Michigan Senate Bill SB0492

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/29/25
• Refer: 7/29/25

Caption

Education: students; guidelines for unenrolling students; provide for. Amends sec. 1135 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1135).

Impact

This legislation will significantly affect how school districts manage enrollment processes and respond to potential cases of misrepresentation during student enrollment. The law mandates that schools notify enrolling individuals of the required documents within 30 days of enrollment. Failure to comply with this provision would necessitate a written notification to the individual, and subsequently, a referral to local law enforcement if the requirement is not fulfilled within a specified timeframe.

Summary

Senate Bill 0492 aims to amend the Revised School Code of Michigan by introducing stricter guidelines regarding the enrollment of students in local school districts, public school academies, and intermediate school districts. The primary provision of the bill requires that upon the initial enrollment of a student, the enrolling individual must submit either a copy of the student's birth certificate or other reliable proof of the student's identity and age. This requirement is designed to ensure that schools have verified information regarding the students they enroll.

Contention

While proponents of SB 0492 argue itwill enhance the integrity of student enrollment, critics may express concerns regarding the potential implications for families who are unable to provide the required documentation. Issues surrounding access to education for undocumented families or those without typical documentation could arise. Additionally, the bill’s requirement for schools to report suspicious affidavits to law enforcement might exacerbate fears among certain populations, leading to increased tension and reluctance to engage with educational institutions. This interplay between verification of identity and safeguarding the rights and access of students may present a notable point of contention.

Regulatory changes

Furthermore, SB 0492 includes provisions for the expedited handling of transfer student records, requiring schools to request previous educational records within 14 days of a student's enrollment. This change aims for a smoother transition for students changing schools but also highlights the importance of cooperation between educational institutions, emphasizing accountability in managing student records.