Legislation was introduced aiming to connect Michigan workers with good-paying jobs, strengthening the state’s economy. The bipartisan package creates a state-level Work Force Tax Credit that encourages employers to hire people who face barriers to employment, including veterans, people with disabilities, and those reentering the workforce.
Key Points:
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- House Bills 5118 and 5119 were introduced by Representatives Matt Bierlein (R-Vassar) and Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield).
- The program would help employers offset the cost of recruiting and training qualified workers from targeted groups.
- Qualifying nonprofits and for-profit employers could claim a partial state tax credit for wages paid to certified employees in the targeted groups.
- The state-level credit would supplement the federal incentive for nonprofit and for-profit employers.
Next Steps:
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- The bills were referred to the House Economic Competitiveness Committee for consideration.
Data:
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- According to a recent workforce study conducted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the nation faces a severe workforce shortage, notably in the service sectors.
- In Michigan, there are 85 available workers for every 100 open jobs.
- Michigan’s 61.3% Labor Force Participation Rate is the lowest in the Midwest.
