< Back April 22, 2021 JOINT RELEASE: FIVE NEW COLORADO COMEBACK BILLS INTRODUCED Dozens of bills to stimulate the economy and build back stronger make their way through the legislature DENVER, CO – House and Senate leadership today introduced five state stimulus bills that will boost startup businesses, expand access to broadband, support arts and cultural organizations, and ensure workers and communities in regions transitioning away from coal-based economies have the tools they need to thrive. The bills are part of the legislature’s $800 million Colorado Recovery Plan . “As a leader of a community that is going through an economic transition, I’ve long sought to ensure workers have the tools and support they need as we transition to cleaner energy sources,” said House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “With the bipartisan Colorado Recovery Plan, we’re going to provide $15 million to the Office of Just Transition to create jobs and boost impacted communities like Pueblo and Moffat counties. This package of bills helps solve the problems of today and looks to the future by making historic investments in broadband access and helping entrepreneurs access the capital they need to grow their businesses and succeed.” “As we work to build back a stronger, more resilient Colorado, we must strengthen the sectors of our state that will help stimulate our economy and ensure our communities thrive,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder . “These stimulus bills will bolster our local businesses, support vital community services, and uplift our workforce with the resources they need to succeed – putting Colorado on track to recover faster.” HB21-1285: Supporting Artists, Venues, Film and Cultural Organizations, Sponsored by Representatives Benavidez & Herod and Senators Jaquez Lewis &Buckner: Venues, artists, and so many other culturally vital organizations have struggled to make it through the last year. This bill provides $10M to support artists and cultural organizations that have been impacted by COVID-19 throughout the state. This includes funding for the performance based film incentive, cultural facilities and the CO Creative Industries grant program set up during the 2020 special session. HB21-1288: Creating Access to Capital for Startups, Sponsored by Representatives Bacon & Duran and Senator Coleman: Business closures have impacted communities across our state, often in different ways, leaving gaps in services and the availability of basic goods. To help fill the need created by COVID-19 related business closures, this bill provides $30 million in lending capital to entrepreneurs who face barriers to accessing traditional sources of capital and entrepreneurs wishing to restart or reorganize after facing pandemic related financial challenges. HB21-1289: Expanding Access to Broadband, Sponsored by Representatives Kennedy & Baisley and Senator Bridges: Colorado has an opportunity to help bridge the digital divide exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic by increasing broadband access for our students, communities and businesses. This bill provides $75M to increase internet access across Colorado through the deployment of devices, and the development of middle and last mile infrastructure to support services that have become a necessity during the pandemic, like telehealth. It specifically includes $20M for the Ute Mountain and Southern Ute Tribes. HB21-1290: Funding Just Transition Office, Sponsored by House Majority Leader Esgar & Representative Will and Senate Majority Leader Fenberg & Senator Rankin: In 2019, Democrats in the legislature created the Office of Just Transition to guide communities transitioning from coal toward economic resilience. This bill provides $15 million in funding for workforce programs, local capacity grants, transition-related economic development grants, and critical infrastructure investments to boost economies that have been dependent on coal. SB21-248: Loan Program For Colorado Agriculture , sponsored by Senators Donovan & Simpson and Representatives McCormick & Holtorf: Agribusiness provides more than 170,000 jobs in Colorado and contributes over $40 million annually to our economy, but the pandemic has dramatically reduced this growth. This bill allocates $30 million to create and implement the Colorado Agricultural Future Loan Program which will provide low-interest loans to beginning farmers and ranchers as well as farm-to-market infrastructure loans for businesses – putting Colorado on a pathway toward a sustainable and prosperous future for the agriculture industry. Previous Next

