Dear Neighbor,
When workers have what they need to thrive — a voice at the table, safe working conditions, and livable wages to provide for a family — our local communities and entire state benefit. That’s why, as Chair of the Senate Labor Committee and fifth-generation union member, I’ve been working tirelessly to ensure Michigan’s workers can access the benefits and protections they need and deserve. Read on to learn more, including ways I’ve been cutting red tape so that our small businesses can better serve you and your neighbors.
If you ever have any questions about the work we’re doing, want to share concerns, or need assistance in navigating a state department, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. We’re here to help.
Sincerely,
John Cherry
State Senator District 27
How I’ve Been Protecting Michigan Workers
- Boosted unemployment benefits for the first time in over two decades by restoring the maximum number of weeks workers can qualify for and raising the dollar amount of weekly benefits from $362 to $614 — nearly 70%!
- Improved wage standards for workers by reinstating Michigan’s prevailing wage law to ensure fair compensation for construction workers and expanding it to renewable energy projects.
- Solidified workers’ seats at the bargaining table and ability to demand better wages, benefits, and treatment at their jobs by becoming the first state in nearly 60 years to abolish our so-called right-to-work laws.
- Put more money back into the pockets of hardworking Michiganders by quintupling the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and rolling back the unpopular retirement tax on seniors.
- Fought for better retirement benefits for public safety officers while helping attract and retain people in some of Michigan’s most challenging professions. (And still fighting!)
How I’ve Been Supporting Local Economic Development
- Secured funds critical to the redevelopment of Buick City, boosting opportunities for Flint area workers and communities.
- Delivered significant investments for Genesee County communities to revitalize vacant buildings for housing and mixed-use spaces through a transformational brownfield program.
- Increased funding to local communities to ensure residents can access essential services by making much-needed changes to the state’s revenue sharing process.
- Reduced burdensome regulatory barriers for auto repair shops, enabling them to operate more efficiently and pass on savings to their customers.
Learn More
Visit SenatorCherry.com/Labor-Economy for more information on what I’m doing to support workers and local economies.
Get the Latest from Our Team
To stay informed about what’s happening in Lansing and here in our communities, follow me on social media or sign up for my e-newsletter.