Michigan farms demand flexible sick leave

By Andi Anderson

Michigan’s leading food, farming, and rural business organizations are urging the state legislature to revise the impending changes to the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA), set to take effect on February 25, 2025. 

In a joint letter signed by over 15 statewide agribusiness organizations, these groups emphasized that the new ESTA provisions could pose significant challenges to Michigan’s family farms and rural employers.

The upcoming ESTA changes introduce a "one size fits all" approach to paid leave, eliminating flexibility for small businesses and not accommodating seasonal or temporary workers.

Michigan’s rural businesses, which often employ part-time or temporary workers for crop and animal care, are concerned that the new policy lacks exemptions for small employers and doesn’t account for the unique needs of agriculture.

Chuck Lippstreu, President of the Michigan Agri-Business Association, noted that rural businesses are already competitive in attracting and retaining workers through comprehensive benefits and compensation.

However, he explained that ESTA’s changes would hinder these efforts. Rob Anderson of the Michigan Farm Bureau added that Michigan farms, which significantly contribute to rural economies, could face operational challenges without legislative adjustments.

The letter calls for several changes to ensure the ESTA meets the needs of small and rural businesses, including:

Restoring an exemption for small businesses with up to 50 employees, including family farms, and providing an exemption for seasonal, youth, part-time, and temporary workers.

Allowing leave to be taken in half-day increments, as smaller farms may lack systems for smaller increments.

Requiring employees to provide reasonable pre-shift notice to reduce disruptions.

Simplifying leave accrual by permitting an annual front-load option.

Allowing employers the choice of a single leave category to simplify accounting.

Keeping oversight of ESTA complaints with the state government rather than individual legal claims.

These agricultural organizations have joined other Michigan sectors in calling for a thoughtful revision to the ESTA that supports the unique needs of Michigan’s diverse rural economy, protecting its ability to thrive and grow.

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