< Back July 1, 2022 JOINT RELEASE: NEW LAWS PASSED BY DEMOCRATS TO SAVE PEOPLE MONEY GO INTO EFFECT DENVER, CO – New laws passed by Democrats in the General Assembly to save people and businesses more than $150 million go into effect today. “With inflation and rising costs squeezing families across the state, we did everything we could to save Coloradans and businesses money this year,” said Rep. David Ortiz, D-Littleton. “The legislation going into effect today will save Coloradans and businesses nearly $150 million. From cutting property taxes by $275 on average and creating free universal preschool, to sending every Coloradan an early rebate check of $750 and boosting the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit, we’re putting hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars back into Coloradans’ pockets.” “Pandemic-induced inflation is putting folks in a pinch, which is why we fought to pass this slate of fee relief bills that will help save people money,” said Sen. Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo. “From helping local restaurants hold onto thousands of dollars on their sales taxes, to slashing fees at the DMV, to reducing professional licenses for health care providers, we’re helping families and businesses deal with rising costs and putting money directly back into the pockets of hard-working Coloradans.” “The legislation going into effect today will save drivers money as gas prices rise across the globe and put money back into the pockets of health care professionals and small businesses,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “Nurses and mental health professionals served on the frontlines during the pandemic, and small businesses have faced the brunt of the pandemic’s economic disruptions. I’m so proud of the legislation we passed to save families and businesses money and help Coloradans hold on to more of their hard earned money.” “We know that working Colorado families need all the help they can get right now, and we delivered with a package of new laws going into effect today that will reduce fees and help folks across the state save money,” said Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial. “These measures will help alleviate the financial pressure families and businesses have felt over the last two years, giving them some breathing room and helping them make ends meet when they need it most.” Saving Restaurants and Small Businesses Money: HB22-1406 , sponsored by Representatives Dylan Roberts and Leslie Herod and Senators Nick Hinrichsen and James Coleman, will save restaurants $40 million by allowing them to retain the sales tax they collect and would otherwise remit to the state. HB22-1001 , sponsored by Representatives Lisa Cutter and Tom Sullivan and Senators Brittany Pettersen and Chris Kolker, will save businesses over $8 million by making it nearly free to start your own business in Colorado. Putting Money Back Into Driver’s Pockets: HB22-1004 , sponsored by Representatives David Ortiz and Mary Young and Senators Chris Kolker and Rhonda Fields, will save drivers nearly $4 million in DMV fees, and HB22-1351 , sponsored by Representatives Dylan Roberts and Barbara McLachlan and Senators Brittany Pettersen and Nick Hinrichsen, will save drivers over $78 million by reducing the cost of registering a vehicle and delaying the road usage fee Saving Nurses and Mental Health Professionals Money on Their Professional Licenses: Nurses, who served bravely on the frontlines during the pandemic, will save $11.7 million this year when they go to renew their licenses because of HB22-1298 , legislation sponsored by Representative Kyle Mullica and Senators Nick Hinrichsen and Sonya Jaquez Lewis. Mental health professionals will save $3.7 million when they go to renew their licenses from HB22-1299 , legislation sponsored by Representative Mary Young and Senators Chris Kolker and Rhonda Fields. Previous Next

SB24-080 ensures insurance compliance with federal regulations in Colorado < Back June 6, 2024 ICYMI: SIGNED! Bill to Improve Health Insurance Transparency Becomes Law SB24-080 ensures insurance compliance with federal regulations in Colorado DENVER, CO – Governor Polis yesterday signed into law legislation sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, and Representatives Mary Young, D-Greeley, and Julia Marvin, D-Thornton, that will enhance transparency in health care coverage. Currently, insurers are required to disclose and post pricing details and submit prescription drug spending information to the federal government. However, this information is not easily accessible to Coloradans. SB24-080 will ensure transparency for consumers so they can make informed decisions about their health care. “Coloradans deserve to have easy access to information on health insurance costs,” said Fields. “Right now, too many health insurance carriers aren’t complying with federal price transparency laws. By addressing the problem at the state level, we can hold these companies accountable and help save Coloradans money on health care.” “We’re committed to saving Coloradans money on their health care, and this legislation ensures that statewide insurance companies are complying with federal price transparency laws,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “To improve health outcomes for every Coloradan, we must make health care more affordable and accessible. This law gives consumers a clear view of their health care costs and ultimately saves them money.” “I’m proud of our work to make health care coverage more affordable for Coloradans. This new law is the next step forward in that process,” Jaquez Lewis said. “Folks would have a digital tool to compare rates, covered items and services, and get real time responses on questions so they can find an option that works best for them and their family.” “To save Coloradans money on health care they need tools at hand to compare the rates of procedures and medical services,” said Rep. Julia Marvin, D-Thornton. “This new law ensures that our health care companies are complying with federal price transparency laws. We’ve made important progress to bring down the cost of health care, and this law makes sure consumers have a better understanding of the cost associated with health care for themselves and their families.” The new law requires carriers to submit information on their negotiated rates and prescription drug trends to the Division of Insurance (DOI) in an easy-to-read, accessible format. DOI will have the ability to ensure compliance from insurers by creating a consumer price comparison tool that insurers use to input data so that Coloradans can easily access cost sharing information on all items and services. Previous Next

