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Telegraph
3 days ago
- Health
- Telegraph
The best walking sandals for summer, tested on dog walks and long hikes
If you enjoy a hike in the summer but the idea of pulling on walking boots in the heat makes your toes curl, then finding the best walking sandals for your trip can be a good compromise. Whether you're taking your dog for a walk around the local footpaths, trundling over Hampstead Heath or hiking through the South Downs, walking sandals will help you avoid injury. Their supportive soles can help you grip onto wet grass, while their moulded footbeds keep you comfortable no matter how many miles you do. From the more expensive trainer-esque sandals like Hoka's, to the open foot casual designs of Teva, walking sandals can range from around £100 to under £50 and can be a handy alternative to your best walking boots. I've spent some very hot weeks testing the best sandals on the market and you can read my reviews below, followed by answers to some frequently asked questions. But if you're in a hurry, here's a quick look at the top five. The best walking sandals: At a glance How to choose the best walking sandals for you Walking sandals aren't just for hiking in the hills, they can come in handy for festivals, beach walks or simply hotfooting it around the city. Whatever you wear them for, it's important to find the right type of support. Sam Singh, consultant foot and ankle surgeon at London Bridge Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, says: 'A strap at the back of the ankle helps as it means that you don't need to grip with the toes to keep the shoe on. 'You also need a thick, strong sole on rough ground and arch support,' he says, adding that most of his patients find it more comfortable to wear a sandal with a slight heel because it helps relieve pressure from your Achilles tendon and arches. It's also important to consider your intended use. Sandals for city strolls differ from those needed for rugged hikes or water activities, where toe protection or water resistance might be needed. How we test walking sandals I tested 12 pairs of walking sandals while out with the dog in parks, on woodland trails and while trekking up and down hills in the South Downs. 11 of those were good enough to make this guide. I tested ladies' walking sandals, but nearly all of these are available for men too. Primarily I was looking at the comfort, cushioning and arch support I got from each pair and if I could feel how evenly my weight was distributed across the shoes. My second priority was the overall grip to make sure I wasn't slipping around, which can be dependent on the lug depth (how deep the tread is) and the outsole material such as rubber or EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), which you often find on running shoes. My dog can happily run through the woods for hours, so durability is an important factor for me, as is how breathable or waterproof the shoe materials are. I need to be sure I won't pick up any blisters while running after him either, so a good fit and an adjustable strap is a must for me. I tested the cheapest walking sandals to the most expensive, those with open and closed toes, and pairs with plush cushioning to barely any. I've also taken into consideration how they look – not the priority, but most of us still care. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. From tents to walking boots, all reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. The best walking sandals of 2025 1. Best Buy Walking Sandals: Hoka Infini Hike TC Hoka is best known for its ultra-cushioned running shoes and now that technology is available in a sandal, making it the most comfortable I have ever worn. The thick sole is bouncy and responsive. But despite the high level of cushioning, these Hokas have a wide base so they feel stable during wear. The durable Vibram sole (which you'll recognise from a good pair of Le Chameau or Hunter wellies) has decent lugs for traction and the shape helps to propel you along as you walk. They are among the lightest pairs I tested and my feet didn't get tired or sore after a full day of walking. If you've got wider feet, these could prove a good fit and are true to size, with half sizes available. They're not as protective as closed-toe sandals, so may not be your first choice for rocky or uneven terrain, but the edge of the outsole sits above the footbed which gives your toes a thin strip of protection. The W strap design adjusts for a close fit, as does the heel strap, and there's a soft panel of breathable material beneath the straps to reduce the chance of rubbing. The aesthetic is maximal – this is not a day-to-night sandal – but if you are eco-conscious then the materials may be more attractive to you. The outsole can be easily replaced if you wear it out, and Hoka has used natural and recycled materials like sugarcane in the rest of the shoe, including webbing made with a low water usage dying technique. The only downside is that I would prefer more colour options. Key specifications 2. Best Value Walking Sandals: Columbia Women's Peakfreak Rush Sandal LEA This mid-range Columbia sandal packs in a lot of technical features for the price. It's billed as a lightweight sandal-sneaker, which is a good description from my experience, because it has the cushioned feel of a trainer with the ventilation of a sandal. The midsole EVA cushioning is listed as medium but I'd say it's nearer maximal. It extends slightly beyond the back of the sandal for a soft heel landing as you walk. Unfortunately, the arch support is at the lower end of the spectrum, with the footbed sitting flatter than others I tested. That said, the footbed is still comfortable and well-shaped with a secure heel cup. There's also a subtle texture, which gives a secure tacky feeling underfoot. Although these sandals fit true to size, there are also three points of adjustment on the durable nubuck leather straps and soft material between them and the foot to prevent rubbing. And if you're a rain or shine (in other words, British) type of walker, you'll be pleased to know you can get these wet. While the leather on the straps takes a long time to dry, the lining means it's not in contact with your feet. The sandals' outsoles have great grip owing to the large lugs and I enjoyed taking them out on dusty trails up and down hills. The soles are also flexible enough for the foot to tread comfortably, heel to toe, still with support. Overall, this is a well-made sandal for light summer adventures. Key specifications 3. Best Walking Sandals for Long Hikes: Teva Grandview Max Sandal This comfortable sandal is an open-toed solution for multi-day hikes. This is true as long as the terrain isn't too rocky – I'd still choose a closed-toe