Michigan House Bill HB4165

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23
• Refer: 3/2/23

Caption

School aid: other; eligibility for career and technical education funding; modify. Amends sec. 61c of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1661c).

Impact

The proposed funding aims to enhance the quality and effectiveness of CTE programs by ensuring that at least half of the allocated funds are utilized for updating equipment, professional development, and aligning programs with new industry technologies. This legislative move signifies a commitment to strengthen Michigan’s workforce by improving educational outcomes in high-wage and high-demand occupations. The bill encourages CEPDs to utilize data-driven methods for local funding allocation, thereby enhancing accountability and responsiveness to community needs.

Summary

House Bill 4165 aims to amend the 1979 State School Aid Act by modifying provisions related to funding for career education planning districts (CEPDs) in Michigan. The bill allocates a maximum of $7.5 million from the state school aid fund for the 2022-2023 fiscal year specifically geared towards CEPDs that significantly contribute to career and technical education (CTE). To qualify for this funding, at least 50% of the territory served by a CEPD must be located in an intermediate district that did not levy a vocational education millage in 2022, spotlighting a targeted approach to financial assistance based on specific local conditions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 4165 may arise regarding the eligibility requirements for funding and the allocation process. Some may argue that the stipulation requiring 50% of service areas in districts without prior vocational millages may inadvertently disadvantage certain areas that need support the most. Moreover, discussions about the effectiveness of targeting funds for equipment and training against broader educational needs could spark debates among stakeholders in education and economic development sectors.