Michigan Legislature resumes next week

The Michigan Legislature will not be in session until April 29, due to a two-week spring recess.

When session resumes, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education will conduct a vote on the budget for Michigan's 15 public universities, postponed last week.

The subcommittee is expected to introduce a plan to review the tier system of per-pupil university funding.

The Yellow Ribbon Package is also expected to be introduced by House Republicans on April 29.

The multi-bill package includes legislation to provide tax credits for Michigan soldiers in the Iraq war, and a bill to prevent gas, electric and telephone companies from turning off military families' utilities.

House approves $12.5 billion K-12 budget

The state House approved a $12.5 billion K-12 budget Thursday, for Fiscal Year 2004.

The budget will set the minimum per-pupil foundation allowance at $6,700.

Additional funding in the K-12 budget will allow for programs for gifted and talented students and increased investment opportunities for wireless technology.

The K-12 budget will move to the Senate for consideration.