< Back March 8, 2021 DEMOCRATS INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO REDUCE COSTS AND INCREASE AFFORDABILITY OF LIFE-SAVING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS DENVER – This afternoon, Senators Jaquez Lewis and Gonzales, along with Representatives Caraveo and Kennedy, in partnership with Governor Polis, announced the introduction of SB21-175, a bill to establish the Prescription Drug Affordability Board. “Prescription drugs cost too much and Coloradans are sick and tired of being ripped off. This bill is an important step toward our goal of saving people money on health care,” said Governor Jared Polis. “I want to thank the bill sponsors for their efforts to ensure that hardworking Coloradans can get the medicine they need for themselves and their families without worrying about astronomical costs.” “As prescription drug costs continue to skyrocket, people are forced to make impossible choices,” said Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Boulder County, a pharmacist and prime sponsor of the legislation. “This proposal–this group of non-partisan experts–has the potential to save Coloradans as much as 75% on the most unaffordable drugs. We have no choice but to address this issue–we absolutely must get this under control so we can build a healthy Colorado for all!” “The painful and heartbreaking accounts of Coloradans who are forced to choose between filling prescriptions, skipping doses or paying for basic necessities are far too common,” said bill sponsor Representative Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “The skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs is hurting families, and it’s hurting our economic recovery. Coming out of this pandemic, we must build back stronger, and that means making common sense reforms to lower the costs of the drugs that are eating away at the bottom line of so many hardworking Coloradans.” Too many Coloradans skip doses, stretch the length of their prescriptions, or delay filling prescriptions because they simply cannot afford them. As established in the bill, the Prescription Drug Affordability Board will convene a panel of experts to investigate prescription drug cost increases, and set guardrails on cost increases for the most expensive prescription drugs in the state. The affordability board would set upper payment limits for prescription drugs that meet certain cost increase thresholds. These payment limits would apply to all purchasers in the state, but will only be placed on the highest cost drugs, with purchasers continuing to be able to negotiate rates for the vast majority of drugs. The board will collect and evaluate the data necessary to review the affordability of prescription drugs and make policy recommendations to legislators. The board will be made up of nonpartisan, unpaid experts who are free from conflicts of interest. “Even prior to the pandemic, nearly 1 in 3 Coloradans struggled to afford the prescription drugs they need to stay healthy, forcing families to choose between buying their prescriptions or paying rent and buying groceries,” said bill sponsor Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “At a time when Coloradans are struggling with the economic and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, we should ensure that all Coloradans – particularly in communities of color – have access to affordable health care.” “Prescription drugs are essential to managing, preventing, and curing diseases, but not every Coloradan can access them because cost is a barrier when it shouldn’t even be a consideration,” said bill sponsor Rep Yadira Caraveo, D-Thornton, a physician. “Coloradans need us to act now. Colorado families are struggling with unfair and unaffordable drug costs. The affordability board will reign in the highest cost drugs and stop the out of control increases that are reaching deeper and deeper into Coloradans pockets and driving up the cost of healthcare for everyone.” A recent poll from the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative found that 77% of Coloradans supported the idea of establishing a Prescription Drug Affordability Board to analyze and act to lower the cost of certain prescription drugs — and this bill seeks to answer their call. To read the full text of the bill and track it through the legislative process, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-175 Previous Next

Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills into law that will create a healthier, safer Colorado. < Back June 2, 2026 JOINT RELEASE: Signed! Bills to Protect Patient Access to Medication and Boost Support for Rural EMS DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills into law that will create a healthier, safer Colorado. HB26-1262 will protect Colorado’s drug compounding laws to ensure patients’ continued access to individualized prescription medication. HB26-1069 will save Coloradans money on healthcare and support Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers, especially in rural and underserved communities. “These new laws work to safeguard life-saving healthcare in rural communities,” said Rep. Katie Stewart, D-Durango, sponsor of HB26-1262 and HB26-1069. “Patients in Southwest Colorado are already feeling the effects of federal restrictions on compounding, and this law creates clear protections so health care providers can continue to administer individualized medication across the state. With this law, we’re making sure compounding pharmacies can continue to operate. When I worked as an EMT in Southwest Colorado, we provided on-site care to many patients, but EMS was not reimbursed for those calls when we did not transport the patient to the emergency room. Our new law saves patients money and supports EMS workers by eliminating the need to flood the emergency room with non-emergent cases, freeing up EMS so they can continue to provide essential care to our communities.” “Hospitals, dental offices, and behavioral healthcare clinics across Colorado rely on compounding to provide their patients with individualized doses and custom formulations of the medicine they need,” said Sen. Matt Ball, D-Denver, sponsor of HB26-1262. “This law resolves the uncertainty caused by recent court decisions by establishing consistent, clear rules so compounding can continue safely in Colorado. We’re protecting patient access to medication made specifically for them at the right strength, form, and ingredient combination that they need.” “From allergies to smaller dosages, there are many reasons health care professionals utilize compounding to meet the needs of patients," said Rep. Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood, sponsor of HB26-1262. “This law codifies compounding rules and regulations in state law to ensure that patients can continue accessing individualized medication at an affordable cost. Our legislation protects health care professionals' ability to treat patients' safety through compounded medications.” “This bill protects longstanding practices that help lower prescription drug costs and ensure access to customized medications tailored to patients’ needs, especially when those treatments aren’t commercially available,” said Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, sponsor of HB26-1262. “Compounding is particularly critical in rural Colorado where care can be difficult to access. This law provides clarity for patients and providers, safeguards access to essential medicine Coloradans rely on, and keeps compounding practices under the oversight of state health and safety standards.” HB26-1262 safeguards Colorado’s compounding rules by aligning state and federal standards. This law provides necessary clarity in state law to protect the longstanding compounding practices used across hospitals, clinics and local pharmacies. Concentrated albuterol, a medication used to treat severe bronchospasms, asthma, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), is created in a Colorado compounding facility that serves patients nationwide. Conflicting decisions by the Ninth and Fifth Circuit Courts have created uncertainty around the definition and regulation of compounding for our state and the cross-country patients that rely on Colorado. This law establishes clear statutory language surrounding compounding, ensuring Colorado can safely continue best practices that have guided compounding for decades. HB26-1069 will save patients and the state money on healthcare and sustain EMS in rural communities. “EMS shows up to every call they receive, but only get reimbursed when they transport patients to the emergency room,” said Rep. Lisa Feret, D-Arvada, sponsor of HB26-1069. “By reimbursing for treatment in place and transport to a non-emergent setting, we save patients time and Colorado taxpayers money. This law will provide additional resources to emergency response providers while saving both hospitals, health plans and consumers money and freeing up emergency room beds for those who truly need it." “As an emergency healthcare provider, I know that our EMS workers must have every tool at their disposal to provide care in-the-moment, and they should be reimbursed for that care,” said Sen. Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, sponsor of HB26-1069. “This law will lower costs for patients, reduce overall healthcare spending, and close funding gaps so EMS can continue providing the life-saving care Colorado communities rely on.” EMS providers regularly provide essential on-site treatment, also known as treatment in place (TIP), which costs significantly less than a trip to the emergency room. However, under current law, EMS providers are only reimbursed if they transport a patient to an emergency room, even when that transport is not necessary. This new law, also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, will require Medicaid to reimburse EMS for TIP. It will also improve access to care by allowing Medicaid to reimburse for certain telehealth care involving EMS. TIP limits the need for costly emergency room visits, saving the state and patients money on healthcare. For example, a federal TIP pilot program showed a 193-percent cost-to-savings ratio for Medicare members receiving TIP services instead of emergency room visits. On the Western Slope, a 2022 analysis of 911 calls in Eagle County revealed that TIP reimbursement accounted for a preliminary cost savings of $1,285.40 to the state per TIP call. HB26-1069 also ensures that social workers who co-respond in emergency settings are classified as first responders and receive the same benefits as EMS providers, which will strengthen workforce recruitment and retention, especially in rural or underserved areas. Previous Next

< Back April 30, 2022 HOUSE ADVANCES BILL TO IMPROVE AIR QUALITY, REDUCE EMISSIONS, AND SAVE PEOPLE MONEY DENVER, CO – The House today advanced legislation on a preliminary vote that will update building codes to improve Colorado’s air quality, reduce emissions, and save people money on their utility bills. “By building right the first time, we’ll save Coloradans money on their utility bills, improve our air quality and reduce harmful indoor air pollution,” said Rep. Tracey Bernett, D-Louisville. “All Coloradans deserve homes and buildings that are efficient, resilient, healthy and ready for the future. By passing this bill, we’ll address one of the largest sources of pollution in Colorado, make it easier and cheaper to own an electric vehicle, and consumers will be better protected from utility price spikes. This bill will help the 25 percent of Coloradans who are energy burdened save money on their utilities.” “By building high quality, efficient new buildings, Coloradans will save money on their utility bills, and both our indoor and outdoor air will be healthier for everyone,” said Rep. Alex Valdez, D-Denver. “This bill doesn’t ban anything; it simply moves our state forward with updated building codes that benefit everyone, improve our air, lower utility costs and foster healthier communities.” HB22-1362 , sponsored by Representatives Tracey Bernett and Alex Valdez, would update Colorado’s building codes to improve energy efficiency, save Coloradans money, and reduce harmful indoor and outdoor air pollution. The bill preserves all appliance and utility options for consumers, including natural gas, and does not transfer enforcement responsibility away from local governments. Owners and occupants of existing homes and buildings would only be affected if their local government chooses to upgrade their building codes and the building owner chooses to undergo a major, permit-authorized renovation or addition. For cities and counties that have adopted building codes, the legislation updates building codes to ensure that new buildings are constructed right the first time by incorporating electric vehicle charging capabilities, solar and electric-ready wiring, to save building and homeowners thousands off the costs of retrofitting their homes and saving them money on utility bills. While not mandatory, the codes encourage all-electric homes, which research shows cost less to build and save building owners money over their lifecycle. The bill includes $3 million in grant funding to help cities and counties adopt and enforce updated building codes, $1 million in grants for training for builders and contractors, and $22 million in grants and incentives to help finance energy efficiency upgrades. Previous Next

