11/09/2021
If you have students involved in music, athletics, and many other extracurricular activities through public schools, this pertains to you!
On Tuesday morning (November 2, 2021), the House Education Committee began testimony on House Bill 5424, which would prohibit school districts from spending local, state or federal funds on dues to membership organizations, specifically education associations or trade unions. Under the bill, a school board would have to create and implement a policy by Jan. 1, 2023, that would prohibit public funds from being used on membership dues for certain individuals including, but not limited to, superintendents, principals, board members, central office staff and teachers.
Michigan Association of School Boards Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE testified during committee (testimony on the bill begins at the 6:40 mark) on the benefits of membership, including professional development and cost-saving programs for districts. This bill, if passed, would make it IMPOSSIBLE for Michigan Schools Band & Orchestra Association to continue to exist as well as other organizations such as MHSAA, athletic conferences, other music associations, subject-specific associations for teachers and more. I believe there is another hearing Tuesday (today).
Please contact your State Representative and tell them to oppose HB 5424 and let districts decide what association memberships bring value to their students and staff. Also, please make efforts to contact members of the House Education Committee as well.
