January / February 2022 MiMfg Magazine 25
As we rebound from the pandemic , MMA has been laser-focused on working with the Whitmer Administration and legislative leaders to craft policies that allow the state ’ s largest and most vital sector to create jobs and drive our state ’ s economic recovery . We have achieved significant progress in the first year of the two-year session of the 101st Legislature , and will continue our work to boost the competitiveness of our industry and our great state in 2022 .
COVID-19 Policy
Blocked Permanent COVID-19 Workplace Safety Rule
MMA led the fight against saddling employers with a permanent COVID-19 workplace safety rule . Dave Worthams chaired the MIOSHA workgroup , engaged more than 300 opponents and coordinated legislative opposition efforts , resulting in MIOSHA ’ s withdrawal of the proposed rules .
Reduced Regulatory Burden of COVID-19 MIOSHA Emergency Rule
As the vaccine became available MMA successfully advocated for the reduction in requirements for MIOSHA ’ s COVID-19 Emergency Rule , such as eliminating testing for manufacturers , removing the confusing “ feasibility “ standard for enforceable safety measures , and provided regulatory clarity to following standardized CDC guidelines .
Environmental and Regulatory Policy
Preventing Increased Ozone Regulations
Following years of work by MMA , EGLE requested that the U . S . EPA recognizes attainment of air quality regulations in seven counties in southeast Michigan . If approved , dramatic and costly increases in air regulations and imposition of emission controls would be avoided .
End of Federal Unemployment Insurance Benefits
Advocated for the end of expanded and extended federal unemployment benefits , which caused manufacturers to compete for talent against the unemployment system . Approximately 500,000 claimants stopped receiving benefits after federal benefits ended on 9 / 4 / 21 .
Helping to Procure COVID-19 Tests
In light of OSHA ’ s COVID-19 vaccination or test emergency temporary standard ( ETS ), MMA is calling on Governor Whitmer to use federal COVID-19 support dollars to help employers and employees procure more COVID-19 tests .
Supported Work Share Program Thanks to the MMA-supported Work Share Program , employers were able reduce payroll , limit unemployment tax liability and retain their talent through the pandemic by leveraging the unemployment system to put nearly 200,000 workers on a reduced work schedule .
Keeping Environmental Fees Affordable and Reasonable
Averted fee increases proposed by the Department of Environment , Great Lakes and Energy ( EGLE ) by funding certain programs and staff through General Fund / General Purpose dollars .
Your Support is Critical
“ Our ability to support promanufacturing candidates is imperative as anti-manufacturing voices are working strategically against our industry .”
— Patrick Curry , MMA-PAC Chair and President of Fullerton Tool
Contributing to the MMA-PAC is an investment in Michigan ’ s future and one of the most affordable and effective ways to support pro-manufacturing legislators and candidates .
Donate Online : mimfg . org
Support MMA-PAC
Donate at mimfg . org or contact Ashley Wakefield at wakefield @ mimfg . org or 517-487-8523 .
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