HB 12-1091 Summary

• Limits Colorado statewide student assessments to only those required by federal law, specifically the "No Child Left Behind Act of 2001" (Public Law 107-110), eliminating state-mandated testing beyond federal requirements.

• Removes detailed implementation schedules for statewide assessments in reading, writing, mathematics, and science across specific grade levels that exceeded federal testing mandates.

• Finds that Colorado has spent approximately $25 million annually on student assessments with only $9 million from federal funds, placing the financial burden on state and local school districts.

• Appropriates all general fund savings realized from reducing assessments to the Colorado Preschool Program beginning in the 2012-13 budget year and continuing annually thereafter.

• Becomes effective August 7, 2012, subject to potential referendum petition requiring voter approval at the November 2012 general election.