sandal for that. The midsole cushioning is comfortable enough for all day wear; I enjoyed wearing the same shoes for a dog walk in the morning and a longer hike. The platform cushioning does take the foot high off the ground, which reduces ground feel, but its wide base retains stability. The arch support is excellent and, like an old slipper, I was comfortable from the moment I put them on. This wideness also means that your foot isn't sitting right at the edge of the sandal, which gives welcome protection from roots and debris. The webbing between the straps is soft and keeps out the worst of debris and there's a mudguard on the outer side. It feels breathable and my feet didn't get hot and sticky when I tested these during the May heatwave. The upper is also entirely made from recycled materials. There are several Velcro adjustment points which wrap around and across to hold the sandal securely to the foot, whether wide or narrow. The durable Vibram outsole is expectedly sturdy, with deep lugs for traction on both wet and dry surfaces. This sandal is on the heavier side, but this is because it's a sturdy shoe. Like our Best Buy Hokas, this sandal has a maximal, technical aesthetic, meaning they're not a day-to-night shoe. But this is an excellent technical sandal that I'd happily hike for hours in. Key specifications 4. Best Walking Sandals for Foot Protection: Keen Hyperport 2 Keen is one of the best known names in walking sandals and the Hyperport 2 is a bestseller. This is a robust sandal that's surprisingly lightweight, very comfortable and provides good arch support. It has a closed toe, bolstered by a strongly reinforced toe panel. The sides of the feet are also reinforced with padding. A soft stretchy mesh covers the top of the foot and heel and the laces are held by reinforced webbed panels that quickly and easily pull close to the foot with a bungee cord. This has a sliding adjuster, making it very easy to get on and off. The midsole has lots of cushioning and feels great to walk on, while the outsole is grippy and durable. The toe box is generous, suiting those with wide feet and it fits true to size. The aesthetic won't be everyone's cup of tea. This is a chunky technical sandal, but if performance and protection are what you're after, it's great. I found it best suited to walks where I got my feet wet, as the material dries quickly. I also managed to wear these on rockier, more uneven terrain than other sandals because of the stability and the fact that they protect my foot well. I'd still want the ankle support of a hiking boot for very technical terrain though. Key specifications In the same range: If you're after a slightly lower profile but similar sandal, the brand's heritage Whisper sandal is a great option for long hikes. It's less cushioned but ultra comfortable with a lovely wide toe box and excellent toe protection. 5. Best Walking Sandals for Travelling: Teva Hurricane XLT2 Although similar to the classic Original Teva, this is a more technical hiking sandal with extra cushioning and support. The outsole is made from durable rubber and, while the lugs aren't as deep as others I tested, there was plenty of traction for walking up and down the South Downs hills. There's a reasonable amount of flex so the sandal moves with your foot without sacrificing support. There is some arch support on the moulded footbed, but not as much as others. It's a wide sandal, with the foot sitting away from the edges, which I like for hiking because I find I'm less likely to bang the sides of my feet (or stub my toe on a wayward rock). Minimal ridging around the footbed means it's really only suitable for light trails rather than anything too rocky or uneven. The sandal is lightweight enough that it's easy to forget you're wearing it, with three points of adjustment, although it does run large, so I'd size down if you're between sizes. The quick-drying straps mean you can also walk through rivers, but Teva also makes the Hurricane Drift, which is a dedicated water shoe. Most of your foot is exposed, so ventilation isn't a problem and I like the minimalist aesthetic. If I could only take one pair of sandals camping or on an active holiday, it would be these, both for wearing on walks and to the bar. There's a wide range of great colour combinations to suit your taste. Key specifications 6. Best Walking Sandals for Ground Feel: Vivobarefoot Tracker This is the sandal for those who like the barefoot feel, but still want a bit of protection. It has a closed toe and wraps around the foot, leaving some ventilation over the top and at the heel. The material that covers the foot is breathable mesh, which keeps my feet cool during otherwise sweaty hikes. There's gentle reinforcement over the toes and the sides of the foot to protect from roots and rocks. I found I could wear them on uneven terrain, although given the brand's barefoot premise, there was little support. The z-shaped strapping system wraps the sandal to the foot securely, and there's adjustment at the soft heel strap. The footbed is smooth and comfortable with a hint of cushioning, and scores an eco point for being made from excess algae biomass. The outsole is durable and extremely flexible, as per the barefoot ethos, so much so that you can even bend the sandal in half. The deep lugs provide great grip, even on a slippery log that I climbed on in the rain, and the sandal dried quickly after getting wet. It does come up on the smaller side, so size up if in doubt. I'd recommend easing in and practicing wearing the sandal if you haven't worn barefoot shoes before (the brand has guidance on its website for how to do this) because our feet, ankles and legs need time to adjust to shoes with zero heel-to-toe drop and this level of flexibility. Key specifications 7. Best Walking Sandals for Narrow Feet: Ecco Offroad Roam As is the Danish way, this is a minimalist sandal with impressive technical features. I walked happily for miles along Hampstead Heath while wearing them. The material on the footbed is soft against the skin, although a little narrow and it didn't dry quickly on wet walks. Unlike others I tested, the foot sits against the edge of the sandal which doesn't provide the same protection against roots or rocks. The outsole is a durable rubber with decent lugs that provide traction. It's a flexible ride and you really feel your foot rolling through with each step, but it's not so flexible as to lose support. It offers excellent ground feel because it's the lowest profile sole of all the sandals I tested apart from the Vivobarefoot, and a firm midsole. I surprised myself by liking the thin straps of the upper, as thin straps often dig in, but these are well placed with three wrapping across the forefoot with Velcro adjustment and two points of adjustment