UAW celebrates legislative wins for Michigan's working-class rights

Significant Legislative Wins for Michigan's Working Class as UAW Praises Latest Developments

LANSING — In a session marked by significant victories for the working class in Michigan, the United Auto Workers (UAW) has expressed approval of recent legislative achievements. These developments, occurring during a decisive lame duck session in Lansing, promise to impact a large number of working-class residents. The key measures adopted address critical areas such as wages, healthcare, and retirement security.

• Unemployment benefits will see a notable 70% increase, raising the weekly amount from $362 to $614, with the duration extended from 20 to 26 weeks.
• New measures aim to make healthcare more affordable and restore public sector workers' rights to negotiate healthcare costs, positively affecting over 15,000 UAW members in this sector.
• Pensions are reinstated for some state workers, marking the return of a benefit unavailable for decades — a significant milestone for worker rights.

These legislative changes are expected to significantly impact working-class communities throughout Michigan. However, the session ended with some unresolved issues, as not all legislative priorities were addressed due to a lack of consensus among lawmakers.

UAW President Shawn Fain stated, “UAW members demanded that Lansing lawmakers pick a side: the working-class or the corporate class.” He noted the Senate's responsiveness, which led to critical laws being passed to uplift the standard of living for many working-class individuals.

Fain also expressed concern over the influence of corporate interests, stating, “But too much was left on the table thanks to the loyalty of some politicians to the looming corporate influences in Lansing. Our elected officials should remember that the mighty membership of the UAW does not shy away from letting those in power know when they aren’t doing their jobs well and are prepared to make their voices heard in the Capitol and the ballot box.”

As these bills await gubernatorial approval, the UAW is hopeful that Governor Gretchen Whitmer will finalize this agenda focused on supporting Michigan's working class.