Michigan’s Workers Brace for Major Changes to Wages, Benefits, and Paid Leave

Starting in 2025, Michigan’s labor landscape will undergo significant changes. These shifts are set to redefine paid medical leave, minimum wage, and unemployment benefits. These adjustments, fueled by legislation and a decisive Michigan Supreme Court ruling, are being met with a mix of support, skepticism, and concern. One of the most consequential changes will take effect on February 21. Businesses with fewer than 50 employees will no longer be exempt from providing paid medical leave. This marks a departure from the Paid Medical Leave Act of 2018, which had allowed small employers to opt out of the requirement. The Supreme Court ruled that law unconstitutional, clearing the way for the Earned Sick Time Act to take full effect. Employers with at least 10 workers will now have to provide up to 72 hours of paid sick leave annually, up from the current 40 hours. Those with fewer than 10 employees must provide 40 hours of paid leave and an additional 32 hours of unpaid leave. Advocates see this as a win for Michigan workers. They argue that paid leave is essential for public health and worker well-being, particularly for low-income families who often lack these benefits. Labor groups have championed...