around the heel and ankle. These will suit anyone not wanting a chunky sandal, and are best suited to long walks on dry, even trails. Key specifications 8. Best Walking Sandals for a Springy Push-off: FitFlop Neo-D-Hyker (XT) As with the Skechers pair above, this sandal has the APMA Seal of Acceptance thanks to its well-designed and comfortable contoured footbed. The arch support is ample and will suit you if you don't like the type of footbed that pushes up. It has FitFlop's neodynamic carbon-plate midsoles, like those seen in marathon running 'super shoes', which give a spring to your step and a sense of propulsion. It has a medium level of cushioning to take the pressure off your feet and balanced flexibility so that you can feel your foot roll as you step. As for fit, there are three points of adjustment and the straps fit well. A small niggle is that while there's thoughtful padding beneath the heel strap and toe strap, the toe section folds over itself with a Velcro adjustment and I was conscious of the fold on a long walk. This is not a major problem and it may just be because I have deep feet, but it feels unnecessary given that it has another Velcro adjuster over the top. It suits a wider foot and fits true to size. The sandal has a durable rubber outsole and lugs for decent grip, although they're not as deep or closely spaced as some we tested. It performed well in wet conditions as both the footbed and straps are water-resistant and dry quickly. I love the look, with a slight platform, and found I could easily wear these as an everyday sandal. I even chose to wear it on days where I wasn't walking. Key specifications 9. Best Walking Sandals for Wide Feet: Birkenstock Mogami Terra Better-known for its cork soles, Birkenstock has a lesser-known outdoor range, which features similar moulded footbeds, but uses technical materials and more secure straps. The Mogami Terra is my favourite for hiking. The footbed is sunken, leaving your foot to sit securely cupped. This means that while it is open-toed, your toes are afforded some protection against knocks by the ridge around the edge. The wide straps with buckles and Velcro adjuster on the heel strap do their best to ensure a good fit. That said, I'd only recommend this sandal for wide feet, as the sole is broad and there's no narrow fit available. The sole is fixed to the footbed in two layers, which makes it feel flexible, allowing for a natural roll through the foot as you walk. It has fairly deep lugs (much deeper than the average Birkenstock) for excellent grip. While the footbed and sole is waterproof, the straps are made of Birko-Flor. This has PVC (a durable type of plastic) on the outside and has a soft, breathable fleece on the inside. During my testing, I found they were durable and comfortable enough to wear against the skin for long periods, but water didn't repel as easily as the footbed and sole. There isn't much in the way of cushioning – just enough to take the pressure off your feet. It won't suit those who prefer more maximal cushioning, but I would happily take these on a city break as well as camping or on beach holidays. Perhaps just not a serious hike. Key specifications Weight: 338g Upper material: Birko-Flor Outsole material: Polyurethane (PU) Men's version available: It's unisex Half-sizes available: Yes In the same range: There's also a version without the ankle strap, the Birkenstock Mogami Terra Stealth (£85). They're ideal if you don't like the aesthetic of a heel strap, or struggle to bend over so need a slip on shoe. 10. Best Walking Sandals for City Breaks: Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0 - Annie This vegan sandal has an elegant, comfortable upper, a beautifully cushioned midsole and a well-designed footbed. It's the lightest of all the sandals I tested apart from the Vivobarefoot. It also has the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which means it's been deemed to promote good foot health, and has podiatrist-certified arch support. The midsole cushioning is responsive and particularly cushioned in the heel, which is useful for heavy heel-strikers. The outsole has grooves for grip, but the synthetic EVA won't be as durable as rubber, so you might want to keep these for city walks rather than mountainous hikes. The quick-dry knit upper is simple with only one Velcro point of adjustment at the ankle, but the toe strap has some elasticity and feels soft and supportive. This sandal could also be good for jobs where you're on your feet all day but want to keep cool in the summer months. It comes up true to size and is machine-washable, which is a bonus for summer sandals. Key specifications 11. Best Budget Walking Sandals: Regatta Haris Given the low cost, this pair of Regatta sandals are surprisingly sturdy and practical. With a durable upper and Velcro strapping with three points of adjustment and padding beneath the straps, there's not much to distinguish it from more expensive options. The contoured footbed cups the heel well, although it does lack arch support so I wouldn't recommend this for long hikes. The footbed also takes a while to dry after getting wet and there's not a lot of cushioning. The outsole is thermoplastic rubber, which is a combination of plastic and rubber and doesn't offer as much grip. I still found that the lugs provided reasonable grip in dry conditions, and the sandal has a good degree of flexibility when you walk. It comes up on the smaller side and best suits a wide foot. Key specifications Walking sandal FAQs Do walking sandals actually work? 'Yes, a good walking sandal has the chassis of a good shoe,' says Sam Singh, a consultant foot and ankle surgeon. 'It's a great alternative to walking shoes in warm weather.' What type of walking sandals do podiatrists recommend? 'The sole has to be sturdy,' says Sam. 'You especially need a sturdy sole for hiking, so you don't feel the rocks. The best ones are just an open version of what is a great shoe, like a convertible version of a good sports car. All the performance, just more open to the environment.' Can you hike in walking sandals? 'For tough terrain, the additional support that an ankle boot offers can't be matched but they are fine for most hikes,' says Sam. How should you keep walking sandals hygienic when you're wearing them barefoot? Most sandals, especially leather ones, should not go in the washing machine. It's better to wipe them down with a damp cloth. 'The hygeine benefits of airing your feet in warm weather may outweigh these drawbacks,' Sam says. Are walking sandals fine for people with foot conditions such as bunions? 'Absolutely,' says Sam. 'If anything, many of my patients with painful bunions can't wait for summer. Finally, they can have footwear that doesn't rub on their bunion or hammertoes.'
