[ST. PAUL, MN] – Minnesota Senate Republicans today took up a vote in an effort to remove Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (MNDOLI) Commissioner Nancy Leppink, who has worked to protect the rights of workers since 1985. She has a proven track record of reaching consensus and finding solutions among workers, employers, and government. She understands everyone needs to be at the table, to have a voice, and is committed to bringing people together.

Governor Walz appointed Leppink on January 4, 2019, crediting her lifelong experience and deep understanding of the needs of Minnesota’s workforce. She began her career as an Assistant Attorney General with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, and later as Chief General Counsel for Department of Labor and Industry. After 24 years in state service, she was appointed by the Obama Administration to be the Deputy Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor and led the Division as its Acting Administrator. During her tenure, she reimagined the Wage and Hour Division as an innovative and proactive enforcement agency, rebuilding its capacity, re-engineering its compliance strategies, and refocusing its resources on protecting low wage workers and creating a level playing field for businesses seeking to create decent jobs.

What Minnesotans around the state say about Commissioner Leppink:

Centro de Trabajodores Unidos en Lucha Co-Director Brian Merle Payne
“Through her leadership, we have seen that MNDOLI is taking significant steps towards improving the enforcement of labor standards for the most vulnerable workers in the state of Minnesota.”

IBEW # 292

“Commissioner Leppink has a very strong work ethic and is committed to supporting not just the membership of IBEW Local 292, but that of all those in the Electrical industry throughout the State of Minnesota.”

Minnesota Professional Fire Fighters - Chris Parsons
“I very much appreciated Commissioner Leppink’s crucial assistance and concern for the well-being of front-line workers. Commissioner Leppink is always ready to roll-up her sleeves and work until she finds solutions to tough questions.”

SMART Sheet Metal Workers Local 10 – Matt Fairbanks
“Commissioner Leppink has strong character, work ethic paramount to the position, and is committed to supporting the Sheet Metal Workers of Local 10.”

Minnesota State Building Trades & Construction Trades – Harry Melander, Craig Olson, and Jessica Looman

“Commissioner Leppink is extremely qualified to serve in this role and has consistently demonstrated her commitment to protecting the economic and physical wellbeing of construction workers in our State.”

Minnesota Safety Council – Paul Aasen
“Nancy clearly understands the safety and business challenges COVID-19 poses and has her staff working hard to find the balance between protection and production as employers and employees seek guidance on next steps.”

Former MNDOLI Commissioner Scott Brener – Appointed by Governor Tim Pawlenty

“She has the ability to strike compromise when necessary while reaching out to all interested parties.”

Former MNDOLI Commissioner Ken Peterson – Appointed by Governor Mark Dayton
“She’s fair, thoughtful and receptive to new ideas.”

MPPOA – Brian Peters

“Under Commissioner Leppink’s leadership, the MPPOA and the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry were able to draft COVID-19 First Responder Workman’s Comp Protection that is far beyond any other state’s.”

Minnesota AFL-CIO – Bill McCarthy and Brad Lehto

“With experience on the state, federal, and international level, Commissioner Leppink is likely one of the most knowledgeable and qualified people ever to lead DLI.”

Minnesota Grocers Association – Jamie Pfuhl
“Commissioner Leppink has been incredibly accessible, responding to our concerns while taking the time to understand how our industry operates. It has been a pleasure to work with her and her team.”

North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters – John Raines

“Commissioner Leppink possesses an impeccable resume … Her understanding of the issues that her agency faces is second to none.”

E J Ajax – Kent Djubek

“Through the years, Commissioner Leppink’s direction has developed many systems to help support Manufacturing and enhancing the overall Minnesota workforce.”

Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association – Steve Kalina
“Commissioner Leppink is a great leader and has been a great advocate for the manufacturing industry.”