The clock is ticking for Michigan’s legislature, as February 21st inches closer by the day. Flawed changes to Michigan’s minimum wage and earned sick time requirements are slated to go into effect later this month. Michigan’s State Senate has an opportunity to address some of the glaring concerns with these new mandates, but they need to hear from you.
Legislation has passed the Michigan House of Representatives that would restore the tipped wage and make vital, commonsense implementation changes to the Earned Sick Time Act. It is vital that small business owners make their voices heard and express how important these changes are to their business.
Based on public statements and internal discussions, the aspects of House Bill 4002 that are most at risk as negotiations continue between the House and the Senate are:
- A compliance exemption for businesses with fewer than 50 employees. This exemption would protect the businesses with the least capacity to absorb staffing shortages, including startups and early-stage businesses. A 50-employee exemption would align ESTA with the Family Medical Leave Act and many other statutes.
- A part-time and seasonal worker exemption. HB 4002 would exclude workers who are on a job that lasts fewer than 25 weeks, and employees who average less than 25 hours per week. ESTA currently offers no exemptions for part-time or seasonal employees, or contractors, which is abnormal and burdensome.
If either of these changes would impact you, please mention it specifically in your message to your Senator.
The Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee will hear testimony on the Earned Sick Time Act on Wednesday, February 5. It is more vital now than ever that legislators hear from the businesses they represent
Thank you for your engagement. We will continue to keep you updated on this topic in the coming days.
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The Small Business Association of Michigan focuses solely on serving the needs of Michigan’s small business community through advocacy, collaboration and buying power. Today they serve over 30,000 members in all 83 counties of Michigan. SBAM is located in Lansing, just one block from the Capitol.
Images courtesy of SBAM