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< Back April 30, 2019 HOUSE APPROVES MCCLUSKIE BILL TO RENEW EARLY LITERACY PROGRAM Only 40 percent of third graders in the state are reading at their grade level now (Apr. 30) – The House gave preliminary approval to a bipartisan bill, sponsored by Rep. Julie McCluskie to renew the Colorado Reading To Ensure Academic Development Act (Colorado READ Act), a K-3 literacy instructional program that began in 2012. “Ultimately, strong readers are more successful in school, and we hope in all aspects of life. This bill builds on and improves the existing READ Act that was passed in 2012,” said Rep. McCluskie, D-Dillon. “We need to see stronger results in early childhood literacy. We worked together with members of the K-12 education community to strengthen and refine the efforts that are already in place. We hope this revitalized READ Act will support better reading growth and achievement.” SB19-199 allocates literacy funding towards evidence-based practices that will get Coloradan kids reading at grade level. The bill puts in place provisions to ensure that Colorado teachers are proficient in evidenced-based literacy and reading training practices. That funding can be used for summer literacy programs, professional development programming and tutoring services. Finally, the bill includes increased transparency measures and reporting requirements to ensure the appropriated funds are used in a manner to get the largest return on investment for Colorado’s early learners. SB19-199 passed by a voice-vote. A final vote will be taken at a later date. Previous Next

A new law to cap financial contributions in municipal elections goes into effect on Jan 1, 2024. < Back December 22, 2023 Municipal Campaign Finance Reform Law Goes Into Effect DENVER, CO - A new law to cap financial contributions in municipal elections goes into effect on Jan 1, 2024. HB23-1245 , sponsored by Representatives Jennifer Parenti, Jenny Willford and Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez and Senator Kevin Priola, aims to limit the influence of special interests on local elections. “Establishing contribution limits and strengthening disclosure requirements for municipal elections will be a great step forward to protect the integrity of our local elections,” said Rep. Jennifer Parenti, D-Erie . “We’ve long had similar measures in place for state and federal elections and it's about time we provide similar protections to our local governments whose races are often more consequential to the lives of ordinary citizens. By giving the public more information about who is funding their local candidates, we promote government transparency and accountability and provide a foundation for trust. This law will help ensure that cities and towns across Colorado are implementing the best practices for campaign finance.” “In recent years we’ve seen more and more money flow into local elections,” said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “To help ensure these elections aren’t bought and influenced by special interests and big money donors, this new law caps campaign contributions made by individuals and small donor committees. With the new contribution caps, candidates who aren’t independently wealthy or already well-connected will be on a much more even playing field.” “The influence of dark money donors is growing in our local elections, making it more difficult for everyday people to play a role in deciding who should represent them,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn . “Soon, municipal election contributions will be limited to a reasonable amount, which limits the influence of wealthy dark money donors, creates a more even playing field for individual voters, and encourages candidates to campaign in their communities.” “This new law helps bring transparency to local elections,” Senator Kevin Priola, D-Henderson said. “Our local elections are better off when the public knows where candidates are getting money from and how they are spending it. With the new campaign contribution reporting requirements, the public will have much better access to information that will help them make more informed decisions.” HB23-1245 sets a municipal election campaign contribution limit at $400 for individuals and political parties and $4,000 for small donor committees to a candidate committee. Amounts are subject to inflation adjustments and the disclosure provisions of the Fair Campaign Practices Act. The law also changes municipal clerk report filing timelines, subjects them to open record requests, extends filing retention requirements, and applies some additional disclosure requirements. Previous Next

