Bill Text: MI SR0086 | 2021-2022 | 101st Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to condemn the U.S. Department of Justice memorandum on intimidation and harassment against school board members for inhibiting parents’ constitutional right to free speech and to urge the State Board of Education to refrain from participating in any actions that will further limit that right.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 14-0)
Status: (Passed) 2021-11-02 - Adopted As Substituted (s-1) [SR0086 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2021-SR0086-Enrolled.html
substitute for
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 86
Whereas, On October 4, 2021, the U.S. Attorney General released a memorandum directed at employees of the Department of Justice (DOJ) concerning threats against school administrators, board members, teachers, and school staff across the country. The memo cites an increase in “harassment, intimidation, and threats of violence” and calls for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to coordinate with local law enforcement to facilitate a discussion of strategies for addressing and responding to these threats; and
Whereas, While there is no debate regarding the need to protect public servants from all credible threats of violence, the vague language used in the memo is likely to obstruct another vitally important public interest – the freedom of speech. It is unclear what types of speech may be considered to be “intimidation” or “harassment,” and the uncertainty is likely to have a chilling effect on school board participation. Parents with legitimate concerns about school issues may be hesitant to passionately advocate for their children under the threat of federal intervention; and
Whereas, The memo also sends an insulting message that inaccurately characterizes the concerns of many parents. The memo implies that parents who oppose a particular agenda are expected to be violent and that federal intervention is needed to protect others from their viewpoints. This type of statement demonizes invested parents who share the goal of educating students and protecting them from harmful policies. The associated stigma will further impede the ability of parents to voice their concerns; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That we condemn the October 4, 2021 U.S. Department of Justice memorandum for inhibiting parents’ constitutional right to free speech; and be it further
Resolved, That we call on the State Board of Education to refrain from participating in any actions that will further limit the First Amendment rights of parents and encourage local districts to do the same; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the U.S. Attorney General and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
