rich 1.0 Action Network https://actionnetwork.org <link href='https://actionnetwork.org/css/style-embed-v3.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' /><script src='https://actionnetwork.org/widgets/v6/letter/stand-up-for-public-education-oppose-hr-276-2?format=js&source=widget'></script><div id='can-letter-area-stand-up-for-public-education-oppose-hr-276-2' style='width: 100%'><!-- this div is the target for our HTML insertion --></div> Michigan Education Association https://actionnetwork.org/groups/michigan-education-association https://actionnetwork.org//images/generic_facebook.jpg Among the devastating impacts of this pandemic are declines in state and local education revenues sources across the country, and federal aid to states is needed to support funding for vital state programs like public education and public health. However, ten members of the Michigan House of Representatives are promoting a resolution (HR 267) opposing returning tax dollars paid to the federal government to the states to support our public schools and public health programs, among others. Economists estimate that Michigan's budget shortfall in the School Aid Fund is expected to be short $1.2 billion for this current school year, and short about $1.1 billion next year — and those numbers are only to keep up with our current funding streams. The General Fund, the most significant source of state funding for higher education, will be short $1 billion this year and $2.2 billion next year. Specifically, at least $3.5 billion is needed to address the financial challenges facing PreK-12 and higher education in Michigan over the next two years. MEA, NEA and our allies are advocating for Congress to dedicate  $175 billion dollars for education across the country. When distributed, Michigan's share of that fund would make up for the deficits facing our preK-12 and higher education budgets, and allow us to invest in our education. But yet, some ultra-conservative members of the Michigan Legislature claim that any state experiencing a budget shortfall is in that position because of "their fiscal irresponsibility." To top it all off, the resolution also attempts to blame pensions. Let's be clear: we're facing this budget crisis is the result of a public health crisis which has already claimed the lives of more than 100,000 Americans. We must maintain the integrity of current financial support for our students while recognizing increased costs that may be needed for the next school year. Given the complexities of providing education during a public health crisis, the costs associated with providing quality education and meeting the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of our students have significantly increased whether students are physically present in classrooms or not. All of this will require adequate financial support from our state and federal government. Please, use this tool to contact your State Representative and State Senator and urge that they oppose HR 267 and, instead, advocate with Congress for the passage of much needed funding for Michigan students and schools.   If you'd rather call your legislators, you can find their information at mea.org/mylegislators. https://actionnetwork.org/letters/stand-up-for-public-education-oppose-hr-276-2