SB23-092 expands renewable energy and reduces carbon emissions on Colorado farmland < Back May 18, 2023 SIGNED! Bipartisan Bill to Increase Use of Agrivoltaics SB23-092 expands renewable energy and reduces carbon emissions on Colorado farmland LONGMONT, CO – Today, Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Representative Karen McCormick’s, D-Longmont, bipartisan bill to support the use of agrivoltaics through grants from the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) was signed by Governor Jared Polis. SB23-092 , cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Representative Matt Soper, R-Delta, expands access to agrivoltaics, a cutting edge method to generate energy using solar panels over agricultural land without sacrificing significant agricultural production. The bill also directs the CDA to study greenhouse gas reduction and carbon sequestration opportunities in agriculture. “Agrivoltaics are an effective way to increase the productivity of our farmland,” said Hansen. “With some crops, shade from solar panels can actually improve growing conditions, save water and increase output. We are helping to expand renewable energy options and carbon capture techniques that can benefit our farming community and help us reach our climate goals.” "Cleaning up our air takes a multi-pronged approach, and agrivoltaics prioritize clean, renewable energy sources over fossil fuels across Colorado's farmland," said McCormick. "This law expands the use of this cutting edge method to generate energy using solar panels along farmland and saves water in the process. Agrivoltaics provide economic opportunity for agricultural landowners, making it easier for farmland to be kept in the hands of farmers for generations to come. Agriculture is one of the largest industries in the state, and these innovative techniques bring us closer to reaching our climate goals and reducing our carbon footprint." 32 million acres of land are used for agriculture in Colorado, nearly half of the state’s surface area. Methods for carbon reduction on farmland studied by the bill include dry digesters, greenhouse gas credits, and sequestration efforts. Additionally, the bill establishes a tax exemption for certain qualifying machinery or equipment from property tax if the agricultural equipment is part of a solar energy generating system that is used for agrivoltaics or aquavoltaics. Previous Next

< Back February 27, 2020 REP. DONALD VALDEZ’S AMBER ALERT NOTIFICATION READINESS BILL ADVANCES UNANIMOUSLY DENVER, CO– The House State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today voted unanimously to pass Representative Donald Valdez’s bill to ensure Colorado’s AMBER Alert notification system stays up to date with the latest telecommunications technology. The bipartisan bill has already passed the Senate unanimously. “AMBER Alerts help our law enforcement officials protect some of the most vulnerable Coloradans,” said Rep. Donald Valdez, D-La Jara. “It is critical that our state stays up to date with the latest technology to notify Coloradans during an AMBER Alert emergency, and this bill will do just that.” SB20-079 requires the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to send AMBER Alerts using technological applications that promote the largest reach of community notifications. While Colorado’s current method of sending AMBER Alerts meets the criteria, this bill will ensure that Colorado’s AMBER Alert system keeps up with technological advances in the future to ensure the widespread receival of these critical alerts of missing children. Previous Next

DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed two bills into law to increase flexibility in the housing affordability programs approved by voters by the passage of Proposition 123 and improve local governments’ ability to hold short-term rentals to local rules and regulations. < Back June 5, 2023 SIGNED! New Laws to Improve Housing Affordability and Short-Term Rental Oversight DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed two bills into law to increase flexibility in the housing affordability programs approved by voters by the passage of Proposition 123 and improve local governments’ ability to hold short-term rentals to local rules and regulations. “Communities throughout Colorado are facing a housing affordability crisis, and these new laws will offer local communities the tools they need to make it easier to call Colorado home,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, sponsor of HB23-1304 and HB23-1287 . “These laws provide towns and cities, especially those in our rural mountain towns the flexibility they need to implement the affordable housing programs voters created with Proposition 123. We’re also strengthening transparency and compliance with local regulations of short term rentals to help ease some of the impact these properties are having on those living in our rural resort communities year round. I’m proud to deliver legislation that will help alleviate the high cost of housing for Coloradans from the Front Range to the Western Slope.” “Coloradans were clear when they passed Prop 123 that they want more affordable housing options,” said Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, sponsor of HB23-1304. “With this bill, we’re making sure that Prop 123 will be implemented effectively, so that every Coloradan can afford to live in the communities where they work. I’m excited to see HB23-1304 signed into law, and look forward to seeing all the affordable housing options that’ll be created for hardworking people across our state.” HB23-1304 ensures the housing affordability programs created through Proposition 123, which voters approved in the 2022 election, can be implemented effectively across the state and have the greatest impact by getting dollars out the door as soon as possible. The law ensures that tribal governments can access Proposition 123 funds in addition to local governments. It also makes it possible for rural resort communities to access the historic funding of Proposition 123 to accommodate the high cost of living in these areas. Local governments across the state will also be able to partner with neighboring communities to reach their targeted growth rate of three percent. In 2022, voters approved Proposition 123, which created new housing affordability programs funded with surplus state income tax revenue. The proposition dedicated an estimated $300 million to help local governments purchase land for affordable homes, provide financing for low- and middle income multi-family housing and provide direct support to renters, supply debt financing for projects that qualify for housing tax credits, offer grants and loans for nonprofits to help people purchase homes, and fund programs for people experiencing homelessness. “Short-term rentals play an important role in rural resort economies by attracting visitors to our communities, but they have had unintended impacts on rental markets and housing costs in the high country and across the state,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, sponsor of HB23-1287 . “This law will allow counties to partner with digital platforms that host units to remove a listing if the owners’ license is suspended or revoked, protecting owners, renters, and local communities from violations of local rules and regulations.” “Today’s bill signings signal our continued and multi-faceted commitment to making housing more affordable across Colorado,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, sponsor of HB23-1304 and HB23-1287. "HB23-1304 ensures that the historic funds for affordable housing programs from Proposition 123 are distributed equitably to all corners of the state and delivers increased flexibility for rural and mountain communities to ensure the goals of Prop 123 are met. With HB23-1287, we’re also strengthening protections for local residents in rural resort communities to help curb the unintended impacts of short-term rentals on our communities. I’m proud that these important pieces of legislation passed with bipartisan support and have now become law. And I am even more excited to continue our work to ensure every Colorado family has an affordable place to call home." A board of county commissioners already has the authority to regulate units that are rented or used for short-term stays. HB23-1287 clarifies the definition of a short-term rental and provides counties with the authority to work with digital platforms to accurately list compliant short-term rentals. HB23-1287 gives counties the ability to require an owner of a property, or the owner’s agent, to include a rental license or permit in any listing for a short-term rental unit on a digital platform. If a county has regulations on short-term rentals, the county will be able to require a digital platform to remove any rental listing if the owner of the listing: Has their local short-term rental license or permit suspended or revoked, Has received a notice violation, or a similar legal process, for not holding a valid local short-term rental license or permit, or Is not allowed to list their unit as a short-term rental due to county rules. Previous Next

