The bill amends the State School Aid Act of 1979, introducing significant revisions to funding and pupil membership calculations, particularly for special education and alternative education programs. It establishes new definitions, such as "center program," and clarifies criteria for counting pupils in membership for funding purposes, including those in cyber schools and dropout recovery programs. Notably, it allows pupils who enroll after the membership count day to be counted as 1/11 of a full-time pupil for each month they are enrolled, ensuring districts receive appropriate funding. The bill also emphasizes accurate data collection for graduation rates and repeals outdated provisions to streamline the legal framework governing school aid.

Additionally, the bill outlines funding allocations for various educational initiatives, including a significant increase in funding for school meal programs and mental health services. It establishes a school aid stabilization fund and introduces a countercyclical budget to address revenue declines. The bill mandates compliance with state and federal reporting standards, prohibits contracts that could financially benefit department employees, and emphasizes the importance of transparency in grant funding. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance educational outcomes, support for at-risk students, and the financial stability of Michigan's public education system while ensuring accountability in the use of allocated funds.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 388.1611
House Introduced Bill: 388.1611
As Passed by the House: 388.1611