New TV Ad: Local Teachers Union Contract Reveals Proposal 2 Hurts Michigan Kids

 Protecting Michigan Taxpayers, a broad-based coalition working to educate parents and voters about the dangerous effects Proposal 2 would have on students, parents and taxpayers today released a new statewide television commercial titled "Hurts," highlighting dangerous provisions in Michigan teachers union contracts that the Michigan Education Association (MEA) says would go into effect upon passage of Proposal 2.

"According to a leaked memo from the Michigan Education Association, the state's largest teachers union, Proposal 2 would overturn common sense state laws that help keep our kids safe at school," said Jared Rodriguez, Spokesman for Protecting Michigan Taxpayers.  "And the local teachers union contract in Bay City says that Proposal 2 would give five strikes to teachers under the influence of alcohol at school, three strikes to teachers under the influence of drugs in the classroom and two strikes to teachers caught selling drugs at school.  The MEA is right that Proposal 2 will overturn school reform laws - unfortunately it will hurt Michigan kids!"

According to Proposal 2's own language, under the proposal Michigan parents, voters and lawmakers would be permanently prohibited from "limit(ing) the right to collectively bargain for wages, hours and other terms and conditions of employment." The MEA and the teachers union contract in Bay City claim this language would overturn common sense legal restrictions that prevent teachers caught under the influence of drugs and alcohol from remaining in the classroom.

Studies also indicate Proposal 2 would cost families at least $1.6 billion tax dollars a year.

"Hurts" can also be viewed online at http://youtu.be/8Ke-QTNvUMY.

Organizations from across the state are working together to defeat Proposal 2 including organizations representing school boards, school principals, school superintendents, the Michigan Sheriff's Association, small business groups, chambers of commerce and taxpayer organizations.