< Back April 29, 2019 EXUM-TIPPER’S SECOND CHANCE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM LANDS ON GOVERNOR’S DESK (Apr. 29) – The House gave final approval to SB19-231, sponsored by Rep. Tony Exum and Rep. Kerry Tipper, that creates the Colorado Second Chance Scholarship program to award scholarships to people who have previously been in the custody of the Division of Youth Services (DYS) and are pursuing their higher education. “This bill is personal to me because I have a Division of Youth Services facility in my district. If we can get our young people the help they need to get a higher education after they’ve gone through the rehabilitation process, then we can lower the recidivism rate and in return, they will be productive members of society,” said Rep. Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs. “ It will cost taxpayers more in the long term than it will to improve the lives of our young people with education and give them a more fulfilling life.” SB19-231 will award scholarships of up to $10,000 each to youth offenders exiting the DYS system to pursue a higher education. It will create a five person advisory board consisting of four people appointed from various state agencies and one person who previously served in a DYS facility to award the scholarships based upon need. “This is a smart investment in some of our most vulnerable youth. These are kids that made some mistakes early on in their lives, but are now just trying to get back on track to invest in their future and create a better life for themselves. This program could be the only opportunity many of these kids will have to get a fresh start,” said Rep. Tipper, D-Lakewood. Both the advisory board and scholarship program will expire in 2022. SB19-231 passed by a bipartisan vote of 43-22. It now heads to the Governor’s desk. Previous Next

< Back November 12, 2020 MULLICA ACCEPTS HEALTH EQUITY HERO AWARD–SELECTS SENIOR HUB AND RALSTON HOUSE TO RECEIVE CONTRIBUTION Recognizing Mullica’s work caring for patients in the Cook County Jail, Dentaquest will provide a $5,000 contribution to The Senior Hub and Ralston House of Northglenn in his name DENVER, CO — Representative Kyle Mullica today received the Dataquest Health Equity Hero Award, a national award that recognizes individuals for working to expand access to health care, especially in underserved communities. Rep. Mullica, an ER nurse, was honored for his work in the Cook County Jail, where he cared for patients during a critical COVID-19 outbreak in April and May. “I am honored to select Ralston House and Senior Hub to receive these contributions,” said Rep. Mullica, D-Northglenn. “These charities are doing essential work to protect and support at-risk seniors and youth. So many Coloradans rely on Ralston House and Senior Hub for access to health care, critical services, nutritional meals and so much more. I could not be more grateful for their dedication to serving our community.” “Ralston House is honored to be chosen by Representative Mullica as a recipient of this donation,” said Ralston House Executive Director Don Moseley. “Ralston House provides forensic interviews, medical examinations, and victim advocacy for children who are suspected of being sexually or physically abused or have witnessed a violent crime. This donation will go directly to funding these services in a year where the impact of COVID 19 has limited the fundraising efforts of Ralston House and other nonprofits. We are grateful to Representative Mullica for his donation and for the work he did to earn this award.” According to their website: the DentaQuest Health Equity Hero awards program celebrates and promotes individuals who are going above and beyond to expand access to equitable oral care and health care — especially in underserved communities. These community leaders are inspiring collective action on behalf of our neighbors with the greatest needs and the fewest resources. In addition to celebrating and promoting the contributions of the 2020 Health Equity Heroes, DentaQuest provides a $5,000 charitable contribution in the name of each hero to a nonprofit committed to promoting health equity. Rep. Mullica was selected because: “[As a] husband, father and ER nurse, [he] left home and family after the Colorado General Assembly suspended its session to work in the Cooke County Jail in Chicago during one of the worst COVID-19 outbreaks in the city. Mullica spent five weeks at the jail, working 12-hour shifts, seven days a week." The Senior Hub is a nonprofit agency that provides services and support to assist aging adults to remain in their homes, as long as possible. The agency serves older adults in Arapahoe and Adams county through a variety of programs and initiatives including Meals on Wheels, home care services, adult day services, and a food pantry. Ralston House is a not-for-profit agency that provides a friendly and safe place for child and teen survivors of abuse to tell their stories and begin the healing process. Founded in 1990, Ralston House receives referrals from law enforcement, social services and the district attorney’s office, and works in conjunction with these entities to provide specialized forensic interviews and medical examinations. Previous Next

