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DENVER, CO – The House State, Civic, Military & Veterans Affairs Committee today passed legislation that would allow Coloradans impacted by the Marshall Fire to use their home address on their voter registration if their home was destroyed.
“In the wake of the devastating Marshall Fire that displaced thousands of Coloradans, we’re making sure their voting rights are preserved now and when they return home,” said Rep. Tracey Bernett, D-Louisville. “Our bill updates the law so Coloradans affected by the Marshall Fire, or any other natural disaster, have the flexibility to vote at their home address and have a voice in their communities. This is just one of the many ways we’re supporting Boulder County residents through the recovery process.”
“Coloradans displaced by the Marshall Fire shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to cast their ballot,” said Rep. Matt Gray, D-Broomfield. “We’re taking the necessary steps to update Colorado law so voters displaced by natural disasters can vote in their home community, regardless of their temporary living situation. Colorado’s gold standard election system is free, secure and easy to use — let’s keep it that way for registered voters displaced by the Marshall Fire.”
SB22-152, would allow registered Colorado voters displaced by the Marshall Fire and temporarily living at another location to use their home address on their voter registration if their home was destroyed or unfit to live in. To receive their ballot, voters can update their voter registration with the Colorado Secretary of State using an alternative mailing address and leave their residential address untouched.
This bill would also solidify a standard practice commonly used by county clerks following natural disasters. SB22-152 passed committee unanimously and would extend voter protections to Colorado voters displaced from natural disasters including floods, fires and tornadoes.
More than 900 homes were destroyed in Louisville and Superior during the Marshall Fire in December 2021, resulting in the displacement of thousands of Coloradans.