Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has lauded the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) recent decision to ban non-compete agreements in most circumstances nationwide. Nessel, who had previously supported the FTC's proposed rule, highlighted the positive impact this ruling will have on Michigan workers and the economy. She stated, “My office has seen firsthand the detrimental impact non-compete agreements have on Michigan workers, hindering their ability to explore better job opportunities in a tight labor market.”

The FTC projects several significant benefits from the ban on non-compete agreements, including a reduction in health care costs, enhancement of entrepreneurship, increase in innovation, and a boost in worker earnings. According to the FTC estimates, banning non-competes could lead to a substantial decrease in physician services spending, a surge in new business formation, a rise in the number of patents filed annually, and an increase in worker wages over the next decade.

While Michigan currently allows limited non-compete agreements under its antitrust law, the FTC's rule will apply nationwide once it takes effect. The rule is set to become effective 120 days after its publication in the federal register.

Individuals seeking to file a complaint or obtain more information can reach out to the Consumer Protection Team at the following contact details: P.O. Box 30213, Lansing, MI 48909, phone: 517-335-7599, fax: 517-241-3771, toll-free: 877-765-8388, or through the online complaint form.