Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) is calling on members to contact their representatives and senators ahead of February 21, when changes to the state’s Earned Sick Time Act will take effect and place extraordinary burdens on family farms and rural employers.
All eyes are on the Senate, with the House passing its version of a “fix” in late January.
“Our organization supports House Bill 4002 because it acknowledges the unique factors and unpredictable nature of agricultural employment,” said MFB State Government Relations Manager Rob Anderson. “This bill includes crucial exemptions for part-time employees, seasonal workers, and businesses with fewer than 50 employees—categories that encompass the vast majority of our members.”
Anderson emphasized that the Senate’s current version of the legislation falls short for Michigan’s farm and agribusiness employers.
“Unfortunately, as introduced, the Senate bill lacks these critical exemptions, leaving small farms and rural businesses vulnerable to undue hardship,” he explained. “We are actively working with senators to address these issues and find a solution.
“If the Legislature doesn’t act, the new law will impose a rigid, ‘one-size-fits-all’ mandate, stripping employers of the flexibility needed to provide paid leave in a way that makes sense for their workforce and operations.”
He urged farmers and rural business owners to speak up.
Contact your legislators by texting ‘MIFARMS’ to 52886 or by visiting https://bit.ly/MIEarnedSickTime.
“The strength of our grassroots advocacy makes all the difference,” Anderson added. “Lawmakers need to hear firsthand how these changes impact Michigan’s agricultural community. If we don’t raise our voices now, these concerns may be overlooked in the final bill.”
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