Michigan Senate Bill SB0304

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/27/23
• Refer: 4/27/23

Caption

Appropriations: school aid; supplemental appropriations in the school aid act; provide for. Amends secs. 4, 6, 6a, 11, 11a, 11j, 11k, 11m, 11s, 15, 20, 20d, 20f, 21h, 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22m, 24, 24a, 25f, 25g, 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d, 27a, 27b, 27c, 28, 31a, 31c, 31d, 31f, 31j, 31n, 31p, 31aa, 32d, 32n, 32p, 35a, 39, 39a, 41, 51a, 51c, 51d, 51e, 51g, 53a, 54, 54b, 54d, 56, 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d, 61i, 62, 65, 67, 74, 81, 94, 94a, 95b, 97, 97b, 97e, 98, 98c, 99h, 99s, 104, 104h, 107, 147, 147a, 147b, 147c, 147e, 152a & 152b of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1604 et seq.) & adds secs. 22e, 31k, 32w & 35k.

Impact

This bill is expected to significantly impact state education laws by mandating that school districts adopt policies that prevent the stigmatization of students who cannot afford school meals. It also establishes a reimbursement system for districts that offer food assistance, thereby ensuring that schools can forgive meal debts without incurring prohibitive costs. Furthermore, the bill allocates funding for behavioral health providers, thereby enhancing the mental health support available to students and contributing to a more holistic approach to education and student welfare.

Summary

Senate Bill 304 amends the State School Aid Act of 1979 by providing supplemental appropriations that aim to enhance funding allocations for various educational programs. The bill specifically seeks to address the growing need for financial support in schools by allocating substantial funds towards forgiving outstanding student meal debts, thereby reducing the financial burden on students and their families. In addition, the legislation emphasizes the allocation of resources for mental health services within schools, highlighting a growing recognition of the importance of mental wellness in educational settings.

Contention

Notably, there is contention surrounding the level of funding and the mechanisms through which it is distributed. Critics argue about the sufficiency of allocated funds and whether the proposed reimbursements will adequately address existing debts incurred by students. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding local district compliance with the new mandates and how these changes might affect their budgets or lead to unfunded requirements. Supporters of the bill maintain that the expanded funding for meal debt forgiveness and mental health services is crucial for fostering an equitable educational environment.