| | | | | | Hello HR Friends!
As we step into (snowy) November, I’m still feeling the momentum from our outstanding 2025 MISHRM Conference just a few weeks ago. My how time flies. The energy surrounding the conference was filled with thoughtful conversations, packed sessions and a strong sense of community among HR professionals from every corner of Michigan. Thank you for bringing your curiosity, your expertise and your commitment to elevating our field.
This time of year also invites us to slow down and pay attention to the humans around us. With recent shutdowns impacting families and workplaces across the state, many of our colleagues, friends and neighbors are carrying more than what’s visible at first glance. As HR professionals, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to lead with compassion, extend grace and keep people at the center of every conversation and decision. A little intentional care goes a long way in strengthening both our workplaces and our communities.
As you begin mapping out your priorities for 2026, remember that you have an entire network of partners ready to support you. Our SHRM Michigan Resource Partners represent some of the best organizations in talent strategy, benefits and wellness, compliance, technology solutions, leadership development and more. They’re here to help you build strong, people-centered plans for the year ahead. Click here to see our Resource Partner list.
Thank you for all you do to support people, strengthen organizations and lead with heart across Michigan. Let’s finish 2025 with clarity, momentum and a renewed commitment to being intentional with how we care and connect with the humans in our lives.
Thankful for each of you, Monica Lloyd State Director, MISHRM | | | | Special Events for SHRM Michigan Chapters, Volunteers, & Resource Partners | | | | | | | | | | | | Happy 56th Anniversary to Kalamazoo HR Management Association! | | | | Happy 19th Anniversary to Livingston Area HR Association! | | | | Happy 48th Anniversary to Traverse City HR Association! | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Contributed by: James Reid IV, Esq. SHRM Michigan Legislative Affairs Director | | Please see Honigman’s legal updates attached and below for the MISHRM Vine publication. - As the end of 2025 approaches, employers that sponsor retirement plans should “catch-up” on their operational and plan document compliance requirements. The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 (SECURE 2.0) introduced numerous mandatory and optional provisions for retirement plan sponsors to consider (many of which are already in effect). In addition, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently published long anticipated final regulations related to two catch-up contribution provisions enacted under SECURE 2.0. Although plan amendments are generally not required until December 31, 2026, plan sponsors must ensure operational compliance with SECURE 2.0’s catch-up provisions by January 1, 2026. This alert highlights certain aspects of the final regulations related to catch-up contributions and provides reminders related to upcoming plan amendment deadlines for catch-up contributions and certain other applicable laws.
Fifth Circuit Decision Puts NLRB’s Constitutional Structure in Doubt
- The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has issued a major constitutional ruling that could reshape the National Labor Relations Board’s (“NLRB” or “Board”) authority and the limits of executive oversight. In an August 19, 2025 opinion, the court affirmed injunctions preventing the NLRB from pursuing unfair labor practice actions against SpaceX and two other employers, concluding that key aspects of the Board’s structure likely violate Article II of the U.S. Constitution.
Read More: https://www.honigman.com/alert-3104
USCIS Provides Some Answers, Raises New Questions About the $100,000 H-1B Fee - On October 20, 2025, USCIS updated its H-1B Specialty Occupations webpage with new information on the implementation of the presidential proclamation, Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers. Issued on September 19, 2025, the proclamation levies a $100,000 fee on certain H-1B petitions filed at or after 12:01 a.m. EDT on September 21, 2025. The new fee is part of a broader reform effort aimed at the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program.
Read More: https://www.honigman.com/alert-3115 | | | | | | Contributed by: Verna Ginyard SHRM Michigan Diversity Director | | Pay Equity
Pay equity ensures that employees receive equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender, race, or other characteristics. This involves conducting pay audits, addressing wage disparities, and implementing transparent pay practices. Organizations that promote pay equity can improve employee morale, reduce turnover, and attract top talent. For additional resources, check out:
Ensuring pay equity is not only a matter of fairness but also a strategic business decision. When employees feel that they are compensated fairly, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated in their work. This can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction, as well as reduced turnover and absenteeism. By addressing pay disparities, organizations can create a more equitable and supportive work environment.
Additionally, promoting pay equity can enhance an organization's reputation and attract top talent. Companies that are known for their commitment to fair pay are often viewed more favorably by job seekers, particularly those from underrepresented groups. This can lead to a more diverse and talented workforce, which can drive innovation and improve business outcomes. By prioritizing pay equity, organizations can achieve long-term success and create a more inclusive workplace.
Quotes: “When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.” – Jimi Hendrix
Our 4th Quarter MISHRM Diversity Chapter Leaders and Friends meeting will be on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 @ 6p. If you are interested in attending our meeting, here is the Zoom Link
Meeting ID: 830 1569 8577 Passcode: 3pB2B0
I look forward to connecting with you.
If there are Diversity topics you would like to explore or questions you have, do not hesitate to reach out to me – Verna Ginyard at v2ginyard@gmail.com. The best way to reach me is 313-418-3294. | | | | | | Contributed by: Sharon Ragland-Keys SHRM Michigan SHRM Foundation Director | | Your Donations Make a Difference Support the SHRM Foundation and Earn Recognition for Your Chapter and SHRM Michigan
Did you know that when you make a personal donation to the SHRM Foundation and select SHRM Michigan as your state council along with your local SHRM chapter, your contribution not only supports HR professionals nationwide, but also helps both your chapter and SHRM Michigan earn Award Recognition Credits and increase their total contribution totals?
