Colorado House Democrats Pass Sex-Education Bill

DENVER (AP) — A proposal to revamp standards for teaching sex education at Colorado schools passed the House with Republicans objecting that the bill infringes on parents' control, a charge that Democrats deny.

The bill would create new statewide standards for teaching safe sex and abstinence. Parents would be required to opt out, instead of the current requirement that they approve participation for their children.

Republicans say parents and school districts should control what students are taught. Democrats insist the bill still gives them that power.

The bill passed on a 38-27 party-line vote on Friday, and now goes to the Senate.

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

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