Grant on Minimum Wage & Earned Sick Time Vote

LANSING, Mich., Jan. 28, 2025 — After voting on legislation regarding minimum wage and earned sick time, state Rep. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids) issued the following statement:

“Last week, I cast a no vote on HB 4001 and 4002. The issues of tipped wages and earned sick leave are critically important, and I take them very seriously. While I believe it is essential for the legislature to address these matters, I do not feel that the House bills effectively balance the concerns of businesses and workers in west Michigan and across the state. It’s vital that we work toward paying people a living wage, while also protecting small businesses in Michigan.

“This is why I proposed an amendment to HB 4001 that sought to strike a balance: ensuring fair wages for hardworking tipped employees while giving small restaurants and businesses the time and flexibility needed to adapt to these changes. Specifically, the amendment called for an increase of the tipped wage over 10 years for small businesses with fewer than 25 workers and 5 years for other businesses. Unfortunately, my amendment — along with many others —failed on the House floor. I believe that several of the proposed amendments would strengthen the legislation and respect the will of Michigan voters.

“This outcome is disappointing, as many of us are eager to collaborate on a solution that genuinely addresses the needs of all Michiganders. While I remain committed to engaging in meaningful dialogue and finding common ground, I could not support these bills as they currently stand because they fall short of representing the interests of all those affected.

“This is just the beginning of the legislative process. The bills now move to the Senate, where additional solutions will be debated. I remain hopeful that a bipartisan solution can be achieved, and I look forward to continuing the work needed to ensure fairness and equity for workers and businesses across Michigan.”

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