What will Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) mean for trucking companies?
How can you prepare for the February 21 deadline—especially when the law might still change?
Right now, trucking companies across Michigan are trying to figure out what this new law requires. ESTA could force major changes in how driver hours are tracked, even for those paid by the mile or load. But lawmakers are still debating changes, and no one knows for sure what will happen.
In this article, we’ll break down what you need to know about ESTA, what it currently requires, and how to prepare—no matter what happens next. Plus, you’ll find a link to join our urgent webinar on February 19 to get the latest updates before the deadline.
- Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
- Time: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM EST
- Location: Online
What ESTA Requires from Trucking Companies
Under the current law, ESTA mandates that:
- Employees earn 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked
- Workers can use up to 72 hours of paid sick leave per year
- Employers must track hours worked—even for drivers paid per mile or load
This tracking requirement presents a major challenge for the trucking industry, where most drivers are not paid hourly and traditional payroll systems do not track work hours.
Why This Matters for Trucking Companies
Time is running out, and trucking companies must act now. The Michigan Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) is set to take effect on February 21, 2025.
That means:
- If the law stays the same, you have to comply immediately.
- If lawmakers make last-minute changes, you’ll need to adjust fast.
- If you’re not ready, you could face penalties or legal trouble.
Waiting is not an option. The safest move is to prepare now based on the current law while keeping an eye on any updates. Don’t get caught off guard.
How to Prepare for ESTA Compliance
Even in this uncertain environment, trucking companies must take action now:
- Audit your payroll system – Can it track driver hours?
- Consider a timekeeping solution – Mobile tracking tools make compliance easier.
- Train your team – Drivers and office staff need to understand how hours will be recorded.
- Stay informed – Monitor legislative updates and prepare for possible last-minute changes.
The ESTA Deadline Is Almost Here – Get the Latest Updates Now!
Join Superior Trucking Payroll Service for a FREE urgent webinar on February 19, 2025, to learn:
- What ESTA requires right now
- What could change at the last minute
- How to prepare your company before it’s too late
- Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
- Time: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM EST
- Location: Online
Written by Melisa Bush
With over 15 years of experience in the trucking industry, Melisa is well-versed in the complexities of trucking payroll and adept at navigating special circumstances. Before joining Superior Trucking Payroll Service, Melisa worked at a trucking company, where she managed driver miles and expenses for a fleet of 50 trucks. This hands-on experience gives her unique insight into the challenges our clients face when preparing their payroll data.
Melisa’s top priority is customer service. She strives to treat each client as an individual with genuine needs, rather than just another number in the system. Her goal is to alleviate the burdens of our clients and make their daily operations smoother.