HB 21-1173 Summary

• Prohibits state-supported higher education institutions from considering legacy preferences (preferences based on familial relationships to alumni) as eligible criteria in admissions decisions.

• Defines "legacy preference" as a preference given to applicants based on their familial relationship to alumni of the institution.

• Allows governing boards to collect data on familial relationships to alumni for statistical purposes, but such information cannot be used to influence admissions decisions.

• Addresses documented racial and socioeconomic disparities in Colorado college enrollment, where 63% of White students and 67% of middle- to high-income students enroll in bachelor's programs directly from high school compared to 42% of Latino students and 47% of low-income students.

• Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly, subject to potential referendum petition requiring voter approval in November 2022.