< Back May 14, 2020 JOINT RELEASE: GENERAL ASSEMBLY DEMS DEMAND FEDERAL RELIEF; SEND LETTER TO CONGRESS DENVER, CO–– General Assembly Democrats today sent a letter to Congress following Tuesday’s devastating economic and revenue forecast, calling on Congress to prioritize flexible state funding to protect communities from revenue shortfalls caused by COVID-19. “Colorado is facing a desperate budgetary situation. With a more than $3 billion deficit, many of our critical programs that Coloradans have come to count on are facing crippling cuts,” said Senator Dominick Moreno, Joint Budget Committee (JBC) Vice-Chair. “We need the federal government to step up and use our tax dollars to bail out people rather than corporations, or we will suffer severe consequences for years to come.” “With a severe budget shortfall, we are doing everything we can to protect education and critical health-and-safety services,” said JBC Chair Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “We have spent the last several weeks reviewing options for how we can balance the budget responsibly, and it’s clear that without more federal aid, our state will see heartbreaking cuts to essential services. We need our leaders in Washington to come together and support our communities through this crisis.” The letter asks Congress to pass several bills being supported by members of the Colorado delegation including The Coronavirus Relief for States Act , sponsored by Rep. Ed Perlmutter, and co-sponsored by Rep. Joe Neguse, Rep. Jason Crow, Rep. Diana DeGette, and Rep. Scott Tipton; as well as The State Operations Stabilization (SOS) Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, Rep. Neguse, and Rep. Crow. Coloradans can add their name to the letter here . The full text of the letter is below: Dear Members of Congress, Our state, like so many others, is experiencing extreme hardship due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Not only have more than 1000 of our residents died of this disease so far, but hundreds of thousands have lost their jobs and are in desperate need of assistance. However, these are still only the immediate and obvious impacts of the crisis. The longer, more insidious effects are those that will ripple out for years to come, as our state infrastructure crumbles from inadequate funding. Currently, we are facing a revenue shortfall of at least $3 billion due to the COVID crisis. This represents a massive reduction of our fiscal resources and it spells catastrophe for many of our already-underfunded institutions. Schools, law enforcement offices, health clinics, and correctional facilities all face extreme financial pressures, while literacy, suicide prevention, child welfare, and job training programs will likely need to be eliminated. Urgent transportation projects that would ensure the safety of our roads are also on hold, and public employees face potential pay cuts, furloughs, and benefit reductions. These fiscal losses are particularly poised to decimate the people who are helping get us through this crisis––mainly our first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, and state personnel. These professionals have been working tirelessly under immense pressure to cope with the needs of their patients, students, and service users. But now with draining funding reserves, our community servants are set up to receive even less support. Our situation is devastating and far exceeds that of any downturn we have ever faced. So you can understand our outrage when Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he would rather let state governments declare bankruptcy than receive more federal funding. He also had the audacity to claim that it’s not Congress’ job to help states who didn’t save for a recession. This kind of sentiment is unacceptable and blatantly disregards the severity of this crisis. Real people are suffering and more will in the coming weeks, months, and years if we do not receive adequate assistance. The federal funding so far, while much appreciated, has come with painful restrictions that prevent state or local governments from fully addressing their dwindling resource pools. So now, after hundreds of billions of tax dollars have gone towards bailing out big business and buying down corporate debt, states are completely unable to care for their own people. This issue is further compounded by the fact that COVID’s revenue impacts will last multiple budget cycles, and Colorado is uniquely unable to make up for revenue shortfalls due to TABOR. Our state needs the funding and the flexibility to backfill lost revenue, or we will be left with huge fiscal gaps in essential governmental functions. Therefore, in recognition of this immense and continuing revenue decline, we seek your help in working to ensure that any forthcoming federal stimulus package addressing the COVID-19 outbreak includes substantial aid for state revenue shortages. There are presently three congressional bills we would urge you to support: The Coronavirus Relief for States Act , sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, and co-sponsored by Rep. Neguse, Rep. Crow, Rep. DeGette, and Rep. Tipton provides $500 billion to states and tribal governments affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for FY 2020-21. These funds could be used to cover costs accrued from the public health emergency, to replace revenue lost as a result of COVID-19, or to contribute to economic recovery of the state or tribe. The bipartisan proposal for a State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (SMART) Fund is set to be formally introduced in the Senate shortly. The bill calls for an additional $500 billion in COVID-19 state stabilization funds to support state and local governments. The funds would be split 3 ways: one-third would be provided to all 50 states and the District of Columbia; one-third to state and local governments based upon the number of COVID-19 cases in each place; and one-third to state and local governments based upon state revenue loss from COVID-19. The State Operations Stabilization (SOS) Act , co-sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, Rep. Neguse, and Rep. Crow, authorizes a state, tribal government, or unit of local government to use funds made available under the Coronavirus Relief Fund to cover