Michigan's New Family Leave Plan: A Closer Look

Think about taking time off work to care for a new baby or a sick family member without losing your job or pay. That's the idea behind a new bill in Michigan, sponsored by Senator Erika Geiss of Taylor. The bill, called Family Leave Optimal Coverage (FLOC), would let employees take up to 12 weeks of paid leave for reasons like bonding with a new child, dealing with a personal health issue, or caring for a loved one with a chronic illness. The goal is to make life a little easier for Michiganders who need to take extended time off. Senator Geiss has been working on this issue for years with the help of a nonprofit group called Mothering Justice. They believe that everyone gets sick at some point, but not everyone has the luxury of time to recover. The program would cover up to two-thirds of the state's average weekly wage, which is currently around $1, 260.But not everyone is on board. Some people are worried about the cost. The Michigan Chamber of Commerce thinks it might be too expensive for both employers and employees. They also wonder if it's something that all Michiganders really want. Others, like Republican Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, think a one-size-fits-all policy might not work for everyone. He worries that dealing with a state agency to get permission for leave could be a hassle. Only 13 states and the District of Columbia have similar laws. So, it's a big deal if Michigan passes this bill.