© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Battle Of Public Schools Vs The State Continues

Classroom
Wikimedia Commons
A new budget item is drawing scrutiny.

You might have missed a controversial part of the state education budget. It would penalize public schools for spending tax dollars on lawsuits against the state.

The proposed budget item comes after several lawsuits by school districts against the state.

Schools would have to forfeit state money if they spend tax dollars on a lawsuit against Michigan. The penalty would be equal to what the school spends on the lawsuit.

Critics say it could have a chilling effect on schools.

Peter Spadafore is with the Michigan Association of School Administrators.

 

“You know I can see the spirit of this but the idea here is really to tell school districts no

they shouldn’t be suing the state," said Spadafore.

Proponents say lawsuits aren’t a good use of state money. Governor Snyder has not signed the budget yet.

Related Content
Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!