A new law to improve the county commissioner redistricting process goes into effect August 12, 2026. < Back July 30, 2026 Law to Create Fairer County Commissioner Maps Goes Into Effect DENVER, CO – A new law to improve the county commissioner redistricting process goes into effect August 12, 2026. HB26-1038 , the County Commissioner Redistricting Integrity Act, is sponsored by Senator Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, and Representatives Amy Paschal, D-Colorado Springs, and Chad Clifford, D-Centennial. It ensures that redistricting for county commissioner districts is done fairly, without influence from sitting county commissioners. “Voters should choose their representatives – not the other way around,” said Snyder. “ Under current law, county commissioners can draw their own district maps , creating a clear conflict of interest. This new law is a win for Coloradans, ensuring that county commissioner redistricting will be done in a fair and impartial manner by an independent commission, with opportunities for community input.” “Elected officials should not be able to draw their own maps to benefit themselves, and this law maintains local control while requiring independence in the county commissioner redistricting process,” said Paschal. “Representative democracy matters, and this law will help create a fairer, more equitable county commissioner redistricting process that better represents the county’s voters.” “Our law strengthens public trust and input in the county commissioner redistricting process, so the voice of Coloradans is front and center,” said Clifford. “Representative democracy matters, which is why this law restricts county commissioners from drawing their own district maps and choosing who is allowed to vote for each candidate.” Under current law, county commissioners' maps are the only partisan political office not drawn by an independent redistricting commission, meaning elected county commissioners can draw their own district maps. HB26-1038 improves transparency and integrity while upholding local control. It requires the redistricting committee that draws the district maps to be independent of the board of county commissioners and have a bipartisan composition to ensure fair districts are drawn. The independent commission will be required to create and make available a competitiveness formula for public comment. The board of county commissioners may reject a district map that does not meet statutory requirements. The board also retains the ability to remove members from the independent redistricting commission if they are disruptive or insufficiently engaged. Previous Next

The House today advanced legislation on a preliminary vote sponsored by Speaker Julie McCluskie and Representative Karen McCormick to save small farmers and ranchers money on their property taxes. < Back February 20, 2026 House Advances Bill to Save Farmers and Ranchers Money DENVER, CO – The House today advanced legislation on a preliminary vote sponsored by Speaker Julie McCluskie and Representative Karen McCormick to save small farmers and ranchers money on their property taxes. “Family farmers and smaller ranches strengthen rural economies, and this bill supports our local ag producers,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “At a time when trade wars, tariffs and imported Argentine beef are driving up costs for Colorado farmers and undercutting our ranchers, we’re doing more to save our hardworking ag producers money. With this bill, we’re extending the property tax exemptions for smaller farming and ranching operations that use their land for pasture-based grazing. “We’re putting Colorado farmers and ranchers first by lowering property taxes for smaller operations,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont. “Trade wars and tariffs have hurt the bottom line of many of our farmers and ranchers in Colorado, and this bill helps save them money. By reducing property taxes for smaller operations that use their land for grazing, we’re supporting the hardworking people who keep Coloradans fed.” SB26-010 would save Colorado farmers and ranchers money on their property taxes by broadening the definition of "ranch" and “farm” in statute. First unanimously approved by the Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee, this bill would modify the definitions used to classify land as agricultural for property tax purposes. Under this bill, the new definition would allow small and family-owned ranches and farms to benefit from existing property tax exemptions. It would also specify that a farm is primarily used to produce agricultural products, while a ranch is primarily used for grazing livestock through pasture-based operations. Agricultural land is generally valued lower than other property classifications, and this bill only expands the property tax benefits to producers. The Trump Administration’s tariffs have driven up costs for Colorado’s businesses, farmers, ranchers, and consumers and limited the available international markets for producers to sell their products. An announcement from the Trump Administration last year to quadruple the amount of beef the U.S. imports from Argentina drastically undermined Colorado beef producers during peak season. Previous Next