Legislation would strengthen Colorado’s law to crack down on ghost guns < Back February 27, 2026 CO Dems Advance Bill to Prohibit 3D Printing of Ghost Guns Legislation would strengthen Colorado’s law to crack down on ghost guns DENVER, CO - The House today advanced legislation on a preliminary vote to prevent gun violence by prohibiting the three-dimensional printing of firearms, large-capacity magazines or other firearm components. “Three-dimensional printing technology has become much more accessible in recent years, which has been taken advantage of by bad actors who print firearms and firearm parts to avoid background checks and other gun violence prevention laws,” said Rep. Lindsay Gilchrist, D-Denver. “3D printed guns and gun components are an increasing threat in our communities because they lack identification that law enforcement can use to track the weapon back to a suspect, and they undermine life-saving guardrails like background checks and waiting periods. Our legislation would crack down on this illegal practice to protect our communities from gun violence and save lives.” “We’re being responsive to new technology that threatens the safety of our communities by bringing legislation to ensure that everyone must adhere to Colorado’s laws before they can access a firearm,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “I proudly passed Colorado’s ghost gun ban in 2023, which helped prevent unserialized guns and gun parts from terrorizing our communities. This legislation strengthens our 2023 law to keep ghost guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals and protect Coloradans from gun violence.” HB26-1144 would prohibit the use of a three-dimensional printer, or similar devices, to make a firearm or a firearm component. An initial violation of this provision would be a class 1 misdemeanor, and any subsequent violation would be a class 5 felony. The bill would also prohibit the sale or distribution of instructions on how to use a three-dimensional printer to create a firearm or a firearm component. A violation of this provision would be a civil infraction. This does not apply to the three-dimensional printing of non-functional or prop firearms. Since 2016, the number of ghost guns used in crimes throughout the country increased by 1000-percent , yet over 99-percent of those guns cannot be traced back to a user, owner or producer. Between 2016 and 2021, law enforcement reported recovering over 45,000 privately-made firearms, including in nearly 700 homicide or attempted homicide investigations. When an untraceable gun is used in a crime, it can be impossible for a gun violence victim and their family to seek accountability. Speaker Pro Tem Boesenecker passed the original “ghost guns” law back in 2023, which prohibited the possession, sale or transfer of unserialized firearms, frames and receivers. Previous Next

SB25-004 improves transparency in application and waitlist fees for private child care centers < Back March 27, 2025 JOINT RELEASE: Signed! New Law Will Address High Cost of Child Care SB25-004 improves transparency in application and waitlist fees for private child care centers DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Representatives Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, and Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County, to address the high cost of child care was recently signed into law. SB25-004 requires private child care centers to provide a transparent fee schedule upon registration, when joining a waitlist, or at the request of the family. The law also requires application or waitlist fees to be refundable after six months if the child is not admitted and remains on the waitlist. “The rising cost of child care is a significant hurdle for countless families across Colorado,” said Marchman. “By establishing clear guidelines for application and wait list fees as well as deposits, we can provide tangible relief to working families. With application fees often exceeding $175 per child, these costs add up quickly and put unnecessary pressure on household budgets. This new law will ensure child care becomes more affordable and accessible, empowering more families to find the care they need without financial hardship.” “It’s expensive to raise children in 2025, and families shouldn’t have to shell out thousands of dollars on waitlist fees and deposits for child care centers that don’t even offer their child a spot,” said Willford. “This bill allows families to recover some of the fees associated with the application and waitlist processes to save hardworking families money on child care. Colorado Democrats are committed to making our state a more affordable place to live, and this legislation is one of the many steps we’re taking to save Coloradans money.” “The lack of transparency on child care fees burdens families with unexpected expenses,” said Winter. “I hear from so many parents in my community that they are struggling to find child care. Limiting waitlist fees and adding transparency to application fees on child care center websites and forms reduces financial uncertainty and helps parents make informed decisions about what’s best for them.” “Families shouldn’t have to budget for thousands of dollars worth of child care deposit and waitlist fees,” said García. “It can be difficult to clear a child care waitlist, which is why some families are spending thousands of dollars on numerous child care deposits and waitlists despite the uncertainty of whether or not their application will be accepted. Our legislation allows families to receive a refund for fees and deposits if they are not offered enrollment within six months, allowing families to save their hard-earned money.” These requirements apply to private child care programs outside the Universal Preschool Program, Colorado Child Care Assistance Program, and Head Start. A center may charge a deposit, but if admitted, the deposit must go towards tuition of child care. Previous Next

The House State, Civic, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee yesterday passed legislation to expand Colorado’s existing “Red Flag” law to proactively combat gun violence and save lives. < Back March 3, 2026 ICYMI: CO Dems Vote to Expand Red Flag Law, Reject Republican Bill to Repeal It DENVER, CO – The House State, Civic, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee yesterday passed legislation to expand Colorado’s existing “Red Flag” law to proactively combat gun violence and save lives. The committee also passed a bill to improve collaboration between law enforcement agencies to quickly identify firearms and generate leads for gun-related crimes. “As Republicans try to repeal Colorado’s life-saving Red Flag law, Colorado Democrats are expanding its impact to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, sponsor of SB26-004. “Under this bill, educational institutions, in consultation with teachers and co-responders, would now be able to initiate the ERPO process if they believe someone is a risk to themselves or others. This bill would help protect our communities from gun violence.” “Colorado’s Red Flag law is one of the most effective tools that we have to prevent gun violence, which is why we passed our bill to make it more effective and voted down the House GOP’s effort to completely eliminate it,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, sponsor of SB26-004. “Red Flag laws allow certain professionals to file a petition if they believe someone