What is the “right to sit” bill?

Under HB 5983, Michigan employers would be required to offer suitable seating for employees, such as chairs or stools, for jobs that allow for sitting. For roles that require standing, employers would still need to provide seats nearby.

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While there are existing federal protections allowing accommodations for pregnant workers and those with disabilities, this bill intends to make on-the-job seating accessible to all employees without needing a specific reason or request.

Wegela advocates for the bill as “common sense,” pointing out that workers can often perform their tasks just as well while seated. “Most people would agree you should have the right to sit at your job if you can do your work the same while sitting,” he said.

Enforcement and penalties: will this bill have teeth?

A critical part of HB 5983 is its enforcement mechanism. Workers could report violations to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, which could lead to fines of $250 per employee for each two-week period the employer remains in violation. The fines would go to the state’s general fund. County prosecutors and the attorney general could take on cases, ensuring employers remain accountable for providing basic seating.

A Broader trend or local comfort?

Ann Arbor isn’t alone in implementing these kinds of protections. California, Florida, and Wisconsin already have “right to sit” laws on the books, and similar protections are more common across Europe, where seated cashiers and customer service workers are the norm. Wegela hopes Michigan’s move will set a new standard in the Midwest, potentially reshaping how other states view workplace comfort and employee well-being.

Looking ahead: will it pass?

Wegela hopes for support from both parties. If passed, Michigan could lead a shift in American workplace norms, supporting employees not just with a paycheck but with a seat, too.