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House passes bill to ensure vets get time off for Veterans Day

Veterans Day is meant to honor those that have fought for the United States. But some who wore military uniforms cannot attend services in their honor because of work requirements.

Rep. Andrew Falk (DFL-Murdock) doesn’t think that’s right.

He sponsors HF2447 that would require employers to provide paid or unpaid time off to veterans who would be required to work on Nov. 11, “unless providing time off would impact public health or safety or would cause the employer to experience significant economic or operational disruption.”

Passed 111-17 by the House Friday, the bill now goes to the Senate where it is sponsored by Sen. Lyle Koenen (DFL-Clara City).

“Sometimes employers need a little encouragement to treat employees well,” Falk said.

Under the bill, an employee would need to give their employer 30 days notice that they intend to take time off for Veterans Day, as well as documentation of their service. At least 10 days prior to the holiday, the employer would have to approve or deny the time off and denote whether it is paid or unpaid.

“On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, government offices are closed, and those who work in those offices get the day off,” Stephanie Vorvick, a veterans benefits coordinator in Chippewa County told the House State Government and Veterans Affairs Finance Committee March 5. “Minnesota has approximately 245,000 veterans under the retirement age and many are working at jobs where they can hardly get a day off. … This is a holiday meant to honor the selfless service of these men and women.”

Because an employer can already do this, Rep. Steve Drazkowski (R-Mazeppa) wondered why the bill is necessary.

“A veteran shouldn’t have to spend a vacation day to get Veterans Day off,” Falk said.

A U.S. Navy veteran, Rep. Ernie Leidiger (R-Mayer) was among those speaking against the bill, calling the whole concept “appalling.” Among his concerns, he said many veterans would rather work so others can go to a veteran’s event and learn about what it’s like to be a veteran and to shake their hands.


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