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lawmakers finalize bipartisan deal on tipped wage and sick time hours ahead of deadline
Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) and Senate Majority Floor Leader Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) discuss their efforts on a bipartisan deal to curb incoming minimum wage and paid sick leave changes on Feb. 20, 2025. | Kyle Davidson Facing a tight midnight deadline, the Michigan Legislature negotiated late into the night on Thursday, as members sought to finalize a deal on a pair of policies trimming back changes to the state's minimum wage and paid sick time policies set to take effect the following day. At the beginning of the year, the Republican-led House and Democratic-led Senate each offered their own proposals for retaining the state's tipped wage and modifying new sick time requirements; they ultimately reached a deal with Senate Bill 8 and House Bill 4002, clearing several hurdles which could have prevented either policy from becoming law. Although both bills were presented to Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer with the expectation of a signature, House Bill 4002, which dealt with earned sick time, was not presented to the governor until 1:30 a.m. Friday, after the midnight deadline. How that will impact the legislation is unclear. Without action from the Legislature, the minimum wage would increase to $12.48 on Friday, gradually rising to $14.97 by 2028 and phasing out the tipped wage by 2030. Employers with fewer than 10 employees would be required to offer up to 40 hours of paid sick leave and 32 hours of unpaid leave accrued over the year, while businesses with 10 or more employees must offer 72 hours of paid sick leave a year. The new rules came down through a mandate from the Michigan Supreme Court in July 2024. In its ruling, the Court determined that members of the Republican-led Legislature in 2018 acted unconstitutionally by taking up two ballot proposals — one to raise the minimum wage and eliminate the lower-than-minimum tipped wage rate and another setting new paid sick leave requirements for employers — and stripping out key components from each initiative through amendments. Servers and business owners have railed against the court-ordered changes, with representatives of the restaurant and hospitality industry warning the new policies would shutter one in five restaurants and prompt layoffs for 40,000-60,000 restaurant jobs. However, Democrats and Republicans were able to meet in the middle on Senate Bill 8, as members of the House voted to send the bill back to the Senate on Wednesday. The proposal, put forth by State Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores), would raise the state minimum wage to $15 by 2027 and increase the tipped minimum wage from 38% to 50% by 2031 rather than phasing it out. However the policy had to survive a nail-biter of a vote in order to take immediate effect. Of the 37 members in the chamber, 25 votes were needed in order to grant the bill immediate effect. With only 20 Senators voting in favor of the bill when it moved out of the Senate last Thursday, its fate seemed uncertain, though 26 Senators ultimately voted in favor of granting the bill immediate effect. Among those supporting immediate effect were Sens. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), Jon Bumstead (R-North Muskegon), John Cherry (D-Flint) and Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak) who previously voted against the effort, and Sens. Kevin Daley (R-Lum), Ed McBroom (R-Vulcan) and Rick Outman (R-Six Lakes) who were excused during last week's vote. After granting Senate Bill 8 immediate effect, members of the Senate also needed to reach a deal on the House's proposed changes to the Earned Sick Time Act, House Bill 4002. The bills are tie-barred together meaning both policies must pass for either to take effect. While the initial version of House Bill 4002 would have excluded businesses with fewer than 50 employees from the new sick leave requirements, the Senate's own sick leave proposal — Senate Bill 15 — would have allowed businesses with fewer than 25 employees to offer 40 hours of sick leave and 32 hours of unpaid leave, rather than 72 hours of paid sick leave. The final version of House Bill 4002 — sponsored by Rep. Jay DeBoyer (R-Clay Twp.) — requires businesses to provide employees with 1 hour of paid earned sick time for every 30 hours worked. However, small businesses — defined as employers with 10 or fewer employees — would have the option to provide their employees with 40 hours of paid sick time at the beginning of the year instead, and would not be subject to the law until Oct. 1. New businesses who have yet to hire an employee before House Bill 4002 takes effect would also be exempt from the new law for three years after hiring their first employee. Employers with more than 10 employees are also allowed to provide their employees with 72 hours of paid earned sick time at the beginning of the year for immediate use. Employers with part time employees can also provide those employees with their time off at the beginning of the year, provided they notify those employees how many hours they are expected to work in a year and offer time off equal to what they would accrue if they worked all of the hours expected of them. If they go over that requirement, they will accrue additional sick time. Small businesses must allow their employees to carry over at least 40 hours of sick time from one year to the next, while businesses with more than 10 employees must allow them to carry over 72 hours. While businesses can also allow their employees to carry over more sick time, if they offer a higher limit, employers who offer their workers paid time off at the beginning of the year are not required to allow them to carry their sick time over to the next year. The bill also eliminates language allowing employees to bring a civil suit against their employer for violations of the law, and allows employers to take action against employees who use their sick time for a reason not approved by the law or for failing to give proper notice. Employees can use paid sick time to address their physical or mental health needs or the needs of a family member, for meetings at a child's school or a place of care tied to a child's health, disability or the effects of domestic violence or sexual assault on the child if the child is a family member. Survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault and family members caring for them can also used their sick time to obtain medical care, psychological care, victims services, legal services, to relocate due to domestic violence or to participate in any legal services. It can also be used if the employees workplace is closed due to a public health emergency, to care for a child or family member whose school or workplace is closed due to a public health emergency, or if health authorities or a health provider has determined the employee or one of their family member's presence would risk exposing others to an infectious disease. While opponents of the court-mandated sick leave changes argued it would allow employees to no-call no-show for three days without consequence, the final version of House Bill 4002 requires employees to provide notice as soon as practicable, unless employers provide their workers with a written policy on how to provide notice for unexpected sick time. Just after 10:40 p.m., the Senate voted to return the amended House Bill 4002 to the House, with 26 votes in favor and 10 in opposition. The bill received full support from Republicans, alongside Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids), Senate Majority Floor Leader Sam Singh (D-East Lansing), Hertel and Sens. Veronica Klinefelt (D-Eastepointe), Sean McCann (D-Kalamazoo), Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield), Dayna Polehanki (D-Livonia) and Paul Wojno (D-Warren). After passing the Senate, the matter was taken up by the House where it was approved in an 89-21 vote. Under House Bill 4002, Michigan will have one of the strongest sick leave policies in the nation, Brinks said, with Singh noting that no other state has a 72-hour paid sick leave requirement for businesses with more than 10 employees, with the closest policies coming in at 56 hours. When asked if there were any concerns as to whether the governor would sign the bills before midnight, Singh said Whitmer's team was aware of the conversations happening over the past number of days, but that he would leave the final decisions to her. While the deal brokered between the House and the Senate was better than the status quo, Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt (R-Porter Twp.) remained critical of the chamber's Democratic majority. 