Michigan House Bill HB5373

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/14/23
• Refer: 11/14/23

Caption

Education: board members; popular election of intermediate school board members; require. Amends secs. 611, 612, 614, 616, 617 & 703 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.611 et seq.) & repeals sec. 615 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.615).

Impact

The implications of HB 5373 are significant for the governance structure of school districts, enhancing democratic processes by allowing constituents a direct voice in who represents them on the intermediate school board. The bill facilitates a critical shift toward popular election, thereby replacing the previously established appointment systems. Additionally, the bill stipulates that current board members from constituent districts will not be eligible for election or appointment to the intermediate school board after the current term ends in 2024, ensuring a fresh start with the new election procedures.

Summary

House Bill 5373 amends the 1976 PA 451, also known as the revised school code, focusing specifically on the governance of intermediate school districts in Michigan. The bill proposes to transition from a 5-member intermediate school board to a 7-member board that will be popularly elected by January 1, 2025. This change is aimed at increasing community representation and engagement in educational governance. The bill further outlines that if an intermediate school district does not currently have an elected board, the first election must be held during the 2024 general election, establishing a new framework for how board members are chosen in these districts.

Contention

While the bill has provisions designed to increase accessibility and promote local governance, it may face contention from those concerned about the implications of disorganization of existing districts. The bill allows for the disorganization of an intermediate school district that consists of fewer than 5 districts without bonded debt, raising concerns among stakeholders about the stability and continuity of educational services. The potential for district dissolution could lead to significant backlash from communities that may feel their educational governance is being undermined or disrupted.