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MI Court Of Appeals Hears Arguments In Tax Dollars To Nonpublic Schools Case

School Hallway
WKAR-MSU File photo

A state law that allows tax dollars to go to private and parochial schools is making its way through the courts. The Michigan Court of Appeals heard arguments in the lawsuit against the state Tuesday.    

Multiple public school organizations are suing the state. They say a 20-16 law to give five million dollars to nonpublic schools over two years is unconstitutional.    

That money was supposed to be distributed, but a judge froze the payments until the case is sorted out.   Daniel Korobkin is with the ACLU of Michigan.    

“Public funding needs to be reserved for public schools” says Korobkin.     

Supporters of the law say it’s about treating all kids – no matter where they go to school – equally. The money is intended to reimburse private schools for costs they incur as a result of state mandates. No word yet on when the Court of Appeals will make its decision.  

Before becoming the newest Capitol reporter for Michigan Public Radio Network, Cheyna Roth was an attorney. She spent her days fighting it out in court as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Ionia County.
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