Michigan experienced a decrease in homicides despite public perception while legislative changes include raising the minimum wage restoring the Prevailing Wage Act. Empowering youth voting rights and repealing the ‘right-to-work’ law expanding the Elliot-Larsen Act. Repealing the third-grade reading law along with new gun laws for public safety and implementing bold environmental measures aiming for 100% clean energy production by 2040, according to the report of Praise Network.
Perception vs Reality with Significant Drop in Homicides
In Michigan, there’s a notable gap between public perception and reality regarding crime rates. Despite widespread belief in rising crime. U.S. experienced its largest annual decrease in homicides in 2023 with a nearly 13% drop compared to the previous year. This decline, highlighted by national crime analyst Jeff Asher extends to both large and small cities, including Detroit which saw an 18% reduction in murders according to preliminary police data.
Legislative Changes Impacting Minimum Wage and Prevailing Wage Act
On the legislative front, Michigan is implementing several significant changes in 2024. The state’s minimum wage will rise from $10.10 to $10.33 per hour aligning with the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act of 2018. The restoration of the Prevailing Wage Act ensures that Michigan-contracted employers must pay their workers at union rates fostering fair compensation within the construction industry.
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(PHOTO: Live Science)
Empowering Youth Voting Rights and Repeal of ‘Right-to-Work’ Law
Michigan is empowering its youth through voting rights as 16-year-old high school students can now pre-register to vote, a move praised by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for preparing the next generation of voters. The repeal of Michigan’s “right-to-work” law marks a significant shift overturning a decade-old policy that allowed workers in union settings to opt out of paying union dues and fees.
Focus on Inclusivity and Equality with Expanded Elliot-Larsen Act and Repeal of Third-Grade Reading Law
Inclusivity and equality are at the forefront of Michigan’s legislative agenda and evidenced by the expanded Elliot-Larsen Act which now protects individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity/expression, providing vital safeguards for the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, the repeal of Michigan’s third-grade reading law alleviates pressure on struggling students by removing mandatory grade retention based on reading proficiency.
Gun Laws Aimed at Public Safety Include Safe Storage Mandate and Red Flag Measures
Michigan has implemented new gun laws, requiring safe firearm storage in households with minors, enforcing universal background checks, and introducing “red flag” measures to address public safety concerns.
Bold Environmental Steps with Clean Energy & Climate Action Package
Michigan is making strides with the Clean Energy & Climate Action Package, aiming for 100% clean energy by 2040, led by Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s commitment.
