LANSING, Mich. (Oct. 21, 2025) — Today, Sen. Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Twp.) introduced a bill package that would make long-overdue updates within the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) to support both workers and employers across the state.
“Michigan workers deserve to have their safety concerns taken seriously, especially when alleged retaliation is involved,” said Sen. Cavanagh. “By streamlining workplace safety standards and extending the window to report discrimination, this legislation protects workers and employers alike. I’m proud to get these critical bills off the ground and am incredibly grateful to LiUNA, who has been a key collaborator in crafting this package.”
Senate Bill 623 would extend the period for employees who claim they are being discriminated against filing reports with MIOSHA. Michigan’s complaint window would increase from 30 days — one of the shortest complaint windows in the nation — to 180 days, aligning MIOSHA policy with federal OSHA complaint standards.
By updating administrative language within MIOSHA, Senate Bill 622 would streamline the Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s process of updating safety standards in response to evolving industry best practices. More frequent safety protocol updates would equip employers with timely, clear guidance and reduce uncertainty around policy compliance.
“Strengthening MIOSHA standards will lead to safer and more productive worksites,” said Brent Pilarski, Business Manager of the Michigan Laborers District Council (LiUNA). “No one should be in fear of employer retaliation when speaking up if they see an unsafe situation on a jobsite. This legislation will make it easier for workers to keep their worksites safe so that they can earn a living and confidently go home to their families.”