MICHIGAN - Michigan House Democrats call on House Legislative Republicans to release a total of 840 million dollars in federal funding back to Michigan schools.

Donna Lasinski, Michigan House Democratic Leader, Rep. Regina Weiss, and Mike Davisson, Ferndale School Board President, met on March 22 to discuss the need for these stimulus dollars to return to Michigan.

This federal relief funding has already been paid for by Michigan taxpayers and still sits in Washington D.C.

“This money is what public schools need now that they should have received by today for a safe return to in-person learning,” said Lasinski.

This money will be released to schools to help speed up the process of COVID-19 vaccines and to make sure schools have the equipment and protection needed to make sure educators and students return to the classroom safely.

As of March 22, schools across Michigan have received a deadline to return to in-person learning or not to receive more funding.

House Democrats are requesting a simple up or down vote on bringing every penny of federal funding back to Michigan. And they are demanding this vote happen before lawmakers leave for spring break.

“Schools need every single dollar of federal stimulus funding to keep their doors open and our kids safe,” said Rep. Regina Weiss.

Without these federal dollars, schools will not be provided with the proper PPE, hygiene, and rapid tests needed to keep students, athletes, and educators safe.