< Back October 1, 2019 IMPORTANT PROVISIONS OF NEW LAWS BECOME EFFECTIVE TODAY New policies to combat the opioid crisis, protect children’s health and begin remittance of online sales taxes from marketplace facilitators take effect today DENVER, CO— Important provisions from Colorado House Democrats’ 2019 legislative agenda, including new policies to mandate opioid prescriber training, prohibit minors from entering cigar-tobacco bars and to begin remittance of online sales taxes from marketplace facilitators became effective today. Under Section 14 of SB19-228 Substance Use Disorders Prevention Measures, the state licensing board must now establish new rules that require health care providers to complete four new trainings to demonstrate competencies in opioid prescribing, recognition of substance use disorder (SUD), referral for SUD treatment programs and the use of electronic prescription drug monitoring programs. SB19-228, a package of provisions to address the opioid crisis, was sponsored by Rep. Buentello, D-Pueblo. “From doctors and lawmakers to state licensing boards, everyone has a role to play in addressing the deadly opioid epidemic that is devastating communities across our state,” said Rep. Bri Buentello (D-Pueblo), the prime House sponsor of SB19-228. “Opioid prescribers will now have to demonstrate the competencies necessary to recognize potential substance use disorder in their patients, prescribe opioids appropriately, and ensure access to treatment. I’m working with my colleagues on the Opioid and Other Substance Use Disorders Study Committee to advance new legislation to keep combating this crisis with the urgency it demands.” Also going into effect today is a critical section of HB19-1076 which modified the state’s Clean Indoor Air Act and was sponsored by Rep. Dafna Michaelson Janet. The provision prohibits persons under the age of 18 from entering cigar-tobacco bars. Previously, minors could enter cigar-tobacco bars if accompanied by a parent. HB19-1076 also requires establishments to post clear signage that says “Smoking allowed. Children under eighteen years of age may not enter.” House Democrats passed several bills last session to reduce teen tobacco use and protect the health and safety of children. “Our state is facing an alarming rise in teen tobacco and nicotine use, and we have an urgent obligation to take action to stop this,” said Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet (D-Commerce City), the prime House sponsor of HB19-1076. “Children and teenagers should not be exposed to dangerous second hand smoke inside commercial establishments. Starting today, cigar-tobacco bars will have to be crystal clear that these venues are for adults, not minors. I’ll continue working to reduce teen nicotine use and protect the health and safety of Colorado’s children.” “This new law would not have happened without the tireless work of countless advocates. I’m particularly proud of my constituent who came to testify in memory of her brother who died from opioid use disorder,” said Rep. Jonathan Singer, the co-prime House sponsor of SB19-228. “The desperately needed grant funding in the bill is partly named after him, ‘The Charlie Hughes and Nathan Gauna Opioid Prevention Grant Program.’ I am also pleased to see the new training requirements for prescribers move forward. Nathan’s sister didn’t deserve to lose her brother, but her work will ensure others will live in his memory.” Finally, out-of-state online market facilitators will begin collecting and remitting sales taxes to state and local governments in accordance with HB19-1240, one of the first state laws enacted in the wake of the US Supreme Court’s Wayfair decision. Colorado has taken a leading role on this issue. Wayfairallows states to collect online sales taxes from retailers that do not have a physical presence in the state. “This new law brings critical revenue already owed from marketplace facilitators, such as Amazon and Google, to state and local governments,” said Rep, Tracy Kraft-Tharp (D-Arvada), the prime sponsor of HB19-1240 and chair of the Sales and Use Tax Simplification Task Force. “The law evens the playing field between online retailers and brick and mortar stores, and helps us invest in our state’s future. Tax simplification is essential for small businesses, and I’ll continue working to make it easier for everyone to navigate our sales tax system.” Previous Next

The House today on a preliminary vote advanced legislation to prevent and mitigate natural gas pipeline leaks and keep Coloradans safe. < Back March 12, 2025 House Advances Pipeline Leak Detection Bill DENVER, CO – The House today on a preliminary vote advanced legislation to prevent and mitigate natural gas pipeline leaks and keep Coloradans safe. “We need to do more to keep our communities and environment safe from dangerous pipeline leaks,” said Rep. Tammy Story, D-Conifer. “The Pipeline Safety Program must work as intended, demonstrating that public safety is the highest priority. This includes standardizing the rules and regulations for the use of advanced leak detection technology, which when deployed is effective and efficient in detecting and locating leaks throughout the pipeline system across Colorado. Keeping communities safe from pipeline leaks is a top priority for me. This legislation mandates required rulemaking in statute since 2021 will be completed before the end of this year.” “Damaged, leaking pipelines pose a risk to public health and can pollute our environment," said Rep. Lesley Smith, D-Boulder. “This bill ensures Colorado has robust pipeline safety standards so that leaks are quickly detected and fixed. Improving pipeline safety is the right move for our communities, and this bill requires the state to adopt important rules on pipeline leak detection.” HB25-1280 would require the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to adopt rules on natural gas pipeline advanced leak detection by November 1, 2025. This bill builds off of previous legislation ( SB21-108 ) which required the Pipeline Safety Program to address various gas pipeline safety-related issues, including the use of advanced leak detection technology. The goal of HB25-1280 is to ensure the PUC adopts rules regarding the use of advanced leak detection technology to keep communities safe and protect the environment. Previous Next