A bipartisan law to support retired military members and their families will go into effect on January 1, 2024. < Back December 21, 2023 Law to Support Retired Military Members and their Families Goes into Effect DENVER, CO - A bipartisan law to support retired military members and their families will go into effect on January 1, 2024. HB23-1084 , sponsored by Representatives David Ortiz, D-Centennial, and Mary Bradfield, R-El Paso County, and Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Bob Gardner, R-El Paso County, extends the income tax deduction for military retirement benefits through 2028. Under this law, veterans under the age of 55 are able to deduct up to $15,000 from their state income taxes. “Veterans make great sacrifices to defend our country, so it's essential that we do the same for them,” said Zenzinger. “With this law, we’re reducing the amount of taxes retired veterans owe and keeping money in their pockets. I look forward to seeing this law continue to improve economic security for thousands of veterans and their families.” “Colorado is an amazing place to live, work, and explore the outdoors, but rising costs make it harder for people to call Colorado home,” said Ortiz. “Senior enlisted and junior officers, who are more likely to be people of color and women, are especially vulnerable to being priced out of Colorado. Our law continues state income tax deductions for military retirement benefits to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans.” This law continues the tax deduction for retired military members created by HB18-1060 for an additional five years, which was set to expire in 2023. The Department of Revenue reported that around 7,000 veterans took advantage of this deduction in 2020. Previous Next

The Colorado River Drought Task Force and the Sub-Task Force on Tribal Matters today released a report with recommendations including tools, programs, and resources that can be used to make communities that rely on water from the Colorado River more resilient to drought. < Back December 15, 2023 Speaker McCluskie, Senator Roberts on Drought Task Force Recommendations Denver, CO – The Colorado River Drought Task Force and the Sub-Task Force on Tribal Matters today released a report with recommendations including tools, programs, and resources that can be used to make communities that rely on water from the Colorado River more resilient to drought. “The health of the Colorado River is crucial to Western Slope communities and the millions of Americans who rely on its water,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon . “This task force served as a critical first step to discuss dozens of policy ideas, seek vital public input and put forward recommendations to protect our waterways. The recommendations would increase the water available for streams and rivers, boost funding to strengthen our water-related infrastructure, and expand flexibility and clarification in existing programs to create more drought-resilient tools for water management. I am committed to continuing conversations about threats to the Colorado River.” "Here on the Western Slope, our water is our lifeblood. It powers our agriculture producers, our small businesses, and is the centerpiece of the environment we cherish. Today, ongoing and worsening drought, exacerbated by climate change, is an immediate and dire threat to our state’s water,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and sponsor of SB23-295 that created the Task Force. “That is why we created the Colorado River Drought Task Force as an important step in a comprehensive, collaborative, and ongoing approach to addressing this pressing challenge. The Task Force’s recommendations announced today, while not everything I expected, are a positive step in the right direction. Strategies like mitigating water loss in transit, allowing further flexibility in the sharing of stored water, and expanding the state’s work to curtail wasteful, nonfunctional turf, among others, are all going to play a role in protecting our critical water supply. Further, the Task Force started conversations on several other larger ideas that should continue to be worked on and strongly considered in the years ahead. I owe an enormous thanks to every member of the Task Force for their hard and comprehensive work – their efforts will be an important part of the ongoing efforts to safeguard our state’s water supply and to lead the nation in bold, innovative solutions to this vital issue.” Recommendation 4 suggests allowing storage water owners, such as reservoir managers, to temporarily loan their water rights to the Colorado Water Conservation Board, which would allow for in-stream flows without a decreed in-stream flow water right. This would allow for reservoirs across the state to provide critical water to environmental needs - ensuring there is enough water in streams to protect our wildlife during drier times. The Colorado River Drought Task Force also made recommendations to: Continue funding that is consistent with demand for the Technical Assistance Grant program using state funds, Reduce water losses in transit and leakage by increasing funding levels to state programs for aging water-related infrastructure, including replacing and upgrading diversion structures, headgate and conveyance efficiency improvements, Continue funding to improve measurements of streams and snowpack and require more measurement to demonstrate efficiency in small projects Increase funding levels of the Turf Removal Program to $5 million per year and increase the amount of funding one entity can access, and Fund assessment and remediation of invasive plants that are disrupting riparian ecosystems The Sub-Task Force on Tribal Matters made recommendations to: Provide a grant to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe to allow expert analysis of the potentially available water, the impacts of contributing that water to the Colorado River system, the appropriate level of compensation, funding sources for a pilot program for forbearance of water development, and potential benefits for all involved, Request the US Congress to fully fund $35 million that is authorized for the Indian Irrigation Fund, Remove the requirement for matching funds of at least 25 percent for Water Plan Implementation Grants and provide the Colorado Water Conservation Board discretion to waive or reduce matching fund requirements for grants to Tribal Nations and Tribal enterprises, and Include cultural values for protection when deemed suitable. The Colorado River Drought Task Force