NORTH CAROLINA -- A proposed bill that would give school districts the flexibility to set their own academic calendars clears its first hurdle.

• House Bill 117 was passed Tuesday that would allow districts the room to start the school year in early August as opposed to later in the month as state law mandates.
• Other benefits include having students take exams before the winter break.
• Opponents argue this could shorten the summer tourism season, especially along the coast.

The House Education K-12 Committee passed House Bill 117 Tuesday that would allow districts the room to start the school year in early August as opposed to later in the month as state law mandates. Supporters say this could help schools make up days due to sudden cancellations like inclement weather.

“Having more flexibility means that we don't have to lose valuable professional development time. We don't have to scramble or potentially lose days of instruction,” said Chip Sudderth III with Durham Public Schools.

Other benefits include having students take exams before the winter break.

“But it extends the learning times that would prove student achievement and helps minimize summer learning loss,” says one of the bill's sponsors, Representative Harry Warren (R-Rowan County).

But opponents argue this could shorten the summer tourism season, especially along the coast.

“That's 20 percent of our tourism, house rentals, and other rental properties on the beach,” said Rep. Frank Iler (R-Brunswick County) who voted against the bill.

The bill now moves to the Rules Committee before going to the House floor for a full vote. It's not clear if state senators would then support the bill.