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MSU Could Lose $500k for Offering Labor Courses

Michigan State University could risk losing a half million dollars if it doesn’t stop offering courses that allegedly promote unionization.

The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Jake Neher explains.

MSU recently decided to take over some programs from the National Labor College. Republican state lawmakers say those programs could encourage labor disputes. And they say that’s not a good use of taxpayer dollars. So they’re considering a measure that would ban public universities from offering courses that promote or discourage union organization.

Representative Al Pscholka chairs the panel that directs higher education funding in the House.

“My fear is we’re enhancing a division in the workplace,” he says.  “And I don’t think that’s an appropriate thing to be taught.”

An MSU official says the university’s curriculum is balanced. He says it also offers classes that educate businesses on labor issues.

Jake Neher is a reporter for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He covers the State Legislature and other political events in Lansing.
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