LENAWEE CO. — According to a new report, Michigan workers could see stronger job protections under a just cause employment standard instead of the state’s current at-will system.
The Public News Service is reporting most workers in Michigan can be fired for almost any reason, or no reason at all. The findings come as the state recorded more than 213,000 job openings and 68,000 layoffs in October 2025.
Policy analyst Kathy Lara of the Oregon Center for Public Policy authored the report. She argues that at-will employment can pressure workers to accept unsafe conditions, wage issues, or management hostility out of fear of losing their jobs.
The report says a just cause standard would require employers to document legitimate reasons for termination, follow clear disciplinary steps, and provide protections against retaliation.
Supporters say many union members, public sector employees, and high-level executives already work under similar standards through contracts.
Backers argue the policy could provide more stability for workers and reduce the financial shock of sudden job loss.