March 10, 2008 2:42 PM
Lawmakers throw the book at overpriced textbooks
The House voted initial passage today to rein in rising textbook costs for college students.
Senate Bill 73, sponsored by Sen. Ron Tupa, D-Boulder, and Rep. John Kefalas, D-Ft. Collins, would make textbooks more affordable by requiring publishers to disclose content and price changes made in all new and updated editions.
It would also help college students and professors avoid getting stiffed by the publishing practice of "bundling," where textbook buyers are forced to also purchase interactive CDs and study guides. The bill would allow college students and professors to just buy the textbooks and skip the costly extra materials.
“We need to close the book on the outrageous cost of course materials,” said Kefalas, whose district includes Colorado State University. “Right now, some of our best minds are being priced out of higher education, in part because the price of textbooks is through the roof.”
SB 73, which has already passed the Senate, could receive final House approval Tuesday.
--Alan Gathright
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