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HB 4296

Crimes: other; provision regarding wage discrimination based on sex; modify, and increase fines. Amends sec. 556 of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.556).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kelly Breen and 33 co-sponsors

Michigan bill strengthens criminal penalties and increases fines for sex-based wage discrimination under state law to enhance workplace equality enforcement.

bill electronically reproduced 03/25/2025
#civilrights:employmentdiscrimination #civilrights:sexdiscriminationandharassment #crimes:other #labor:hoursandwages
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Bill Summary · HB 4296

Legislative bill overview

HB 4296 modifies Michigan's wage discrimination laws under MCL 750.556 to strengthen protections against sex-based pay discrimination and increases associated criminal penalties and fines. The bill addresses existing statutory provisions governing wage discrimination, making enforcement mechanisms more stringent.

Why is this important

Wage discrimination based on sex remains a documented workplace issue, and strengthening legal penalties can serve as a deterrent to employer violations. Enhanced fines create financial consequences that may encourage compliance with equal pay standards and provide stronger remedies for affected workers.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity: The bill's specific language regarding what constitutes sex-based wage discrimination and how it differs from existing Equal Pay Act protections needs examination—ambiguous definitions could create enforcement challenges or unintended consequences
  • Business compliance costs: Increased fines may disproportionately impact small businesses versus large corporations, raising questions about equitable application and whether penalties align with actual damages caused
  • Interaction with federal law: Michigan's approach must coordinate with federal Equal Pay Act and Title VII protections to avoid redundancy, gaps, or conflicting standards that could confuse employers and workers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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