JOINT RELEASE: “Freedom to Read Act” Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – The Governor today signed into law the “Freedom to Read Act.” Sponsored by Senators Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Representatives Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, and Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County, SB25-063 creates safeguards against book bans in public school libraries.

“Free societies don’t ban books,” said Cutter. “The Freedom to Read Act will ensure that the next generation of Coloradans has the opportunity to access a broad spectrum of literature, including works that might challenge preconceived notions or present uncomfortable truths. By doing so, we empower Colorado's children to become well-informed, open-minded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to our democracy. As diverse identities are being erased and marginalized throughout the country, it has never been more important to protect the freedom to read.”

“Knowledge is power, and our law preserves access to age-appropriate literature in Colorado public schools,” said Willford. “This legislation creates a standard process to evaluate a book’s inclusion or removal from a library, further shielding our public school libraries from D.C. culture wars and political fights. Schools are for learning, and our students deserve access to age-appropriate books that encourage them to think broadly and critically about the world.” 

“As an author and owner of a publishing company, I am committed to telling stories that would not otherwise be told,” said Michaelson Jenet. “These are the stories that end up on banned book lists. While other states enact laws to criminalize educators and restrict access to books, this policy sends a strong message that Colorado values our students’ freedom to access diverse voices and opinions.”

“This law ensures a transparent policy to avoid discriminatory censorship and protects students’ access to books that share the voices and experiences of marginalized communities,” said García. “Books offer a window to the world where students can explore new places, discover different cultures and dive deep into a new experience. The freedom to read is a cornerstone to a strong democracy, and we’re making sure our students have access to age-appropriate literature.”

SB25-063 will create safeguards against book bans in public schools by requiring local school boards to establish a standard policy on the acquisition, use and removal of library resources. The policy would ensure that any removal or restriction of a library resource follows a clear, fair and consistent process. 

Without a policy in place, a local school board or the Charter School Institute could not remove a library resource from its collection. SB25-063 will also prevent discriminatory policies and protect librarians from retaliation.