Detroit School Reform Bills Introduced

Liz Gullett

Jan 15, 2016

On Thursday, Senator Goeff Hansen (R-Hart) introduced two bills seeking to make reforms to Detroit Public Schools (DPS). The legislation would create a new district known as the Detroit Community District to operate the schools. DPS would remain only for the purpose of retiring the district’s debt. The new district would be initially governed by an appointed board, with five members appointed by the Governor and four members appointed by the Detroit Mayor. Going forward, board members would be elected by city voters, with the first election taking place in November 2016. “Before a final resolution for Detroit Schools occurs, many ideas will be placed on the table. It is likely that several different proposals will be considered and debated before a final resolution will be agreed upon,” stated Matt Sowash of MLC. The bills have been referred to the Senate Government Operations Committee for consideration.

Michigan Legislative Consultants is a bipartisan lobbying firm based in Lansing, Michigan. Our team of lobbyists and procurement specialists provide a wide range of services for some of the most respected companies in America. For more on MLC, visit www.mlcmi.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.