Mark Brewer of Goodman Acker P.C. Secures Victory in Michigan Supreme Court

• August 1, 2024

Landmark Decision Increases Minimum Wage and Expand Workers' Rights

Michigan – July 31, 2024 – Mark Brewer, partner at Goodman Acker, and a leader in advocating for the rights of Michigan's working families, is proud to announce a significant legal victory in front of the Michigan Supreme Court. Brewer successfully defended the constitutional rights of Michigan voters and secured vital protections for workers across the state, in the ruling of Mothering Justice v. Attorney General.

Key Takeaways from the ruling:

• Protection of Voter Rights: The Michigan Supreme Court reaffirmed the constitutional right of voters to place proposals on the ballot without interference from the Legislature. This decision safeguards the democratic process and ensures that the voice of the people remains paramount.


• Earned Paid Sick Leave: Effective February 21, 2025, every Michigan worker will have the right to earned paid sick leave. This essential benefit can be used for a variety of medical and family-related matters, providing workers with the support they need to care for themselves and their loved ones.


• Incremental Minimum Wage Increase: Also starting on February 21, 2025, the minimum wage in Michigan will increase in steps over the next four years, reaching at least $13 per hour. After this period, the minimum wage will continue to rise annually, adjusted by the rate of inflation, ensuring that workers' pay keeps pace with the cost of living.


• Elimination of Discriminatory Sub-Minimum Wage: In a landmark decision for tipped employees, the sub-minimum wage currently paid to these workers will be phased out over the next four years. By February 21, 2029, tipped workers will receive the same minimum wage as all other workers, promoting fairness and equality in the workplace.

"This is a tremendous victory for working Michiganders,” said Mark Brewer. “In stopping the Republican legislature from denying Michigan’s voters the ability to vote for this popular ballot measure, our Supreme Court has returned the power to petition the government to the people of Michigan. I want to thank my clients for their trust in me through this long process, and I look forward to working with them to see this decision implemented fairly.”

This decision marks a major step forward in the fight for workers' rights and fair wages in Michigan. Goodman Acker is proud that our very own, Mark Brewer, played a pivotal role in this landmark case, and we remain dedicated to advocating for the rights of working families across the state.

About Goodman Acker P.C.

Personal injury law firm Goodman Acker P.C., serves injured and disabled clients throughout Michigan. Our highly accomplished attorneys have achieved numerous million-dollar verdicts and settlements, but we’re equally proud of our community and political involvement that pursues justice for individuals. If you were injured, count on our legal team to provide top-notch legal counsel and work tirelessly to obtain maximum dollar recovery on your behalf. We are honest, ethical, and experienced lawyers dedicated to servicing personal injury victims.

Contact:
Sansanna Good
Marketing Director
Goodman Acker P.C.
goodmanacker.com
Email: sgood@goodmanacker.com
Phone: 248-483-5000