Opinion: Lawmakers, Don't Water Down Minimum Wage Increase, Paid Sick Time

As a key architect of Michigan's forthcoming paid sick leave legislation, I write today to underscore the critical importance of this policy for our state's workers, families and overall economic health. With these transformative changes set to begin taking effect in February, we stand on the brink of a new era for labor rights in Michigan.

Michigan is poised for a significant shift in labor policy. I'm the executive director of Mothering Justice, and along with a coalition of workers' rights advocates, we successfully fought to reinstate the original 2018 voter-driven proposals for paid sick leave and minimum wage increases. The Michigan Supreme Court's decision in August to uphold these proposals marks a significant victory for working families across our state.

Starting in February, businesses with 10 or more employees will be required to offer up to 72 hours of paid sick leave annually, while smaller firms must provide up to 40 hours. This policy ensures that workers can earn one hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked, providing a safety net that allows individuals to care for their health and that of their families without risking financial stability.

Minimum wage doesn't meet basic needs
The stark realities of living wages in Michigan underscore the necessity of these changes. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a family of three in Wayne County requires $19.86 per hour to meet basic needs. In Oakland County, that figure rises to $22.31, with a statewide average of $20.46. Our current minimum wage falls woefully short of these benchmarks. The scheduled increases to $12.48 in 2025 and $14.97 by 2028 represent crucial steps toward ensuring that work provides a pathway out of poverty for Michigan families.

Critics have voiced concerns about the potential impact on businesses, particularly small enterprises. However, evidence from other states that have implemented similar policies suggests these fears are largely unfounded. Economist Michael Reich's 2023 statement that "a minimum wage increase doesn't kill jobs. It kills job vacancies, not jobs," encapsulates a crucial point: these policies redistribute existing resources more equitably without stifling economic growth.

Let’s go back to 2010 when Michigan introduced a statewide smoking ban, aiming to create healthier public spaces by eliminating indoor smoking in restaurants, bars, and most casinos. There was widespread panic about the potential negative impact on Michigan businesses. However, 14 years later, the law is now a standard that seems unimaginable to be without. Michigan was the 38th state to implement the change. Our state needs to lead, rather than follow, in adopting smart policies.

Moreover, paid sick leave policies have been shown to reduce workplace illness transmission, increase productivity and can foster a more stable workforce. We believe the long-term benefits to public health and economic stability far outweigh the short-term adjustments businesses may face during implementation.

By joining 15 other states and Washington, D.C. in mandating paid sick leave, Michigan is positioning itself at the forefront of progressive labor policy. This forward-thinking approach will not only improve the lives of countless workers but also enhance our state's competitiveness in attracting and retaining talent.

Don't water these worker protections down
To our legislators, I urge you to stand firm against pressure to dilute these vital protections. The original, voter-driven proposals reflect the will and needs of Michiganders. Any attempt to exempt businesses or weaken these laws would be a disservice to the workers who form the backbone of our economy.

To the business community, I encourage you to view these changes not as a burden, but as an investment in your most valuable asset — your employees. A workforce that can attend to their health needs without fear of losing their livelihood is a more productive, loyal and stable workforce.

To all Michiganders, I ask you to recognize the significance of this moment. This isn't merely about paid sick leave or wage increases; it's about affirming our values as a state that prioritizes the well-being of its residents and the strength of its communities.

Michigan has the opportunity to set a new standard for worker protections and family support. As we implement these crucial policies, we take a significant step toward creating a state where every resident can work with dignity, care for their family without fear, and contribute to a thriving economy. This is the Michigan we have fought for, and the Michigan we all deserve.