Advocacy News – Oct. 8. 2026
What’s happening: The Michigan State Supreme Court kicked off its 2026-2027 term this week with consequential cases on the docket that could expand liability risk and increase costs for Michigan employers.
Two cases to watch:
- Johnson v. Best Buy Co. Inc: Could make it harder for employers to enforce arbitration agreements, which allow workplace disputes to be resolved outside the courtroom.
- Molitoris v. Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church: Could further expand liability for property owners, even further beyond the scope of the Court’s 2023 ruling that overturned our state’s longstanding protections involving “open and obvious” hazards.
Why it Matters: For decades, Michigan was long viewed as a gold standard legal climate for job providers large and small. But recent rulings from the high court have upended that and landed Michigan on national “Judicial Hellhole” lists by the American Tort Reform Foundation for the last three years.
What we’re doing: The Michigan Chamber is actively advocating for a fair, predictable legal climate.
- In the courtroom: We joined with other business groups in filing an amicus brief in Johnson v. Best Buy, defending the enforceability of employment arbitration agreements.
- At the capitol: We’re championing HB 4582 to restore important property owner protections affected by the Court’s 2023 ruling.
The bottom line: Michigan employers need clear, consistent legal standards – not greater uncertainty and exposure to costly, frivolous lawsuits.We’ll be relentless in working to advance a fair legal climate and will keep members informed as these cases move forward.
Get involved: Contact Chamber General Counsel Randy Gross to learn how your legal counsel can participate in our legal reform committee.