Michigan lawmakers recently approved $114 million from the state School Aid Fund to pay off the legacy debts of several local school systems that previously faced serious financial distress. Some districts received the relief, others did not. This represents a moral hazard, signaling to some districts that they will not be held responsible for solving any future financial problems.

Taxpayers should demand a cohesive, transparent strategy for determining who receives debt relief. Because the current situation is unfair to both students and taxpayers in districts that receive no relief.