South Michigan News: House committee advances bills on charter schools and boxing protections

The House Education and Workforce Committee has approved three bills aimed at expanding access to charter schools and enhancing protections for professional boxers.

Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) commented on the passage of these bills, stating: “Every student in America deserves a strong, high-quality education. By passing these bills, my colleagues and I are continuing to advocate for common-sense reforms which make it easier for charter schools to open and access the facilities they need to support students. In doing so, we are creating a stronger education landscape that makes it easier for families to find a school that meets their child’s needs.

“The Committee also passed the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act with bipartisan support, underscoring our ironclad commitment to enhancing the safety and integrity of American boxing. This bill is a strong step toward protecting fighters, ensuring fairness, and honoring the legacy of one of our nation’s most celebrated sports.”

One of the approved measures, H.R. 7082—the Fostering Learning and Excellence in Charter Schools (FLEX) Act—was introduced by Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA). This bill seeks to broaden charter schools’ eligibility for federal Charter School Program funds.

Another measure, H.R. 7086—the Equitable Access to School Facilities Act—authored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), aims to streamline requirements under the Charter School Program so that charter schools can more easily obtain quality facilities. The bill also encourages states to adopt policies supportive of charter schools and increases the number of states eligible for facility funding through the program.

The committee also advanced H.R. 4624—the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act—introduced by Rep. Brian Jack (R-GA). This legislation would establish Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs) designed to provide new opportunities for fair competition among boxers. It includes provisions mandating higher per-round pay for fighters as well as enhanced medical care standards, such as requiring medical personnel at every fight and setting industry-wide insurance coverage standards.