Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Education Teacher Certification topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
House approves change to teacher certification fees after debate over $8 million budget impact
Summary
The Michigan House passed House Bill 4150, which amends the Revised School Code relating to teacher certification fees. Supporters framed the bill as tax relief for teachers; opponents said it will create an $8 million shortfall in the Michigan Department of Education budget and harm educator preparation.
Lansing — The Michigan House on March 11 passed House Bill 4150, a bill to amend the Revised School Code that would change fees tied to teacher certification, advancing the measure on a 83-26 roll-call vote.
The legislation drew sharply divided floor debate. Representative Elizabeth Glanville said she opposed the bill, arguing it does not address the true costs of teacher preparation and “will result in an $8,000,000 shortfall in the MDE budget that directly impacts the Office of Educator Excellence and the administration of MOECS.” She added, “This bill is an example of bending over a dollar to pick up a dime.”
Representative Tisdale, the bill’s introducer, urged colleagues to vote yes, saying the change was needed ("I rise today and urge a yes vote on House Bill 4150"). Representative Green also spoke in favour, saying teachers in her district need relief from state costs and urging a yes vote.
After the roll-call, the House recorded 83 aye votes and 26 nay votes; a motion for immediate effect was offered and ordered. The bill is described on the floor as an amendment to the Revised School Code; the measure will follow the usual enrollment and presentation steps before becoming law.
