Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite days of the year. My sister hosted this year and my expectations were high (no pressure Claire!). In the spirit of one of our best holidays, here are a few (retail) things I’m thankful for this year:

Local retailers

Putting up our Christmas lights this year required multiple trips for more strands, batteries, and extension cords. Thanks to our local hardware store, our exterior illumination is on point!

Government that’s open

The Federal government shutdown, and the consequences that followed – such as the 1.4 million Michiganders who did not have access to SNAP food benefits, was ridiculous. The entire country is thankful the debacle is behind us.

Opportunities to improve Michigan’s legal climate

MRA recently joined the Michigan Alliance for Legal Reform, which aims to curb excessive litigation and close legal loopholes that increase costs for businesses and consumers in Michigan. For example, the Alliance seeks to re-establish Michigan’s open and obvious doctrine, which would prevent retailers from being sued for hazards that are deemed open and obvious to a reasonable person. I’m thankful for commonsense reform to rein in lawsuit abuse for our members.

The simple penny

The U.S. Treasury has officially ceased production of the penny, which was first minted more than 230 years ago in 1793. MRA is currently seeking guidance from the U.S. Treasury and the Michigan Department of Treasury on how retailers are supposed to round cash transactions to comply with all federal and state laws. The penny has served the U.S. well, and I’ll be thankful when retailers have some more certainty on how to operate in its absence.

The team at Michigan Retailers Association and I hope you have a wonderful and prosperous holiday season, celebrating with family and friends.