State Rep. Gina Johnsen (R-Portland) is urging tipped wage workers and business owners to share their thoughts about potential changes to Michigan’s tipped wage laws and sick leave policies. As the newly formed House Select Committee to Protect Michigan Workers and Small Businesses begins its work, Johnsen is committed to ensuring that the voices of those most affected in her district are heard during the committee’s discussions on these important issues.

The House Select Committee was formed in response to a Michigan Supreme Court decision that imposes unrealistic mandates on small businesses, particularly regarding wages, sick leave, and the phase-out of the tip credit. The tip credit has been an important source of income for tipped workers, often providing more income than an increased minimum wage, especially in the service industry. Additionally, the ruling introduces significant changes to sick leave time requirements, which could overwhelm small businesses with limited staff.

Despite bipartisan support for reform, House Democrats did not address the issue before the end of the 2023-24 legislative term, even as servers, bartenders, and small business owners raised concerns about how the decision would negatively impact their livelihoods and staffing.

On the first day of the new legislative session, House Republicans introduced two bills, House Bills 4001 and 4002, which aim to preserve tipped wages, gradually raise the minimum wage, and ensure that earned sick leave policies are reasonable for small businesses. Rep. Johnsen is fully supportive of these bills, which strike a critical balance in protecting both workers’ earnings and the stability of small businesses.

“I strongly support the changes in House Bills 4001 and 4002, which will protect workers’ earnings and ensure businesses are not burdened by unrealistic mandates,” said Johnsen. “Tipped wage workers and small business owners are essential to our economy, and we must address the harmful effects of the Michigan Supreme Court’s decision, which could have far-reaching consequences for industries beyond just restaurants and hospitality.”

The bipartisan 15-member committee will hold its first hearing on Tuesday, Jan. 14. Rep. Johnsen encourages all those affected to contact her office with their feedback. Constituents can reach her at (517) 373-1796 or by email at [email protected].