New Paid Sick Leave Law: What It Means for AFC Homes in Michigan

Starting February 21, 2025, Adult Foster Care (AFC) Homes and other small businesses operating in Michigan are subject to new paid sick leave requirements. While this change aims to support employees, it raises concerns for AFC licensed home providers, group homes for disabled adults, and others in the adult foster care community.

What the Original Law Requires

Under the initial version of the law, AFC home owners face significant challenges, including:

• Businesses with one or more employees must comply.
• Employers cannot require a doctor’s note for absences shorter than three days.
• Additional financial and staffing burdens could threaten the sustainability of adult foster care homes.

Many AFC providers worry about the strain this would place on their ability to offer quality care while remaining in compliance.

House Bill 4002: A Crucial Update for AFC Homes

Fortunately, House Bill 4002 (HB4002) was recently passed to address these concerns. The key changes include:
✅ The enforcement threshold increased from businesses with one employee to 50 or more employees.
✅ Employees must follow their employer’s usual notice and documentation requirements when requesting leave.
✅ Additional clarifications to support both employers and employees.

What’s Next?

HB4002 now moves to the Senate for approval. Without these changes, the regulation could:
🚨 Place an unsustainable burden on AFC providers and other caregiving businesses.
🚨 Increase the challenge of maintaining high-quality senior care and foster care for adults with disabilities.
🚨 Cause financial strain, potentially forcing adult residential homes to shut down.

How AFC Owners Can Take Action

To help ensure these changes are approved, AFC home owners should contact their local State Senator and express support for HB4002.

📞 Contact the Michigan Senate: Find Your Senator Here
📧 Email Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks: SenWBrinks@senate.michigan.gov
📱 Call: 517-373-1801 or 855-DIST029 (855-347-8029)

What to Say

1. Tell Your Story – Explain why you started your adult foster care home business and how you support vulnerable adults.
2. Highlight the Impact – Share how these changes will help you continue providing excellent care.

Supporting AFC Homes Through Advocacy

At Care Provider Solutions, we are committed to advocating for AFC home providers and supporting them through mentoring for adult foster care providers, training, and expert guidance.

📢 Stay informed and take action to protect the future of AFC homes in Michigan!

🔗 Learn More About How We Support AFC Owners: Care Provider Solutions