Democratic lawmakers unveil Workplace Safety Bill Package
State Rep. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) testifies in a committee on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at the Anderson House Office Building.
LANSING, Mich., April 30, 2025 — House Democratic lawmakers hosted a virtual press conference on Monday to highlight Workers Memorial Day and unveil the Workplace Safety Bill Package. The event included state Reps. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids), Kara Hope (D-Holt) and Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) as well as Ron Bieber, president of the Michigan American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations.
“My bill sends a clear message: if you exploit or endanger young workers, especially with repeat violations or in cases resulting in serious injury or death, you will face real consequences. No child should ever be put in harm’s way just to earn a paycheck. Protecting kids in the workplace isn’t optional — it’s the law, and the penalties should reflect the seriousness of that responsibility,” Skaggs said.
This legislative package also includes a crucial provision that prohibits retaliation against workers who speak up about workplace disease risks or criticize how an employer manages health and safety concerns. In today’s climate, where protecting public health is more important than ever, this protection is both timely and necessary.
“People shouldn’t have to choose between their health and their job. This bill ensures that employees can raise concerns about workplace diseases without fear of losing their livelihood. Speaking up about safety isn’t insubordination — it’s common sense, and it keeps everyone safer,” said Hope.
A bill in the package would create an infectious disease commission in Michigan’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration, ensuring employers and employees know how to protect workers, customers and visitors.
“This bill takes a critical step in safeguarding Michigan’s workforce and communities by creating an infectious disease commission within MIOSHA. By setting clear, science-based standards, we will ensure that employers and employees alike are fully equipped to protect workers, customers and visitors — not just during a crisis, but every day. It’s about building a stronger, safer Michigan for the future,” said Carter (D-Detroit).
Watch a recording of the press conference here.
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