'Republicans have been calling on action since August, and it's unfortunate that, like college students waiting till the last minute to finish up their research paper, the Senate Democrats waited till the last minute to go ahead and pass some legislation that will help save tens of thousands of restaurant jobs here in the state,' Nesbitt said. 'Once again, our Republicans took the lead here in the House and in the Senate, as a majority of Republicans voted for a deal, whereas only a minority of the Democrats actually voted for it,' Nesbitt said. Only eight Democrats voted for each of the bills in the deal of the 19 Democratic members serving. However, while looking at the wins Republicans were able to secure in this package, it's not about Republicans and Democrats, Nesbitt said. 'It's about working families. It's about our small businesses. It's about trying to grow our economy. Unfortunately, this isn't perfect, but it's a lot better than what would have gotten enacted at 12:01 tomorrow morning,' said Nesbitt, who announced last month that he is seeking the GOP nomination for governor in 2026. During a press conference earlier in the day on Thursday, Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall (R-Richland Twp.) stressed the importance of finding a deal on minimum wage and sick leave policies. 'This is really critical to every worker in Michigan, and every small business in Michigan that we come to the center and make a deal here, because workers are about to lose their jobs, small businesses are about to close. You're going to see restaurant workers potentially losing their jobs and their pay getting cut and you're going to see many restaurants close,' Hall said. 'If we don't have a deal, it will be an absolute crisis for our state… Some of these employers, they don't even know what their workers are supposed to be paid tomorrow. You look at some of these smaller companies, they're not ready for these new changes in law to take effect tomorrow, and so you're gonna have total chaos,' He said. After the vote, State Rep. Bill G. Schuette (R-Midland), who chaired the House Select Committee on Protecting Michigan Employees and Small Businesses that handled the House's tipped wage and paid sick leave proposals, said this deal was the first trial balloon of the state's divided government, with Republicans winning a 58-52 majority during the previous election. DeBoyer said the deal was a testament to Hall's leadership and the strategy of the House Republican caucus. 'If you pay attention, this is how we're going to maintain in the next two years, things that matter to the citizens of the state of Michigan, So this is just one small step, and I think you're going to continue to see this behavior,' DeBoyer said. While the minimum wage changes await action from the governor, they may also face another hurdle with a national group representing restaurant workers and service employees announcing its intent to offer a referendum on the bill. In a statement, One Fair Wage criticized the Legislature's efforts to roll back the Supreme Court's minimum wage and the tipped wage changes. 'The Michigan Supreme Court ruled that these wage increases should be implemented, yet lawmakers are attempting to roll them back before they even take effect,' said Saru Jayaraman, the president of One Fair Wage. 'We're mobilizing to ensure voters — not politicians — have the ultimate say in whether these protections are upheld.' Under the state's referendum process, citizens can challenge newly-passed laws by gathering signatures from voters. If One Fair Wage's volunteers gather 223,099 signatures, the law would be suspended and placed on the ballot, where voters will determine whether or not it takes effect. Staff Reporter Anna Liz Nichols contributed to this report. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Michigan lawmakers reach agreement on paid sick time ahead of Friday deadline
The Brief Lawmakers in Lansing approved an amended bill on statewide earned sick leave. The bill was tie-barred with a minimum wage bill that was approved by lawmakers on Wednesday. The bill was approved less than two hours from the approaching deadline. LANSING, Mich. (FOX 2) - The Michigan Senate reached a deal on a statewide earned sick leave policy before the Friday deadline. In a statement from the Michigan Senate Chamber, lawmakers approved an amended paid sick leave policy. They credited strong cooperation between both sides of the legislature to reach an agreement 72 minutes before the approaching deadline. This bill was tie-barred with a minimum wage bill that was approved by the house on Wednesday and the Senate last week. "Michiganders should be able to care for themselves and their loved ones when they are sick without fear of jeopardizing their wages or losing their jobs," said Sen. Sam Singh. "This legislation was thoughtfully crafted from extensive discussions held with workers and businesses alike and significantly improves earned sick leave access and Michigan's national standing in providing it." Dig deeper Lawmakers say the amended bill, HB 4002, would guarantee access to earned sick time for workers by requiring larger businesses to provide a minimum of 72 hours of earned sick time to full-time employees. "Emergencies and illnesses are a part of life, and our core mission with this legislation is to help Michiganders sleep at night knowing that there is a reasonable amount of cushion for them when the unpredictable happens," said Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks. "This bill is informed by the people of Michigan and negotiated in good faith across bipartisan lines, and in years to come, other states will be modeling their own laws on what we passed today." The bill now moves back to the House for final concurrence before heading to Governor Gretchen Whitmer's desk for her signature. The backstory On Wednesday, the Michigan House of Representatives approved a scaled-back version of the state's incoming tipped wage law, which reduces the increase that restaurant workers would earn while speeding up an increase to the minimum wage. Meanwhile, the Michigan Senate passed the same bill last week following negotiations between Republican and Democratic lawmakers, hoping to address concerns from small businesses who are concerned the wage hike could force them to close. The bill, SB 8, amends a law that was scheduled to go into effect on Friday, Feb. 21. Instead of the minimum tipped wage rate being 48% of Michigan's minimum wage, it would be 38% of the minimum wage. SB 8 pushes an upcoming minimum wage hike to next year, with plans for it to reach $15 by 2027 - a year earlier than planned. The increased minimum wage scheduled for Friday is $12.48 an hour. However, the bill also reduces the amount a worker who makes tips can earn. Instead of reaching 100% of the minimum wage by 2030, tipped workers would receive 50% of the minimum wage by 2031. Timeline The amended law includes the following schedule increase for minimum tipped wages: Jan. 1, 2026 – 40% of minimum wage Jan. 1, 2027 - 42% of minimum wage Jan. 1, 2028 - 44% of minimum wage Jan. 1, 2029 - 46% of minimum wage Jan. 1 2030 - 48% of minimum wage Jan. 1, 2031 - 50% of minimum wage The amendment also changes the schedule of minimum wage increases: Feb. 21, 2025 - $12.48 Jan. 1, 2026 - $13.73 Jan. 1, 2027 - $15 Big picture view In 2018, a ballot proposal that called for raising Michigan's minimum wage was set to go before voters. However, the Republican-majority legislature decided that instead of allowing the initiative to go on the midterm ballot in November, it would directly adopt the proposal into law. Then, during the lame duck session - the period of time after election day but before the new governing session took effect - the legislature watered down the proposal. The decision was the subject of a legal case that took years to move through the court system. Eventually, the Democratic-led high court ruled the decision was unconstitutional. The Source FOX 2 used information from a press release by Michigan lawmakers in Lansing, and from previous stories.
