In view of the Catholic resistance, the May Laws of 1873 gave responsibility for the training and appointment of clergy to the state, which resulted in the closing of nearly half of the seminaries in Prussia by 1878. Any cleric had to prove a university education and take a state examination. His appointment was subject to an obligation of disclosure to the Province's Oberpräsident (Upper President), who had the power to veto.
Due to Catholic opposition, the May Laws of 1873 transferred responsibility for clergy training and appointments to the state, resulting in the closure of nearly half of Prussia's seminaries by 1878. Clerics had to show university education and pass a state exam. Their appointment required disclosure to the Province's Oberpräsident (Upper President), who could reject them.