Great Lakes Wire

NFIB Michigan State Director Amanda Fisher and Circle K Services President Rod Kloha have urged the Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee to amend the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) before its implementation on February 21, 2025. Both were scheduled to testify on behalf of small businesses in Michigan but did not get the opportunity due to time constraints.

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) backs a bill passed by the House in January that proposes changes to existing earned sick time laws. Fisher emphasized the urgency for legislative action, stating, “Time is ticking for the Legislature to act before small businesses are left with a costly mandate they simply cannot afford.” She added that NFIB is hopeful about potential collaboration between the Senate and House on reasonable amendments to ESTA.

Fisher stressed the necessity of including a small business exemption within ESTA, arguing that without it, administrative costs could become burdensome for small enterprises. This could lead to job losses or even force some businesses to close their doors.

Rod Kloha expressed concerns regarding how ESTA might impact his business operations and employee relations. He remarked, “Small businesses like mine operate with a family-oriented atmosphere, but without an exemption or significant changes like those in the House legislation, the earned sick time act will force me to change how time off is handled and prevent the flexibility that my employees currently enjoy.”

Kloha further noted that while elected officials often highlight small businesses as crucial components of Michigan's economy, failing to exempt them from ESTA could impose unsustainable costs. "I hope the Senate will consider this as they work toward a solution," he stated.