Michigan Senate Bill SB0306

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

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

Caption

Appropriations: community colleges; appropriations for fiscal year 2023-2024; provide for. Amends secs. 201, 202a, 206, 207a, 207b, 207c, 209a, 226b, 226d, 226g, 227, 227a, 229a & 230 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1801 et seq.); adds secs. 201d, 201f & 216c & repeals secs. 216, 216a & 216b of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1816 et seq.).

Impact

The impact of SB0306 is considerable, as it lays a financial foundation for community colleges in Michigan, directly affecting how these institutions will operate during the fiscal year. By establishing targeted funding and repeal of older stipulations, the bill attempts to create a more adaptable framework that recognizes the evolving landscape of higher education. Additionally, the bill mandates the formation of a task force to review existing funding metrics, thereby acknowledging potential disparities and striving for equity in state support.

Summary

Senate Bill 0306 proposes amendments to the 1979 PA 94, which governs the state's appropriations for community colleges. The bill aims to ensure that fiscal year 2023-2024 funding for community colleges totals approximately $1.262 billion, with adjustments to allocated appropriations across various specific sections of the act. A significant feature of this bill is the introduction of new sections designed to evaluate and improve equity within community college funding levels, while repealing outdated provisions that no longer align with current needs.

Contention

Notably, there are potential points of contention surrounding the decision to repeal certain sections of PA 94. Stakeholders in the education sector may express concerns about the implications of removing established guidelines which might affect community college operations, particularly in regions that depend heavily on specific funding models. Opponents might argue that more comprehensive and inclusive discussions are needed before such significant legislative changes are made.