• Transportation employers are responsible for knowing and complying with transportation labor laws in Minnesota.American Truck image by JASON WINTER from Fotolia.com
  
  State and federal labor laws protect all workers in the U.S., but there are specific laws that only apply to certain fields. It is important for employees and employers within that field to be familiar with these regulations, in order to ensure that they are in compliance with state and federal law. In Minnesota, certain labor laws regulate transportation workers and employers.
  
  

Wages and Overtime

• Many employees within the transportation field work long and irregular hours. Despite this, Minnesota employers must ensure that all employees make at least minimum wage and are paid overtime. Though state regulations only stipulate a minimum wage of $6.15 and overtime pay after 48 hours a week federal law requires employers to pay at least $7.25 an hour and overtime pay of wages plus one half after 40 hours a week. When state and federal laws vary, the wage that is more favorable to employees must be observed. Thus, all transportation employers in Minnesota must ensure that employees are paid the minimums guaranteed by the federal government.
  
  

CDL Requirements

• In order to transport heavy loads in the state of Minnesota, drivers must hold a state CDL, or commercial driver's license, according to state labor laws. For vehicles exceeding 16,000 pounds, or for combined vehicles that weigh more 26,000 pounds, drivers must be at least 18 years of age. Additionally, drivers must take (and pass) knowledge, permit, and skills tests before they will be issued a CDL in the state. Even after they have been issued, CDLs might be disqualified for certain traffic infractions, particularly instances of driving under the influence of alcohol.
  
  

Transportation Safety

• The Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires that all employers provide for safe working conditions. In the field of transportation, it is up to employers to ensure that all transport vehicles feature safety equipment and are inspected regularly. Additionally, workers transporting hazardous materials must be at least 21 years of age in Minnesota.