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.