ABC of Michigan News Releases

For Immediate Release:
December 7, 2016

Contact:
Jeff Wiggins
517.853.2545


LANSING, MI – The Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan today applauded the passage of House Bills 4630 and 4643, legislation that protects the rights of Michigan job creators and those exercising their right to free speech. 

HB 4630, sponsored by State Representative Amanda Price (R-Park Township), would eliminate language from statute that previously forced employers to notify applicants if a position they were applying for was made available due to labor strikes or lockouts. The bill codifies a 1984 Michigan Court of Appeals ruling declaring the requirement unconstitutional. 

“The Michigan Court of Appeals found the language to be a violation of our state Constitution,” said Jeff Wiggins, State Director of ABC of Michigan. “This legislation makes it clear that Michigan job creators have one less burdensome, unnecessary mandate to worry about.” 

The other bill, HB 4643, sponsored by State Representative Gary Glenn (R-Midland), strengthens current law that penalizes illegal picketing activity that directly hinders or prevents a business’s activity, while also protecting private residences and the families that live there from similar illegal activity. 

“A person exercising their right to free speech does not have the right to break the law and trample on the rights of others,” said Wiggins. “The rule of law ensures that the rights of all citizens, whether they are Michigan business owners, workers, or private citizens exercising free speech, are protected. HB 4643 reinforces that principle.” 

The bills now head to the Michigan Senate for consideration. 


Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan is a statewide association serving Michigan's commercial and industrial construction sectors. Founded on the merit shop philosophy to provide equal opportunities to all contractors and all workers, ABC of Michigan works with three state chapters to help members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work.