School Libraries: Replacement or Return of Library Resources

A school cannot withhold a transcript, diploma, or grades for any student who fails to return or replace any textbook or library resources at the completion of any semester or school year. C.R.S. 22-32-110 amended by HB17-1301, effective August 9, 2017.

Summary of House Bill 17-1301:

The bill removes the authority of a board of education of a school district, a charter school, an institute charter school, and a school operated by a board of cooperative services (local education provider) to withhold records required for enrollment in another school or institution of higher education or a student's grades, transcripts, or diploma for failure to pay any fine or fee assessed by the local education provider, to return or replace textbooks or library resources, or to return other school property. The local education provider shall make reasonable efforts to obtain payment of an assessed fee or fine or payment for lost or damaged textbooks, library resources, or other school property.

Colorado State Revised Statutes
22-32-110 (1) (JJ)

Board of education - specific powers

(JJ) To require the payment of any fine or fee assessed pursuant to law, the return or replacement of textbooks or library resources, or the return or replacement of other school property. A school district shall not withhold, and shall ensure that a school of the school district does not withhold, records required for enrollment in another school or institution of higher education or the diploma, transcript, or grades of any student who fails to pay any assessed fine or fee, to return or replace textbooks or library resources, or to return or replace any school property at the completion of any semester or school year. The school district shall make a reasonable effort to obtain payment of any assessed fine or fee, payment for lost or damaged textbooks or library resources, and payment for lost or damaged school property. If the school district determines that a student is unable to pay, the school district may obtain payment through other methods, including but not limited to payment plans or service within the school in which the student is enrolled. Nothing in this subsection (1)(jj) limits the authority of a school district to collect debt.

For additional information contact 303-866-6900.