1.1 	A bill for an act
1.2 	relating to arbitration; requiring award decisions to include explanation;
1.3 	amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 572.15.
1.4 	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.5 	Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 572.15, is amended to read:
1.6 	572.15 AWARD.
1.7 	(a) The award shall be in writing and signed by the arbitrators joining in the award. 
1.8 	The award must include interest, except this does not apply to arbitrations between 
1.9 	employers and employees under chapter 179 or 179A. An arbitrator is neither required to 
1.10 	nor prohibited from awarding interest under chapter 179 or under section 179A.16 for 
1.11 	essential employees. Awards must also state the reasons for the arbitrators' decision and 
1.12 	the evidence upon which the arbitrators relied in reaching their decision. The arbitrators 
1.13 	shall deliver a copy to each party personally or by certified mail, or as provided in the 
1.14 	agreement. 
1.15 	(b) An award shall be made within the time fixed therefor by the agreement or, if not 
1.16 	so fixed, within such time as the court orders on application of a party. The parties may 
1.17 	extend the time in writing either before or after the expiration thereof. A party waives the 
1.18 	objection that an award was not made within the time required unless the party notifies the 
1.19 	arbitrators of an objection prior to the delivery of the award to the party.