Governor Jared Polis signed into law today a bipartisan bill to make early childhood education in Colorado more inclusive and accessible. < Back June 6, 2024 Bipartisan Bill to Expand Bilingual Early Childhood Programs Signed Into Law DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis signed into law today a bipartisan bill to make early childhood education in Colorado more inclusive and accessible. HB24-1009 , sponsored by Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango, and Senator Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins, expands bilingual early childhood programs and facilities with a new bilingual licensing unit in the Department of Early Childhood. “Coloradans across our state are searching for high-quality, affordable bilingual early childhood programs and this law will help more Spanish-speaking providers get licensed,” said Joseph. “This law improves bilingual outreach within the Department of Early Childhood Education to better support Spanish-speaking providers seeking professional licensure. Bilingual early childhood programs make education more accessible, inclusive, and culturally-centered for some of our youngest learners.” “Every Colorado family deserves access to high-quality, affordable early childhood education, but those resources aren’t available to every family who needs them,” Ginal said. “This new law will help improve bilingual outreach to help Spanish-speaking providers get licensed, which will make our early childhood system more accessible and inclusive. Bilingual early childhood programs will help children grow and learn, and give more families access to the early childhood services they deserve.” “Early childhood education is the foundation to preparing our students for a lifetime of success,” said McLachlan. “This important law makes bilingual early childhood programs more accessible in Colorado by improving outreach and connection with Spanish-speaking providers. When children have access to education in their primary language, they can grow, learn and succeed, and this law helps address some of the accessibility issues our state has when it comes to bilingual early childhood programs.” Also sponsored by Senator Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction, the new law expands licensed child care options across the state by improving outreach and helping Spanish-speaking providers get licensed, while providing more linguistically relevant child care options for children and families. Previous Next

< Back Rep. Joseph: Rethink the Kids Online Safety Act to balance safety, freedom Aug 20, 2024 See more This story was originally published in Colorado Politics here . As our children and teenagers become increasingly intertwined with social media and online platforms, ensuring their safety has become a pressing issue. The bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which recently passed the Senate and now awaits action in the House, reflects a unified concern for the well-being of our youth. This cross-party collaboration is a hopeful sign we are collectively invested in protecting our children and promoting their rights. However, as with any legislation, it is crucial to examine both its potential benefits and its possible downsides. KOSA aims to impose a "duty of care" on social media companies to regulate content deemed “harmful to minors.” At first glance, this seems like a prudent step toward safeguarding young users. Yet, the implementation of such regulations could have unintended consequences that might undermine the very protections the bill seeks to enforce. For marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ+ community and individuals seeking reproductive health information, online platforms are not just sources of social interaction but essential lifelines. Research shows more than 70% of LGBTQ+ individuals find online communities are pivotal in shaping their understanding of their identities. This digital connection is particularly crucial for transgender youth, who benefit from supportive online networks, contributing to lower rates of attempted suicide among those with access to these spaces. Similarly, the online realm has become a critical source of information and support for those seeking reproductive health care, especially in the wake of the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade. Social media platforms provide vital resources and community support for navigating reproductive health, which can be overshadowed by harassment and legal challenges in other forums. However, KOSA's broad mandate to regulate content could lead to overzealous moderation by social media companies. Much like the SESTA/FOSTA legislation from the previous administration, there is a risk platforms may excessively censor content to avoid legal repercussions, potentially erasing valuable resources and support networks for marginalized communities. This overreach could silence crucial conversations and support systems, leaving these communities vulnerable. Moreover, there are concerns KOSA could be weaponized for political or ideological agendas. Some sponsors of the bill, like Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), and affiliated