North Michigan News

State Representative Ken Borton cast a significant vote on Thursday aimed at shielding small businesses and tipped workers in Northern Michigan from impending mandates. The House approved House Bill 4002 in a bipartisan decision, intending to protect small businesses from stringent sick time regulations while ensuring workers can access leave when necessary.

Borton, representing Gaylord, commented on the situation by saying, “As the saying goes – ‘when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.’ Well, the Supreme Court handed us the nastiest lemons you can imagine, and we still found a way to make some quality lemonade.” He acknowledged that the deal is not perfect but emphasized their commitment to protecting tipped workers and small businesses. "It took everything we had, but we fulfilled that promise by securing a deal that will truly benefit the whole of Michigan," he added.

House Bill 4002 ensures all workers have access to sick time and clarifies complex rules initially set to be enforced. It allows employers to select sick time plans suitable for their operations and establish specific policies regarding “no call, no show” situations. Additionally, it offers protection for businesses against unfounded lawsuits and attacks from left-wing activists.

Senate Bill 8, which passed the House on Wednesday, focuses on protecting tipped workers by maintaining the tip credit at 38% through 2025. It also introduces annual wage increases with a cap at 50% of the minimum wage by 2031. The bill increases penalties for employers who do not adequately compensate their staff.