Employment Law Aid

Michigan Employment Law: ELCRA Worker Rights & Protections (2026)

Updated 2026-12-27
Fact Checked

Quick Answer

Comprehensive guide to Michigan employment law covering ELCRA discrimination protections, wage laws, paid sick leave, and worker rights.

Michigan provides worker protections through the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) and recently enacted paid sick leave requirements. Understanding these rights is essential for Michigan workers.


Quick Facts: Michigan Employment Law

Topic Michigan Federal
Discrimination Law ELCRA (all employers) Title VII (15+)
Minimum Wage $10.56/hour $7.25/hour
Paid Sick Leave Yes (2024 ruling) No
At-Will Employment Yes (with exceptions) Default
Filing Deadline 3 years (court) 300 days (EEOC)

Key Michigan Protections

Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA)

Covers all employers:

  • Race, color, national origin
  • Religion, sex
  • Age
  • Height, weight
  • Marital status
  • Sexual orientation, gender identity (2023 interpretation)

Paid Medical Leave Act

Michigan requires paid sick leave (restored 2024 court ruling).


Wage and Hour Laws

Minimum Wage

$10.56/hour (2026)

  • Adjusts annually
  • Tipped minimum: $4.01/hour

Overtime

Time-and-a-half after 40 hours per workweek.


Filing Complaints

Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR)

Phone: 800-482-3604 Website: michigan.gov/mdcr

EEOC Detroit Field Office

Phone: 1-800-669-4000


Related Resources


Legal Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Michigan employment law and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed Michigan employment attorney.

Official Resources:

  • Michigan Department of Civil Rights: michigan.gov/mdcr{rel="nofollow"} | 800-482-3604
  • EEOC: eeoc.gov{rel="nofollow"} | 1-800-669-4000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA)?
Covers all employers: Race, color, national origin Religion, sex Age Height, weight Marital status Sexual orientation, gender identity (2023 interpretation)
What is paid Medical Leave Act?
Michigan requires paid sick leave (restored 2024 court ruling).
What is minimum Wage?
$10.56/hour (2026) Adjusts annually Tipped minimum: $4.01/hour
What is michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR)?
Phone: 800-482-3604 Website: michigan.gov/mdcr
What is eEOC Detroit Field Office?
Phone: 1-800-669-4000

Legal Disclaimer

The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Employment laws vary by state and change frequently. For advice specific to your situation, consult a licensed employment attorney in your state. Employment Law Aid is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation. No attorney-client relationship is created by using this website.