Michigan House Bill HJRH

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/25
• Refer: 3/20/25

Caption

Higher education: other; use of school aid funds for the operations of public universities; prohibit. Amends sec. 4, art. VIII & sec. 11, art. IX of the state constitution.

Impact

If enacted, HJRH will substantially alter how public universities are financed within Michigan. The prohibition on using the state school aid fund for operating expenses may compel universities to seek alternative funding sources or adjust their budgets significantly. This shift in funding policy could lead to increased tuition fees, a reduction in available services, or the implementation of cuts to various programs, thereby affecting students and staff alike. Furthermore, the amendment may influence the legislative landscape surrounding education funding in Michigan.

Summary

House Joint Resolution H (HJRH) proposes an amendment to the Michigan Constitution, specifically aiming to update the enumeration of public universities. The resolution seeks to amend sections of Article VIII and Article IX to clarify that the state school aid fund cannot be utilized for funding the operating expenses of public universities. The measure emphasizes accountability by requiring the legislature to provide an annual accounting of all income and expenditures from these institutions as part of its funding oversight.

Contention

Discussions about HJRH have surfaced notable points of contention among stakeholders. Supporters argue that the amendment is necessary to ensure that taxpayer-funded aid is directed purely toward K-12 education and does not subsidize university operations, while opponents express concern that this could limit universities' financial flexibility. There's a fear that the measure may lead to financial instability for institutions that rely heavily on aid for their operating expenses, thereby jeopardizing the quality of education and access for students.