poses a serious threat to our communities. Our bill adds to the list of qualified people who can try to intervene to prevent senseless gun violence and save Colorado lives.” SB26-004 would expand the list of community members eligible to petition for an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) and create a new category of institutional petitioners. The bill would add co-responders and health care professionals employed by health care facilities to the list of community members who may petition the court for an ERPO. SB26-004 would also add health care facilities, behavioral health treatment facilities, K-12 schools, and higher education institutions as institutional petitioners that may petition a court for an ERPO. SB26-004 passed committee by a vote of 8-3. Passed in 2019, Colorado Democrats’ original ERPO legislation allows qualified individuals to petition a judge to temporarily remove a firearm from a potentially dangerous individual and interrupt gun violence before it has a chance to occur. In 2023, lawmakers passed legislation to expand the list of qualified individuals eligible to petition for an ERPO to include DAs and other law enforcement officials, licensed health care professionals, educators, and mental health professionals. The committee also voted down a dangerous bill, sponsored by Representative Scott Slaugh, R-Berthoud. HB26-1072 would have repealed Colorado’s Red Flag law and all subsequent changes to the law, like the addition of an ERPO hotline and expansions of qualified individuals who can file an ERPO. By September 1, 2026, HB26-1265 would require each law enforcement agency in Colorado to register with eTrace and opt in to eTrace’s feature that allows for collaboration. HB26-1265 passed committee by a vote of 7-3. "With Trump gutting crucial gun violence prevention tools, Colorado has to step up to keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Manny Rutinel, D-Commerce City, sponsor of HB26-1265. “eTrace helps law enforcement agencies identify the last known owner of a gun to identify gun traffickers, stolen firearms and other dangerous crimes. Collaboration across law enforcement jurisdictions, like eTrace, can save lives.” “Effective collaboration among law enforcement agencies is essential to solving gun-related crimes and protecting our communities,” said Rep. Chad Clifford, D-Centennial, sponsor of HB26-1265. “This bill expands access to the ATF's eTrace system by requiring all Colorado law enforcement agencies to register, submit data on recovered or confiscated firearms, and share tracing information with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. By doing so, we equip officers with critical tools to trace firearms used in crimes, disrupt illegal trafficking, and enhance public safety across the state.” Law enforcement agencies would be required to record information into eTrace when they: Recover or confiscate firearms in connection with a criminal investigation, Seize or forfeit firearms in connection with domestic violence crimes, and Obtain an abandoned or discarded firearm. eTrace, a bilingual service, allows for collaboration among all participating law enforcement agencies. Law enforcement can submit trace requests through eTrace to quickly determine the firearm’s origin, helping identify potential firearms traffickers and suspects in criminal investigations. Nearly 640,000 firearm trace requests were completed in fiscal year 2024. Last year, the Trump Administration revoked a policy that prevented gun dealers from selling guns to criminals. Trump also proposed a $400 million cut to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, leaving more pressure on states to address firearm trafficking. The committee also passed HB26-1126 , sponsored by Representatives Emily Sirota and Steven Woodrow, to better enforce Colorado’s permit to sell law. The bill would expand opportunities for firearm dealers to comply with state law without compromising Coloradans’ safety. Previous Next

< Back February 15, 2019 HOUSE CLEARS SIROTA’S CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM BILL (Feb. 15) – Rep. Emily Sirota’s bill to limit contributions for county offices passed the House today. Colorado has contribution limits for all statewide candidates for office, but there are no limits for county candidates. “Our state’s election system should provide a level playing field for all. Every candidate should have a shot at winning – not just those with wealthy friends – but in county races, we often see contributions of $5,000 and $10,000, and sometimes up to $40,000 from wealthy individuals,” said Rep. Sirota, D-Denver. “This bill puts in place common sense measures that ensure every voice can be heard.” HB19-1007 sets in place common-sense campaign finance limits to protect the integrity of county-level elections such as those for sheriff, commissioner, clerk and recorder, assessor, and others. This bill helps level the playing field by limiting individual contributions to county candidates to $2,500 per cycle with proportional limits for partnerships, political committees, small donor committees, and political parties. The bill was approved by a vote of 40-23 and now goes to the Senate. Previous Next

SB25B-003 would modify Proposition MM to include funding for SNAP < Back August 22, 2025 Committee Passes Legislation to Protect Food Assistance for Colorado Kids & Families SB25B-003 would modify Proposition MM to include funding for SNAP DENVER, CO – The House Health & Human Services Committee today passed a bill sponsored by Representatives Lorena Garcia and Katie Stewart that would give voters the opportunity to fund food assistance for Colorado students and families. SB25B-001 passed by a vote of 9-4, without a single House Republican voting in support. “Every Coloradan should be outraged that Trump and Congressional Republicans’ budget offers significant tax breaks to mega corporations while jeopardizing food security for children and families,” said Rep. Lorena Garcia, D-Unincorporated Adams County. “SNAP and Healthy School Meals for All are life-saving programs, and there will be crushing consequences if they are not fully funded. I am disappointed in our GOP federal delegation for voting for H.R.1, but this bill gives Coloradans the opportunity to blunt some of the cuts to food assistance programs and prevent children from going hungry.” “It breaks my heart that over 600,000 Coloradans, especially children, will be impacted by the SNAP cuts under Trump’s budget bill,” said Rep. Katie Stewart, D-Durango. “Families