CO SB117

Prohibits the general assembly and Colorado Commission on Higher Education from appropriating or distributing state moneys based solely on race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, political affiliation, or political philosophy of students.

Exempts Fort Lewis College's funding for American Indian students pursuant to existing statute and allows institutions to offer equal opportunity programs, veterans' preferences, and other programs permitted under the U.S. Constitution.

Permits institutions to use state moneys to increase ethnic, cultural, and gender diversity, increase access for qualified disabled individuals, and provide equal opportunity for all students and employees.

Requires the Colorado Commission on Higher Education to comply with these anti-discrimination requirements when implementing higher education funding policy.

Takes effect August 5, 2015, unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2016 general election to take effect.