FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 23, 2024
Media Contact: Katie Barglind, kbarglind@mi-laborers.org | 517.321.2349
LANSING, Michigan – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed into law comprehensive reforms to Michigan’s unemployment system, marking a major victory for workers across the state. The new law restores 26 weeks of unemployment benefits and increases the maximum weekly benefit to $614—adjusted for inflation to reflect the rising cost of living. The legislation addresses long-standing inadequacies in Michigan’s unemployment system.
“For too long, Michigan’s unemployment system has lagged behind the rest of the nation, offering some of the weakest protections for workers,” said Michigan Laborers’ Director of Government Affairs Robert Joerg. “The Democratic-led state legislature has once again delivered for LIUNA members. With Governor Whitmer signing SB 40 into law, our members can rest assured that even in tough times, they will have the resources to make ends meet. Prioritizing workers has been a hallmark of this legislature, and the positive impacts of these policies will be felt for years to come.”
Michigan’s previous unemployment benefits capped out at $362 per week—the ninth lowest in the country and the lowest in the Great Lakes region. These outdated rates have left workers struggling to stay afloat during periods of job loss. The newly enacted law increases the weekly maximum benefit for the first time in over 20 years, bringing it in line with inflation and regional standards. It also restores six weeks of benefits eliminated in 2011 under then-Governor Rick Snyder, providing crucial support for workers transitioning between jobs.
We commend Governor Whitmer and the pro-worker majorities in Lansing for addressing this critical issue and strengthening protections for working families.
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The Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) of Michigan was established in 1948 and represents over 14,000 men and women who build our State’s roads, bridges, buildings, and energy infrastructure. LIUNA members are proud to be a powerhouse of workers dedicated to improving the lives of working families across North America.
