Higher education: governing boards; open meetings for university boards; require. Amends sec. 4, art. VIII of the state constitution.
Impact
If passed, the amendment would amend existing state laws by instituting a requirement for open meetings for the governing boards of public universities. Such a change would necessitate a re-evaluation of current practices regarding board meeting protocols, potentially increasing both public attendance at these meetings and accountability among university officials. The proposal aligns with broader trends toward transparency in governance, suggesting a move to foster greater trust between public institutions and the constituencies they serve.
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution F (SJRF) proposes an amendment to Michigan's state constitution, specifically to Article VIII, Section 4. The amendment aims to update the enumeration of public universities within the state and mandates that meetings of the governing boards of these institutions be open to the public. This is intended to enhance transparency and public involvement in the decisions made by the governing bodies of public universities, which are vital to the education ecosystem in Michigan. The resolution explicitly includes a list of universities that are covered under this new requirement, ensuring clarity about which institutions are affected.
Contention
While proponents argue that the amendment will promote democratic oversight and accountability, there could be points of contention regarding the logistics of implementing open meetings. Concerns may arise surrounding the potential for conflicts with established practices that often keep certain deliberations private, such as those related to personnel or strategic financial matters. Opponents may highlight the needed balance between transparency and the operational needs of universities, suggesting that not all discussions should occur in public due to potential impacts on decision-making processes.
Higher education: other; use of school aid funds for the operations of public universities; prohibit. Amends sec. 4, art. VIII & sec. 11, art. IX of the state constitution.
Higher education: governing boards; gubernatorial appointment of regents, trustees, or board of governors for University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University; require. Amends sec. 5, art. VIII of the state constitution.
Higher education: state universities; student admissions preferences based on certain familial relationships; prohibit. Amends secs. 5 & 6, art. VIII & adds sec. 10 to art. VIII of the state constitution.
Higher education: admission; admission based on anything other than the merit of the prospective student; prohibit. Amends secs. 5 & 6, art. VIII & adds sec. 10 to art. VIII of the state constitution.
Appropriations: higher education; appropriations for fiscal year 2023-2024; provide for. Amends secs. 236 & 241 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1836 & 388.1841).
Liquor: licenses; license to sell alcoholic liquor for consumption on the premises of certain locations; modify. Amends sec. 513 of 1998 PA 58 (MCL 436.1513).
Appropriations: higher education; appropriations for fiscal year 2023-2024; provide for. Amends secs. 236 & 241 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1836 & 388.1841).
Higher education: governing boards; gubernatorial appointment of regents, trustees, or board of governors for University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University; require. Amends sec. 5, art. VIII of the state constitution.
Appropriations: higher education; appropriations for fiscal year 2025-2026; provide for. Amends secs. 236 & 241 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1836 & 388.1841).
Higher education: financial aid; certain requirements pertaining to tuition grants; modify. Amends title & secs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 of 1966 PA 313 (MCL 390.991 et seq.).