Michigan State University’s interim President John Engler criticized state lawmakers last week for a package of bills that would give sexual assault victims more time to file lawsuits, among other changes.
The former Michigan governor told a group of state senators last Thursday that they are interfering with MSU’s ongoing negotiations with victims of former sports doctor Larry Nassar. Earlier this year, Nassar was convicted of molesting hundreds of girls and young women under the guise of treatment over two decades.
The university hopes to settle out of court with Nassar’s victims. Engler says the proposed changes to the law are disrupting negotiations and could increase the cost for the school.
Engler said it could lead to the school raising the price of tuition in the future.
“Your legislation would certainly probably do that,” Engler said. “I don’t know if it would force bankruptcy or not. I hope not.”
State Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker (R-Lawton) said Engler’s comments were insulting.