also considered tools that require more conversation and stakeholding, giving legislators crucial information on policies they can continue to work on. These programs include: Allowing industrial users on the Yampa River to maintain their water rights by not being subject to abandonment through 2050, and to loan water, which would address environmental flow needs. Providing permission to the State Engineer to consider environmental needs when shepherding water to the state line if the Upper Colorado River Commission has determined additional water is needed in Lake Powell. The task forces were created by SB23-295 , a bipartisan bill sponsored by Speaker McCluskie and Senator Roberts and Representative Caitlin and Senator Will. The Colorado River Drought Task Force includes representatives from the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, regional water conservation districts, local governmental officials, agricultural producers, environmental non-profit organizations, and others that have diverse experience with complex water issues. A sub-task force consisting of representatives from the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and the Department of Natural Resources was also established to provide policy recommendations to the General Assembly to address tribal needs. The Colorado River provides water to Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, California, Nevada, and Mexico. Over 40 million people rely on the Colorado River for their water supply, and record-breaking heatwaves and droughts in the Southwestern US have only exacerbated water conservation issues. Previous Next

Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills to propel Colorado’s clean energy transition forward and better combat climate change. < Back May 11, 2023 SIGNED! Bills to Fight Climate Change, Create Pathways for Thermal Energy Technology DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills to propel Colorado’s clean energy transition forward and better combat climate change. “This bold law sets us on a strong pathway forward to cleaner air, reducing our carbon footprint and creating a healthier Colorado we can all enjoy,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, sponsor of SB23-016. “We’re creating interim targets to help our state reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of clean energy alternatives to power our homes and businesses. Coloradans are counting on us to do the work to reach our state’s climate goals, and this law streamlines our tactics for a cleaner future.” “As the effects of climate change become more and more pronounced, it is obvious we must implement bold policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts on our climate and our environment,” said Sen. Chris Hansen, sponsor of SB23-016 and HB23-1252. “Coloradans are demanding action. With these new laws, we are tackling this challenge head on by reducing emissions through innovative technology and setting reasonable and achievable goals. I’m proud of our work that puts our state on a path to climate sustainability for generations to come.” “We’re committed to creating a healthier Colorado for the generations to come, and that begins with supercharging our transition to clean energy,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver, sponsor of SB23-016. “This law sets crucial greenhouse gas pollution reduction goals to improve the air we breathe across the state, and ensures our electrical grid is running smoothly. Reaching our climate goals requires dedication and coordination across sectors, and we’re establishing new standards that prioritize clean energy now and into the future.” SB23-016 updates Colorado’s greenhouse gas emission reduction goals to match the latest climate science by adding interim targets, including a 65 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions relative to 2005 levels by 2035, and a new goal of 100 percent emissions reduction by 2050. To help reach these targets, this law requires the Public Utilities Commission and local governments to consider and prioritize upgrades and additions to the state’s electrical transmission infrastructure system, and conduct a study on transmission capacity to pave the way for electrification across the state. Local permitting for projects to renovate, rebuild, or recondition transmission lines would be expedited, and the construction would be subject to the state’s labor standards. To further expedite electrification, the bill would incentivize the retirement of a major local ozone contributor: gas-powered lawn equipment. SB23-016 creates an income tax credit worth 30 percent of the purchase price of electric lawn mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers, and snow blowers, which is provided to purchasers as a discount, and encourages climate-aware financial investing by requiring large insurance companies to complete a climate risk disclosure survey annually. Finally, the law would expand the definitions of “pollution control equipment” and “clean heat resource” to include currently underutilized wastewater thermal energy, and enable Colorado to lead in carbon sequestration by allowing the state to apply to the Environmental Protection Agency for Class VI injection well primacy. “Thermal energy heating and cooling systems are already being used across Colorado, and this law makes it easier for businesses and homeowners to take advantage of this cost-saving technology,” said Rep. Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton, sponsor of HB23-1252 . “Expanding reliable thermal energy creates good-paying jobs, saves Coloradans money on their energy bills and works to improve our air quality along the Front Range.” “Adopting new clean energy technologies like thermal energy will help create jobs while lowering overall emissions,” said Sen. Tony Exum Sr., sponsor of HB23-1252. “Natural gas is driving up utility costs and putting a squeeze on Coloradans' budgets. With this new law, we are continuing to move away from polluting energy sources and instead adopt cleaner technology to move Colorado’s economy and climate goals forward.” “By using the heat beneath our feet, we can cut back Colorado’s reliance on fossil fuels,” said Rep. Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB23-1252 . “Together, we’re expanding avenues for thermal energy technologies in homes and businesses across the state, which will save Coloradans’ money and bring us closer to our climate goals. We are working hard to attract and adopt clean energy technology that sets us on a path forward toward cleaner, healthier air.” Including Thermal Energy As A Clean Heat Resource: HB23-1252 continues Colorado’s work to reduce emissions from gas utilities by providing a pathway for wider adoption of thermal energy as a clean heat resource. This law aids in the transition away from expensive fuel commodities like natural gas and lowers utility costs for Coloradans. Thermal energy systems heat and cool buildings by circulating non-combustible fluids through a pipe network. Defining thermal energy as a clean heat resource allows the state to expand its usage, create new job opportunities, decrease greenhouse gas emissions and save Coloradans money on their utility bills. 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

General Assembly Democrats today sent a letter to Colorado’s congressional delegation, calling on them to ensure that funds already appropriated by Congress for Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) programs are awarded as intended. < Back October 6, 2025 JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Dems Urge Colorado’s Congressional Delegation to Reinstate Funding for Minority-Serving Institutions DENVER, CO – General Assembly Democrats today sent a letter to Colorado’s congressional delegation, calling on them to ensure that funds already appropriated by Congress for Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) programs are awarded as intended. In the letter, the General Assembly Democrats wrote: “We are writing with deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of Education’s September 10 decision to discontinue discretionary funding for several Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) programs. We urge you to take immediate action to ensure that funds already appropriated by Congress for the 2025 fiscal year are awarded as intended.” “Cancelling these program funds, which benefit all students and provide a boost to these critical institutions, would greatly harm Colorado’s students, higher education institutions, and future workforce and amount to a significant setback in our longstanding efforts to better prepare young people for career and life.” “We, the undersigned Colorado State Legislators, urge you to take action to ensure that previously appropriated funding for MSI programs is delivered to our colleges and universities without delay.” The full text of the letter is below: Esteemed Colorado Congressional Delegation Members: We are writing with deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of Education’s September 10 decision to discontinue discretionary funding for several Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) programs. We urge you to take immediate action to ensure that funds already appropriated by Congress for the 2025 fiscal year are awarded as intended. The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) has reported significant uncertainty and disruption for institutions and students across the state as a result of this announcement. CCCS is the largest higher education system in Colorado, with 13 unique colleges and more than 35 locations across the state. CCCS educates over 124,000 students every year, offering low- to no-cost education and career training. Their programs focus on high-demand career paths that power Colorado’s economy and fill workforce shortages in essential industries like behavioral health care and early childhood education. As of today, four CCCS colleges have received official notices of discontinuation, including three of seven Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designated colleges and Arapahoe Community College, which is not HSI-designated but holds a Title III grant that is also being discontinued. If this decision holds, Morgan Community College will lose $1.6 million for a grant to support the creation of a career and transfer center, a new campus-wide advising system with added technology support, and assistance for English as a Second Language students. Planned initiatives will go unrealized and the Grant Director position will be eliminated. Lamar Community College will lose $3 million for a grant that funds five full-time positions dedicated to serving first-generation, low-income, and Latino students. Pueblo Community College will lose almost $600,000 for a grant to support the college’s Onboarding initiative, designed to provide a more in-depth and personal approach to helping new students transition to college. Funded activities include learning cohorts and mentoring, a laptop lending program, a financial literacy component, and professional development for faculty and staff. Arapahoe Community College (ACC) received notice that its Title III block grant is being discontinued, a loss of over $400,000. This would be the final year of a five-year block grant that supports increasing student retention by strengthening advising, tutoring, closing achievement gaps, and expanding data analytics. The early loss of funds will directly affect four full-time staff positions. CCCS is still awaiting clarity on whether the other HSI-designated colleges, including Community College of Aurora, Community College of Denver, Otero College, and Trinidad State College, will receive similar notices, which would push the total financial effect beyond the