LANSING, Mich., Jan. 16, 2025 — The Select Committee on Protecting Michigan Employees and Small Businesses heard testimony today on House Bills 4001 and 4002. During the committee, state Rep. Dr. Matt Longjohn (D-Portage) offered an amendment that would remove a significant barrier to preventive care for employees who are ineligible from earning paid sick leave under HB 4002. After the committee, Longjohn issued the following statement:
“I’ve spent 25 years as a physician focused on preventing illness and injury. From that experience, I know that paid sick leave is a significant contributor to health and wellness — my amendment today reflects that. Ensuring the use of paid sick time for annual wellness visits helps remove barriers to preventive care. Employees with paid sick leave are not only more satisfied with their jobs, less likely to experience on-the-job injuries, they are also more likely to see a medical professional for diabetes screenings, flu shots, cholesterol checks, cancer screening tests, etc. These actions prevent long-term illness and unnecessary costly care. This amendment is good business and good medicine. I’m here in Lansing to fulfill my duty as a legislator and physician. While my amendment didn’t pass; this is only the first few weeks of my term. I will continue to advocate for the health and wellness of all people in Michigan, especially in my district.