LANSING – A measure that would allow Michigan to draw down $139 million more in federal stimulus dollars for unemployment benefits, but would require the state to offer those benefits to people seeking part-time work or those who are ineligible for further benefits, but are enrolled in a job training program, is set to be taken up the House on Wednesday.
The House Labor Committee will hold testimony in the morning about HB 4785 and HB 4786 and a vote on the floor is expected later in the day. Democratic proponents of the legislation also have scheduled a press conference prior to the House vote.
But the legislation is opposed by business groups and Republicans who say once the federal stimulus runs out, Michigan will still be stuck with these extended benefits without a way to pay for them except to further tax businesses.
“Michigan needs real leadership and realistic ideas that will lead to economic turnaround. What we don’t need is another job-killing tax hike or expansion of government services we cannot afford,” said House Minority Leader Kevin Elsenheimer (R-Bellaire).
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