Downriver Today

On March 29th, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed her 800th bipartisan bill during her term. House Bill 5286 is intended to enhance the welfare of Michigan construction workers as work is done to fix roads. 

The Governor further approved Senate Bills 465 and 466 contributing more funding for roads to local agencies. She also signed Senate Bill 618 which amends interest rates for qualified school bond loans, reducing costs to schools. Senator Michael MacDonald (R-Sterling Heights) praised the legislation.

“Senate Bill 466 is another step in helping to ensure we maximize our infrastructure funding potential and ensure we have the ability to fix our roads,” Senator MacDonald said. “I am proud of this bipartisan legislation and look forward to continuing to work towards creating a better Michigan for all citizens.”

Other elected officials praised the signings as well.

“This bill will ensure we are doing everything possible to keep our workers safe as they work to fix our roads,” Representative Mark Huizinga (R–Walker) said. “Having drivers reduce their speed when workers are present can decrease the likelihood of a tragic accident, but sometimes drivers don’t see the road crews until they are too close. By allowing for these modified signs, we can inform drivers about the presence of workers so they can follow the law and protect lives.”

Union leaders additionally supported the road legislation.

“Keeping our members safe while on the job is our top priority” Geno Alessandrini, business manager for the Michigan Laborers District Council, said. “House Bill 5286 takes important steps to reduce drivers' speed where our workers are repairing Michigan roads. This keeps both workers and drivers safe.”

Douglas W. Stockwell, Operating Engineers Local 324 Business Manager/General Vice President, added his voice to those of other union leaders supporting the legislation.

“We appreciate Governor Whitmer’s commitment to fixing the roads and making sure our workers are safe while doing so," Stockwell said. “House Bill 5286 will help improve worker safety as we work together to rebuild Michigan’s infrastructure.”