LANSING – In an effort to help Michigan workers who are struggling due to the global economic crisis, Macomb lawmakers today voted in favor of legislation to extend unemployment benefits for workers who take advantage of retraining or vocational programs to pursue good-paying jobs available now in high-demand fields. Michigan's unemployment rate is currently 12.6 percent, the highest in the nation.
"Too many Michigan residents are out of work," said State Representative Jon Switalski (D-Warren). "In this economy, it is important that we invest in our workers and give them the training they need to get back on the job. Michigan workers are at the front lines of our nation's economic crisis and we have to do all we can to help get them through these difficult times."
Under the plan passed today, unemployed workers who are enrolled in a vocational or skill retraining program qualify for an additional 26 weeks of unemployment benefits. These benefits will be automatically provided to workers who are in a declining industry and enter an approved training program that prepares workers for entry into a high-demand occupation. Under this program, workers will be able to complete their training and have the time they need to move back into the workforce.
"Here in Michigan we value hard work and we simply cannot desert those workers who have been affected by our ailing economy," said State Representative Sarah Roberts (D-St. Clair Shores). "Many have given years of service and played by the rules, just to see their jobs down-sized or outsourced. They deserve the chance to get the training they need for jobs in the global economy."
The stimulus dollars would cover funding for workers in retraining for at least the next two years, after which the Legislature can decide whether or not to continue to program.
Without this plan, Michigan stands to lose out on more than $138 million in unemployment assistance money as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that Michigan's underemployment rate was 19.1 percent in February, according to an April 14 article in The Detroit News. This number includes both unemployed and those who are looking for a full-time job and are unable to find work.
"Here in Macomb County, and especially in Warren, our residents have been hit hard," said State Representative Lesia Liss (D-Warren). "With recent announcement of more auto plants closing down, even more residents are losing their jobs. This plan will help get displaced workers back into the workforce by giving them the skills they need to find jobs in growing fields like renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and health care."