FeedsDemocrats pledge to protect workers
If Michigan Democrats have their way, businesses will have to do more than just invest in the state to receive tax incentives.
They’ll have to put Michigan workers first.
Democrats are touting a package of bills that fall under the umbrella of the ‘Hire Michigan First’ plan, according to State Rep. Marc Corriveau (D-Northville). The package would give preference to companies that pledge to hire Michigan workers and crack down on companies that hire illegal immigrants, he said.
“When companies invest in Michigan workers, they invest in Michigan’s future,” he said. “Michigan’s working families are struggling as our workers’ jobs are being outsourced to other states and countries. When companies receive economic development incentives from the state, Michigan workers should be the ones on the job.”
“We’re willing to put up tax incentives to get our people employed,” added State Rep. Richard Leblanc. “We’re looking at building our people up. These are incentives designed to get our people good jobs, long-term jobs.”
The plan would give companies that hire 100 percent Michigan workers priority in the awarding of tax breaks and other economic development tools. Those projects are typically handled by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) through programs like: the 21st Century Jobs Fund; Michigan Economic Growth Authority (MEGA); the Renaissance Zone Act; the Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act; the Strategic Fund Act; the Transportation Economic Development Fund and more.
The package would also require businesses with contracts for the construction of state buildings to hire 100 percent of their workers from Michigan. Currently, they only have to hire 50 percent. There’s no such requirement for firms that receive state tax abatements.
One aspect of the proposed legislation would ensure that companies follow the rules, too. Companies found to have hired illegal immigrant workers will have state contracts canceled and tax incentives revoked. They would also have to pay back the money and be barred from future contracts.
“We’re going to work hard to hold them responsible,” Leblanc said. “This process will be open and transparent—and that’s what people want.”
Carlo Castiglione, business representative for Local 98, which represents local plumbers, said he was appreciative of the effort.
“It’s not a union or non-union issue,” he said. “This is just about money staying in the state.”
The package of bills has yet to be introduced, but Leblanc said he hoped they’d see action soon.
Corriveau agreed.
“We’re fighting like crazy to put people back to work,” he said.
“Michigan has the most highly trained workforce in the world,” added State Rep. Bob Constan (D-Dearborn Heights). “There is no need to look beyond our borders for workers. Companies that hire Michigan workers should be rewarded.”
