Rep. Annette Glenn’s plan reaffirming the rights of parents in Michigan schools has been signed into state law.

House Bill 5703 will require all public schools to prominently post a section of state law in administration offices, school board meeting rooms and other locations. The language reaffirming parental rights – which has been part of state law for decades – will also be included in manuals and training materials provided to Michigan Department of Education and State Board of Education employees.

“This will serve as a visible and valuable reminder that parents have a fundamental right to direct the education of their children,” said Glenn, R-Midland. “It isn’t debatable, and it shouldn’t be political. The law is clear, and it has been in statute in Michigan for many years.”

Glenn’s legislation includes a requirement that the following language from Michigan’s Revised School Code be displayed in public schools: “It is the natural, fundamental right of parents and legal guardians to determine and direct the care, teaching, and education of their children. The public schools of this state serve the needs of the pupils by cooperating with the pupil’s parents and legal guardians to develop the pupil’s intellectual capabilities and vocational skills in a safe and positive environment.”

Glenn introduced the legislation in February. It originally passed the House with broad bipartisan support in March. Glenn renewed her call to finalize approval of the legislation after the recent controversy over Michigan Department of Education training videos suggesting educators should hide information about students’ gender identity from their parents.

The Senate approved a final version of Glenn’s bill by a 28-5 vote, while the House approved it 84-20. Gov. Whitmer signed the legislation this week.

Glenn’s legislation is modeled after federal and state laws that for decades have required workplaces to publicly post notices of legal protections related to employment, safety and other areas.

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