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.
Impact
If enacted, this amendment will significantly affect the operations of higher education institutions in Michigan. By requiring adherence to merit-based admissions policies, institutions will no longer be able to consider subjective factors that have historically contributed to a more holistic evaluation of candidates. This could lead to a shift in institutional priorities and practices related to diversity, equity, and inclusion as schools may need to adjust their approach to attract a wide range of students within the new legal framework. Additionally, the amendment requires institutions to annually report their admissions policies, enhancing accountability and oversight.
Summary
House Joint Resolution N (HJRN) proposes an amendment to the Michigan state constitution that mandates public institutions of higher education to implement admissions policies based solely on objective, merit-based factors. These factors include academic grades, standardized test scores, community service, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and achievements. The resolution aims to ensure that all applicants are evaluated based on their academic merit and other quantifiable achievements, leaving no room for subjective criteria in the admissions process. This change seeks to promote fairness and transparency in the college admissions process across Michigan's public universities.
Contention
The proposal has sparked a range of opinions among lawmakers, educational leaders, and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that emphasizing merit-based criteria will level the playing field for all students, thereby improving overall academic standards. However, opponents contend that such a rigid framework could disadvantage underrepresented groups who may not have the same access to resources or opportunities necessary for success. Critics argue that the focus on objective metrics might undermine the values of diversity and inclusivity within higher education and that a more nuanced approach is required to address systemic inequalities in educational access.
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.
State management: purchasing; awarding state contracts to persons that use hiring practices based on anything other than the merit of prospective employees; prohibit. Amends secs. 115, 241, 261, 305 & 404 of 1984 PA 431 (MCL 18.1115 et seq.).
State management: purchasing; awarding state contracts to persons that use hiring practices based on anything other than the merit of prospective employees; prohibit. Amends secs. 115, 241, 261, 305 & 404 of 1984 PA 431 (MCL 18.1115 et seq.).
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: 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.
Appropriations: grants and transfers; state administrative board limitations; modify. Amends sec. 3 of 1921 PA 2 (MCL 17.3). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0559'23, SB 0562'23