Thursday, the Michigan House of Representatives passed the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) and tipped wage legislation, sending the bills to the State Senate. The move comes after months of advocacy work by the Chamber to push the issue to the top of the legislative agenda.
Why it matters: While it may seem like the corporate income tax only affects the largest businesses, it actually impacts businesses of all sizes—meaning half of Michigan’s population will be subject to budget cuts, decreased wages, and reduced spending power. What the Chamber and MichAuto Are Doing: The Chamber’s Public Policy and Business Advocacy team and MichAuto have already begun meeting with the Governor’s office and legislators to urge them to reconsider raising taxes on small business and will continue to advocate for businesses as negotiations progress.
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T-minus 9 Days: Chamber Continues to Push for Changes to ESTA On Feb. 11, Chamber Vice President of Public Policy and Business Advocacy Brian Shoaf testified before the Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee in opposition of SB 15, which amends the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA). Shoaf, alongside other statewide business organizations, urged the Committee to consider five critical changes to SB 15 or pass HB 4002 as is. Use your voice: With nine days left until ESTA’s implementation, it’s more critical than ever to contact your legislators.
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 February marks a significant period of reflection, celebration, and recognition in observation of Black History Month. Whether you are interested in learning about the profound stories of Black pioneers, exploring the intersection of culture and innovation, or celebrating the vibrant legacy of Black history, this month offers many enrichment opportunities for enrichment.
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MichAuto Statement on Proposed Steel and Aluminum Tariffs MichAuto Executive Director Glenn Stevens Jr. discussed the impact of the proposed steel and aluminum tariffs and the potential economic consequences they present in a recent statement. “Tariffs must not add undue pressure on the supply chain or input costs for manufacturers. They must enhance – not threaten – Michigan’s global competitiveness, especially in the automotive and mobility industry.”
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 Findings from the Chamber’s latest statewide poll reveal that nearly two-thirds of Michigan voters are open to an independent candidate for governor. With a flood of hats being tossed into Michigan’s political rings, here is what candidates need to know from the poll.
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A Business Case for Equity Series: Carolyn Cassin The Chamber recently launched “A Business Case for Equity,” a new interview series featuring regional business leaders who share their insights on economic equity in the workplace. The second video in the series features Michigan Women Forward’s Carolyn Cassin, who shares how economic equity and inclusion benefit both businesses and the Detroit community.
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Nominations and Applications Open for Entrepreneur of The Year® 2025 Nominations and applications are now open for EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year® 2025 program. Leaders who won the award and participated in the program in 2024 include Airspace Link’s Michael Healander and First Independence Bank’s Kenneth Kelly. The deadline to nominate an entrepreneur or business leader is Feb. 21, and complete applications must be submitted by March 7.
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Images courtesy of Detroit Regional Chamber
