This explainer presents both sides based on the measure's text. It does not recommend a vote.
Plain English Summary
Amendment 80 would add language to Colorado's constitution stating that parents have the right to choose their child's education, including public, private, charter, homeschool, and other options. This would make school choice a constitutional right rather than just a policy that could be changed by future laws.
If YES
School choice becomes a constitutional right that would be harder for future legislatures to restrict
confidence: high
Parents would have stronger legal protections for choosing private schools, homeschooling, or charter schools
confidence: high
Courts could potentially strike down future laws that limit educational options for families
confidence: medium
The state's commitment to diverse educational approaches would be enshrined in the constitution
confidence: high
If NO
Current school choice options would remain available, but only as policies that could be changed by future laws
confidence: high
The legislature would retain full flexibility to regulate or modify school choice programs
confidence: high
No new constitutional protections would be created for parents choosing alternatives to traditional public schools
confidence: high
Educational policy would continue to be decided through normal legislative processes rather than constitutional requirements
confidence: high
Financial impact
Fiscal impact analysis not yet available. The measure primarily establishes rights rather than creating new programs or funding mechanisms.
TL;DR
Amendment 80 would make school choice a constitutional right in Colorado, giving parents stronger legal protections to choose their child's education.
Limitations
Based on measure title only — full text analysis may reveal additional details