LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – In what can best be described as a mess of a week in Lansing, Michigan lawmakers can’t seem to salvage what’s left of the lame duck session.

Thursday’s scheduled House session comes amidst the cancellation of a Senate appropriations committee meeting.  Republicans held several press conferences throughout the state saying they want to “save Michigan tips” before the end of this year’s legislative session.

MORE NEWS: Social Security Checks are Going Up, But Not as Much as Biden’s Grocery Prices

 

 

 

 

MORE NEWS: Dysfunction Junction: Michigan Democrats Fail Constituents, House Adjourns Until New Year’s Eve

On Wednesday, the House failed to meet a quorum after Rep. Karen Whitsett (D-Detroit) refused to show up unless her own party took up serious legislation. Her colleague in the Michigan Senate, Sen. Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit) made the same move on Wednesday.

The Democrats hold a majority in both chambers until Jan. 1 but that doesn’t matter unless all members show up to work. The main sticking point over the last week is legislation to save Michigan’s hospitality industry from minimum wage increased that will take place in February. Without legislative action, Michigan’s restaurants and bars will face economic hardship due to the increased in minimum wage, the elimination of tips, and required sick leave.

Outgoing Michigan Democratic Party Chair Lavora Barnes issued a statement on Thursday claiming that “Michigan Dems fight for the people.” She accused the Republican party of holding lobbyists in higher esteem than restaurant workers. “The Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association (MRLA) has given over $68,000 to Michigan House Republicans since 2022,” Barnes claimed.

What’s missing from Barnes’ statement is that House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit) reneged on his promise to Republicans to work on the restaurant industry bills, according to party leadership. Even representatives in Tate’s party have badmouthed his leadership in recent days.