expenditures related to COVID-19 or to reduce a budget deficit due to loss of revenue related to COVID-19. All three of these initiatives would greatly assist Colorado’s ability to recover and maintain vital services for our residents. Fortunately, some of you have already begun the critical work necessary to secure flexible funding for Colorado, and for that, we are exceedingly grateful. Going forward, as Congress begins to consider the next phase of national relief, we implore all of you to protect our state’s future by advocating for such measures. We are currently just over a week away from passing a budget with dire consequences and request that you also act urgently. Colorado will need billions of dollars in direct aid to survive the extreme and continued loss of revenue or we will be forced to cut essential services in the midst of a pandemic and potentially crippling economic recession. Thank you for your leadership and continued support. We appreciate you rising to the challenge of today’s unprecedented public health emergency with courage, compassion, and commitment. We hope we can rely on you to secure the resources we need to protect the health and wellbeing of Coloradans and we look forward to working with you to craft our state’s path to recovery. Sincerely, President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo) Senator Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) Senator Mike Foote (D-Lafayette) Senator Joann Ginal (D-Fort Collins) Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver) Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver) Senator Dominick Moreno (D-Commerce City) Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood) Senator Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver) Senator Tammy Story (D-Golden) Senator Nancy Todd (D-Aurora) Senator Angela Williams (D-Denver) Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster) Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada) Senator Jessie Danielson (D-Wheat Ridge) Senator Pete Lee (D-Colorado Springs) Speaker KC Becker (D-Boulder) Majority Leader Alec Garnett (D-Denver) Representative Jeni Arndt (D-Fort Collins) Representative Shannon Bird (D-Westminster) Representative Janet Buckner (D-Aurora) Representative Bri Buentello (D-Pueblo) Representative Yadira Caraveo (D-Thornton) Representative James Coleman (D-Denver) Representative Lisa Cutter (D-Jefferson County) Representative Monica Duran (D-Wheat Ridge) Representative Daneya Esgar (D-Pueblo) Representative Tony Exum, Sr. (D-Colorado Springs) Representative Meg Froelich (D-Englewood) Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez (D-Denver) Representative Leslie Herod (D-Denver) Representative Edie Hooton (D-Boulder) Representative Dominique Jackson (D-Aurora) Representative Sonya Jaquez-Lewis (D- Boulder) Representative Chris Kennedy (D-Lakewood) Representative Cathy Kipp (D-Fort Collins) Representative Tracy Kraft-Tharp (D-Arvada) Representative Susan Lontine (D-Denver) Representative Julie McCluskie (D-Dillon) Representative Barbara McLachlan (D-Durango) Representative Jovan Melton (D-Aurora Representative Dafna Michaelson Jenet (D-Commerce City)) Representative Kyle Mullica (D-Northglenn) Representative Dylan Roberts (D-Avon) Representative Jonathan Singer (D-Longmont) Representative Emily Sirota (D-Denver) Representative Marc Snyder (D-Manitou Springs) Representative Tom Sullivan (D-Centennial) Representative Kerry Tipper (D-Lakewood) Representative Brianna Titone (D-Arvada) Representative Donald Valdez (D-La Jara) Representative Mike Weissman (D-Aurora) Representative Steven Woodrow (D-Denver) Representative Mary Young (D-Greeley) Previous Next

< Back April 1, 2021 CLEAN ENERGY CAREER PATHWAYS ‘SPARC’ COMMITTEE’S INTEREST Colorado Comeback proposal would invest millions in training for the renewable energy jobs of the future DENVER, CO– The House Energy and Environment Committee today advanced Representative Dominique Jackson and Brianna Titone’s bill to invest $5 million into job training and workforce development for the energy sector. The bill is part of the Colorado Comeback state stimulus , a package of legislation that will invest roughly $700 million into helping Colorado recover faster and build back stronger. The committee vote was 8-5. “We’ve set bold renewable energy targets in Colorado, and this bill puts the state’s money where our goals are,” said Rep. Dominique Jackson, D-Aurora. “Market forces, consumer choices, and the pressing reality of the climate crisis are moving Colorado’s energy economy towards a cleaner, greener future. This bill will help us build back stronger by making sure that Coloradans, especially communities of color and those who lost jobs due to COVID-19, are prepared to take on the clean energy jobs of the future.” “As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, exciting and profitable new jobs will continue to be created in our energy-rich state,” said Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada. “As we come out of this devastating pandemic and work to build the Colorado Comeback, this bill will ensure that our workforce is able to capitalize on these new jobs and get started on the path toward a fulfilling and sustainable career. I’m confident that the SPARC program will give our economy just the jolt it needs to build back a stronger workforce.” HB21-1149 calls on the Colorado Workforce Development Council to work with local workforce boards, school districts across the state, the Colorado Department of Education, community colleges, universities, and other institutions of higher learning to create and implement a career pathway for students in the renewable energy sector. The bill invests $5 million into the career pathway so institutions of higher learning and workforce development authorities can implement what is known as the Strengthening Photovoltaic and Renewable Careers, or SPARC, program. Previous Next