more than $5.6 million identified to date. Additionally, the two largest institutions within CCCS, Front Range Community College and Pikes Peak State College, are emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions preparing for future eligibility for these same federal supports. We are also monitoring the status of federal TRIO programs such as Talent Search, Upward Bound, and Student Support Services. While Colorado’s TRIO programs have not yet been affected, institutions across the country are reporting uncertainty and disruptions. Any reductions or delays in TRIO funding would jeopardize critical support services that help students from low-income backgrounds, first-generation and under-resourced students, and students with disabilities. As lawmakers who represent these institutions and who are committed to the success of all Colorado students, regardless of their income or background, we urge you to ensure that funds appropriated by Congress for MSI programs in the current 2025 fiscal year are awarded as intended. Cancelling these program funds, which benefit all students and provide a boost to these critical institutions, would greatly harm Colorado’s students, higher education institutions, and future workforce and amount to a significant setback in our longstanding efforts to better prepare young people for career and life. We, the undersigned Colorado State Legislators, urge you to take action to ensure that previously appropriated funding for MSI programs is delivered to our colleges and universities without delay. Thank you for your ongoing dedication to supporting Colorado’s students and protecting access to affordable, high-quality education for all. Senator James Coleman President of the Senate Representative Julie McCluskie Speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives Senator Robert Rodriguez Majority Leader of the Senate Representative Monica Duran Majority Leader of the Colorado House of Representatives Senator Chris Kolker Senator Cathy Kipp Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet Senate President Pro Tempore Senator Dylan Roberts Majority Caucus Chair Senator Faith Winter Senator Iman Jodeh Senator Janice Marchman Senator Jeff Bridges Joint Budget Committee Chair Senator Jessie Danielson Senator Judy Amabile Joint Budget Committee Member Senator Julie Gonzales Senator Katie Wallace Senator Kyle Mullica Senator Lindsey Daugherty Senator Lisa Cutter Senator Marc Snyder Senator Matt Ball Senator Mike Weissman Senator Nick Hinrichsen Majority Caucus Whip Senator Tom Sullivan Senator Tony Exum, Sr. Representative Andy Boesenecker Speaker Pro Tempore Representative Brianna Titone Representative Cecelia Espenoza Representative Chad Clifford Representative Elizabeth Velasco Majority Caucus Co-Whip Representative Emily Sirota Joint Budget Committee Member Representative Gretchen Rydin Representative Jacque Phillips Representative Jamie Jackson Representative Javier Mabrey Representative Jennifer Bacon Assistant Majority Leader Representative Junie Joseph Majority Caucus Co-Chair Representative Karen McCormick Representative Katie Stewart Representative Kyle Brown Representative Lorena Garcia Representative Mandy Lindsay Majority Caucus Co-Chair Representative Matthew Martinez Majority Caucus Co-Whip Representative Meg Froelich Representative Meghan Lukens Representative Naquetta Ricks Representative Sean Camacho Representative Sheila Lieder Representative Steven Woodrow Representative Tammy Story Representative Tisha Mauro Previous Next

The House Education Committee yesterday passed a bill, sponsored by Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, that aims to prevent discrimination in public schools based on disability, race, sexual orientation and other protected classes. < Back February 27, 2026 ICYMI: Bacon Bill to Prevent Discrimination in Schools Passes Committee DENVER, CO - The House Education Committee yesterday passed a bill, sponsored by Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, that aims to prevent discrimination in public schools based on disability, race, sexual orientation and other protected classes. “After the Civil Rights Division of the US Department of Education was dismantled, students and families lost critical protections in schools. We’re standing up protections in Colorado to ensure all Colorado children are not discriminated against in schools,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “Colorado schools should be a safe place for children to learn and grow, and if they experience discrimination based on their race, sexual orientation or disability, they should absolutely have a path to righting the wrongs made against them. This bill would create a positive learning environment and ensure access to the quality education that Colorado children deserve, uplifting all students and preparing them for success.” HB26-1141 , which passed by a vote of 9-3, would prohibit public K-12 schools, higher education institutions and their employees from discriminating based on a protected class, like disability, race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion and national origin. The bill defines discriminatory education practices as actions taken due to a student’s membership or perceived membership in a protected class, including: Refusing or withholding full and equal enjoyment of the services, facilities, privileges, advantages or accommodations of the school, Publishing, displaying, or otherwise communicating that the full and equal enjoyment of the school would be denied to a student or that the student’s presence at the school is unwelcome, Carrying out a decision or policy that disproportionately impacts a student, Failing to adequately respond to instances of harassment, and Retaliatory actions against a student who takes part in the complaint process for a harassment case. The bill allows an impacted student or their family to file a discrimination complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division. The Colorado Civil Rights Commission or the Attorney General would also be able to file a complaint on their behalf. HB26-1141 would create a process to resolve the complaint, including early mediation, a 60-day period to resolve the issue, investigation by the division, and a judicial review. The bill also allows the commission to share data with the Department of Education about discriminatory education practice charges filed with the division each year. Higher education institutions would be required to designate a Title VI coordinator to ensure compliance with the bill, manage grievances and publish data on violations. Since Trump started his second term, he has slashed the US Department of Education’s workforce by nearly 50-percent , including firing half of the staff in the Office for Civil Rights and closing seven of the 12 regional offices. The Office of Civil Rights leads investigations of discrimination at schools and higher education institutions across the country. Assistant Majority Leader Bacon previously passed a law that clearly defines what is considered harassment and discrimination in Colorado’s K-12 public schools. She also passed a law in 2024 that ensures that schools and educators have trauma-informed resources to support youth against harassment and discrimination. Previous Next

The House today passed two bills on a preliminary vote to improve the safety of natural gas pipelines and make it faster, easier and less expensive for local governments to approve solar installation projects. < Back April 11, 2023 House Advances Bills to Improve Gas Pipeline Safety and Expand EV Charging DENVER, CO – The House today passed two bills on a preliminary vote to improve the safety of natural gas pipelines and make it faster, easier and less expensive for local governments to approve solar installation projects. “Many homes in Colorado rely upon natural gas, and this legislation works to improve safety and close gaps in maintenance requirements,” said Rep. Tammy Story, D-Conifer, sponsor of HB23-1216. “Establishing maintenance responsibility and requiring documentation of inspections are just a few of the ways we can improve the safety of natural gas pipelines that service our homes and businesses. This bill protects Coloradans by ensuring regular inspections and creating a baseline for safely maintaining natural gas pipelines regularly.” "We're taking steps to ensure that natural gas pipelines are well maintained and regularly inspected to keep Coloradans safe," said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, sponsor of HB23-1216. "This legislation will establish maintenance expectations, communications and documentation for pipelines so Coloradans have accurate and up-to-date information about the pipelines that service their homes, businesses and communities Safety is a priority and closing these gaps in maintenance requirements and upkeep is an important step that protects Coloradans." HB23-1216 , sponsored by Representative Tammy Story, would address the gaps in maintenance and inspections of natural gas pipelines to ensure public safety. This bill would direct the Public Utilities Commission to adopt rules requiring a combination of inspections, maintenance responsibilities and written notice from a pipeline’s owner or operator to a natural gas consumer before March 1, 2024 to bolster accountability. Specifically, HB23-1216 would require inspections of gas meters and service regulators every 36 months, documentation of inspections and ensure specific placement of natural gas vents to ensure gas can properly escape. Additionally, this bill would establish an improved process to determine who is responsible for maintenance and repairs of existing service lines as well as clear written notice to consumers regarding future service line installation, maintenance and repair. “Many Coloradans are interested in owning an EV, however it can be difficult to secure charging locations near their home or even in their communities,” said Rep. Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo, sponsor of HB23-1233. “This bill will expand EV charging infrastructure to accommodate new and future EV owners. By making EV use and ownership more accessible, we’re reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, creating jobs and saving Coloradans money.” “With more EVs on the road than ever before, it’s vital we invest in EV-specific infrastructure now to meet growing demand,” said Rep. Alex Valdez, D-Denver, sponsor of HB23-1233. “By expanding charging stations, we can break down accessibility barriers in our communities and across the state that hold people back from owning EVs. Our legislation sets in motion a plan to expand EV charging, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and save Coloradans’ money in the long term.” HB23-1233 , sponsored by Representatives Tisha Mauro and Alex Valdez, would remove barriers to EV ownership by ensuring Coloradans have access to EV charging, especially renters or those living in multifamily housing. Specifically, HB23-1233 would expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure in new construction to accommodate new and current EV owners. The bill would update electric code requirements, remove burdensome parking restrictions for EVs, and provide property tax relief to Coloradans for EV charging stations. HB23-1233 is part of a broader legislative package to incentivize the advancement and adoption of clean energy technologies, accelerate the clean energy transition and make Colorado a leader in budding clean energy technologies. Previous Next

