Governor Snyder signs parental responsibility legislation

Governor Rick Snyder signed Public Act 56 that makes the requirements of Michigan's school attendance law a requirement for cash assistance through the Family Independence Program.

House Bill 4041 was sponsored by Representative Al Pscholka.

“Children have real opportunities, as long as they commit themselves to education,” Rep. Pscholka said. “This law incentivizes families to invest in their children's future.”

The bill does not affect state food or housing benefits.

The Department of Health and Human Services will meet with the family before any benefits are discontinued.

Benefits will be reinstated if the student meets 21 days of regular attendance.

“Much like the Pathways to Potential program, this legislation brings together parents, schools and the state to determine obstacles that keep students from being in school and how to overcome them,” Snyder said. “To break the cycle of poverty, kids need an education to position them for future success. We have to do everything we can to see that they are regularly attending school.”