The House Transportation, Housing & Local Government Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker and Representative Javier Mabrey that would streamline the process for religious and educational institutions to build housing on their land to create more housing opportunities that work for every budget. HB25-1169 passed by a vote of 8-4. < Back February 19, 2025 ‘YIGBY’ Bill to Increase Housing Coloradans Can Afford Passes Committee DENVER, CO - The House Transportation, Housing & Local Government Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker and Representative Javier Mabrey that would streamline the process for religious and educational institutions to build housing on their land to create more housing opportunities that work for every budget . HB25-1169 passed by a vote of 8-4. “Creating more housing that hardworking Coloradans can afford is one of our biggest priorities at the Capitol, and cutting red tape for places of worship and schools to build affordable housing and community services like child care centers will save Coloradans money on housing,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “My previous experience as a pastor gives me a unique perspective on this issue, and working closely with religious groups and schools has confirmed the need for legislation that allows them to more easily develop on their land and partner with mission-minded organizations to help reduce the cost of housing across Colorado. This bill is a win-win for our communities by increasing affordable housing options and saving Coloradans money on housing, child care, and other necessary services.” “The housing crisis is making it increasingly difficult for hardworking Coloradans to put a roof over their heads, which is why we’re bringing this bill to expand housing opportunities on underutilized land already owned by religious and educational institutions,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “This legislation would streamline the review process to build new housing on this land, allowing places of worship and schools to help support their communities by building more affordable housing that will help bring down the cost of living. The housing affordability crisis requires multiple solutions, and this bill is one piece that can create a more affordable Colorado for all.” Beginning December 31, 2026, HB25-1169 would streamline the process for faith-based organizations, school districts, and state colleges or universities to build housing and other community services on their land, regardless of current zoning laws. Under the bill, local governments could not reject the construction of a residential development due to height, as long as the development is no taller than three stories or 45 feet or adheres to the height standards of the zoning district. Additionally, local governments could not restrict the construction based on the number of units, with some exceptions. If zoning allows, these residential developments could also include childcare centers and facilities that provide recreational, social, or educational services to residents. HB25-1169 would greenlight over 5,000 acres of land to be developed into housing in Denver, Jefferson, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties alone. California passed a law in 2023 that makes it easier for higher education and religious institutions to build housing on their land, opening up over 170,000 acres of land to be developed into affordable housing or other uses. A church in Washington DC built 99 units for low-income families in addition to amenities like office space, a gym, and a culinary arts training program. An Atlanta church plans to build 300 affordable housing units , two schools, and 10,000 square feet of new retail space on their property. A recent Denver Post article reported that average Denver rents fell 1.5 percent from the end of 2023 to the end of 2024 due to new housing units doubling the typical pace in recent years. Previous Next

The House today passed HB26-1226 on a preliminary vote to fight back against federal mandates that force coal plants set to retire to stay operational, which will drive up costs to ratepayers and hinder Colorado’s clean energy future. < Back April 21, 2026 House Advances Bill to Fight Back Against Federal Attempts to Steamroll Colorado’s Energy Future DENVER, CO – The House today passed HB26-1226 on a preliminary vote to fight back against federal mandates that force coal plants set to retire to stay operational, which will drive up costs to ratepayers and hinder Colorado’s clean energy future. “With this bill, we’re pushing back against federal overreach that increases costs for ratepayers and continues to burden communities with pollution,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn . “There is consensus among the Colorado Attorney General, environmental organizations, and the operators of the Craig Unit 1 power plant that forcing coal plants to stay online will increase utility costs for Coloradans. Colorado needs authority to plan for our own energy future, and this bill helps protect ratepayers and bring us closer to our climate goals.” “Trump's capricious, ill-advised use of an emergency order to keep an aging coal plant online will increase utility costs and set back Colorado’s climate and clean air goals,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “Coloradans should be in charge of our state’s energy future, not the federal government. And ratepayers deserve to know how much propping up an aging, broken-down coal-fired power plant will cost them on their utility bills. Our bill protects consumers from Trump’s war on clean energy and destructive energy cost increases while keeping us on track to meet our climate goals.” HB26-1226 protects Colorado’s utility consumers and air quality and clean energy goals. To safeguard Colorado’s environment, this bill helps to mitigate the impacts of federal interference in Colorado’s energy future, ensures energy reliability, and modernizes standards for coal plant pollution. If coal-fired plants are permitted to operate past 2034, this bill would: Mandate that consumers and regulators are given information on the costs of keeping those coal plants open, and give the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) financing tools to manage operating costs, minimizing the impact on ratepayers. Ensure the PUC approves new resources for Colorado’s largest electric utilities to help Colorado reach our carbon reduction targets and retire coal plants on schedule. Require that coal plants still in operation use modern pollution controls to reduce emissions and help Colorado reach clean energy targets In addition to informing consumers about the cost impacts of keeping