Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer decided in early March to reinstate the prevailing wage requirement, which means that contractors bidding on state construction projects must pay fair wages, according to a news release from her office.

"Reinstating prevailing wage for state construction projects puts working people first and helps us build high-quality, cost-effective infrastructure with the right mix and materials," the governor said. "In Michigan, we are leading by example and delivering real change for our hardworking people, who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and earn a fair wage — especially during these times. Good-paying jobs are the foundation of a strong middle class, and state construction contracts must not be the exception. I'm proud to get this done, especially as we create jobs by fixing roads and bridges, replacing lead pipes, expanding high-speed internet, and installing electric-vehicle chargers."   

The Michigan legislature repealed the prevailing wage requirement in 2018 but left open the possibility of keeping the requirement for state contracts. Michigan is one of 24 states to take similar action, the release said.

"Governor Whitmer proudly made the call to reinstate prevailing wage in October 2021," her office said. "Reinstating prevailing wage for state construction projects puts more money in people's pockets and guarantees Michigan gets the well-trained, skilled workforce to build safe, reliable infrastructure."

The governor's decision was praised by Tom Lutz, president of the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights.

"Governor Whitmer's decision to reinstate prevailing wage will let good Michigan contractors compete on a level playing field, put more money in working people's pockets, and boost our economy," Lutz said, according to the release.