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HB 5178

Worker's compensation: employers; exclusive remedy provision; modify. Amends sec. 131 of 1969 PA 317 (MCL 418.131).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joey Andrews and 27 co-sponsors

Michigan bill modifies workers' compensation exclusive remedy provision, potentially allowing injured workers broader legal recourse against employers beyond the no-fault insurance system.

bill electronically reproduced 10/30/2025
#worker'scompensation:employers #worker'scompensation:exclusiveremedy
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Bill Summary · HB 5178

Legislative bill overview

HB 5178 proposes to modify Section 131 of Michigan's 1969 Worker's Compensation Act, specifically altering the "exclusive remedy" provision. The exclusive remedy clause currently prevents injured workers from suing their employers in civil court and requires them to pursue compensation solely through the workers' compensation system. This bill would modify that limitation, though the specific changes are not detailed in the available information.

Why is this important

The exclusive remedy provision is fundamental to workers' compensation law—it's a trade-off where employers get protection from lawsuits in exchange for providing no-fault insurance coverage to injured workers. Modifying this provision could significantly alter the legal and financial landscape for both Michigan employers and workers, potentially expanding access to civil remedies while increasing employer liability exposure.

Potential points of contention

  • Employer liability costs: Weakening exclusive remedy protections could increase litigation and insurance costs for businesses, particularly small employers
  • Worker compensation system stability: Allowing parallel civil suits could create inconsistencies between workers' comp awards and tort damages, potentially destabilizing the no-fault insurance model
  • Scope of changes: The bill's specific modifications are unclear from available information, making it difficult to assess whether changes are narrow (specific negligence cases) or broad (wholesale elimination of protections)

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

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