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Bill

Bill

SB 519

Labor: other; community and worker economic transition office; establish. Creates new act.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Stephanie Chang and 7 co-sponsors

Michigan creates Community and Worker Economic Transition Office to provide job training and economic support for workers and communities facing major employment disruptions and industry shifts.

ASSIGNED PA 0232'23
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Bill Summary · SB 519

Legislative bill overview

SB 519 establishes a new Community and Worker Economic Transition Office within Michigan's state government. This office will coordinate support services, job training, and economic development assistance for workers and communities experiencing economic disruption from plant closures, industry shifts, or other major employment changes.

Why is this important

Michigan has a long history of manufacturing job losses and economic transitions. This office creates a centralized state resource to help affected workers retrain, find new employment, and help communities diversify their economies—potentially reducing the social and economic fallout from major job losses. The bill became law in November 2023.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and resources: The bill establishes the office but specific budget allocation and staffing levels may be debated, affecting its actual capacity to help workers
  • Coordination complexity: Effectiveness depends on how well this new office coordinates with existing workforce development programs, education institutions, and local economic development agencies—potential for duplication or gaps
  • Scope and eligibility: Questions about which workers and communities qualify for assistance, how quickly the office can respond to crises, and whether support goes primarily to displaced manufacturing workers or includes other industries

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

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