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lawmakers, organizations react to sick time, tipped wage passage
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Michigan lawmakers reforms in a late-night vote Thursday, pushing on a midnight deadline. The final vote in the Senate came in just after 10:40 p.m., with the House sending it to the governor's desk soon after. passed with amendments, blocking 2018 ballot measures that would have required businesses with 10 or more employees to provide up to 72 hours of paid sick leave a year, and smaller businesses to provide 40 hours. It was tie-barred with , which preserves the tipped wage for restaurant workers and bartenders, also passed. It raises the standard minimum wage to $15 by 2027, and tipped wages up to half of the standard. Lawmakers and other interest groups are speaking out after the vote, with some calling it an imperfect solution—and some saying the measures are preferable to those that would have gone into effect otherwise. Here's what they are saying: 'Michiganders should be able to care for themselves and their loved ones when they are sick without fear of jeopardizing their wages or losing their jobs. This legislation was thoughtfully crafted from extensive discussions held with workers and businesses alike and significantly improves earned sick leave access and Michigan's national standing in providing it. State Sen. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) 'Emergencies and illnesses are a part of life, and our core mission with this legislation is to help Michiganders sleep at night knowing that there is a reasonable amount of cushion for them when the unpredictable happens. This bill is informed by the people of Michigan and negotiated in good faith across bipartisan lines, and in years to come, other states will be modeling their own laws on what we passed today.' Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) 'This is not the plan we drew up, but it's the best move we can make to ensure our small business owners and tipped workers are protected. The other side didn't want to compromise on anything, and they were willing to let countless Michiganders who are struggling to stay afloat lose their jobs. House Republicans were not going to stand around and let that happen. Owning a small business is hard enough without government red tape. As a small business owner myself, I understand how narrow the margins are, and the kinds of sacrifices owners make just to stay afloat. The negotiated plan is a necessary stopgap for what we were facing. Given the alternative, I hope businesses can breathe a bit easier on Friday morning.' State Rep. Ron Robinson (R-Utica) 'This isn't a fairy-tale deal where everyone got exactly what they wanted, but this is a workable solution and far better than what was going to take place if the Legislature chose to do nothing. Our hospitality industry and countless small businesses would have faced devastating consequences had the Legislature not acted. Business owners and workers from across the state made clear what these extreme new mandates would have meant for them: In the best-case scenario, many servers would have taken a pay cut and businesses would have had to lay people off. The worst-case scenario was countless businesses closing their doors for good. I am happy we were able to negotiate a deal — though waiting until the last second is far from an effective or preferred way to legislate. My Republican colleagues and I pushed for Democratic leadership to take this issue seriously for months, to no avail, but were ultimately able to lead negotiations and force a deal to be put on the table. In the end, we were able to get it done and send a bipartisan agreement to the governor's desk, where I hope to see it signed into law this evening to avoid the looming economic disaster.' State Sen. Roger Hauck (R-Mt. Pleasant) 'While the legislation we've passed today is not the perfect solution, it is a better outcome than allowing the Michigan Supreme Court's extreme sick leave policy to go into effect. In the coming year, there are many issues facing small businesses that need to be addressed. I will continue my fight to limit regulation, stop reckless government spending, and prevent higher taxes.' State Sen. Michele Hoitenga (R-36) 'Disaster averted. After months of Democrat inaction, Republicans led the way in passing these critical reforms to preserve the tipped wage, help keep family restaurants across Michigan open, and save the jobs and livelihoods of tens of thousands of hospitality workers. These measures will also put in place a flexible leave time solution that benefits Michigan workers without imposing a one-size-fits-all big-government burden on struggling small businesses. Doing nothing was never a responsible option. While no compromise is perfect, this plan puts Michigan workers and small businesses first — instead of out-of-state special interest groups. State Sen. Joseph Bellino (R-Monroe) 'Last week, I voted to preserve Michigan's tipped credit, and tonight, we completed the final piece of the puzzle by approving a bipartisan solution on changes to the earned sick leave proposal. Over the last several months, thousands of restaurant workers and small business owners have voiced their dismay with the overbearing new mandates set to take effect on February 21st and called on their elected officials to come up with a solution. Senate Republicans led negotiations on both reforms and were able to force changes that acknowledged the concerns of people in every one of our districts and ultimately prevent the economic disaster these radical new laws would have caused. What we ended up with was a bipartisan compromise that weighed concerns from both employees and employers while fighting to keep jobs in Michigan and helping small businesses keep their doors open. The nature of a compromise means not everyone got everything they wanted, but everyone did get a chance to make their voices heard and no one left the negotiating table empty-handed. This solution isn't perfect, but it does protect our businesses from out-of-state interests, offers flexibility to adapt to policy changes, and maintains employee benefits without driving mom-and-pop shops out of business.' State Sen. Michael Webber (R-9) 'We had months and months and months to do this, yet here we are at the eleventh hour rushing to get this done. Issues of this magnitude deserve significant consideration, and Democratic leadership kicking the can down the road not only pushed this issue to the last minute, but it also sent a message to the people who asked their lawmakers to do something that their concerns weren't a top priority. I was happy to see the tip credit get the attention it deserved late last week, but business owners, by and large, are far more concerned with what the overbearing sick leave changes would have meant for them. Because of that, I made my position clear: I would not support any proposals without a reform to the sick time law. Business owners in my district made their concerns abundantly clear and my vote was going