Michigan House Bill HR0055

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/25
• Passed: 3/20/25

Caption

A resolution to support the devolution of power from the United States Department of Education to the states and to urge the United States Congress to fully cooperate with these efforts.

Impact

The resolution highlights a perceived crisis within the educational system, particularly alarming trends in student literacy rates, with data showing that about 40% of fourth graders fall below basic reading levels. By advocating for state control, the resolution seeks to empower local governments to make decisions that could lead to improved outcomes for students. It positions the elimination of the Department of Education as a potential remedy that could allow for more efficient use of taxpayer dollars and provide educational environments better aligned with community values.

Summary

House Resolution 55, introduced by Rep. Kelly, advocates for the transfer of educational authority from the federal government to the state level. The resolution emphasizes that education is not a federally mandated responsibility, citing the Tenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. Proponents argue that states and local communities are more familiar with their unique educational challenges and therefore better equipped to tailor their curricula and policies to their specific needs. This measure has arisen from concerns regarding the inefficacy of federal involvement in education and aims to enhance accountability and effectiveness at the state level.

Contention

This resolution is backed by those who assert that significant federal involvement has led to burdensome regulations and a 'one-size-fits-all' approach that fails to account for local educational needs. However, critics of such a stance worry that diminishing federal oversight could exacerbate disparities in education quality across different states. They caution that without the regulatory framework provided by the federal government, there may be a lack of standards that could negatively impact students in underfunded or less capable districts.