New proposed legislation would raise minimum wage for essential workers in Michigan to $15 an hour.
House Bill 5801 defines an essential worker as an employee whose continued employment during a state of emergency is necessary for the "public health, safety, or welfare."
The bill was introduced by State Rep. John Cherry.
"From grocery store clerks to food service employees, many of workers have been fighting to receive a living wage for years and the pandemic has shown the importance of this work," Cherry said in a Facebook post. "I’m proud to stand with Michigan’s working men and women and will work to ensure that their value and contribution during this unprecedented time is not soon forgotten."
If approved, it would go into effect on June 15.