Article
5 min read
Understanding Michigan Employment and Labor Laws
PEO
Legal & compliance
Author
Jemima Owen-Jones
Published
August 21, 2024
Last Update
August 21, 2024
Table of Contents
Federal vs. state law differences
Employment vs. labor law: What’s the difference?
Wages and hours in Michigan
Leaves of absence in Michigan
Workplace safety in Michigan
Discrimination and harassment laws in Michigan
Unions in Michigan
Stay compliant across the US with Deel PEO
Key takeaways
- Michigan’s minimum wage is $10.33 per hour as of January 1, 2024, with overtime paid at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours beyond 40 per week.
- Michigan provides paid medical leave for eligible employees under the Paid Medical Leave Act.
- Michigan enforces strict safety regulations and anti-discrimination laws to ensure a fair and safe working environment.
In the US, labor and employment laws establish the framework for fair and equitable workplaces. They outline the rights and responsibilities of employers, employees, and labor unions, covering areas such as wages, working conditions, health and safety, and termination.
Since these laws can vary by state, it’s crucial for both employers and employees to know their local requirements. In this article, we’ll cover the key laws in Michigan.
Federal vs. state law differences
Michigan's employment laws often align with federal guidelines, but there are specific state regulations that employers and employees must follow. For instance, while federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, Michigan has set its minimum wage at $10.33 per hour as of January 1, 2024.
Employment vs. labor law: What’s the difference?
Employment laws typically deal with the rights and responsibilities of individual employees, covering issues like contracts, wages, and termination. Labor laws focus on the relationship between employers and collective groups of workers, including union management and collective bargaining.
Wages and hours in Michigan
Michigan’s wage and hour laws combine state-specific requirements with federal requirements, ensuring that workers receive fair compensation for their labor.
Minimum wage in Michigan
The state minimum wage is $10.33 per hour, which is higher than the federal minimum wage.
Overtime pay in Michigan
Employees who work more than 40 hours per week are generally entitled to overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular hourly rate.
Pay transparency in Michigan
Employers are required to provide clear, itemized deductions on pay stubs to ensure transparency.
Breaks and rest periods in Michigan
There are no state-mandated breaks for employees 18 and older, except for minors who must receive a 30-minute break for shifts exceeding five hours.
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Leaves of absence in Michigan
Pregnancy disability leave
Michigan adheres to federal standards, providing disability leave for pregnancy as part of broader employment protections.
Paid sick leave
Under the Paid Medical Leave Act, eligible employees are entitled to paid leave for medical reasons.
Jury duty in Michigan
Employers must allow employees to take time off for jury duty, ensuring they are not penalized or dismissed for performing their civic duty.
Workplace safety in Michigan
Michigan follows both federal and state regulations to maintain safe working environments, governed by MIOSHA.
Discrimination and harassment laws in Michigan
Michigan enforces strict laws against workplace discrimination and harassment, protecting a wide range of characteristics to ensure a fair working environment.
Unions in Michigan
The state supports workers' rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining, with specific regulations managed by the Michigan Employment Relations Commission.
FAQs
Does Michigan law require paid family or medical leave?
Michigan does not have a state-mandated program specifically for paid family leave. However, the state does require employers to provide paid medical leave for eligible employees under the Paid Medical Leave Act. This act allows workers to accrue leave time that can be used for their medical needs or the medical needs of family members.
Is Michigan an "at-will" employment state?
Yes, Michigan is an "at-will" employment state. This means that, unless there is a specific contract in place, both the employer and the employee can terminate employment at any time without needing a reason. However, termination cannot be for an illegal reason, such as discrimination or retaliation.
What constitutes wrongful termination in Michigan?
Wrongful termination in Michigan occurs when an employee is fired for reasons that violate state or federal law. This includes termination based on discrimination, retaliation for filing a complaint or claim, or breach of contract.
What types of discrimination are prohibited under Michigan law?
Michigan law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, religion, height, weight, marital status, and genetic information. These protections ensure that all individuals have equal employment opportunities.
How can an employee file a discrimination complaint in Michigan?
An employee can file a discrimination complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR). Complaints should be filed as soon as possible following the discriminatory act, and the MDCR provides resources and assistance throughout the complaint process.
How can employees report unsafe working conditions?
Employees in Michigan can report unsafe working conditions to the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA). Reports can be made anonymously, and MIOSHA will conduct an investigation into the reported conditions.
What benefits are available under Michigan’s worker’s compensation law?
Michigan’s worker’s compensation law provides benefits for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and wage replacement if an employee is injured at work. These benefits are designed to help employees recover and return to work.
How does an employee file a worker’s compensation claim in Michigan?
To file a worker’s compensation claim in Michigan, an employee should report the injury to their employer as soon as possible. The employer will then file a claim with their worker’s compensation insurance. Employees may need to provide medical documentation and follow specific procedures outlined by their employer’s insurance.
What are the rules on wage garnishment in Michigan?
In Michigan, wage garnishment is allowed for debts such as child support, alimony, federal taxes, state taxes, and other court-ordered garnishments. The amount that can be garnished from an employee's wages depends on the type of debt and is regulated by state and federal laws.
Who is eligible for unemployment benefits in Michigan?
Eligibility for unemployment benefits in Michigan includes having worked in the state during the past 12 to 18 months and being unemployed through no fault of your own. Applicants must also be able and available to work and actively seeking new employment.
How do I file for unemployment benefits in Michigan?
To file for unemployment benefits in Michigan, you can apply online through the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency website or by phone. You will need to provide personal information, details about your previous employment, and meet the eligibility requirements.
When must an employer provide a final paycheck after termination in Michigan?
In Michigan, an employer must provide a final paycheck to an employee who has been terminated by the next scheduled payday. This includes all wages due up to the date of termination.
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Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes and should not be treated as legal or tax advice. Consult a professional before proceeding.
About the author
Jemima is a nomadic writer, journalist, and digital marketer with a decade of experience crafting compelling B2B content for a global audience. She is a strong advocate for equal opportunities and is dedicated to shaping the future of work. At Deel, she specializes in thought-leadership content covering global mobility, cross-border compliance, and workplace culture topics.
