Minnsights Blog

Minnesota has a diverse economy with strengths across many industry sectors. Part of this economic diversity comes from the state’s distinct regional economies. Each region possesses its own local advantages and specialized industries that contribute to the overall statewide economy.

Today I have a very special guest, Heidi Larson, who is the CFO and COO of Goff Public and a member of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. Heidi, please tell us a little bit about Goff Public, and then we're going to jump into an all-important discussion item around ChamberHealth and the availability of an affordable health care product for small businesses like yours. But first, tell us about yourself.

We're excited about the conversation we’re going to have today regarding some of the political work of the Chamber of Commerce. We run a program called the Minnesota Business Network, which aims to bring together individuals who are sympathetic to the business community and want to support candidates who represent business interests well in their elected positions, particularly those serving or aspiring to serve in the state legislature. We have a very important election season ahead of us and early voting has already started. If you're unavailable on November 5, be sure to vote early and make your voice heard.

Employers are also mandated to provide one hour of fully paid sick time for every 30 hours worked, up to 48 hours a year with a carry over up to 80 hours, including temporary and part-time employees. Employees must be paid at the same rate they would earn if they were working. Employees may take this time off to care for a broad-based definition of “family members.” The Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) oversees compliance and penalties and can be used in tandem - “stacked” - with Paid Family Medical Leave. This will take effect January 1, 2024.

This week, the upcoming elections are at the forefront of our minds. We’re in the final weeks of the 2024 election cycle, and much attention is being directed toward Governor Walz, who is the vice-presidential candidate for the Democratic Party on the national stage. This is an exciting development for our state.