During a recent session of the Michigan House of Representatives, Representative Bagole recognized the athletic achievements of local student Oliver Long, who was honored for winning the state shot put championship with a record throw of 52 feet 9 and 3/4 inches. Long, a junior from Morris area schools, was accompanied by his family, including his parents and grandparents, as lawmakers congratulated him on his accomplishment.
Following the tribute to Long, the House moved on to legislative business, with Majority Floor Leader Wilson announcing the passage of House Bill 5649. This bill mandates that all Michigan public high schools offer at least one computer science course starting in the 2027-28 school year. Representative Glanville, the bill's sponsor, emphasized the importance of computer science education in preparing students for a workforce increasingly reliant on technology. Currently, only 55% of Michigan high schools offer such courses, which is below the national average. The bill aims to close this gap and ensure equitable access to essential skills for all students.
The House also passed Senate Bill 328, which sets standards for smoke alarm devices, and both bills received immediate effect orders, allowing them to be enacted without delay.
In addition to these legislative actions, the House discussed two resolutions. House Resolution 283 urges the U.S. President to reinstate the migrant protection protocols for processing migrants from Mexico, while House Resolution 284 designates June 2024 as National Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month in Michigan. Representative Breuke spoke in support of the latter resolution, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about PTSD.
Overall, the session underscored the House's commitment to recognizing local achievements and addressing critical educational and social issues facing the state.