Muskegon Sun

Rep. VanWoerkom recently supported legislation aimed at safeguarding workers and small businesses in Michigan. House Bill 4002, which he backed, seeks to ensure that all workers have access to paid sick leave while simplifying existing regulations.

In addition to this measure, VanWoerkom voted for a bipartisan agreement concerning the tip credit. This agreement is crucial for many workers, particularly in the service industry, as it allows them to earn more than they would with just a higher minimum wage. Senate Bill 8 maintains the tip credit at 38% through 2025 and plans for annual increases until it caps at 50% of the minimum wage by 2031.

These initiatives reflect priorities set by VanWoerkom and House Republicans since taking majority control. They addressed concerns raised by workers and small business owners about potential threats to their livelihoods due to previous legislative decisions.

VanWoerkom stated, “I’ve been an active participant in this conversation with employers and employees throughout the lakeshore area who have faced the possibility of devastating rules and regulations that would destroy jobs, raise prices on consumers, and force many small businesses to close.” He also noted that due to past delays under Democrat leadership, urgent action was necessary: “This bipartisan compromise is the best move at this juncture to protect the livelihoods of workers and viability of their employers.”

The Court's decision had imposed uniform mandates for paid sick leave across all businesses. However, VanWoerkom emphasized that larger companies operate differently from smaller ones with fewer resources. The new legislation aims to allow job providers more flexibility in choosing suitable leave policies while addressing issues like "no-call, no-show" leave that can disrupt small business operations.