struggling with food insecurity should never have to worry about when their next meal will be, which is why Colorado Democrats helped create the Healthy School Meals for All program and have continuously invested in programs like SNAP and EBT. Our bill would add SNAP to Proposition MM, giving Colorado voters the opportunity to continue programs that keep vulnerable Coloradans fed.” SB25B-003 would modify Proposition MM, which the Legislature referred to the November 2025 ballot, to give Colorado voters the opportunity to direct funds to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) after the Healthy School Meals for All program is fully funded. In June, Governor Polis signed a law that will refer two ballot measures, Propositions LL and MM, to Colorado voters to determine whether or not to continue funding the Healthy School Meals for All program, which offers free, nutritious school meals to all public school students. In July, Congressional Republicans made unprecedented cuts to SNAP with the passage of H.R.1, slashing millions from the program that helps families put food on the table. Now, more than 300,000 low-income Colorado families – including children, older adults, and people with disabilities – are at risk of going hungry. By adjusting Proposition MM to include SNAP, voters would have the opportunity this November to fully fund the successful Healthy School Meals for All program and help fund SNAP. If Proposition MM passes, it could raise up to $95 million per year by limiting state income tax deductions for households earning over $300,000. These new revenues would first ensure that the Healthy School Meals program is fully funded, and then any remaining funds could support SNAP. Previous Next

Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation into law that will help drive down housing costs and save Coloradans money. HB26-1065 funds transit infrastructure improvements and transit-oriented housing. < Back May 27, 2026 Signed! Bill to Reduce Housing Costs, Save Coloradans Money DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation into law that will help drive down housing costs and save Coloradans money. HB26-1065 funds transit infrastructure improvements and transit-oriented housing. “Housing costs continue to be too high for Coloradans, which is why we are laser-focused on making Colorado a more affordable place to live,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “This new financing tool creates a pathway for local governments to boost funding for multimodal transit systems and housing that Coloradans can afford so we can better meet the needs of our communities, especially in the High Country. I am excited to deliver affordable, transit-oriented housing across the state.” "The mountain and rural communities that I represent have some of the most severe housing shortage and cost crises in the state, and so I’m proud to sponsor this legislation that will help finance and build homes that working families need and can afford,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “In partnership with towns, counties, nonprofits and private industry, HB26-1065 will help finance new transit infrastructure and housing options in all parts of our state.” “We’re building affordable housing and transit centers so Coloradans can quickly get where they need to go,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver. “This law helps increase transit ridership while reducing housing costs and traffic congestion. Colorado Democrats are serious about addressing our affordability crisis, and this law shows we’re finding innovative ways to do just that.” “I’m proud to sponsor this new law to tackle the most common concern I hear from my constituents: the cost of housing,” said Senator Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs. “By making it possible to build more homes near reliable transit, we are taking action to address Colorado’s housing shortage. At the end of the day, this legislation is about making sure that working families have the transit and mobility options they need and are not forced to leave the communities they love.” HB26-1065 , the Transit Investment Area Act, creates a new financing tool to improve transportation infrastructure and establish a tax credit to build more transit-oriented affordable housing. The law uses tax-increment financing to allow local governments to invest state sales tax revenue into transportation infrastructure. Local governments, in partnership with transit agencies, will be able to apply to create a transit and housing investment zone. These zones could fund transportation infrastructure projects within two miles of a transportation facility, like safety improvements and centering transit stops within the community to increase ridership. Local governments must suggest an annual limit on the amount of revenue that could be allocated to the transit investment project in the application process. The law allows up to three transit investment projects to be approved in a calendar year, with no more than six projects funded through the bill in total. Under the law, the Colorado Economic Development Commission will also set an annual limit on the amount of revenue that can be allocated for a transit investment project. HB26-1065 also creates the Colorado Affordable Housing in Transit Investment Zones Tax Credit. This tax credit is reserved for projects that serve low- and middle-income housing within newly created transit and housing investment zones. The law allows up to $50 million in tax credits per calendar year from 2027 to 2033 for a total investment of $350 million by 2038. Previous Next