groups have expressed intentions to use KOSA to suppress specific types of content, such as information related to transgender issues. This opens the door for extremist figures, like certain state attorneys general, to exploit the legislation against those they target, further entrenching the suppression of constitutionally protected speech. In Colorado, we have made strides in safeguarding the rights of women and LGBTQ+ individuals. However, many other states have moved in the opposite direction, highlighting the need for vigilance. The bipartisan nature of KOSA brings a glimmer of hope, reflecting a shared commitment across party lines to protect our children. It is a testament to our collective desire to ensure the safety and well-being of the next generation. As a legislator, this bipartisan effort reassures me there is a common goal to safeguard our youth, and I believe we can find a balanced approach. I urge policymakers to consider amendments to KOSA or explore alternative measures that effectively protect young users while preserving the essential freedoms and support systems that many rely on. By working together, we can ensure our online spaces remain both safe and inclusive for all. Colorado state Rep. Junie Joseph is a child welfare and family law attorney. Previous Next

Governor Polis today signed two bipartisan bills that would expand access to community health services through Medicaid reimbursement and save patients and business owners money on prescription drugs. < Back May 10, 2023 SIGNED! Bipartisan Health Care Savings Legislation Become Law DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed two bipartisan bills that would expand access to community health services through Medicaid reimbursement and save patients and business owners money on prescription drugs. “As an emergency room nurse, I work hard each session to make life easier for Coloradans seeking affordable, quality medical care,” said Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton. “This year’s efforts will keep more money in the pockets of hardworking families and help Coloradans afford the life-saving medication and care they need. I’m proud to see these critical bipartisan bills signed into law, and I look forward to seeing their impact for years to come.” “Rural communities like mine often rely on affordable health care services provided by community health workers to receive preventative, primary, and mental health care, but the current funding mechanism makes it more difficult for communities to offer these services ,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “This bipartisan legislation Governor Polis signed into law today will allow for Medicaid reimbursement for community health services, connecting Coloradans to necessary affordable health care while also boosting our health care workforce.” SB23-002 , also sponsored by Republican Senator Cleave Simpson and Republican Representative Mary Bradfield, would save money on health care by providing a lower cost option for preventative health care and seeks Medicaid reimbursement for community health workers that would incentivize growth in the workforce. The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) would be authorized to seek federal authorization from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to provide Medicaid reimbursement for community health worker services, which would secure long-term funding to make urgently-needed care both easier to access and more affordable for the Coloradans who depend on it. Services provided by community health workers include preventative services, screening, assessments, behavioral or dental health-related services, health coaching, and advocacy. The bill requires HCPF to seek federal approval by July 1, 2024, and to begin implementing coverage once approval is received. “For every $100 spent at a pharmacy, $82 is evenly split between manufacturer profits and middlemen like Pharmacy Benefit Managers,” said Rep. Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada . “Pharmacy Benefit Managers are charging employers one price for prescription drugs while reimbursing pharmacies much less and pocketing the difference. I’m proud that this legislation is becoming law today, so we can save business owners money on the prescription drug coverage they provide to their employees by prohibiting the pharmacy benefits industry from price gouging.” HB23-1201 is also sponsored by Republican Senator Jim Smallwood and Republican Representative Matt Soper. Currently PBMs can charge employers one price, but reimburse pharmacies less and keep the difference, a practice known as spread pricing. This bill makes it an unfair business practice for PBMs to charge employers more for a drug than what they pay pharmacies for and increase transparency for employers into how PBM and carrier behavior impacts their costs. Previous Next

