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SB 14

Education: athletics; admission fee for high school interscholastic athletic activities; allow for cash as accepted form of payment. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1290.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Bellino

Michigan bill requiring high schools to accept cash payments for athletic event admission fees to improve access for unbanked and low-income students.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON REGULATORY AFFAIRS
#education:athletics #recreation:athleticsandsports
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Bill Summary · SB 14

Legislative bill overview

SB 14 amends Michigan's school code to require that high schools accept cash as a payment method for student athletic activity admission fees. Currently, schools may only accept non-cash payment forms, creating barriers for families without access to digital payment systems or bank accounts.

Why is this important

This bill addresses financial access equity by ensuring students from low-income families or those without banking relationships can participate in or attend school athletic events. It reflects growing recognition that cashless-only policies can inadvertently exclude economically vulnerable populations from school activities.

Potential points of contention

  • Administrative burden: Schools would need to implement cash handling procedures, which requires staff training, security protocols, and accounting oversight, potentially increasing operational costs
  • Liability and logistics: Managing cash collections at athletic events raises concerns about theft, loss, accurate record-keeping, and the security burden on athletic staff and volunteers
  • Technology adoption preference: Some schools and districts may argue that digital payment systems are more efficient, environmentally friendly, and reduce human error compared to manual cash handling

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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