Governor Rick Snyder can expect a controversial bill on his desk soon. Lawmakers passed legislation to send more money to charter schools Tuesday. Michigan Public Radio’s Cheyna Roth has more.
If the governor signs the bill, charter schools would qualify for new or renewed countywide tax millage dollars. Historically, that money has only gone to traditional public schools.
Jennifer Smith is with the Michigan Association of School Boards. That organization is against the bills. Smith says traditional public schools have costs charter schools don’t have.
“We don’t feel it’s necessary for charter schools to be included in that when they don’t have some of those costs to offset.” Smith says.
Supporters say charter schools have lots of expenses too. And the bill would ensure that all students – in all public schools – are treated equally.