Representative Bill G. Schuette (R-Midland), who chairs the House Select Committee on Protecting Michigan Employees and Small Businesses, today issued the following statement on the Michigan Senate’s vote Thursday to preserve the tip credit, a vital source of income for many employees in the service industry:

“I am pleased the Michigan Senate followed the lead of House Republicans and finally took action to protect the tips of restaurant workers throughout our state. This was an issue House Republicans prioritized from Day One.

“This is a positive step, but work remains to fix a disastrous sick time policy ahead of a Feb. 21 effective date. Without a legislative fix, many small businesses will be left understaffed, overwhelmed, and at risk of having to close their doors for good.

“Since the Michigan Supreme Court’s short-sighted ruling last summer, I have heard pushback from numerous workers and job providers about the devastation that would be caused without legislative intervention. I will continue to fight for them and serve as their voice so we can get these reforms to the finish line.”