Diversity Issues

Bill to reduce zero-tolerance policies in schools has bipartisan support

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BY CAITLIN DeLUCA
Capital News Service
LANSING — A bill aimed at reducing the number of suspensions and expulsions of students in Michigan schools could move to the Senate floor soon. In Michigan, a zero-tolerance policy covers a plethora of situations in schools, including physical violence, possession of any weapon, tobacco, alcohol and bomb or similar threats. That means that a student who commits any of those behaviors must be suspended or expelled for at least a year. The mandatory punishment leaves the schools’ hands tied. The bill would remove mandatory suspensions or expulsions for some of these misbehaviors.

Government

Can rescue bill rescue bipartisanship?

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By BECKY McKENDRY
Capital News Service
LANSING – During a spring flood this year in West Michigan, some people took to kayaks and jet skis – despite clear emergency warnings – and some ended up needing rescue. That sparked legislators to draft a bill calling for “grossly negligent” thrill seekers to repay their rescue costs. “The general response from the public and lawmakers was very positive,” said Rep. Brandon Dillon, D– Grand Rapids, the chief sponsor. “A lot of people support the common sense of it and we expect it to pass easily.”
But the bill may serve a higher purpose beyond punishing people who ignore safety warnings. “Clearly, perception of elected officials is not in high regard,” Dillon said.