BAN PROMOTION OF BALLOT ISSUES AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS

House Bill 4103

Sponsor: Rep. James Koetje

Committee: Redistricting and Elections

Complete to 2-6-01

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 4103 AS INTRODUCED 1-31-01

The bill would add a new section to the Revised School Code to prohibit public school employees and volunteers from promoting a cause or position on a ballot question at school during school hours, or at school-sponsored events, in areas where students might be present, by doing any of the following:

* making comments to pupils,

* wearing a button or other such item,

* displaying literature or a sign, banner, or similar item, or

* sending home with pupils any communication.

The bill specifies that it would not prohibit impartial discussion, study, or display of items concerning a ballot question, political candidate, cause, or campaign as part of the study of history, government, political science, or a similar subject.

MCL 380.1810

Analyst: C. Couch

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This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.