LANSING, Mich. (April 15, 2021) — Sen. Rosemary Bayer (D-Beverly Hills) has issued the following statement in support of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Michigan Jobs First Executive Directive, which seeks to promote free and fair competition in the bidding process for state projects:
“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a worrying effect on the economic outcomes for Michigan’s businesses and workers. As we look to re-engage all aspects of our economy moving forward, Gov. Whitmer’s directive seeks to bring greater equity to the state construction bidding process by ensuring businesses who seek state contracts operate with good, ethical business standards, so hardworking Michiganders can receive a fair day’s wage. Our communities thrive when Michigan workers are treated fairly and with respect, and that starts in our workplaces and with jobs right here at home.”
The Michigan Jobs First executive directive would require companies who bid on state projects to complete a vendor questionnaire that asks them to:
- Disclose all relevant records, including information on their compliance with labor and environmental laws and regulations, and any investments made in Michigan’s economically distressed areas.
- Certify their workforce is accurately classified as employees, and not independent contractors or 1099 workers.
- Include information on the likely economic impact of the project they seek to complete.
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