MI SR0145

Urges the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) to adopt a policy allowing age eligibility waivers for students with disabilities, who are currently ineligible to compete if older than 19 years before September 1.

Notes that students with mental and physical disabilities are held back in school for academic success, not competitive advantage, and at least 23 other states already permit such waivers.

States the current MHSAA policy denies students with disabilities the opportunity to participate in high school sports, build self-esteem and confidence, and create lasting memories with peers and teammates.

Asserts that case-by-case eligibility determinations for special needs students would advance the MHSAA's primary purpose of increasing educational value of interscholastic athletics without threatening competitor safety or providing unfair advantages.

Directs transmission of the resolution to the Michigan High School Athletic Association in support of a rule change affecting students like Eric Dompierre, a junior at Ishpeming High School with Down syndrome.