LANSING, MI - The Michigan House of Representatives passed a $465 million COVID-19 relief plan, which includes extending unemployment benefits supporting the restaurant industry, small businesses, and the families who depend on them.

The measure includes $220 million to temporarily extend unemployment benefits for those who have been forced out of work by Michigan’s most recent shutdown orders. It also extends benefits by six weeks through March, giving eligible laid-off workers up to 26 weeks of benefits.

In addition, $45 million would be set aside for an employee assistance fund providing grants of up to $1,650 to replace lost wages for those employed by a business impacted by the current orders.

The package now advances to Michigan Governor Whitmer’s office for her consideration.