coal plants open past their retirement date, this bill also allows utility companies to use securitization as a financing tool if it lowers costs for ratepayers. This would include refinanced debt or long-term, low-interest bonds on large-scale projects to help lower costs for ratepayers now. To reduce pollution, this bill would require the Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) to issue a rule to set limits on the emission of NOx and SO2 from coal-fired power plants, unless those plants have retired or converted to burn a fuel other than coal. HB26-1226 would also require operators to submit quarterly emissions reports showing compliance beginning in 2034. Last December, the Trump Administration issued a 202(c) emergency order to keep an aging coal-fired power plant in Craig operating, despite the plant's scheduled retirement in late 2025. This unprecedented order was challenged by the Colorado Attorney General and environmental groups last month. Additionally, the owners of the coal power plant, Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association and the Platte River Power Authority filed a formal petition asking the U.S. Department of Energy to reconsider to “find a more effective and affordable path forward, one that will not delay retirement of Craig Unit 1.” Last month, the Trump administration issued a second order, further extending coal burning at Craig until at least June, which is estimated to cost almost $80 million annually. Previous Next

The House Energy & Environment Committee today passed two bills to protect Colorado’s environment. < Back March 11, 2026 Bills to Boost Renewable Energy, Create Jobs and Reduce Plastic Pollution Pass Committee DENVER, CO – The House Energy & Environment Committee today passed two bills to protect Colorado’s environment. HB26-1268 would streamline permitting for renewable energy developments on underutilized land for communities across the state. SB26-016 would establish new guardrails to prevent plastic pellets from polluting Colorado waterways. “Many communities in Colorado are looking for creative ways to address climate change, invest more in renewable energy and create new jobs,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, sponsor of HB26-1268. “This bill gives local governments more tools to attract, build and invest in renewable energy resources, such as solar or wind. By reinvesting in underutilized land, our communities can help Colorado reach its climate goals and diversity their energy sources. HB26-1268 is a win-win for our climate and local communities.” “Along with Rep. McCormick, our bill makes it possible for communities across our state to invest in renewable energy,” said Rep. Lesley Smith, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB26-1268 and SB26-016. “Diversifying our energy sources helps drive down utility costs for consumers, and this bill would make it easier for local governments to finance renewable energy projects on underutilized or abandoned land. Another bill I am sponsoring, SB26-016, will better protect Colorado’s waterways from plastic pellets, which will help safeguard our freshwater ecosystem and our health. Together, these bills help address climate change and protect Colorado’s beautiful landscapes.” HB26-1268 passed committee by a vote of 11-0. This bill would allow, not require, local governments to designate areas for renewable energy sites, specifically solar and energy storage system projects. To begin a renewable energy project, local governments would be required to hold at least one public hearing, engage in outreach to disproportionately impacted communities, and ensure that an eligible project may be permitted and constructed in accordance with state laws. Some examples of land could include decommissioned oil and gas sites, industrial sites, closed landfills, and previously mined areas. This bill would empower local governments to utilize already disturbed land to attract and build renewable energy resources. Under HB26-1268, local governments would have more available tools to reach renewable energy goals and take advantage of tax increment financing, a tax financing tool, to reinvest in their communities. The Energy & Environment Committee also passed SB26-016 to protect Colorado’s waterways and wildlife from plastic pellet pollution. SB26-016 passed a vote of 7-4. “We need to do more to protect Colorado’s ecosystems and waterways from harmful materials,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, sponsor of SB26-016. “Under this bill, facilities would no longer be issued permits to discharge small, plastic pellets into our waterways or natural lands. Fish and wildlife can ingest microplastics mistakenly as food, which can cause significant harm and disrupt the food chain. To protect our environment, this bill helps prevent plastic pellets from being discharged into our waterways now and into the future.” SB26-016 , also known as the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act, would prohibit facilities that use, make, package or transport plastic pellets or preproduction plastic materials from discharging them into Colorado waterways and on land. Under certain circumstances, facilities can obtain a permit to discharge plastic pellets. Permits would no longer be issued under SB26-016, meaning all facilities would be prohibited from discharging plastic pellets into waterways or on land. These pellets are often discharged during production or transport and can take up to 1000 years to break down. Of the waterways tested by the Environment Colorado Research & Policy Center in 2023, microplastics were identified in 100-percent of the samples. Zooplankton and fish often ingest plastic pellets by mistake, which can disrupt food chains. Previous Next

The Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee today advanced bipartisan legislation to save small farmers and ranchers money and prevent out-of-state producers from falsely advertising products with Colorado branding. < Back October 29, 2025 JOINT RELEASE: Water & Ag Interim Committee Advances Bipartisan Bills to Boost Colorado Farmers and Ranchers DENVER, CO – The Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee today advanced bipartisan legislation to save small farmers and ranchers money and prevent out-of-state producers from falsely advertising products with Colorado branding. Bill 1 , sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, and Representative Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, would save Colorado farmers and ranchers money on their property taxes. It would broaden the definition of "ranch" and “farm” in statute so that small and family-owned ranches and farms can benefit from existing property tax exemptions. “After over a year of work to get the language just right, I'm excited we're moving this bill forward to make sure our laws work for farmers and ranchers of all sizes,” said Roberts. “Small and family-owned operations are the heart of Colorado’s agricultural communities and too many of them struggle with high property tax costs. With this legislation, we are finding every opportunity to put money back in their pockets and keep their farming and ranching operations going.” “For generations, family farms and smaller ranches in my district have shaped Colorado’s ag economy, supported rural communities and fed Coloradans,” said McCluskie. “This bill cuts property taxes for local farmers and ranchers by including smaller operations that use their land for grazing in existing property tax exemptions. As the Trump Administration threatens to flood our markets with Argentinian beef and undercut Colorado ranchers, this bill steps in to save our farmers and ranchers money.” “Family farms and ranches are the backbone of Colorado’s rural economy,” said McCormick. “While the Trump Administration continues to choose trade wars over Colorado farmers and undercut our ranchers, we’re stepping up to put more money back in their pockets. This bill prioritizes local farmers and ranchers by cutting property taxes for smaller operations that use their land for grazing.” This bill would modify the definitions used to classify land as agricultural for property tax purposes. It would 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. Bill 4 , sponsored by Representatives Matt Martinez, D-Monte Vista and Matt Soper, R-Delta, and Senators Roberts and Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, would protect the integrity of the “Colorado Proud” label and support local producers by cracking down on false advertising of products originating outside of Colorado. “When shoppers purchase Palisade peaches or San Luis Valley potatoes, they expect to receive products actually grown and produced in those regions of our state,” said Martinez. “To protect the integrity of Colorado-grown products and foods, this cracks down on mislabeling and false advertising of Colorado products. Colorado’s farmers, ranchers and small businesses work hard to produce the famous, high-quality products and foods that we’re known for around the world. This bill upholds the integrity of the iconic Colorado foods we all love.” “Colorado is known for its delicious produce, high-quality meat, and creative products made by our small businesses and artists,” said Roberts. “Consumers want to purchase made-in-Colorado products and should be able to trust the Colorado Proud label. This bill is about supporting Colorado farmers, ranchers, and businesses who make the real deal, right here at home.” Bill 4 would prohibit identifying an agricultural product as being produced in Colorado when selling, marketing, advertising, or distributing the product unless the product is grown in the state. It would also prohibit using the Colorado Proud designation or logo unless authorized by the Department of Agriculture. A violation of these prohibitions would constitute a deceptive trade practice. The committee also advanced House Joint Resolution 2 , sponsored by Representative Martinez and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, to recognize the importance of farmers’ markets to Colorado communities, small businesses, and agriculture and encourage the Colorado Department of Agriculture to continue to support and promote farmers’ markets. “Farmers’ markets are hubs of activity that create community and provide opportunities for Coloradans to support farmers, ranchers, and small businesses,” said Marchman. “I’m proud to sponsor this resolution to recognize the importance of farmers’ markets to our communities’ health, wellbeing, and economic prosperity and encourage the Colorado Department of Agriculture to continue to support them.” All three bills will now be considered by the Legislative Council. If approved, they will be introduced during the 2026 legislative session and advance through the regular legislative process. Previous Next

Colorado General Assembly Democratic Leadership today released statements following the assassination and targeted attack on Minnesota elected officials and their families. < Back June 14, 2025 Democratic Leadership Release Statements on Assassination and Targeted Attack on Minnesota Elected Officials DENVER, CO – Colorado General Assembly Democratic Leadership today released statements following the assassination and targeted attack on Minnesota elected officials and their families. “Melissa was a cherished colleague and words cannot express how deeply saddened I am,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “ She was a brilliant public servant, a champion for her state, and simply a wonderful person. My heart is with her family, her caucus and the state of Minnesota who I know are grieving alongside an entire nation that is in shock, and I am praying for the recovery of Senator Hoffman and his wife. Our democracy is based on the idea that we resolve our differences through peaceful debate and in courts, elected bodies, state legislatures and the halls of Congress. There is no place in our country, ever, for the targeting of elected officials and political violence, and those responsible must be brought to justice.” “Under no circumstances is political violence acceptable in America. There is room for healthy disagreement and debate, but we must never turn to violence against our political opponents,” said Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver. “The targeted attacks in Minnesota are a dark example of how violent rhetoric can devolve into violent actions. I share in the grief of losing Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and I am praying for a full and speedy recovery for Senator John Hoffman and his wife.” “These acts