MONTGOMERY (AP) — State officials are considering introducing a bill that would allow high school students to enroll in community college courses for free.

AL.com reports Community College System Chancellor Mark Heinrich says he is working with state lawmakers to draft a bill on the issue as early as the 2013 legislative session. Heinrich made the statement Tuesday at the Economic Development Association of Alabama's winter conference.

Heinrich says allowing dual enrollment in high school and community college would better prepare students for post-secondary and technical education, or to immediately enter the workforce.

State officials say they could maximize participation in community college courses by offering them for free, but acknowledge that funding such a program could be a potential hurdle.