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DENVER, CO – The Business Affairs and Labor Committee today passed legislation to support older Coloradans in the workforce. HB26-1010 passed committee by a vote of 10-3.
“Our economy works best when we equip workers with the tools and skills they need to succeed in our workforce,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn. “Colorado Democrats are taking the steps now to ensure that older Coloradans have more opportunities to take on new roles and participate in workforce development recommendations. From specialized training to employment access, older Coloradans deserve resources tailored to them, and this bill helps create a clearer path to support their workforce needs.”
“The talent, knowledge and lived-experience of older workers is extremely beneficial to our growing workforce needs,” said Rep. Jamie Jackson, D-Aurora. “This bill prioritizes the participation, representation and support of older Coloradans in the workforce. We know that when workers have the skills they need to thrive, our economy benefits. HB26-1010 spotlights new opportunities for older workers and studies their workforce participation in Colorado to help meet our ever-evolving workforce.”
HB26-1010 would modify Colorado’s workforce policy to ensure older Coloradans have direct input regarding workforce support and resources. This bill prioritizes representation by placing a worker who is 55-years-old or older on several commissions to ensure their perspectives and needs are considered in the workforce. HB26-1010 also requires the Colorado Workforce Development Council, Commission on Aging, and others to work collaboratively to support workforce development and examine issues related to employment access, training, support and services for older adults.
Older adults are one of the fastest growing segments of Colorado’s workforce, yet they often report struggling to find employment opportunities and are looking for upskilling opportunities. While some data is available on older adults in the workplace, there are significant gaps in reporting. HB26-1010 would require data collection and reporting of Coloradans' participation in the workforce.