EAST LANSING — The following statement can be attributed to MEA President Paula Herbart regarding today’s passage in the State House of bills restoring a variety of critical educator rights, including House Bills 4354, 4356, 4044, and 4233:

“Today’s action by State Representatives passing bills that restore respect for our profession will make a difference in addressing our state’s educator shortage. Restoring fundamental workplace rights ensures local school employees’ voices are heard in their schools to continue improving the quality of education our kids receive. After all, educators’ working conditions are students’ learning conditions.

“Passing these bills will help attract and retain high-quality educators who can help our kids succeed. We look forward to the State Senate taking swift action next week to pass these bills and send them to Gov. Whitmer to be signed into law.”