of targeted violence in Minnesota have shaken us all to the core and are a direct attack on the democratic values we hold dear,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “I never thought I'd see the day when a state legislator would be assassinated in their home. No one who runs for office signs up to lose their life in their service to their community and standing up for what they believe in. We must all speak up and say unambiguously that violence is not the answer and work toward a future where something like this is never possible. The entire Colorado legislature is praying for the speedy recovery of Senator Hoffman and his wife, and our hearts are with the families of Speaker Emeritus Hortman and her husband.” “Retaliation and violence against public servants must never be tolerated,” said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “Americans across the country sacrifice their time and energy to run for office and serve their communities – they should never fear that in doing so they sacrifice their safety as well. We all must unequivocally condemn this horrific act of violence and commit to respectful and peaceful means of settling our political differences. My thoughts are with the families of Speaker Emerita Hartman and her husband, and I am hopeful for complete recovery for Senator Hoffman and his wife.” Previous Next

SB25-196 will safeguard insurance coverage for preventive health care services in the event of federal action < Back May 12, 2025 SIGNED! New Law Will Bill Protect Insurance Coverage for Preventive Health Care SB25-196 will safeguard insurance coverage for preventive health care services in the event of federal action DENVER, CO – Today, Governor Jared Polis signed legislation sponsored by Senators Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, and Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Representatives Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton, and Jamie Jackson, D-Aurora, to proactively protect insurance coverage for preventive health care in the event of federal action. “Regular check-ups, cancer screenings, and immunizations are life-saving care that must be protected,” Jodeh said. “In recent months, we’ve seen dangerous threats to cut fundamental departments at the federal level that protect patients and providers. This new law ensures that even if those cuts do happen, Coloradans’ health care remains protected. Preventative services today mean avoiding emergency events tomorrow—events that can leave families with crippling debt and devastating health outcomes.” “From cancer screenings to routine checkups, preventive health care saves lives,” Lieder said. “In the wake of federal threats to cut fundamental health care coverage, we’re stepping up to protect preventive health care in Colorado. Preventive care saves Coloradans money and leads to better health outcomes for everyone.” “As an emergency care nurse, I’ve seen the worst-case scenarios that happen when preventive care measures are not taken – often because they’re not covered by insurance,” Mullica said. “This law will make life-saving preventive care more accessible and help more patients avoid those worst-case scenarios.” “We know preventive care is one of the most impactful ways to improve patient health outcomes and save money on costly emergency care,” Jackson said . “We won’t sit idly by as preventive health care coverage is put at risk. Preventive care helps level some of the racial disparities in our health care system, and this bill protects access to essential care.” SB25-196 will give the Colorado Commissioner of Insurance within the Department of Regulatory Agencies the authority to reinstate recommendations on preventive care from federal agencies such as the United States Preventive Services Task Force, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or the Health Resources and Services Administration in the United States Department of Health and Human Services in the event that any of these agencies are repealed, dismantled, or disempowered. It also permits the Commissioner to consult the Nurse Physician Advisory Task Force for Colorado Health Care in developing their recommendations. Since January, the Trump Administration has made devastating cuts to essential services for Americans. Recently, the administration cut billions of dollars from state health services , prompting measures such as this one to protect Coloradans’ access to health care. Previous Next

< Back March 10, 2022 REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH EQUITY ACT PASSES COMMITTEE Legislation will protect the right to an abortion in Colorado DENVER, CO – The House Health and Insurance Committee today passed the Reproductive Health Equity Act. “Time and time again GOP politicians have tried to take away abortion rights; it’s not going to happen in Colorado,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “Their dystopian vision of our post Roe world would see the government control women's bodies and put politicians in charge of the health care we’re allowed to access. Over 560 abortion restrictions have been introduced in the last year in all but three states, and nineteen states have enacted 106 restrictions, including 12 abortion bans. That’s why we are going to pass the Reproductive Health Equity Act now to protect access to abortion in Colorado.” "Tonight, we're one step closer to enshrining access to abortion in Colorado law," said House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo . "Politicians have no place in deciding whether or not someone is ready to be a parent, but that's exactly what's happening in states across the country. In Colorado, we trust patients to make their own choices. With the Reproductive Health Equity Act, we're taking action now to protect the fundamental right to reproductive health care, regardless of what happens at the federal level. We’re committed to keeping abortion safe, legal and protected in Colorado.” HB22-1279 , sponsored by Representative Meg Froelich and Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, would update Colorado’s laws to protect reproductive rights. The bill establishes a fundamental right to choose to continue a pregnancy and give birth, or to have an abortion. The proposed law comes as states across the country propose and enact new bans