to reflect that. While I am disappointed with the timeline of these changes, we were able to finalize a bipartisan agreement that brought everyone to the table. The deal wasn't perfect, but what I can guarantee is that the solution we reached is far better than what would have happened had the Legislature chosen not to act. I'll be patiently waiting for the governor's signature this evening. I hope she chooses to join the bipartisan deal and do her part to prevent the economic devastation these new laws would have undoubtedly caused.' State Sen. John Damoose (R-Harbor Springs) 'This solution is far from perfect, but it's better than the alternative, which would have sent our businesses over a cliff. We had two options: let bad policies take effect and watch small businesses get carried to hell in a handbasket, or step in with a plan that gives them a fighting chance. This deal isn't ideal, but it keeps businesses afloat and protects the livelihoods of hardworking people, small business owners and their employees. Waiting until the last minute to fix this mess put a lot of people on edge. While this isn't the solution any of us would have drawn up in a perfect world, it at least gives our businesses a way forward instead of pushing them into chaos. That's especially important in my district, where bad policies that make it harder to run a business don't just hurt local employers — they send them packing just a few miles across the border into Ohio. We can't afford to keep making Michigan a less competitive place to work and do business.' State Rep. William Bruck (R-30) 'Job providers across Michigan can breathe a little easier after the Michigan Legislature passed important fixes just under the Feb. 21 deadline to the onerous Earned Sick Time Act and minimum wage laws. The policy put in place by virtue of a judicial activist approach by the Michigan Supreme Court would have quite simply devastated Michigan's economy. However, we have long been optimistic that a bipartisan mix of votes existed in the House and Senate to make these laws more workable and implementable. While a paid leave mandate and higher minimum wage may sound good on paper, the proposals as written were fraught with ambiguities, administrative challenges and unintended consequences that would have led to businesses closing and jobs being lost. We appreciate Speaker Hall's leadership on this important issue as he ensured negotiating a compromise was kept at the forefront of policy priorities. We are pleased by the willingness of policymakers from both sides of the aisle to listen and find more feasible solutions that work for businesses and employees alike.' Wendy Block, senior vice president of business advocacy, Michigan Chamber of Commerce 'This plan is a common-sense win for Michigan's small businesses, restaurant workers, and economy. Servers and bartenders made it clear they want to keep the tip credit, and we heard them loud and clear. This legislation ensures they can continue earning strong wages while also giving small businesses the stability they need to thrive. This should never have come down to the last minute, but I'm glad we were able to come together and get it done. We fought to make sure Michigan's workforce is protected, small businesses can keep their doors open, and families don't lose their livelihoods due to reckless policies. This bipartisan solution does just that.' State Rep. Sarah Lightner (R-45) 'My House Republican colleagues and I made this issue our main priority to begin the term, introducing legislation to protect small businesses before we did anything else. While the bills we passed this evening ensure Michigan's small business community avoids disaster, we have a far-diminished restoration of reasonable wage and paid leave requirements because of the Senate Democrats. I've said before that the Supreme Court-mandated law changes were not supported by the voters, their elected representatives, or anyone in the small business community, so it makes no sense to me that Democrats would try to retain so much of those mandates. As frustrating as it is that they would not listen to the voice of the people, I'm glad we were at least able to get a deal done to prevent disaster thanks to Republicans' consistent efforts.' State Rep. Jason Woolford (R-Howell) 'This is a common-sense solution that puts workers first while recognizing the challenges our small businesses face. Servers, bartenders, and restaurant owners told us loud and clear that they wanted to keep the tipping system intact, and we listened. At the same time, we made sure employees can take needed time off without placing an impossible burden on job providers. This is about fairness — fairness for the workers who rely on tips, fairness for the small businesses that keep our communities thriving, and fairness for every employer trying to provide good jobs while keeping their doors open. I'm glad we could come together on a responsible, bipartisan plan that works for everyone.' State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz (R-Jackson) 'I am going to be real frank and direct here — the earned sick leave and minimum wage legislation does not go far enough to deliver the relief that Michiganders deserve and need. The policy falls short of giving folks — many of whom live paycheck to paycheck — a fair sick time policy and solid worker protections. House Republicans refused to consider pro-worker changes supported by myself and Mothering Justice, the organization that has fought this fight for the working people of Michigan since day instance, as passed, the policy takes away worker's right to sue an employer if they screw over the employee — this lacks the teeth needed to give workers necessary tools to protect themselves. I remain committed to fighting for hardworking Michiganders — the very people who keep this state strong — and will never stop being in their corner. The fight is not over.' State Rep. Tonya Myers Phillips (D-Detroit) 'Workers and small businesses should be allowed to have paid leave options that work for them. The Michigan Supreme Court's ruling from last summer would have imposed a rigid, one-size-fits-all mandate on job providers no matter how big or small they are, and some businesses actually would have had to offer worse leave options with what the Court decided. These reforms will provide clarity and cut red tape so family-owned businesses can focus on serving their customers and supporting their hardworking employees. House Republicans led the charge to restore the tipped wage for restaurant workers and fix the sick time law for our workers and small businesses. After months of inaction last term, it was time for the Legislature to come together and listen to those who were going to be impacted by the Court's ruling once it became effective on Feb. 21. It was time to deliver solutions so that jobs weren't lost and local businesses that have been in our communities for decades didn't have to close for good. These compromises aren't perfect, but heading off the absolute chaos that would have been caused had the Court's ruling gone into effect is a big win for workers, businesses and our economy.' State Rep. Bill G. Schuette (R-Midland) 'Negotiations have resulted in a bicameral, bipartisan compromise that will incrementally increase wages and earned sick time for most of Michigan's workers — but this is just one small step in the bigger picture of providing workers what they deserve. Frankly, our work is not done — too many hardworking people are one flat tire, roof leak or broken arm away from facing a life-changing hardship. A central part of our vision as House Democrats is paving a path to give families and workers more breathing room and day to day stability. We heard loud and clear that people want lower costs and higher wages; they want life to be more affordable; folks need more opportunities to thrive — my Democratic colleagues and I couldn't agree more, which is why we are going to keep showing up every day to deliver results for the people.' State Rep. Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. 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Yahoo
