Governor Gretchen Whitmer outlined a plan today to encourage more people to return to work as the COVID-19 crisis eases. It includes a temporary pay boost for low-wage jobs.
Whitmer also called for assistance with childcare costs and allowing people to accept part-time work without losing unemployment benefits.
A central element would be using federal funds to help businesses boost wages to 15 dollars an hour for three months. The businesses would have to agree to continue the paycheck boost for at least another three months.
“The market will drive what happens thereafter, but this is our opportunity to support businesses getting back on their feet and, critically, support the people that do the hard work who need to take care of their families.”
Much of the plan would require approval by the Republican-led Legislature.