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Senate committee clears bill easing duplicate regulation for school-operated after-school programs; sponsor says chocolate milk should remain allowed
Summary
HB 12 82 was advanced 7–0 after testimony from district operators and discussion of duplicative rules between the Department of Early Childhood and the Colorado Department of Education; sponsors said the intent is to allow chocolate milk in after-school programs when permitted during the school day.
The Senate Education Committee advanced House Bill 12 82 by recorded vote after the sponsor described the bill’s goal of reducing duplicative and contradictory regulations for school-operated before- and after-school programs.
Senator Mullica said the measure, refined through stakeholder discussion, provides alternate pathways for districts to meet health and safety standards and avoids creating lower standards; examples cited included differing playground inspection rules and divergent requirements for handling student injuries.
Carrie Lockermeier (Adams 12) testified she supports the bill because it recognizes existing district oversight, reduces duplicate training and inspections, and preserves protections such as those required under the McKinney-Vento Act for students experiencing homelessness.
A lighter moment: committee members asked whether aligning rules could inadvertently ban chocolate milk after school; the sponsor said the intent is to allow chocolate milk when it is allowed during the school day, not to prohibit it.
Committee action and next steps: After closing remarks, the committee moved HB 12 82 to the Committee of the Whole with a favorable recommendation and recorded a 7–0 vote. The sponsor requested that the bill be placed on the consent calendar.
