Bill Would Expand Colorado Sex Education Standards

DENVER (AP) — A Democratic lawmaker wants to revamp standards for teaching sex education at Colorado schools.

Rep. Crisanta Duran is expected to present her bill to a House committee for a vote Thursday. The proposed legislation would create new statewide standards for teaching abstinence and safe sex. Parents would be required to opt-out, instead of the current requirement that they approve participation for their children.

The bill would also create a grant program to help schools get federal money to implement expanded instruction if they choose.

Republican Rep. Amy Stephens says the bill infringes on local control. But Duran says parents and school districts would still control what students are taught.

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