Michigan education board opposes Trump’s tax credit scholarship program

May 13, 2026

Michigan's State Board of Education voted 6-2 on Tuesday to oppose a federal tax credit scholarship program that provides tax breaks to individuals who donate to organizations offering private school scholarships. The resolution asks Governor Gretchen Whitmer not to participate in the program, which Congress approved last year and approximately 30 governors have already joined, mostly Republicans. Board members who oppose the program argue it violates Michigan's constitutional prohibition against using public funds for private schools, a principle voters affirmed in 1970 and 2000.

Who is affected

Michigan students and families considering private school options
Private schools in Michigan, including those represented by the Michigan Association of Christian Schools
Public schools in Michigan
Governor Gretchen Whitmer (who must decide whether to opt in)
The eight-member State Board of Education (particularly the six Democrats who voted for the resolution and two Republicans who voted against)
Organizations eligible to become scholarship-granting organizations
Potential donors who could receive tax credits

What action is being taken

The Michigan State Board of Education is urging Governor Whitmer not to opt into the federal program through the resolution they passed
Approximately 30 governors, mostly Republicans, have already opted into the federal program
The Michigan Education Justice Coalition is urging Whitmer not to opt in to the program

Why it matters

This decision matters because it represents a fundamental debate about the role of public funds in education and Michigan's constitutional commitment to keeping public resources directed solely toward public schools. The outcome will determine whether Michigan families can access federally-backed tax incentives for private school education, potentially affecting student enrollment patterns, the state's tax base, and the competitive position of Michigan relative to neighboring states that have adopted the program. The issue also reflects Michigan voters' historical opposition to publicly supporting private education, as demonstrated in constitutional amendments passed in 1970 and 2000.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com