< Back September 7, 2021 169 LAWS FROM THE 2021 LEGISLATIVE SESSION GO INTO EFFECT New laws include measures to address gun violence, protect free speech, prevent discrimination, foster affordable housing and ban legacy admissions at state universities DENVER, CO– Nearly 170 of the 502 laws passed during the 2021 legislative session go into effect today, with acts subject to petition becoming effective 90 days after the legislature adjourns. “From passing new laws to combat climate change and improve our air quality to working to prevent gun violence and lower the cost of housing, the 2021 session was one of the most productive in history,” said Speaker Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “I’m proud of the work lawmakers did last session to support their communities, revitalize our state and help Colorado build back stronger.” “I’m excited to see so much of what we accomplished last session go into effect today, and I’m especially proud of what we passed to support our Southern Colorado communities,” said Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “Today, Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws are more inclusive and insurers can no longer use consumer data to discriminate. Communities across our state will start to see improved mental health services and better schools, and more Coloradans will be able to visit our state parks for less money.” The laws going into effect today require retailers to accept cash, update the state’s protections against discrimination , promote financial literacy in K-12 education, and prohibit legacy admissions. Also among the laws going into effect today are measures to combat climate change, bolster the state’s utility assistance program and mitigate natural disasters, such as floods and wildfires. All or portions of the following laws take effect today: HB21-1286 (Kipp, A. Valdez)– Energy Performance for Buildings HB21-1048 (Valdez A)– Retail Business Must Accept Cash HB21-1084 (Exum, Van Winkle)– Drivers Licenses For Foster Children HB21-1108 (Esgar)– Gender Identity Expression Anti-discrimination HB21-1116 (Holtorf, Ortiz)– Purple Heart Recipient Free State Park Access HB21-1117 (Lontine, Gonzales-Gutierrez)– Local Government Authority Promote Affordable Housing Units HB21-1119 (Rich, Daugherty)– Suicide Prevention, Intervention, & Postvention HB21-1142 (Bacon)– Eyewitness Identification Showup Regulations HB21-1173 (Mullica)– Prohibiting Legacy Preferences in Higher Ed Insts HB21-1181 (McCormick, Will)– Agricultural Soil Health Program HB21-1200 (Kipp, Rich)– Revise Student Financial Literacy Standards HB21-1223 (McLachlan, Soper)– Create Outdoor Recreation Industry Office HB21-1238 (Bernett)– Public Utilities Commission Modernize Gas Utility Demand-side Management Standards HB21-1280 (Woodrow, Gonzales-Gutierrez)– Pre-trial Detention Reform HB21-1307 (Roberts)– Prescription Insulin Pricing And Access HB21-1310 (Cutter)– Homeowners’ Association Regulation of Flags and Signs SB21-006 (Soper, Titone)– Human Remains Natural Reduction Soil SB21-011 (Mullica and Pelton)– Pharmacist Prescribe Dispense Opiate Antagonist SB21-025 (Tipper and Will)– Family Planning Service For Eligible Individuals SB21-075 (Tipper, Young)– Supported Decision-making Agreement SB21-077 (Benavidez, Kipp)– Remove Lawful Presence Verification Credentialing SB21-078 (Sullivan, Herod)– Lost or Stolen Firearms SB21-123 (McCormick)– Expand Canadian Rx Import Program SB21-154 (Cutter, Soper)– 988 Suicide Prevention Lifeline Network SB21-185 (McLachlan, McCluskie)– Supporting Educator Workforce in Colorado SB21-249 (Will, Tipper)– Keep Colorado Wild Annual Pass HB21-1009 (Bernett)– Update Division of Housing Function & Local Development HB21-1010 (Ricks, Gonzales-Gutierrez)– Diverse K-12 Educator Workforce Report HB21-1012 (Mullica, Rich)– Expand Prescription Drug Monitoring Program HB21-1013 (Snyder, Van Winkle)– Division of Domestic Stock Insurer HB21-1016 (Ortiz, Lynch)– Transfer Jurisdiction To Veteran’s Speciality Court HB21-1019 (Hooton)– Modification to Regulations of Factory-built Structures HB21-1021 (Pelton, Caraveo)– Peer Support Professionals Behavioral Health HB21-1025 (Arndt)– Nonsubstantive Emails And Open Meetings Law HB21-1028 (Bird, Rich)– Annual Public Report Affordable Housing HB21-1030 (McCluskie, McKean)– Expanding Peace Officers Mental Health Grant Program HB21-1044 (Hooton, Larson)– Winery License Include Noncontiguous Areas HB21-1045 (Young, Valdez D)– Invasive Pest Control Administration HB21-1046 (Arndt, Catlin)– Water Share Right Mutual Ditch Corporation HB21-1050 (Gray, Van Winkle)– Workers Compensation HB21-1051 (Geitner, Bird)– Public Info Applicants For Public Employment HB21-1052 (McKean)– Define Pumped Hydroelectricity As Renewable Energy HB21-1056 (Pelton)– Cost Thresholds For Public Project Bidding Reqmnts HB21-1061 (Gray)– Residential Land Property Tax Certification HB21-1063 (Lontine)– Model Law Credit Extraterritorial Reinsurance HB21-1065 (Ortiz, Carver)– Veterans’ Hiring Preference HB21-1066 (Bockenfeld, Michaelson Jenet)– CDOT Financial Reporting Requirements HB21-1069 (Carver, Roberts)– Enforcement of Sexual Exploitation of A Child HB21-1073 (Van Beber, Michaelson Jenet)– Support Foster Families License Plate HB21-1075 (Lontine)– Replace The Term Illegal Alien HB21-1099 (Ransom, Michaelson Jenet)– Policies & Procedures To Identify Domestic Abuse HB21-1100 (Soper)– Electronic Filing Of Documents With Governmental Entities HB21-1102 (Duran, Soper)– Consumer Protection For Dog & Cat Purchasers HB21-1104 (Larson, McLachlan)– Professional Educator Licensure Renewal Period HB21-1105 (Kennedy)– Low-income Utility Payment Assistance Contributions HB21-1111 (McKean)– Consent Collection Personal Information HB21-1115 (Kipp, Mullica)– Board Of Health Member Requirements HB21-1123 (Michaelson Jenet, Larson)– CAPS Checks For Substantiated Mistreatment Of Adult HB21-1128 (Michaelson Jenet)– Hospice And Palliative Care License Plate HB21-1131 (Amabile)– Cooperative Electric Associations Governance Requirements HB21-1137 (Weissman, Van Winkle)– Limit Notification General Assembly Regarding Adoption Of Rules HB21-1140 (Titone)– Eliminate Donor Costs For Living Organ Donations HB21-1141 (Hooton)– Electric Vehicle License Plate HB21-1145 (Kipp and Soper)– Support Pollinator Special License Plate HB21-1147 (Valdez, D and Van Winkle)– Simplify Architects Continuing Education Requirement HB21-1148 (Bockenfeld, Michaelson Jenet)– Colorado State Fair Annual Report Submission Date Change HB21-1150 (Jodeh)– Create The Colorado Office Of New Americans HB21-1151 (McLachlan, Catlin)– Indian Tribes To Certify Own Foster Homes HB21-1152 (Valdez D., Lynch)– Repeal Obsolete Capitol Dome Restoration Fund HB21-1153 (Arndt, Valdez D.)