The State of Michigan may yet get a tougher construction inspection standard for schools.

In the latest go-round to get a standard in place, State Rep. Deborah Cherry (D-Burton) will lead an effort by House Democrats to strengthen the rules for the construction and renovation of school buildings in Michigan.

"Every other public facility in Michigan must comply with the state's construction code," Cherry said. "Why shouldn't our schools?"

It has been at least 10 years since state Sen. Christopher Dingell began this fight, because with the exception of a state Fire Marshal inspection, Michigan has never had any regulatory authority over the mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems during school construction.

State legislators came close to an agreement last year, but Republicans wanted a plan that would allow local school districts to opt for local inspections instead.

This legislation addresses that desire. Local communities and school districts could retain regulatory authority if they certify that qualified, full-time code officials and inspectors are on the job making sure that any school construction meets the state standards.

This legislation would ensure that both public and private schools are constructed and renovated in accordance with the state construction code. The bill would grant regulatory and inspection authority over school construction to the state Fire Marshal and Department of Consumer and Industry Services.

Cherry has an interest in this law because of the tragic collapse of a block wall in 1998 at Flushing High School, which killed four tradesmen, including one of her constituents.

"This tragic accident could have been even more devastating had any children been in the building when the wall collapsed," Cherry said. "A fitting legacy for the four men who died at Flushing High School should be to make all schools safe for our kids."