LANSING (WWJ) -- Michigan residents who are unemployed could get $1,000 from the state for finding a job.
The “return to work” grants, which would cover up to 400,000 people in the state of Michigan, are part of a $12.7 billion COVID-19 relief plan proposed by the Michigan Legislature, according to the Associated Press.
The grants were included in supplemental budget bills that progressed in the Republican-led House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, though a deal is yet to be made with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer regarding the funding.
Complaints from businesses all around the state of Michigan have claimed that they are unable to find workers due to a lack of interest because of COVID-19 related unemployment benefits.
State Representative John Damoose (R), of Harbor Springs, says it's the same story in northern Michigan, and he encourages anyone who is able to work to start looking for a good job — part-time or full-time.
“Extended unemployment benefits have created a situation that has disincentivized many potential workers from seeking a job,” Damoose said in a statement. “As we continue to emerge out of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan businesses can come rebounding back, but it is going to take dedicated people and hard work to keep those businesses up and running.”