Lansing, MI – On June 7th, Governor Whitmer celebrated the State of Michigan’s ranking as a top ten employer for new graduates in Forbes’ “America’s Best Employers for New Graduates” list. The State of Michigan was ranked 8th out of the 300 total recognized organizations. The list is based on an independent survey of more than 20,000 young professionals in the United States from companies with at least 1,000 employees.  

“I am proud that the State of Michigan has been recognized as a top ten organization for new graduates to bring their talents, develop new skills, and start their careers,” said Governor Whitmer. “By enacting paid parental leave, increasing workplace protections, and boosting transparency, my administration has strived to ensure our state’s nearly 50,000-strong workforce has the support to thrive and serve the people of Michigan at the highest level. We will always ensure that State of Michigan employees have what they need to raise a family and ensure a solid quality of life in the state they serve.” 

Since being elected to office, Governor Whitmer has implemented new initiatives to build and strengthen the state’s workforce.   

Enacting Paid Parental Leave 

In February 2020, Governor Whitmer announced the State of Michigan would begin offering paid family leave. This commonsense, family-first approach provides 12 weeks of paid leave immediately following birth or adoption of a child to the near 50,000 State of Michigan employees. Governor Whitmer’s paid family leave policy celebrated its second anniversary this year. Since its implementation, nearly 2,000 civil servants have spent more time bonding with their children.  

Creating A More Welcoming Workplace 

In 2019, Governor Whitmer signed an executive order to enhance anti-discrimination laws in state employment, contracting, and provision of services.  

Improving Transparency 

In her 2019 State of the State Address, Governor Whitmer acknowledged the importance of government transparency and strong ethical standards. She signed a series of executive directives setting new rules for the executive branch. These reforms have led to the creation of the public “Sunshine” webpage, which includes the governor’s public calendars, federal income tax returns, and personal financial information.  

Empowering Employees 

The first executive directive of Governor Whitmer’s administration was signed to empower state employees to speak up about imminent threats to public health, safety, or welfare. It encourages openness and reassures workforce protections by law for state employees who speak up.  

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