Rep. Bollin slams Democrat prioritization of radical policy over major threats to hospitality jobs

State Rep. Ann Bollin joined fellow House Republicans for a press conference on Friday, where members announced they will not vote on any more bills until House Democrats policies to save Michigan’s tipped-wage industry and fix the earned sick time law for small businesses.

Without legislative intervention, the hospitality industry faces mass layoffs and business closures early in 2025. But instead of focusing on this pressing issue, Democrats continue to prioritize leftist policies like letting criminals out of jail, giving driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants, and raising fees across the state.

“The Supreme Court’s decision on wages, sick leave and the tip credit is an issue that will impact everyone in our state. Thousands of livelihoods will be put at risk and consumers will see higher prices every time they go out to eat or shop.

“Time is almost up on this lame duck legislative session and Democrats are still ignoring the dire situation our tipped wage workers are facing,” said Bollin (R-Brighton Township). “My Republican colleagues and I know that solutions must be reached for these workers; that’s why we are digging in our heels to force Gov. Whitmer and Democrat lawmakers to come to the negotiating table.

“This isn’t the first time we’ve made a stir about this, but Democrats have been distracted by advancing their far-left agenda items. We’re not going to stand for it anymore. Last month, voters overwhelmingly chose Republicans to lead the House because we’re in touch with what the working class and job providers need to thrive in this state.”

A recent survey by the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association illustrates the dire consequences of letting the radical changes in the 2018 proposals stand:

• 66% of restaurant owners say they would be forced to lay off employees.
• 20% would be forced to shut their doors.
• 42% would be forced to cut operating hours.
• More than 92% of restaurants would be forced to hike prices, with many anticipating increases of 20% to 25% by early 2025.

Another survey found that 82% of Michigan restaurant servers wanted to keep the tipping system in place, and 79% worried about losing their job if the tip credit were eliminated.

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