and restrictions on abortion access. The legislation is supported by: Cobalt, COLOR, Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, the Center for Reproductive Rights, the Anti-Defamation League of the Mountain States, the ACLU of Colorado, ONE Colorado, New Era Colorado, Catholics for Choice and dozens of other organizations. In Texas, Republicans passed legislation banning abortion after six weeks, before many women even know they are pregnant. Republican lawmakers in Missouri have proposed legislation that would allow private lawsuits against individuals who help women obtain an abortion out of state. Democrats have already defeated three GOP anti-choice bills so far this session. HB22-1079 , sponsored by Representative Williams, was an unconstitutional ban on abortion in Colorado with no exceptions. The bill explicitly directed Colorado to disregard federal law and federal courts and would subject Colorado judges who support access to abortion to impeachment. It would have allowed a private right of action against abortion providers, and potentially patients too. HB22-1047 , sponsored by Representative Neville, would have banned abortion in Colorado with no exceptions. The bill would have also criminalized miscarriages and would have imprisoned providers who perform an abortion. HB22-1075 , sponsored by Representative Luck, would have established a registry to track and surveil abortion patients and providers. It would have created a roadmap for abortion opponents to identify and further threaten abortion patients and providers. Previous Next

Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills sponsored by Representative Barbara McLachlan into law. < Back May 23, 2024 McLachlan Bills to Extend Federal Indian Boarding School Research Program, Boost K-12 Science Performance Become Law DENVER / ENGLEWOOD, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills sponsored by Representative Barbara McLachlan into law. HB24-1444 will implement History Colorado recommendations to support healing generational trauma in tribal communities, capture oral histories and dive deeper into long standing inequities faced by tribal communities. “History Colorado’s research about the federal Indian boarding schools revealed the atrocities of the past; it left us with a choice on how to right these wrongs and better support our tribal communities today,” said Rep. Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango. “This law extends this important research for another three years, acknowledging the abuse and forced assimilation and addressing some of the longstanding social, economic, and educational inequities still faced by our tribal communities.” “We cannot erase the horrors of the past, but we must face them,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver . “This new law directs the state of Colorado to continue to expose the truth about the American Indian boarding schools.” HB24-1444 in consultation with tribes, extends the federal Indian boarding school research program within History Colorado until 2027. Enacted in 2022 through HB22-1327 , this research program was tasked with researching the victimization that occurred at American Indian boarding schools in Colorado. History Colorado released the findings from their report and recommendations in October of 2023, which revealed that nine institutions in the state attempted to assimilate American Indian students. HB24-1444 invests $1 million to continue the program and ensure consultation with different tribes, the steering committee, and the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs in putting forward recommendations to work toward social, educational and economic equity for tribal communities by November 8, 2025. HB24-1446 is a bipartisan law that will make no-cost professional development programs available to science educators, with an emphasis on in-person and virtual programming that supports students who are below grade level, students living with disabilities, gifted students, and students who are English Language Learners. “I’m also proud that my bipartisan bill to make professional development programs available to science educators at no cost became law today,” continued McLachlan. “The key to success in the classroom is a great educator, and this law makes it easier for our science teachers to continue honing their skills and meet the diverse needs of our students.” HB24-1446 aims to improve K-12 science performance for Colorado students by giving teachers the tools and resources they need to foster success among the students who need the most support. With this law, teachers who participate in this professional development may earn credit towards license renewal. Rural school districts must be prioritized if demand for the training exceeds capacity. The program will be made available beginning in the 2025-26 school year. Previous Next

< Back May 3, 2022 WILDFIRE MITIGATION, BACKCOUNTRY SEARCH AND RESCUE AND WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTIONS BILLS PASS HOUSE DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation to direct funding to local governments for wildfire mitigation efforts, extend whistleblower protections and improve backcountry search and rescue operations. “I’m proud that we took action today to help local governments better mitigate the risks of wildfire by providing $10 million in state matching funds for these critical efforts,” said Rep. Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. “With climate change causing increasingly devastating wildfires, it’s paramount that we take aggressive action. This program will ensure state and local government are working together to address the threat of wildfire and better leverage state funding.” “Local governments are on the frontlines of our state’s efforts to prevent and mitigate the risk of wildfires, which is why we are dedicating $10 million to local governments to incentivise them to establish dedicated wildfire mitigation funding,” said Rep. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs. “This legislation will direct additional and badly needed resources to local governments to protect properties and lives.” Wildfire Mitigation Incentives For Local Governments: HB22-1011 , sponsored by Representatives Lisa Cutter and Marc Snyder, passed by a vote of 48-16 and would leverage local and private funds through a matching grant program to provide resources to local governments for forest management and wildfire mitigation efforts. By incentivizing local governments to identify dedicated long-term funding for wildfire mitigation, the bill makes smart investments to maximize state resources and encourage sustainable local and state funding for wildfire mitigation efforts. “Each year, we are seeing more and more tragic avalanche deaths and backcountry rescues, and I stand in awe of the brave men and women who work in these dangerous situations to save people’s lives,” said Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “The legislation we passed today will improve backcountry search and rescue operations and help ensure that these critical programs have the resources they need.” Backcountry Search and Rescue: SB22-168 , sponsored by Representatives Julie McCluskie and Perry Will, passed by vote of 57-8. The bill will improve back country search and rescue operations in Colorado by moving these responsibilities to the Colorado Parks andWildlife within the Department of Natural Resources and boosting funding by $1 million to support search and rescue efforts. The bill also establishes a sustainable funding stream for search and rescue efforts and makes the dependent of a person who died or was permanently disable while conducting rescue efforts eligible for free tuition at state higher education institutions. “The whistleblower protections we created during the pandemic have allowed workers to raise critical concerns without the fear of retaliation,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “No one should ever be afraid to stand up for their health and safety or the health and safety of their colleagues. Today, the House continued these important protections to ensure that workers are aware of their rights and can continue to speak out when they need to.” “The legislation we passed today will protect workers from retaliation when they raise concerns about workplace health and safety,” said Rep. Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial. “No one should be fired or retaliated against because they raised the alarm about dangerous conditions or unfair practices. Workers need these protections, and I’m proud we’re making them permanent in Colorado.” Whistleblower Protections: In 2020, the legislature passed legislation establishing protections for whistleblowers during a public health emergency. SB22-097 , sponsored by Representatives Leslie Herod and Tom Sullivan, passed by a vote of 41 to 24. It would make these protections permanent. The bill protects workers in the public and private sectors by ensuring that all workers have the same protections, including the ability to raise concerns about workplace health and safety practices or hazards to their employer, other workers, the public or government agencies. The legislation also protects workers from retaliation, discrimination, or adverse action, allows workers to wear personal protective equipment while at work without fear of discrimination, and requires employers to notify employees of their rights. When employees do raise concerns, various remedy options are included under the bill including filing a claim with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) or bringing an action in court. The legislation also gives CDLE the authority to enforce and investigate claims. Previous Next

SB25-130 would ensure that emergency abortion and miscarriage care remain protected < Back May 2, 2025 House Advances Legislation to Strengthen Emergency Protections for Reproductive Health Care DENVER, CO – The House today advanced legislation on a preliminary vote to protect Coloradans’ rights and freedoms by strengthening legal protections for emergency reproductive health care. SB25-130 would safeguard emergency care for pregnant patients since the Trump administration announced they were no longer enforcing the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). “Federal protections for reproductive healthcare have been deeply eroded by the Trump administration, and it’s our responsibility to protect life-saving emergency care for pregnant people in Colorado,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “This bill ensures that emergency providers have the clarity they need to do their job and save lives. This bill rules out all ambiguity so pregnant people can receive the life-saving emergency care they need, including an abortion. Abortion is safe, legal and protected in Colorado.” “Our state has been a leader in abortion care because Coloradans understand that access to the full spectrum of reproductive health care saves lives,” said Rep. Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins. “As the federal EMTALA law crumbles under the Trump administration, this bill stands up to protect life-saving emergency care for pregnant patients. In states where reproductive health care is restricted, pregnant people are being denied emergency abortion or miscarriage care until it’s too late; we won't let that happen in Colorado.” SB25-130 would ensure emergency access for pregnant people who need abortion or miscarriage care without discrimination based on financial need or the type of care required. It would also create clarity for providers by defining employment protections for individual health care providers, treatment log requirements, and guidelines for transfers and discharges. The federal EMTALA is a nearly 40-year-old law that requires hospitals to provide emergency medical treatment, including abortion and miscarriage care, regardless of ability to pay. However, the Supreme Court’s dismissal of Moyle vs United States has allowed states to deny pregnant people abortion care in life-threatening emergencies. In addition, the Trump administration recently dropped the federal lawsuit against Idaho for refusing to provide abortion care in the emergency room. In response to these federal actions, this bill would ensure that life-saving emergency care will be protected in Colorado. The federal landscape surrounding abortion care has been under attack. States with strict abortion bans argue that their state laws override their federal EMTALA law. Without access to care, pregnant people risk miscarriage, sepsis, or even death. Previous Next