Gambling Package Could Mean More Money for Schools 

A bill package to revamp Michigan’s gambling laws to allow internet gaming and sports betting passed the state House and Senate this week. It is now on its way to the governor for her signature.

Some research claims the changes could bring well over $50 million additional for schools each year. More realistic estimates, using an assumption of a net 5% increase in gaming activity, have that number from $5 million to $30 million.

MEA kept a close eye on these bills to make sure there would be no loss in revenue to the School Aid Fund, because of expected lower sales of the Michigan Lottery. Once those concerns were addressed, MEA went from opposing these bills to a neutral position in the final weeks of negotiations on this package.

Legislation Newsroom

Releated

Hometown schools at risk from federal voucher program

By Chandra Madafferi, MEA President & CEO It’s back-to-school season, and in towns and cities across Michigan, parents and educators are gearing up for a new school year. Whether it’s the buzz of a Friday night football game, the excitement of a school play, or the familiar faces in the school pick-up line, our hometown […]

by Elena Helmer

Federal voucher scheme passes

By Brenda Ortega MEA Voice Editor The nation’s first federal school voucher scheme was tucked inside the tax cuts and spending plan that Republicans in Congress passed and President Donald Trump signed into law on July 4. Last-minute changes require states to opt-in to participation — which adds even more significance to 2026 mid-term elections […]

by Elena Helmer