Michigan Senate Bill SB0201

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/15/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 5/4/23
• Refer: 5/4/23
• Report Pass: 5/10/23
• Engrossed: 5/10/23
• Refer: 5/10/23

Caption

Appropriations: community colleges; appropriations for fiscal year 2023-2024; provide for. Amends secs. 201 & 206 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1801 & 388.1806).

Impact

If enacted, this bill will have a substantial effect on the financial stability of community colleges in Michigan, ensuring continued operational funding during a critical period, particularly in the post-pandemic landscape. The bill details specific appropriations to individual community colleges, emphasizing support for those affected by recent economic challenges. Among other fundings, it provides $10,000,000 for the Michigan Community College Association to support academic recovery programs for students who have faced disruptions brought on by the pandemic.

Summary

Senate Bill 201 aims to amend the state school aid act of 1979 by providing significant appropriations for community colleges in Michigan for the fiscal years ending in 2023 and 2024. The bill proposes a gross appropriation totaling $530,258,000, with allocations designated from various sources, predominantly restricted state revenues. Key allocations include funding for operations and performance incentives for community college institutions, aimed at supporting their operational costs and performance-based funding metrics.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 201 appears largely supportive among education stakeholders who see this funding as essential for maintaining educational standards and facilitating access to education during recovery efforts. However, objections were noted regarding the potential efficiencies of funding distribution and the need for accountability measures to ensure that funds are utilized effectively and benefit those who need them most.

Contention

Some notable points of contention include discussions about how the appropriations should be allocated among community colleges, particularly regarding performance-based metrics which might favor larger institutions over smaller ones. Critics argue that this could create disparities in funding and access, particularly if smaller colleges struggle with performance metrics despite needing financial support. Additional concerns were raised about the long-term sustainability of appropriations in subsequent fiscal years, emphasizing the need for comprehensive planning beyond immediate short-term funding.