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The Senate Committee on Local Government Thursday afternoon took testimony on legislation introduced by Sen. Jon Bumstead that would aid local governments with administrative duties. Under the legislation, villages would have the general power to compel absent members to attend. The legislation would also provide direction for villages unable to achieve a quorum and give them tools to ensure elected officials are held to their duties.

State Sen. Jon Bumstead on Thursday introduced legislation that would give more flexibility to local school districts when choosing graduation requirements. Senate Bills 600 and 601 would eliminate some specific merit curriculum course credit requirements, which would allow more opportunities for students to enroll in career and technical education or skilled trades training. Specifically, the bill would eliminate the algebra II requirement, giving students the chance to take other classes that might better prepare them for their future. Bumstead said that ultimately the goal is to give school districts the ability to make choices that are best for them, rather than mandating districts across the state follow a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all policy. Both bills have been referred to the Senate Committee on Education and Career Readiness for further consideration.

"We've worked hard over the last few weeks coming to an agreement that will benefit Michigan drivers," said Bumstead, R-Newaygo. "For the first time in nearly 50 years, drivers will have the option to choose which coverage best works for their family's budget." Under the current system, all drivers are required to carry unlimited, one-size-fits-all PIP coverage. Senate Bill 1 would give policyholders the choice to select coverage that best meets their needs and budget - providing savings based on the changes they make.

State Sen. Jon Bumstead, R-Newaygo discusses Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's 2019 State of the State address.