SB25-290 would support medical providers that serve vulnerable communities, protecting access to essential health care for thousands of Coloradans < Back May 6, 2025 House Advances Bill to Stabilize Safety Net Providers, Protect Access to Health Care DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation on a preliminary vote to protect access to essential health care for thousands of Coloradans. SB25-290 would provide immediate financial support to a broad cross-section of safety net health care providers, including rural hospitals, community health centers and behavioral health clinics. “Our health care safety net providers that take care of our low-income, older, and vulnerable community members are in crisis,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville . “Our bill fills an immediate funding need to prevent our safety net providers from closing their doors and leaving hundreds of Coloradans without the health care they need. These dollars will help protect the essential health care for so many low income and working Coloradans now.” “Without our safety net providers, many Coloradans won’t have access to the preventive and primary care that helps them lead healthier lives,” said Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “Higher costs and workforce shortages mean our safety net providers are shouldering enormous financial pressures just to keep the doors open. This bill provides immediate, short-term support to our safety providers so our community members can receive the health care they need.” Safety net providers include primary care and family clinics that provide critical health care to communities across Colorado, like seniors, hardworking families, and rural Coloradans. However, these safety net providers have been under an enormous financial strain as demand and costs increase. SB25-290 would provide stability while long-term, comprehensive solutions can be developed. Specifically, the bill creates the Provider Stabilization Fund to distribute stabilization payments to safety net providers who provide care to low-income, uninsured individuals on a sliding scale or for free. The bill would transfer interest earnings from the Unclaimed Property Tax Trust Fund to the Provider Stabilization Fund as a loan. Payments would be distributed based on the proportion of low-income, uninsured individuals that the provider serves. Without access to preventive and primary care services, Coloradans are more likely to seek emergency care, increasing costs in the health care system as a whole and leading to worse health outcomes. Previous Next

< Back February 16, 2022 BILL TO SAVE BUSINESSES AND ENTREPRENEURS MONEY PASSES COMMITTEE DENVER, CO – Legislation to save Colorado small businesses and entrepreneurs money passed the House Business Affairs & Labor Committee today by a vote of 11 to 1. HB22-1001 , sponsored by Representatives Lisa Cutter and Tom Sullivan, would reduce business filing fees through a credit applied by the Secretary of State’s office. “This session, we’re laser focused on saving Coloradans money and this bill will do just that by reducing several business filing fees,” said Rep. Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial. “We know Colorado’s small business community has faced significant hardships during the pandemic which is why we’re using every tool available to reduce fees, jumpstart our state’s economic recovery, and put more money back in the pockets of business owners and entrepreneurs.” “This bill is part of our efforts to save Coloradans money, specifically focusing on the business community,” said Rep. Lisa Cutter, D-Littleton . “I am a small business owner, and I understand how difficult it is to start a new business. By reducing many of the filing fees, we’re eliminating red tape to help ensure that operating a business in Colorado is as easy as possible. We are an entrepreneurial state — small businesses are essential to our state’s economic recovery and shape our communities. I’m proud to support this effort to help move Colorado forward.” If passed, HB22-1001 would reduce several business filing fees and other costs associated with operating a business to $1.This includes new business registrations, annual renewals and other fees typically paid to the Secretary of State’s Office. The cost savings associated with this bill would be in effect for one year. Previous Next

< Back August 7, 2023 JOINT RELEASE: New Laws to Protect Workers from Harassment and Discrimination, Improve Equity in Colorado’s Justice System Go Into Effect New laws include updates to the POWR Act, alternative sentencing options for pregnant people and admissibility standards for youth interrogations DENVER, CO – Three new laws aimed at improving equity in workplaces and Colorado’s justice system take effect on August 7. “SB23-172 provides long overdue modifications to Colorado’s law that will improve accountability measures, create safer workspaces and allow workers to fight back against harassment and discrimination,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, sponsor of SB23-172, HB23-1187, and HB23-1042 . “Another new law I championed allows alternative sentencing options for pregnant people so they can focus on their health, the health of their child, and keeping their families united. Lastly, we know children and teens are very susceptible to deceptive law enforcement tactics. In order to keep our kids from having permanent records for crimes they didn’t commit, we passed legislation to make juvenile statements inadmissible in court if law enforcement uses untruthful practices during interrogation. Together, these laws work to create a more just society we can all benefit from.” “Every year, I work with my community to identify ways we can build a more just and equitable Colorado, and I fight hard to see those ideas become laws,” said Sen. Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, sponsor of SB23-172, HB23-1187, and HB23-1042. “There is more hard work ahead to ensure every single Coloradan is treated with dignity and respect, but today’s new laws bring us closer to our goal of a Colorado for all. This year, we can be proud of our efforts to protect Colorado workers from discrimination and harassment of all types, our policy to ensure pregnant Coloradans navigating the justice system are able to care for their newborn while remaining part of their community, and our new law to reduce false confessions from kids and ensure law enforcement is keeping our communities safe by finding the correct perpetrator of crimes.” “Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws needed to be revised to protect our workers, and this law does that and more to foster more equitable workspaces,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of SB23-172 . "No one should have to suffer workplace harassment because it doesn't align with a nearly 40-year old legal standard. The POWR Act modernizes the definition of workplace harassment and discrimination, so we can hold wrongdoers accountable thus creating safer and more productive workplaces in the process. If you’re earning a living, you should be able to do so in a space that’s free from harassment or discrimination, and this legislation puts policies that protect workers first.” “No Coloradan should face harassment or discrimination at the workplace, yet our state still lacks adequate policies to protect our workers and hold bad actors accountable,” said Sen. Faith Winter, D-Westminster, sponsor of SB23-172. “This new law takes an important step forward in deterring bad behavior and better supporting survivors. By improving accountability measures and enhancing equity in the workplace, we will ensure that every Colorado worker can feel safe and secure on the job.” Beginning on August 7, the Protecting Opportunity & Workers’ Rights (POWR) Act ( SB23-172 ) will update the definition of harassment and specify that harassment does not need to be “severe or pervasive” to constitute a discriminatory or unfair practice. The law also deters future harassment by modernizing language around non-disclosure agreements, expanding protections for people with disabilities, and adding marital status as a protected class. The “severe or pervasive” standard was established by the U.S. Supreme Court more than three decades ago and assumes that some harassment is tolerable as long as it is not “severe” and does not happen frequently. It allows employers to tolerate a level of groping, touching, crude sexual or racist comments, and other offensive behavior that creates a toxic work environment and leaves employees as targets for offensive behavior. Eliminating the excessive “severe or pervasive” hostile work environment requirements and replacing them with clear standards for “harass” and “harassment” considers the totality of the circumstances, and allows survivors of discrimination and harassment to better pursue justice. The POWR Act also removes language in the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act that permitted employers to discriminate against people with disabilities or refuse to accommodate them if “the disability has a significant impact on the job." Additionally, it establishes an affirmative defense for an employer if the employer meets certain requirements, including establishing a harassment prevention program and taking prompt action in response to a complaint. “The stress of navigating the criminal justice system on top of a pregnancy can be overwhelming to future parents,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB23-1187 . “This law establishes dignity and respect for pregnant people, allowing alternative sentencing opportunities that keep families united and have the potential to reduce recidivism.” “As a mother I know firsthand how difficult it is to give birth - and adding the trauma of being separated from your newborn makes things even harder,” said Sen. Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB23-1187. “Keeping new families together will benefit both infants and parents while reducing the chances of future involvement in the justice system.” Beginning August 7, HB23-1187 allows courts to consider alternative sentencing options for anyone who is pregnant or in the postpartum period. Alternative sentencing options would include bail, diversion, deferred judgment, deferred sentence, and stay of execution. If a defendant is arrested or in custody at a county jail or correctional facility, the defendant may request a pregnancy test following admission to the county jail or correctional facility. Law enforcement would be required to provide the defendant with the pregnancy test within 24 hours after the request, and the request and results would be kept confidential. “As a criminal defense attorney, I see families on their worst days and know innocent kids' extreme distress when they’re accused of committing a crime,” said Rep. Said Sharbini, D-Brighton, sponsor of HB23-1042. “Our law requires juvenile interrogations to be recorded, which means judges can determine if untruthful practices were used in a juvenile’s confession. Weeding out false confessions shifts the focus from innocent people that can help track down the perpetrator and keep our communities safer.” HB23-1042 makes a juvenile’s statement inadmissible in court if a law enforcement official knowingly uses untruthful practices during a custodial interrogation, unless the prosecution can prove that the statement was made voluntarily despite the untruth. It requires an interrogation to be recorded and would allow a judge to use the recording to determine if the statement or admission is voluntary and admissible. While the law officially begins August 7, law enforcement departments have until February 2024 to complete officer training. Previous Next