– Enter Zone Child Care Income Tax Credit HB21-1154 (Valdez D., Lynch)– Modification To Child Care Tax Credit To Address Defects HB21-1156 (Lynch, Pico)– Fix Defects Related To Severance Withholdings HB21-1157 (Arndt, Lynch)– Accurate References For Department of Revenue Tax Administration HB21-1158 (Valdez D., Lynch)– Special Fuel Farm Equipment Sales Use Tax HB21-1160 (Duran, Soper)– Care Of Dogs And Cats In Pet Animal Facilities HB21-1167 (Duran, Will)– Private Construction Contract Payments HB21-1177 (Valdez D., Lynch)– Add Use Tax Exemption to Some Sales Tax Exemption HB21-1178 (Pico and Valdez, D)– Correcting Errors in the Colorado Marijuana Code HB21-1180 (Valdez D., Will)– Measures to Increase Biomass Utilization HB21-1186 (Gray, Sullivan)– Regional Transportation District Operation HB21-1187(Young and Pelton)– Long-term Services and Support Case Management Redesign HB21-1188 (Kennedy)– Additional Liability Under Respondeat Superior HB21-1193 (Gray)– Consumer Protection Supplemental Restraint Systems HB21-1194 (Tipper, Ricks)– Immigration Legal Defense Fund HB21-1195 (Van Winkle, Michaelson Jenet)– Regulation of Radon Professionals HB21-1198 (Jodeh)– Healthcare Billing Requirements for Indigent Patients HB21-1208 (Cutter, Gray)– Natural Disaster Mitigation Enterprise HB21-1209 (Gonzales-Gutierrez)– Parole Eligibility for Youthful Offenders HB21-1212 (Soper)– Diversity of Governor’s Appointments to Boards HB21-1214 (Weissman, Bacon)– Record Sealing Collateral Consequences Reduction HB21-1217 (Bockenfeld, Bacon)– Military Family Open Enrollment in Public Schools HB21-1218 (Duran, Bockenfeld)– Professional Firefighter License Plate HB21-1219 (Esgar, Mullica)– Nurse Special License Plate HB21-1222 (A.Valdez, Van Winkle)– Regulation of Family Child Care Homes HB21-1225 (Bird, Will)– Electronic Recording Technology Board HB21-1226 (Esgar, Will)– More Robust Check Station Aquatic Nuisance Species HB21-1227 (Lontine)– Medicaid Nursing Facilities Demonstration Of Need HB21-1229 (Titone, Ricks)– Home Owners’ Associations Governance Funding Record Keeping HB21-1236 (Titone, Baisley)– State Information Technology HB21-1241 (Daugherty, Lynch)– Employee-owned Business Loan Program Modifications HB21-1245 (Sullivan)– On-track Equipment Railroad Crossings HB21-1247 (Jackson, McKean)– Colorado Department Of Public Health And Environment Contract Pay To Grantees Up Front HB21-1248 (Amabile)– Colorado Children’s Trust Fund Act HB21-1249 (Roberts, Michaelson Jenet)– Repeal Gaming City Audit Requirement HB21-1267 (Lontine, Larson)– County Authority To Delegate Mill Levy Certification HB21-1274 (Titone)– Unused State-owned Real Property Beneficial Use HB21-1275 (Lontine and Will)– Medicaid Reimbursement For Services By Pharmacists HB21-1284 (Valdez A, Van Winkle)– Limit Fee Install Active Solar Energy System HB21-1291 (Van Winkle, Exum)– Insurer Agent Branded Vehicle Title HB21-1293 (Snyder, Larson)– Banks Modify Threshold Credentialed Appraiser HB21-1300 (Weissman, Neville)– Health-care Provider Liens For Injured Persons HB21-1301 (Esgar)– Cannabis Outdoor Cultivation Measures HB21-1303 (Bernett, McLachlan)– Global Warming Potential For Public Project Material HB21-1306 (Garnett, Geitner)– Accreditation Of Postsecondary Institutions HB21-1323 (Cutter, Amabile)– Special Olympics License Plate HB21-1324 (Pelton, Roberts,)– Promote Innovative And Clean Energy Technologies SB21-004 (Esgar, Luck)– Jurisdiction Over Pueblo Chemical Depot. SB21-008 (Valdez D., Holtorf)– Remove Junior From Certain College Names SB21-009 (Caraveo)– Reproductive Health Care Program SB21-015 (Ortiz, Lynch)– Veterans Service Organization Stipend For Funeral Services SB21-017 (Larson, Bradfield)– Sexual Contact By An Educator SB21-020 (Valdez A, Soper)– Energy Equipment and Facility Property Tax Valuation SB21-021 (Young and Carver)– Audiology And Speech-language Interstate Compact SB21-022 (Snyder, McKean)– Notification Requirements For Health Care Policy And Financing Audit SB21-032 (Ortiz)– Mobile Veterans-support Unit Grant Program SB21-035 (Bird)– Restrictions On Third-party Food Delivery Services SB21-038 (Kennedy, Van Winkle)– Expansion of Complementary And Alternative Medicine SB21-040 (Rich)– Driver’s History Profession Or Occupation Decision SB21-056 (Gray, Van Winkle)– Expand Cannabis-based Medicine At Schools SB21-063 (Hooton and Pelton)– Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangements Offer Insurance SB21-065 (Mullica)– Gasoline and Special Fuels Tax Information Disclosure SB21-067 (McLachlan, Carver)– Strengthening Civics Education SB21-069 (A Valdez, Ortiz)– License Plate Expiration On Change Of Ownership SB21-070 (Bird)– County Authority To Register Businesses SB21-082 (Mullica)– Alcohol Beverage Festival for Tastings and Sales SB21-084 (Gray)– Local government authority roughed-in roads. SB21-090 (Michaelson Jenet, Soper)– Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act SB21-107 (Young and McLachlan)– Honoring Carrie Ann Lucas SB21-115 (Titone, Larson)– Annual Funding for Talking Book Library Services SB21-119 (Esgar, Geitner)– Increasing Access To High-Quality Credentials SB21-126 (Michaelson Jenet, Soper)– Timely Credentialing Of Physicians By Insurers SB21-129 (Ortiz)– Veteran Suicide Prevention Pilot Program SB21-133 (Catlin, Will)– Donated Alcohol Beverages for Special Events SB21-135 (Duran, Froelich)– Prohibit Certain Animals in Traveling Animal Act. SB21-145 (Valdez D)– Extending Expiring Tax Check-offs SB21-153 (Ortiz, Tipper)– Department of Corrections Offender Identification Assistance Program SB21-155 (Amabile, Baisley)– Limited Gaming Commission Member From Gaming Area SB21-157 (Michaelson Jenet, Baisley)– Increase Cap Charter School Moral Obligation Bonds SB21-158 (Titone and Duran)– Increase Medical Providers For Senior Citizens SB21-160 (Snyder)– Modification to Local Government Election Codes SB21-162 (Snyder, Soper)– Colorado Uniform Trust Code Part 5 SB21-167 (Gray, Larson)– Regulation of Child Care Centers SB21-169 (Ricks and Esgar)– Restrict Insurers’ Use Of External Consumer Data SB21-174 (Cooke, Ginal)– Policies For Peace Officer Credibility Disclosures SB21-188 (Duran, Ortiz)– Ballot access for voters with disabilities. SB21-191 (McLachlan, McCluskie)– Residency Requirement Western Colorado University Board SB21-192 (Amabile)– Housing Mentors In Youthful Offender Facility SB21-193 (Herod)– Protection of Pregnant People in the Criminal Justice System SB21-194 (Herod)– Maternal Health Providers SB21-198 (Roberts, Bockenfeld)– Repeal Capital Construction Education Fund Report Requirement SB21-217 (McCluskie)– Market Rate Study for Child care Assistance Program SB21-246 (Valdez, Froelich)– Electric Utility Promote Beneficial Electrification SB21-253 (Carver, Michaelson Jenet)– Women Veterans With Disabilities License Plate SB21-254 (Lynch, Pico)– Eliminate Obsolete Committee Child Care Licensing SB21-255 (Titone, Herod)– Free Menstrual Hygiene Products To Students SB21-262 (Bird, McKean)– Special District Transparency SB21-269 (Michaelson Jenet, Van Beber)– Licensing Of Respite Child Care Centers SB21-270 (Valdez A, Larson)– Increase Alcohol Beverages On-premises Production SB21-284 (Herod and Ransom)– Evidence-based Evaluations For Budget Previous Next