DENVER - Democrats have advanced a proposal to revamp standards for teaching sex education at Colorado schools.

Democratic Rep. Crisanta Duran's bill passed a House committee Thursday on a 6-5 party-line vote. The proposed legislation would create new statewide standards for teaching abstinence and safe sex. Parents would be required to opt out, instead of the current requirement that they approve participation for their children.

The bill would also create a grant program to help schools get federal money to implement expanded instruction if they choose.

Republican Rep. Amy Stephens says the bill infringes on local control. But Duran says parents and school districts would still control what students are taught.

The bill still needs to be voted on by the entire House.