This week I introduced legislation that will stop discrimination faced by employees who have to miss work due to their service in the Michigan Civil Air Patrol. The legislation has bi-partisan support, with 15 senators signing on as co-sponsors.
Senate Bill 794 creates the Civil Air Patrol Employee Protection Act. The act aims to protect from undue discipline or even discharge of workers who are called up during emergency situations. The legislation also provides a means for employees to bring a lawsuit against an employer who levies unreasonable punishments or even dismissal.
In addition, the Civil Air Patrol Employee Protection Act would allow employers to consider time spent serving in the air patrol as unpaid time off, thereby adhering to previously negotiated collective bargaining agreements.
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When Michigan is most in need, selfless individuals like those members of the Michigan Civil Air Patrol step forward and offer their skills and expertise to save those in trouble. The idea that these hard-working employees could be disciplined for making such a selfless sacrifice is reprehensible. This legislation will protect them from unwarranted discipline and dismissal by employers.
SB794 has been referred to the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs and Homeland Security Committee.
