A state senator says he'll file legislation that would prevent Indiana schools from starting classes before Labor Day.

Republican Sen. Mike Delph of Carmel says his proposal would also prohibit schools from ending after June 10. The legislation would take effect starting in the fall of 2012.

Supporters of such legislation say it makes sense to start school after Labor Day because families would have more summer vacation time together and it could reduce the cost of cooling classrooms in August. Opponents think decisions about school calendars should be left up to individual school districts.

The bill would not apply to schools that have year-round classes. The proposal will likely be discussed in the legislative session that begins Jan. 5.