Michigan Democrats believe we must put people first during these challenging times in our state. We're facing record unemployment, a poor economy and an uncertain future. Our plan includes five proposals that put people first -- ahead of the greedy, corporate CEOs who are responsible for our economic meltdown.
We have more than 1.2 million people in this state who do not have health insurance. These uninsured either get no care or flood our emergency rooms for health care, forcing higher premiums for those who are insured.
To help solve this problem the Michigan Democratic Party proposes that all employers in Michigan be required to provide affordable, quality health care for their employees and dependents or pay a penalty. This proposal would not only save businesses money in the long run with better, healthier workers, but would save all residents money due to lower insurance premiums.
A worker who is earning the current minimum wage of $7.40 an hour while supporting a family of four is living below the poverty level. This is unacceptable. The minimum wage should be increased to $10 an hour. Higher wages would provide an economic stimulus as this money is spent in our communities -- helping business to grow.
Someone who is working 40-plus hours per week should not be earning below poverty-level wages. Study after study has proven that raising the minimum wage would not deter job creation in our state. In fact, it would do the opposite. These higher wages would allow businesses to save money long-term by having a less transient and more stable workforce.
Nearly 750,000 people are unemployed, but one-third of them do not receive unemployment benefits. Anyone who is unemployed through no fault of their own should receive these benefits. Increasing unemployment benefits by $100 a week would help our struggling families and provide a boost to our economy. We should also extend the amount of time the unemployed can receive those benefits by six months. This gives these citizens more time to find jobs, or get training, and stay in Michigan.
Electric rates alone have skyrocketed more than 30 percent in the last six years. Cutting utility rates by 20 percent would be a significant savings to both consumers and businesses. We read too many stories of people suffering and dying due to utility shut-offs because of unpaid bills. This is an unnecessary burden for our citizens and businesses and it's hurting our economy.
A one-year moratorium on home foreclosures would allow tens of thousands facing foreclosure to work out the problem by refinancing their mortgage or renting their home. Foreclosed homes affect all of us -- depressing everyone's property values and creating eyesores and havens for criminal activity.
We can't forget people during this difficult time. We must be willing to offer a helping hand. It's not reckless to put the people of Michigan first -- it is the right thing to do.
About the author: Mark Brewer is chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party.
About the forum: The forum is a periodic column of opinion written by Record-Eagle readers in their areas of interest or expertise. Submissions of 500 words or less may be made by e-mailing letters@record-eagle.com. Please include biographical information and a photo.
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