As recommended by the Colorado River Drought Task Force, lawmakers call on Congress to fund overdue water infrastructure improvements depended upon by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe < Back March 15, 2024 JOINT RELEASE: Lawmakers Urge Congress to Fund Water Infrastructure Improvements for Tribes DENVER, CO – Speaker Julie McCluskie, Representative Barbara McLachlan, and Senators Dylan Roberts and Cleave Simpson today sponsored a joint resolution ( SJM24-002 ) to urge Congress to fully fund the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, which would provide $35 million in funding for critical infrastructure projects across the country, including the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project (PRIIP). The PRIIP carries freshwater to the Southern Ute Indian Tribal land and is in desperate need of repair. “The Pine River Indian Irrigation Project is a vital resource for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and surrounding communities, and its deteriorated condition makes it nearly impossible for users to rely on it for fresh water,” said Speaker Julie McCluksie, D-Dillon . “Recent federal legislation authorized $35 million each year to update, maintain and repair critical projects, including the Pine River Indian Irrigation project. However, Congress has never appropriated this full amount, and the PRIIP has only received $135,000. We’re calling on Congress to appropriate the full $35 million to ensure this vital water project can be preserved and maintained.” “When the bipartisan Colorado Drought River Task Force, and specifically the Tribal Sub-Task Force, presented their recommendations, it was clear that the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project is in dire need of federal funds to modernize their system,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco . “We’re calling on Congress to fully fund the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act in Colorado, so the Tribes that rely on this precious resource can have safe, reliable water for their communities and agricultural economy.” “The deterioration of the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project means the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and those living in remote communities in Southwestern Colorado have unreliable freshwater resources for both drinking and agricultural needs,” said Rep. Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango. “This resolution is a call on Congress to fully fund commitments to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and make it possible for the PRIIP to serve communities as intended. The Colorado Drought River Task Force recommendations are clear, repairing this irrigation project is an urgent matter because the Southern Ute Indian Tribe has been living with unpredictable, unreliable water resources for far too long.” “The Ute nation especially knows that water is the lifeblood of our state,” s aid Senator Cleve Simpson, R-Alamosa . “This joint memorial is meant to highlight the federal government’s inaction in addressing water infrastructure, and my hope is to see the federal government step up, and live up to its commitments to the sovereign Ute Nation.” The PRIIP was constructed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs during the late 1800s and early 1900s and the continued deterioration of the water system means that only an estimated 15 percent of the 175 miles of canals is considered to be in good condition. This water system services the Southern Ute Indian Tribal lands and parts of Ignacio, Colorado for drinking and irrigation purposes. Since the WIIN Act was enacted in 2016, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Southern Ute Agency which maintains the PRIIP, has only received $135,000 for repairs. The WIIN Act, if fully funded, authorizes an annual $35 million allocation split amongst many Tribal needs across the country, including the PRIIP. However, Congress has never fully appropriated the $35 million. In 2023, the Bureau of Indian Affairs completed a modernization plan for the PRIIP system which estimates a cost of $60.7 million, while other cost estimates for modernization range as high as $109 million. Last year, the Colorado River Drought Task Force deemed the deterioration of the PRIIP an urgent matter for Colorado to ensure Tribal communities have access to drinking water, maintain their traditional water use, and enjoy a thriving agricultural industry. Additionally, Governor Polis sent a letter to Congress urging them to fulfill their promise. Previous Next

