Rep. Steil offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 180.
A resolution to urge Michigan's public colleges and universities to adopt a preferential acceptance policy for Michigan applicants.
Whereas, We recognize the importance of post-secondary education to the success of our high school graduates. Educating Michigan residents has a direct correlation with future success in promoting economic growth and stability in Michigan. By improving job creation and stability, we can achieve higher standards of living, reduce job losses, and heighten the sense of self reliance in our residents. In a rapidly changing economy, it is crucial to foster education beyond a high school diploma. Michigan has continued to prioritize higher education in a difficult budgetary environment; and
Whereas, Publicly funded colleges and universities around Michigan are experiencing an influx of applicants from out-of-state and international students. This competition from around the globe may provide additional revenue from higher out-of-state tuition, but it crowds out many qualified Michigan applicants who must seek educational opportunities elsewhere; and
Whereas, Each tax dollar entrusted to the government by the citizens of Michigan and appropriated by the Legislature for higher education funding should benefit Michigan. In order to achieve the results that a highly educated citizenry will provide, we must prioritize Michigan residents who seek an education from Michigan's publicly financed institutions of higher education; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge Michigan's public colleges and universities to adopt a preferential acceptance policy for Michigan applicants; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the presidents and boards of control of all public institutions of higher education in Michigan and the chairs of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees' Subcommittees on Higher Education.