Western Slope lawmakers today celebrated the federal government’s $40 million investment to secure and protect the Shoshone Water Rights. < Back January 17, 2025 Western Slope Lawmakers Celebrate Federal Investment to Secure Shoshone Water Rights DENVER, CO – Western Slope lawmakers today celebrated the federal government’s $40 million investment to secure and protect the Shoshone Water Rights. Located in Glenwood Springs, the Shoshone Water Rights provide an invaluable freshwater resource for Western Slope residents, agriculture, tourism, local economies and the Colorado Way of Life. “Today is an exciting day for Colorado’s water future!,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “From agriculture and outdoor recreation to protecting natural habitats and supporting local economies — securing our water future is essential. Last year, we stepped up to allocate $20 million to purchase the Shoshone Water Rights and ensure the flow of fresh water in the high country. I’m grateful for the collaboration of local leaders and governments, including the Shoshone Water Rights Preservation Coalition, Governor Polis and our federal delegation, that helped secure critical funding. This is a historic opportunity to protect Colorado River water, and I applaud the Biden Administration for delivering the final piece of the funding needed for this deal.” “Permanently protecting the Shoshone water rights is absolutely critical for the future of water security on the Western Slope and for the entire state, and today’s announcement of a $40 million federal investment that will close the financial gap to secure the right is monumental win for Colorado,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “Last year, the state legislature made a bipartisan $20 million investment in this effort, and our local partners have offered over $56 million. I want to extend my gratitude to Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and the Biden administration for their advocacy to get us across the finish line.” "Permanent protection of the Shoshone water rights is a multi-generational investment in our farms and ranches, and our thriving rural economies,” said Senator Marc Catlin, R-Montrose. “Today's announcement builds upon decades of work by our predecessors to protect the river as we have known it for more than a century." “One key piece to protecting Colorado’s water future has been the securement of the Shoshone Water Rights and today, the federal government announced they’ll invest $40 million to seal the deal,” said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs. “Securing one of Colorado’s oldest water rights protects the Colorado way of life on the Western Slope. The Colorado River powers local economies, preserves natural habitats and supports tourism. As a lawmaker from the Western Slope, I’m committed to preserving our freshwater resources that keep our communities powered and thriving.” “The federal government’s investment to secure the Shoshone Water Rights is a huge win for Colorado water,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont. “Last year, we worked diligently to allocate $20 million in crucial funding for the securement of the Shoshone Water Rights because we understood the necessity of protecting Colorado’s water future now. I’m thrilled the federal government has decided to fulfill the Colorado River District’s funding request. Securing our water future is essential for everything from agriculture to local development, and I’m proud Colorado will be well-positioned to secure this deal.” “Securing Shoshone’s water rights is critical to farms, ranches, outdoor recreation, and communities that depend on the Colorado River!,” said Representative Matt Soper, R-Delta . “Western Colorado is very thankful for the Federal investment in protecting the largest and most senior water right on the main stem of the Colorado River. These water rights will ensure year-round flows for healthy riparian habitats and good faith in compact compliance.” Located in Glenwood Springs, the Shoshone Hydropower Plant holds one of Colorado’s oldest Colorado River water rights. The Shoshone ensures a steady flow of fresh water used for electricity, agriculture, recreation and local economies, and reaches as far as Grand Junction and other Western Slope communities in between. Valued at $99 million, securing the Shoshone Water Rights is vital to Colorado’s water future. Last year, a bipartisan group of Western Slope lawmakers allocated $20 million in state funding toward the purchase of the Shoshone Water Rights. This in addition to the nearly $56 million already secured by Shoshone Water Rights Preservation Coalition; a combination of local leaders and governments. In November, the Colorado River District submitted a funding application to the federal government to help bridge a $40 million funding gap to purchase and protect Shoshone Water Rights, and both state and federal leaders pushed for its approval. Today, the federal government has committed to fulfilling the request. With these federal dollars, Colorado can permanently protect the Shoshone Water Rights and ensure fresh water from the Colorado River flows to the high county. Previous Next

< Back February 13, 2020 REP. BUENTELLO’S BILLS A WIN FOR VETERANS AND RURAL LAW ENFORCEMENT Bills to provide free state park access for disabled veterans and create scholarships for rural law enforcement for officer training pass committees Denver, CO– Earlier today, the House Committee on Rural Affairs and Agriculture unanimously passed Representative Bri Buentello’s legislation to provide free state park access for all Colorado disabled veterans. This afternoon, the Judiciary Committee unanimously advanced Rep. Buentello’s bill to provide scholarships for rural law enforcement agencies to pay for the cost of sending potential officers to training academies. “Veterans have sacrificed so much in service to our country,” said Rep. Buentello, D-Pueblo . “Our state parks are beautiful, and every veteran should be able to enjoy them without cost. They fought to protect this land. It’s only right they get to access it for free.” Currently, Colorado veterans who display a