(CBS DETROIT) — Restaurant workers have mixed opinions about a new ruling from the Michigan Supreme Court which grants a minimum wage increase and paid sick leave to all Michigan workers.
Antoine Williams, a chef in Corktown, says he is skeptical of the new rules because he has seen similar situations before.
“Once everyone gets used to the new minimum wage and starts making more money, the economy will improve everything,” Williams said.
State Rep. John Roth of Interlocken believes the new laws disproportionately hit the restaurant industry and is calling on lawmakers to “take action to ensure that thousands of Michigan restaurant workers and businesses are not impacted by the decision.”
Christina Merski believes that restaurants and waitresses like herself will do well.
“I think we’re a pretty successful place and always super busy,” Merski told CBS News Detroit. “So I don’t think it would affect us, but of course you never really know until it happens.”
Merski, on the other hand, believes it will be a good thing for the industry.
“It makes people more likely to stay in the workforce, especially in the restaurant industry where you can just stop and find something new,” Merski said.
From the kitchen of his Italian restaurant in Corktown, Williams says he strongly disagrees.
“If [the economy] “If the minimum wage were to stay the same, yes, that would help,” Williams said. “But nine times out of 10, if the minimum wage goes up, everything goes up.”
The new laws will come into effect on February 21, 2025.
