MACKINAC ISLAND. – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed a bipartisan bill to forgive school makeup days, supporting dozens of communities across the state that were impacted by severe weather following unprecedented snow melt, spring storms and flooding. 

“Michigan families are still feeling the impacts of the severe weather that devastated many of our communities,” Whitmer said in a press release. “This bill removes unnecessary penalties on students and schools whose routines were disrupted. I’m focused on securing funds to help Michiganders rebuild their communities. In the meantime, I’m proud to sign a bill that provides relief to schools and communities who were hit hard by these storms.” 

“Schools and families across my district are pleased to see the extraordinary circumstances of this winter recognized by the forgiveness of these days,” said state Sen. Ed McBroom, R-Waucedah Township. “Our schools and teachers have already worked hard to make up the lost classroom time so that students and families can keep their work and summer plans in place.” 

According to the press release, House Bill 5797 provides excusals for Michigan schools who canceled instruction days due to storms and flooding. The legislation provides relief to schools in northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, which experienced severe winter storms and spring flooding, as well as counties downstate who endured unprecedented flooding from a water main break in May.

Counties described in previous executive orders 2026-7, 2026-9, and 2026-11 following the devastating storms and water main break can waive additional school days.