Michigan’s New Laws in 2026: Wage Hikes, Cannabis Taxes, and Major Consumer Protections
What Michigan residents need to know about sweeping legal changes taking effect in 2026.
As 2026 begins, a wide range of new laws are set to take effect in the state of Michigan, introducing direct changes to wages, taxes, the cannabis market, education, and consumer protection. These measures stem from legislation passed in 2024 and 2025 in response to economic conditions and growing social pressures, according to a report published by WDIV-TV, an NBC affiliate.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a new 24% wholesale tax on recreational cannabis starting January 1. This tax will be added to the existing retail cannabis tax and sales tax, with the goal of boosting state revenues to fund infrastructure and public services. However, officials have warned that higher prices could push some consumers back into the unregulated market.
Wage Hikes, Stronger Benefits, and Expanded Consumer Protections
On the cost-of-living front, Michigan’s minimum wage will increase from $12.48 to $13.73 per hour. Gradual wage increases for tipped workers will also take effect, improving incomes for thousands of workers while placing additional obligations on employers.
Unemployment benefits will also see notable increases. The maximum weekly benefit will rise to $530 from $446, along with improvements to dependent allowances. These changes are part of broader reforms to Michigan’s unemployment insurance system, marking the first major update to benefit levels in more than two decades.
In the area of consumer protection, a new “ticket bot” law will come into force, banning the use of automated software to purchase large quantities of event tickets for resale at inflated prices. The law grants the state attorney general authority to impose fines of up to $5,000 per violation.
Broad Legislative Overhaul Affects Multiple Sectors
The new laws also include changes across multiple sectors, such as easing regulations for home-based food businesses, modernizing auto repair licensing systems, expanding farmland preservation programs, and introducing legislation related to free speech, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Together, these measures represent one of the most comprehensive legislative packages Michigan has implemented at the start of a new year.
Michigan officials say the laws aim to balance economic growth with stronger protections for consumers and workers, as residents closely watch how these changes will affect daily life during the early months of 2026.
