Tri-City Sun

State Representative Matthew Bierlein of Vassar has introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at addressing workforce shortages and supporting economic growth in Michigan. The proposed House Bills 5118-19 would create a state-level Work Opportunity Tax Credit, providing incentives for employers to hire individuals who face persistent barriers to employment, such as disabled veterans.

“There is a need to both fill existing jobs and create new ones to grow our state and local economies,” Bierlein said. “While this tax credit has been successful at the federal level in helping to defray recruiting and training costs for employers, adding it at the state level will provide an additional layer for prosperity. This would be a win-win for Michigan workers and job providers.”

A recent study by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce highlights ongoing workforce shortages across the nation, especially in service sectors. In Michigan, there are only 85 available workers for every 100 open jobs, and the state's labor force participation rate stands at 61.3 percent—the lowest in the Midwest.

Bierlein emphasized that because the federal version of this credit is already managed by both the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the IRS, implementing a similar program at the state level should not result in significant additional administrative costs.

The legislation is expected to be formally introduced soon.