06-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Senate opens debate on looming changes to paid sick leave in Michigan
The Michigan Senate opened its debate Wednesday over looming changes to Michigan's paid sick leave policy set to take effect later this month, hearing testimony on legislation that would roll back some of the requirements for employers. The changes are brought on by a 2024 Michigan Supreme Court ruling that found the state Legislature, controlled by Republicans at the time, acted unconstitutionally in 2018 when it adopted a pair of voter initiatives on minimum wage and paid sick leave and then later amended them in the same legislative session. The approaching increase to Michigan's minimum wage — set to rise to $12.48 an hour on Feb. 21 — has garnered significant attention in Lansing, as restaurant industry groups and tipped workers have descended on the Capitol to ask lawmakers to maintain the tipped minimum wage, set to be gradually phased out. Paid sick time policies have not been as hotly contested, but are also set to undergo significant changes in Michigan on the same day. Under the pending changes, employees in Michigan will earn one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. Businesses with 10 or more employees will have to allow workers to use up to 72 hours of paid sick leave if accrued. Businesses with fewer than 10 employees will have to allow workers to use up to 40 hours of paid sick leave if accrued, and up to 32 hours of unpaid sick leave. The new rules won't apply to workers employed by the federal government. Senate Bill 15, sponsored by Sen. Sam Singh, D-East Lansing, would instead require businesses with more than 25 employees, versus 10, to allow workers to accrue up to 72 hours of paid sick time, as a minimum. Businesses with fewer than 25 employees would be classified as small businesses and have to allow workers to accrue up to 40 hours of paid sick time and another 32 hours of unpaid sick time. The bill would also allow businesses to front-load sick time at the start of each year, rather than requiring employees to accrue it. If an employer pays out unused sick time at the end of the year, employees would be allowed to carry over up to 144 accrued hours. If the employer doesn't pay out remaining sick time, employees would be able to carry over up to 288 hours. Advocates for an expanded paid sick leave policy in Michigan argue that by enabling workers to have stable sick time, they are able to care for themselves or their loved ones without having to worry about missing out on wages. Proponents also argue that providing paid sick time would discourage employees from coming into work when they are sick, which could expose coworkers or customers to an illness. They oppose the changes. Danielle Atkinson, founder and executive director of Mothering Justice, a group that led the original ballot initiative in 2018, said rolling back paid sick time requirements for businesses with 25 employees or less "would be stripping workers of their hard-won rights." She asked legislators to take a "wait and act approach" with paid sick time in Michigan rather than preemptively roll back the law. There are concerns from some business owners about the new requirements being untenable, however. David Robb, owner of Express Employment Professionals in Grand Rapids, said employers are particularly employed with administrative requirements under the new law, particularly having to track accrual of paid sick time. 'They want to support their employees, they want to provide sick leave and paid time off, but they want it in a way that makes sense as an employer, they want it in a way that's competitive with other states, and a way that's competitive as well," Robb said. Legislation has been introduced in both the House and Senate to change sick time and minimum wage policies. The GOP-controlled House passed a pair of bills in January that would establish new guidelines for both policies, but the Senate, led by Democrats, has not been as quick to move. Along with SB 15, Senate Bill 8, a measure that would preserve Michigan's tipped minimum wage while increasing the standard minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2027, was introduced by Sen. Kevin Hertel, D-St. Clair Shores. During a Committee on Regulatory Affairs hearing Wednesday, Sen. Roger Hauck, R-Mount Pleasant, made a motion to report the House GOP-backed plan for paid sick leave and minimum wage, House Bills 4001 and 4002, to the full Senate floor, but was unsuccessful. The committee did not take testimony on SB 8 Wednesday due to time constraints. Sen. Jeremy Moss, D-Southfield, said the committee would take it up and take further testimony on SB 15 next week. Committee deliberation is the first step in the legislative process, as bills typically are advanced through committee before being brought to the floor to be voted on by the full chamber. It's not clear the bill will advance for a vote before state law changes on Feb. 21. Sen. Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, D-Grand Rapids, said Monday the chamber is engaged in conversations with stakeholders about the new policies. "We certainly have had a lot of conversations around these bills," Brinks said. "We have bills introduced. We will continue to have those conversations." Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, following an event Wednesday morning in Grand Rapids, told reporters she's met with legislative leaders repeatedly to discuss pending changes to paid sick time and minimum wage laws in Michigan, noting, "This deadline is looming, and we've got to follow the law. "They've got to work together," Whitmer said. "It's a Republican-controlled House now and a Democratic-controlled Senate. I think that there probably is common ground to be had, and we're trying to encourage those conversations to move along." Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@ This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Paid sick leave in Michigan: Senate committee opens debate on bill
