JUNEAU -- A proposal that would change the way schools administer a federal survey cleared the House Education Committee on Wednesday.

Schools are required to get written parental approval before a student can take the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. The anonymous survey by the Centers for Disease Control measures the prevalence of health and social problems among students. SB8 would require parents send written objections to their children's participation to opt out.

Proponents like Anchorage Democratic Sen. Bettye Davis say the measure decreases the burden placed on schools.

Critics worry about exposure to topics like sexual behavior and drug use.

House Education Chair Alan Dick says he shares that concern but supported the bill because data from the survey helps combat community problems.

The bill faces another committee before a floor vote.