Indian Mascot Bill Advances, With Less Help For Schools

DENVER (AP) - A Colorado bill to ban schools from using American Indian mascots without permission from a panel of Native Americans has been cleared for a vote by the full House.

But lawmakers amended the proposal Thursday so that the state won't use tax dollars to assist schools that have to change signs and uniforms.

The House Appropriations Committee approved the version with no tax dollars on a vote of 7-6. All Democrats were in favor and all Republicans opposed.

No date has been scheduled for the House debate.

RELATED: Tense Moment During Debate Over Native American Mascots At Capitol

The bill would set up a panel called the Subcommittee for the Consideration of the Use of American Indian Mascots by Public Schools. The voting members would review mascot names and decide whether the mascots are offensive.

LINK: House Bill 1165

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