Safely Restarting Michigan’s Economic Engine

As Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-42 (“Temporary Requirement to Suspend Activities That Are Not Necessary to Sustain or Protect Life”) extends to April 30, MMA is focused on building a path to bringing the manufacturing base back to full strength.

To speak effectively with policymakers, including both the Legislature and the Whitmer Administration, the plan for powering up Michigan’s broad manufacturing sector must reflect the interests and concerns of all manufacturers large and small, from different regions of the state and in all types of industries. The message must balance workplace safety with the need get the economy started again.

To ensure that the plan reflects your company’s unique needs, MMA is reaching out to members through multiple methods to seek your input on ways to get your operation back in business. We have set up this short survey to compile responses and would appreciate your help in identifying challenges, needs and best practices for scaling up your company’s operations.

New & Notable
MSF Approves Relaxed Repayment Requirements

Earlier this week, the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board approved a plan to permit businesses participating in financing agreements with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to qualify for a 12-month deferral of repayment requirements under certain circumstances related to COVID-19.

The MSF Awardee Relief Initiative is intended to provide temporary support to MSF borrowers, grantees and other incentive awardees affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

OSHA Guidance on Recording COVID-19 Cases

The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued guidance for recording COVID-19 cases under injury and illness recordkeeping requirements. While cases of COVID-19 remain a recordable incident, employers will only be required to report cases that are work-related. Specifically, there must be objective evidence that a case may be work-related and the evidence must be reasonably available to the employer. This guidance is a welcome improvement for employers in the face of widespread community transmission.

MIOSHA has also released a new online form for use in reporting workplace injuries and illnesses.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MMA Supports Additional Funding for Paycheck Protection Program

Together with a broad coalition of Michigan businesses large and small, MMA is urging the Michigan Congressional delegation to work swiftly to provide additional funding for the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) which has provided critical funding for small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While Congress struggles to build consensus of a fourth legislative package to support people and companies suffering in the crisis, funding initially provided for the PPP program was officially exhausted this week. Michigan companies have received more than $8.5 million to date.

No Penalties or Interest on Late Michigan Sales, Use and Withholding Taxes

The Michigan Department of Treasury is waiving penalty and interest for 30 days for late payment of monthly and quarterly sales, use and withholding taxes due on 4/20/20. Monthly and quarterly returns and payments should be submitted by 5/20/20. This action extends to payments and returns that were due on 3/20/20 as well.

Resources for Manufacturers

Access MMAMMA’s COVID-19 Resources to stay updated and obtain new resources for developing and accessing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Please continue to reach out to the MMA team with questions.