LANSING – The House of Representative today passed legislation proposed by State Representative Mark Meadows (D-East Lansing) to expand the use of sinking funds for school districts, a move that will help schools upgrade their technology and make other improvements.
"Our schools are where the next generation of Michigan's workers are being prepared to compete in the 21st century global economy," Meadows said. "In order for our children to be able to succeed in a world growing more competitive by the day, our schools need every option that we can make available to them. This legislation will give our communities the tools they need to prepare our children for success."
Currently, a sinking fund can be used for the purchase of real estate or the construction or repair of school buildings. Meadows' bill allows schools to levy a sinking fund millage to purchase or upgrade school buses, and acquire, install or equip school technology.
Meadows' bill empowers local communities to decide whether upgrades are needed and to take action based on local needs. Under the legislation, taxpayers could save up to $1.1 billion over current methods of funding if they chose to upgrade their buses and computer technology. This bill will allow local schools and taxpayers to decide if upgrades are needed.
"My bill helps improve our schools while giving taxpayers the final word," Meadows said. "But this isn't about money; this is about ensuring that our children can compete in a global economy. If we can make doing so easier on the taxpayer – which this legislation will do – than it is going to be better for all Michigan residents. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to quickly pass this legislation that will not only better prepare our children, but will attract expanding businesses that require an educated workforce."