Title
Resolution in Support of Ordinance to Add a New Section 9.155.1 to Chapter 112 (Non-Discrimination) (Right to Sit)
Staff
Reviewed by: Margaret Radabaugh, Deputy City Attorney
Atleen Kaur, City Attorney
Milton Dohoney Jr., City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The Right to Sit at work is a fundamental human right, included as a provision in the International Labour Organization's "Hygiene (Commerce and Offices) Convention," 1964, an international treaty being ratified by 52 countries, not including the U.S., as of 20231;
Whereas, The Right to Sit was historically protected in the U.S. under labor regulations in almost all states, and ensured employees could sit during their work hours when it did not interfere with their job duties2; and
Whereas, This right was intended to protect the health and well-being of workers, particularly women and those in physically demanding and low-wage jobs;
Whereas, The Right to Sit was diminished with the weakening of labor standards over time, resulting in inconsistent protections across states;
Whereas, The State of Michigan repealed its Right to Sit law in 1975, leaving many workers vulnerable to unhealthy and unjust working conditions where they are denied the ability to sit during their work hours3;
Whereas, The denial of the Right to Sit is not only a labor rights issue but also a human rights issue, as it impacts the dignity, health, and well-being of workers4;
Whereas, The Right to Sit is also a disability rights issue, as standing for prolonged periods can exacerbate or lead to disabilities5, disproportionately affecting those with existing conditions;
Whereas, Protecting the Right to Sit is a crucial step towards ensuring equitable, fair, and humane working conditions for all employees in the City of Ann Arbor;
Whereas, The passage of the Right to Sit ordinance is strongly supported by labor unions, including the Huron Valley AFL-CIO and Laborers Local 499;
Whereas, The Ann Arbor City Council...
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