Two new laws will prevent false electors, add protections against deepfake media < Back June 27, 2024 New Election Protection Laws By Colorado Democrats Go Into Effect Two new laws will prevent false electors, add protections against deepfake media DENVER, CO - On July 1, 2024, legislation will go into effect to protect Colorado’s elections by punishing future attempts at “fake elector” schemes and adding protections against deepfake media that falsely depicts political candidates. “In 2020, our country experienced an attack on democracy when the former president and his supporters tried to overturn the election results,” said Rep. Lorena Garcia, D-Unincorporated Adams County, sponsor of HB24-1150. "Donald Trump organized an effort to replace the electoral college voters with imposter electors who would cast their vote for him instead of Biden, the actual winner. This scheme ultimately failed, but we must be firm that these efforts can never materialize again. Our law is a proactive step to protect democracy in Colorado.” “When I served in the Army I took an oath to defend our freedom and our democracy,” said Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, sponsor of HB24-1150. “‘Fake elector’ schemes and other attempts to overturn our free and fair elections aim to undermine our democracy, and are an insult to that oath and the millions of brave men and women like me who have fought on behalf of our country. This law will ensure that future efforts to create false slates of electors in an attempt to overturn a free and fair election will be punished, creating critical guardrails and protecting the integrity of Colorado’s votes.” "Our nation has survived for centuries based on the people's faith in our democracy. I took my first oath to protect and defend that democracy when I was 17 years old and I continue to honor that oath today," said Rep. Jennifer Parenti, D-Erie, sponsor of HB24-1150. “Schemes to undermine our presidential elections are a direct attack on that democracy and the values upon which our nation was founded. This law clarifies that those who participate in or conspire to create a false slate of electors are committing forgery and perjury and are therefore subject to prosecution under Colorado law. The legislature has a duty to the people of Colorado to send a strong message that elections matter and we will do everything in our power to protect the integrity of their votes.” HB24-1150 makes it a crime of perjury and forgery to create, serve, or conspire to create or serve in a false slate of presidential electors. Each crime is punishable by up to a $10,000 fine. A person who is convicted of these crimes will be disqualified from serving in the Colorado General Assembly or other public offices. After the 2020 election, former President Trump and his Republican allies attempted to recruit fake electors in key swing states including Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin, Nevada, and New Mexico, in an attempt to overturn President Biden’s victory. John Eastman, an attorney and advisor to Trump, was one of 18 people indicted with the former president for their alleged efforts to overturn Georgia’s election results in 2020. He is accused of attempting to pressure former Vice President Mike Pence to either delay Congress’ certification of electoral votes on January 6, 2021 or reject some states’ slate of electors to allow alternate electors who would support Trump. HB24-1147 creates new regulations for people who use artificial intelligence and deepfake-generated content that includes candidates for elected office. Deepfake media that includes a candidate for elected office will be required to include a disclaimer that the content is not real or truthful. “Deepfakes of candidates for elected office are created to spread misinformation and disrupt our fair election process,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB24-1147. "Coloradans deserve to know if the videos they are watching are fake so they can make accurate, informed decisions. Artificial intelligence poses a real threat to our elections, and our new law is crucial in protecting our democratic process.” “Deepfake technology is a direct threat to our democracy, and I am proud to be focused on defending transparency in our elections,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, sponsor of HB24-1147. “Voters deserve to know which media they consume is real and which is manipulated so they can make informed decisions at the ballot box. These guardrails are essential to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure fair races for both candidates and voters.” “Deepfakes can have a harmful effect on the election process and are a real threat to our democracy,” said Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada, sponsor of HB24-1147. "Our legislation safeguards our elections by requiring AI-generated deepfake content to include a disclaimer and establishing legal avenues for candidates who have been negatively impacted by deepfake technology. Colorado voters should know what candidates actually say and not be deceived by depictions of things they did not.” “AI is already affecting our electoral process, and it is vital we add protections in time for upcoming elections,” said Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB24-1147. “This law safeguards our elections by requiring a disclaimer on artificially altered media, so Coloradans can know what's true and not be deceived by bad actors.” Under the law, a candidate who is the subject of an undisclosed deepfake communication can pursue civil action and file a complaint with the office of the Secretary of State. In February 2024, deepfake audio of President Biden was sent via robocall in New Hampshire to discourage voters from participating in the primary election. Previous Next