LANSING, Mich., March 25, 2021 — State Reps. Padma Kuppa (D-Troy) and Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Twp.) introduced House Bills 4597 and 4598 respectively, this week that would improve and better support efforts to promote women in the workforce in Michigan.

Kuppa’s HB 4597 would require corporations in Michigan to report data regarding women in leadership positions. Corporations then reporting low representation for women on their executive board would also be required to submit a statement on any policies and efforts they have made regarding the representation of women on their board. 

“As so many carry a heavy burden due to impacts of the pandemic, we must be able to identify and implement data-driven solutions to ensure women are not left behind in the workforce,” said Kuppa. “Studies have shown companies that employ more women, especially in executive leadership roles, are more profitable and boast higher employee morale. This makes it all the more important for us to better support women from the time they are attempting to secure employment, to when they are looking to be leaders in their fields, as it will support the growth and health of Michigan’s economy and overall workforce.”

Along with HB 4597, Kuppa also introduced HR 76 which calls on the United States Congress to enact similar legislation that requires corporations to report their data on women in leadership positions across the nation.

Cavanagh’s HB 4598 would create a program within the Michigan Works! one-stop service center coordinating with local workforce development services to specifically assist women in the job-search process in communities throughout the state.

“Women in Michigan have made considerable advances in the workplace in recent years,” said Cavanagh, “but too many still face inequities that often prevent them from reaching their full potential. Women are underrepresented at almost every level of the workplace, with women of color being the most underrepresented group of all. We must take an active role in guaranteeing women have access to quality, good-paying jobs, with opportunities for growth and advancement–especially with unprecedented job losses due to the pandemic.”

 

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