2026 House Resolution 362

Whereas, Employee Stock Ownership Plans, commonly known as ESOPs, provide employees with an opportunity to own stock in the companies where they work and to participate in the success of those businesses; and

Whereas, Employee Stock Ownership Plans have been established by thousands of businesses throughout the United States and provide an important form of employee ownership for millions of American workers; and

Whereas, Employee-owned businesses contribute to the strength and stability of local communities by providing opportunities for employees to build long-term financial assets through ownership in their companies; and

Whereas, Employee ownership can provide benefits to both businesses and their employees, including opportunities for employee participation, workforce development, and long-term financial planning; and

Whereas, Employee-owned companies contribute to Michigan’s economy by creating and retaining jobs and supporting businesses and communities throughout the state; and

Whereas, Employee ownership provides an opportunity for employees to share in the success of the businesses to which they contribute their time, skills, and dedication; and

Whereas, The success of employee-owned businesses in Michigan and throughout the nation merits recognition and provides an opportunity to highlight the contributions of employee owners, business owners, and employees to our state’s economy; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare October 2026 as Employee Ownership Month in the state of Michigan; and be it further

Resolved, That we recognize the contributions of employee-owned businesses and their employees to Michigan’s economy and encourage continued awareness of employee ownership as an option for businesses and their employees.