Each donation, large or small, strengthens the HR community across Michigan and beyond. These contributions directly support the SHRM Foundation’s mission to empower HR professionals through scholarships, grants, and initiatives that drive inclusive workplaces and elevate the future of HR.
Every donation helps us make meaningful investments in the future of work, and when members select both their chapter and SHRM Michigan, they’re doubling the impact of their generosity.
By giving through the SHRM Foundation, you’re not only making a personal impact, you’re also helping your chapter and SHRM Michigan achieve their Foundation recognition goals, which in turn strengthens resources and opportunities for HR professionals throughout the state.
Make your impact today!
If you have any questions about recognition credits, contact me at Cell: 734.576.0867 Email: sragland_keys@jovie.com
Visit donate.shrmfoundation.org and select Michigan SHRM State Council and your local chapter when making your donation. Together, we can empower HR professionals, elevate our chapters, and continue building a stronger HR community across Michigan. | | | | | | | | Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan | | | | Be smart about employee health this flu season
Staying healthy prevents a burden on your employees and your business. As flu season approaches, share our employer toolkit with your members to encourage employees to get their flu shot, and read a quick article for answers to common flu FAQs: 6 Things Everyone Should Know About the Flu Shot
If you have questions, reach out to AssociationandChamberRelations@bcbsm.com. | | | | | | | | | | Are your leaders pouring from an empty cup? Need a cost-effective way to develop and re-energize your team? Want your organization’s leaders surrounded by a network they can learn from and lean on?
The AMPLIFY Leadership Conference is built for your entire leadership team. This one-day, high-impact experience gives leaders at every level the clarity, confidence and connection they need to start 2026 strong.
Send your emerging leaders, your middle managers and your seasoned pros. They will hear from dynamic speakers, learn practical tools they can use immediately and build relationships with peers across industries. It is affordable, energizing and designed to create a shared language and spark across your organization.
Early bird tickets are available through November 30. If leadership development is part of your 2026 plan, now is the time to secure seats for your team.
Learn more at amplifyleadershipconference.com | | | | | | | | As you look toward 2026, what are your top priorities?
Setting a new, proactive tone for the new year starts with understanding the current state of your employees’ engagement. A truly engaged team is the foundation of success, driving productivity and innovation. But gaining clear, actionable insights into employee sentiment can be a significant challenge. As of May 2025, only 32% of U.S. employees are engaged according to Gallup.
At Rehmann, we partner with HR professionals like you to navigate these complexities. We provide the tools and expertise to move from data to strategy, helping you build a more connected and motivated workplace. Our employee engagement survey is the first step in this collaborative process. Your journey toward a more engaged team begins HERE
Feel free to reach out to Elizabeth Williams at Elizabeth.Williams@rehmann.com to talk further. | | | | | | | | | | Yeo & Yeo HR Advisory Solutions (Amy Cell Talent) Upcoming Events
HR 360° Gap Analysis:
Discover how strong your HR foundation really is with our complimentary HR 360° Gap Analysis Assessment. In just 15–20 minutes, gain a comprehensive snapshot of your organization’s HR health from compliance and recruiting to performance management and development. Once completed, you’ll receive a complimentary 30-minute virtual review with a Yeo & Yeo HR Advisory Solutions specialist to uncover insights, spot gaps, and explore actionable next steps. Click here to begin your assessment today.
AMPLIFY Leadership Development On-Demand
Start your leadership journey with the AMPLIFY program—now available in a flexible six-month format that fits your schedule. Through personalized coaching, on-demand learning, and guided reflection, you’ll build self-awareness, strengthen your leadership skills, and gain clarity and confidence to lead with purpose. Every component is designed to meet you where you are and help you reach your next level of leadership. Click here to learn more. | | | | Reminders & Updates from SHRM | | | | | | SHRM Michigan Text Messages | | Stay up to date on the latest news and events from MISHRM Text GO to (248)422-0353 Reply YES in all CAPS to join! | | What you can expect from us: - Notifications about important MISHRM Events and Details
- State Conference Information
- VLS Information
- Breaking HR News
- No more than 2 messages a month
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We want to hear from you! MISHRM welcomes your submissions for our monthly newsletter. We currently have over 15,000 subscribers! Guidelines are meant to streamline the submission process for everyone.
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SUBMISSIONS GUIDELINES: All submissions must be in either a word document with images (if any) sent separately as a .jpg file or a PDF document. If any links are incorporated, please test to ensure they are working. If your submission is lengthy, please provide a 1-2 sentences overview and we will link to the supporting document or website link for readers to click for more information. Simplicity is key.
SUBMISSIONS DUE 1ST OF THE MONTH: All submissions must be received no later than the 1st of the month to be considered for that month’s newsletter. Please send to info@mishrm.org.
NEWSLETTERS PUBLISHED 2ND WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH: Newsletters are published each month the 2nd Wednesday of the month so please watch dates as you submit content to ensure the date is relevant.
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