Panel advances bill allowing principals to permit patriotic youth groups to meet during school hours

House Bill 23-12, introduced in committee by Chase and presented by Representative Rivera, would authorize public-school principals to permit representatives of specified federally recognized patriotic youth groups (including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, FFA and similar organizations) to address students during the first quarter and to accept and distribute materials on school property if the principal approves.

Rivera described the bill as permissive: principals retain discretion and may review materials. Representative Symichek and others noted that an earlier, identical bill had been heard last year.

Opponents and several members voiced concerns about use of instructional hours, potential implicit compulsion, and the logistics of accommodating multiple groups. Representative Hernandez sought clarity on the frequency and nature of permitted presentations; Rivera said the bill is intended to allow a principal to approve limited presentations and that it was modeled on federal designation.

After discussion and some members saying they would seek clarifying amendments on the floor, the committee returned HB 23-12 with a due-pass recommendation; the clerk recorded the vote as 6 ayes, 5 noes, 1 not voting. The bill proceeds to the full House for further consideration.