide specific identification. Applicants must present either a Minnesota driver’s license or state ID along with the last four digits of their Social Security number. Those who do not possess these identifiers may certify their status.

Additionally, any entity sending an absentee ballot application or sample ballot must include a clear statement. This statement will read: “This mailing is not an official election communication from a unit of government. This [absentee ballot application or sample ballot] has not been included at the request of a government official.” For sample ballots, the following must also be included: “This is a sample ballot, not an official ballot. You cannot cast the enclosed sample ballot.”

Workplace Breaks Legislation

New laws also modify workplace regulations regarding break times. Workers in Minnesota will now be entitled to a 15-minute break after every four hours of consecutive work. The prior legislation only required “adequate time” for breaks. Furthermore, a mandatory 30-minute meal break must be provided for every six hours of work, improving on the previous stipulation of “sufficient time to eat.”

Hunting Regulations Updated

The new year will see a repeal of the previous law restricting deer hunters in southern Minnesota to specific firearms. Effective January 1, 2026, hunters throughout the state may utilize any legal firearm during the deer hunting season.

New Paid Leave Program

Another significant development is the introduction of Minnesota’s paid leave program. This program has already seen thousands of applications approved, marking a notable change for employees across the state.

Summary of New Minnesota Laws

• Absentee ballot application changes: ID requirements and clear statements needed.
• Workplace breaks: 15-minute break for every four hours and 30-minute meal break for six hours worked.
• Hunting law repeal: Use of all legal firearms for deer hunting allowed statewide.
• Paid leave program implementation: Thousands of applications approved.

Citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these new laws as Minnesota prepares for changes in 2026. For more detailed information, visit El-Balad.