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DENVER, CO – Two bills that would save Coloradans money on renewing their driver’s licenses and on child care passed committee today. HB22-1004 will freeze DMV drivers’ license fees into the next fiscal year. HB22-1006 will expand the number of eligible child care facilities exempt from property taxes.
“Freezing DMV renewal fees is just one of the many ways we’re working to save Coloradans money this legislative session,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley, sponsor of HB22-1004. “We know hardworking families across the state are feeling squeezed from every angle. The high cost of living combined with fatigue and pandemic unpredictability is exhausting. Which is why we’re using every tool available to save them money where we can.”
“This bill is a great example of our ongoing efforts to save Coloradans money, boost our economy and move our state forward,” said Rep. David Ortiz, D-Littleton, sponsor of HB22-1004. “By freezing DMV fees, Coloradans won’t be hit with an unexpected fee increase when they go to renew their license or state ID which means more money back in their pockets.”
HB22-1004, which passed the Transportation & Local Government Committee by a vote of 8 to 5, will save drivers money by freezing the license renewal fee for two years by transferring money to the licensing services cash fund.
“Access to affordable, quality child care is top of mind for nearly every family in Colorado,” said Rep. Dylan Roberts, sponsor of HB22-1006. “This Child Care Center Property Tax Exemption will increase the number of available spaces for child care facilities, driving down the cost of child care for both providers and families. We know the high cost of child care combined with pandemic pressures adds an extra layer of stress for families with children. This bill will help make child care more affordable, help families, and boost our economy.”
HB22-1006, which passed the Public & Behavioral Health & Human Services Committee by a vote of 11 to 1, will increase child care affordability by incentivizing additional property owners through a property tax exemption to lease space to non-profit child care centers.
The legislation will boost the number of available rental spaces for non-profit child care centers that often serve children, families, rural communities, and communities furthest from opportunity. Right now, infant child care costs nearly 10% more than the average rent in Colorado. Increasing the amount of affordable, accessible child care providers gives hardworking families more options for quality care while saving Coloradans money on child care.