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August 20, 2025 Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Instagram
Industry News
Updates to MN Paid Family & Medical Leave Law
Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave program goes into effect on January 1, 2026—are you ready?
Ask the DLI - Livestock Buildings
I need a definition of a livestock building. We have a farm shop that has a large overhead door to drive machinery in, and in my opinion is a farm shop. The farmers is using it as a farm shop...
8 Major Tax Changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Source: www.wipfli.com
The newly signed Big Beautiful Bill Act brings sweeping changes to tax and energy policy that could directly impact electrical contractors. From the return of 100% expensing for equipment to the phase-out of key clean energy tax credits, there are both opportunities and urgent deadlines to consider. Find out what you need to know to protect your bottom line and plan ahead for upcoming projects.
New Tariffs Started August 7
Source: news.constructconnect.com
New U.S. tariffs are poised to reshape construction costs and supply chains. Starting August 7, 2025, new duties ranging from 10% to over 15% hit key imports—including steel, aluminum, and lumber—leading to higher material prices, project delays, and tighter margins for contractors. Contractors should act now by reviewing sourcing strategies, adjusting contracts, and monitoring price trends to manage potential risks and supply chain disruptions.
REPRESENTING EMPLOYERS IS WHAT WE DO
PRK&A Law®
Peters & Kappenman, P.A. handles a wide variety of employment and construction law matters, including representing contractors in mechanic’s lien disputes and collection matters involving subcontractors and suppliers.  Martin Kappenman has over 20 years of experience representing businesses of all sizes in this area of law.
 
Contact Martin Kappenman at 952.921.4603 or mkappenman@pklaborlaw.com for questions regarding your mechanic’s lien or collection concerns.
 
WWW.PKLABORLAW.COM
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Center for Energy and Environment
Viking Electric
MEMBER NEWS
Health Spark—our exclusive association health plan
Since 2022, we’ve proudly offered Health Spark—our exclusive association health plan—to members. Many have seen substantial savings compared to traditional small group plans. Powered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, this flexible, pre-tax plan helps lower FICA costs and reduce both state and federal tax burdens for employees. Health Spark lets you provide broader coverage while keeping premiums affordable. To qualify, you must be a Minnesota-based electrical or technology systems contractor with at least one employee and be a member of the Electrical Association. If you are not a member, you can still request a quote. Contact Eveline Meidt at 651-379-7855 to get your free Health Spark quote!
Safety and Compliance
OSHA Updates Penalty Guidelines to support small businesses and eliminate workplace hazards
As of July 14, 2025, OSHA new rules could drastically cut your company's penalties and fines. 
Workforce News
Fair Chance Reentry Job Fair
The Fair Chance Reentry Job Fair took place on July 23 in Roseville. Our own Michelle Dreier was there to represent the electrical industry, answering questions and handing out brochures, pathway documents, and apprenticeship information. Read more below about this successful day!
Education and NEC
Overcurrent Protection News
Increased information is becoming available about the 2026 National Electrical Code and I believe you will be interested to know about some of the newer overcurrent protective devices that are making their way into the code to improve protection.
Quiz on the Code - RV Parks
This season’s surge in RV park occupancy raises compliance concerns. Have you noted any potential code violations?