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In a move that has sparked controversy among both workers and employers, the Minnesota Workers Compensation Board has announced changes to the benefits available to injured workers as of February 3, 2026. The new rules, which were approved by a vote of 4-3 at a recent board meeting, are aimed at reducing costs for employers while still providing adequate support for workers who are injured on the job.Under the new regulations, injured workers will now have a cap on the amount of time they can receive wage replacement benefits. Previously, workers could receive these benefits for as long as they were unable to work, but now there will be a maximum limit of 104 weeks. This change is expected to save employers money by reducing the overall amount of benefits paid out to injured workers.Additionally, the board has also announced changes to the calculation of disability benefits for workers who are permanently injured on the job. Previously, these benefits were calculated based on a worker's pre-injury wages, but under the new rules, benefits will now be based on the statewide average weekly wage. This change is expected to result in lower disability payments for some workers, particularly those who were high wage earners prior to their injury.While the board claims that these changes are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the workers compensation system in Minnesota, many workers' rights advocates have expressed concerns about the potential impact on injured workers. They argue that the new rules will make it harder for workers to support themselves and their families after being injured on the job, particularly if their injuries are severe and result in long-term disabilities.Employers, on the other hand, have welcomed the changes, citing the need for a more cost-effective workers compensation system in order to keep businesses competitive in the current economic climate. They argue that the new regulations will help to reduce the financial burden of workers compensation insurance premiums, which have been steadily increasing in recent years.Overall, the changes to the workers compensation system in Minnesota have sparked a heated debate between workers, employers, and advocates on both sides of the issue. While some believe that the new rules are necessary to protect the long-term sustainability of the system, others fear that injured workers will be left with inadequate support in their time of need. Only time will tell what the true impact of these changes will be on the workers of Minnesota.