by Proposed legislation could impact 1.5 million workers, endangering the current Michigan minimum wage and paid sick leave protections essential to public health and economic stability.
New Bills Could Undermine Minimum Wage and Sick Leave Laws
LANSING—Michigan lawmakers are advancing two bills that could significantly weaken protections for workers across the state. House Bills 4001 and 4002, which cleared a House Select Committee on Thursday, aim to limit paid sick time eligibility and disrupt an upcoming minimum wage increase. Critics argue these measures will negatively affect nearly 1.5 million workers, erode public health protections, and exacerbate economic insecurity.
The proposed legislation has sparked widespread opposition, with the Michigan League for Public Policy (MLPP) leading the charge against the bills. “We are deeply disappointed and alarmed,” said Monique Stanton, president and CEO of MLPP. “These harmful bills threaten to erode essential protections for workers, harm families, and jeopardize public health.”
Proposed Changes to Paid Sick Leave Law
Under the proposed changes, paid sick leave would be restricted to employees at businesses with at least 50 workers. This modification would strip protections from an estimated 1.5 million Michigan employees, many of whom rely on earned sick leave to care for themselves or family members during illness. Critics warn that this rollback could disproportionately affect low-wage workers, single parents, and communities already struggling with economic challenges.
“Forcing workers to choose between a paycheck and their health is a dangerous gamble,” Stanton emphasized. “This legislation places families and communities at greater risk.”
Michigan Minimum Wage Rollback Draws Sharp Criticism
The bills also target Michigan’s upcoming minimum wage increase, which is set to take effect in February. The increase, supported by a 2018 Michigan Supreme Court decision, would raise the standard minimum wage and eliminate the tipped wage. Supporters argue these changes are overdue, as the current minimum wage fails to provide a livable income.
According to data from MLPP, a minimum wage worker in 2018 needed to work 75 hours a week to afford a one-bedroom apartment in Ingham County. Today, that figure has risen to nearly 86 hours, underscoring the urgent need for wage reform.
“Rising costs of living have outpaced the minimum wage for years,” Stanton explained. “Fair wages benefit not just workers, but the broader economy by stimulating small business growth and reducing turnover.”
Advocacy Groups Push Back
The MLPP and other advocacy groups are urging lawmakers to reject the bills and uphold the Supreme Court ruling. They stress that maintaining these protections will benefit businesses and communities alike.
“When workers are healthier, better paid, and less stressed, businesses thrive, and Michigan becomes a more equitable place for all,” Stanton said.
Broader Context of Worker Protections
These legislative efforts are part of a larger national debate over worker protections. In recent years, states such as California and New York have implemented higher minimum wages and broader sick leave policies. Evidence from these states suggests such measures can improve public health outcomes, reduce turnover, and boost local economies.
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