disabled license plate receive free access to Colorado’s state parks or recreation areas. Veterans who cannot, or do not, drive are unable to take advantage of free state park access. Under SB20-069 , disabled veterans will be able to enjoy free access to Colorado’s state parks without having to first acquire a license plate. “Rural and small communities all across Colorado are in need of police officers, but obtaining the P.O.S.T. requirements can be cost-prohibitive in many cases,” said Rep. Buentello . “Today, we’re one step closer to giving these communities the resources that they need to train the next generation of men and women who will keep our communities safe.” HB20-1229 would establish a scholarship fund for rural and small communities to assist in paying for the cost of potential police officers to attend an approved basic law enforcement training academy. The cost of basic training that satisfies the peace officers’ standards and training (P.O.S.T.) requirements can cost thousands of dollars , which is especially prohibitive to potential candidates in rural areas where funds can be scarce. Previous Next

< Back March 29, 2021 AFTER GEORGIA’S JIM CROW 2.0, DEMS BEAT BACK “BIG LIE” INSPIRED ELECTION BILLS DENVER, CO — The House State, Civic, Military, and Veterans Affairs committee today defeated multiple GOP bills based on “the big lie,” which raised baseless conspiracies about the security and integrity of elections across the country, and here in Colorado. “Colorado’s elections system is a national model for facilitating record turnout and constantly improving voter access while ensuring safety, integrity and security,” said House State, Civic, Military, and Veterans Affairs Chair Rep. Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “These bills are dangerous attempts to make it harder to vote and undermine faith in our elections based on conspiracies and the ‘big lie,’ which have been repeatedly debunked. In fact, there wasn’t a single piece of evidence presented that anyone voted who wasn’t supposed to or that anything went wrong with our voting systems. Our system has been lauded by both Republican and Democratic secretaries of state, county clerks and recorders, and officials in both parties for nearly a decade.” “From Georgia to Colorado, we are seeing an onslaught of GOP efforts across the country to restrict access to the ballot and make it harder for Americans to exercise their right to vote,” said committee vice chair Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver. “We won’t stand for these attacks on our democracy in Colorado. We should be looking for ways to increase participation and make it easier to vote, not casting doubt on the best elections system in America.” Dismantle Vote by Mail (HB21-1086 – Luck): This bill would severely limit voter access by requiring voters to submit proof of citizenship in-person at their county clerk and recorder’s office, dismantling our convenient and secure mail-in voting system. Instead of automatically receiving a ballot in the mail, each registered voter would have to go in person to submit additional documents. Voter fraud is extremely rare in the United States, and noncitizen voting is even more rare. This bill is not only a solution in search of a problem, it’s a reckless piece of legislation that would set back our progress and disenfranchise countless Coloradans. Among those directly affected would be military and overseas voters who cannot possibly get to their county clerk’s office in-person. The bill was postponed indefinitely at the request of the sponsor, although two Republicans voted against the motion and to move it forward instead. Redundant And Unnecessary Audits (HB21-1088 – Pico): This bill would require the state auditor to conduct a completely unnecessary and redundant annual audit of the voter registration system. The Secretary of State’s office and county clerks across the state conduct risk-limiting audits, regarded nationally as the gold standard, in every election and have not found any substantial evidence of fraud. Giving Political Party Chairs Influence Over Election Equipment Recommendations (HB21-1170 – Geitner): This bill creates an advisory committee made up of partisan appointees from the state’s two major political party chairs to make recommendations on how to change the state’s voting systems, which are the safest and most secure in the country. Colorado already has a bipartisan commission of experts made up of county clerks, election officials, lawmakers, and voting access and integrity advocates that shouldn’t be usurped by a commission made up only of political party appointments. After they spent months trying to undermine the security of our elections, it would be disastrous to allow partisan GOP political operatives a greater say in how we run them. Commission to Guide Redundant and Unnecessary Audits (HB21-1176 – Holtorf): This bill would create yet another commission to offer recommendations on how to audit Colorado’s elections, despite the fact that the state already has a Bipartisan Election Advisory Commission and already conducts the nationwide gold standard for election audits. By offering bills to fix problems that don’t exist, Republicans continue their efforts to undermine faith in Colorado’s elections. Endless and Meritless Recount Requests (HB21-1053 – Williams): This bill would allow any registered elector in the political subdivision where the election was held to request an electoral recount when one is not otherwise required. Under this bill, the voter requesting an recount could go so far as to specify that the recount be conducted manually, leaving the door open for all kinds of abuse of the recount mechanism. Under current law, recounts are automatically triggered when the margin falls within 0.5 percent of the vote and can be requested by any candidate or their affiliated party within 28 days of an election. Previous Next