MI SB0904

Prohibits employers from wrongfully discharging employees except during a probationary period (maximum 6 months), which must be established and communicated before or at time of hire.

Establishes "just cause" requirement for termination after probationary period, defined as reasonable job-related grounds based on failure to perform duties, disruption of operations, or other legitimate business reasons; excludes legal use of lawful products during non-working hours off premises.

Requires employers to notify employees of workplace policies, conduct fair investigations before discharge, obtain substantial evidence of violations, and apply policies fairly and without discrimination when determining just cause.

Allows employees to file civil lawsuits within 2 years or complaints with the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity within 1 year, with potential damages including lost wages, fringe benefits, and punitive damages for retaliatory discharges.

Permits employers to impose administrative fines of up to $500 for willful violations; does not apply to employees with collective bargaining agreements already requiring just cause, and does not prevent employees from negotiating additional protections.