Ann Arbor Proposes Right to Sit Law for Workers

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, a proposed law aims to grant workers the right to sit during their shifts when it does not interfere with their job responsibilities. This initiative was co-sponsored by City Councilwoman Ayesha Ghazi Edwin, who was motivated by her hairdresser's struggle with back pain and the inability to sit without a doctor's note. The law has been under consideration for a year and was introduced during a city council meeting on September 16, where community members shared their experiences of working through pain. Many service industry workers, including hairdressers and restaurant staff, have expressed the challenges of standing for long periods. Brittany Kelly, a hairdresser, noted that while her current salon allows her to sit, previous employers were less accommodating. Theresa Savisa, a general manager in the service industry, acknowledged that being on their feet is often part of the job, but emphasized the importance of breaks in a supportive work environment. The proposed law would allow employees to file discrimination complaints with the Human Rights Commission if they are denied the opportunity to sit when it does not hinder their work. This enforcement mechanism aims to protect workers' rights and promote better working conditions. The introduction of this law reflects a growing awareness of the physical toll that certain jobs can take on workers. By ensuring that employees have the right to sit, the city council hopes to improve workplace conditions and address health concerns associated with prolonged standing.