The House Education Committee today passed a bipartisan bill to support higher education and address Colorado’s veterinary shortage. < Back February 6, 2025 Committee Passes Bill to Support Higher Education, Increase Access to Veterinary Care DENVER, CO – The House Education Committee today passed a bipartisan bill to support higher education and address Colorado’s veterinary shortage. HB25-1131 , sponsored by Representative Andrew Boesenecker, passed by a unanimous vote. “Plain and simple, Colorado needs more veterinarians, and this bill expands student access to CSU’s world-class College of Veterinary Medicine,” said Rep. Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “By eliminating the student enrollment cap at CSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, more students can jumpstart their future careers in veterinary care. This bill helps our state to address the shortage of veterinary care, especially in rural and underserved communities.” HB25-1131 , also sponsored by Representative Dusty Johnson, R-Fort Morgan, would increase access to veterinary care, especially in rural and underserved communities. Specifically, this bill would eliminate the cap on the number of veterinary students admitted at Colorado State University (CSU). CSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences is ranked as the #2 veterinary school in the nation and works in partnership with CSU’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. This bill would make it easier for students to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and help tackle Colorado’s rising veterinary care shortage. Previous Next

HB24-1456 works in tandem with the statewide public health order to combat congenital syphilis and SB24-042 creates more resources for those living sickle cell disease < Back April 23, 2024 Bills to Prevent Syphilis, Improve Support for Coloradans with Sickle Cell Disease Pass Committee HB24-1456 works in tandem with the statewide public health order to combat congenital syphilis and SB24-042 creates more resources for those living sickle cell disease DENVER, CO – The House Health & Human Services Committee today passed two pieces of legislation to improve health outcomes for pregnant people, infants and those living with sickle cell disease. HB24-1456 , sponsored by Representative Julia Marvin and Representative Lindsey Daugherty, would direct the State Board of Health to create prenatal testing standards for syphilis to keep pregnant people and infants safe. SB24-042 , sponsored by Representative Regina English and Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, would provide outreach and support to individuals living with sickle cell disease. “The increase of congenital syphilis in Colorado is alarming, and we’re working together as a state to tackle this public health crisis that’s affecting our communities, especially our infants,” said Rep. Julia Marvin, D-Thornton, sponsor of HB24-1456. “This bill works with the state to improve syphilis testing during pregnancy, so health care providers can catch infections early and administer simple, effective treatment. Additionally, this bill would offer flexibility to the State Board of Health to monitor and adjust congenital syphilis protocols to ensure our pregnant people are receiving the care and treatment they need. If left untreated, congenital syphilis can cause birth defects or even infant death – this bill expands screenings and bolsters public health measures to ensure every child has a healthy start in life.” “Congenital syphilis can cause birth defects and unfortunately, even death. As a state, we’re stepping up to address this public health crisis,” said Rep. Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, sponsor of HB24-1456. “This bill works in tandem with Colorado’s public health order to ramp up syphilis screening for pregnant people throughout their pregnancy. Congenital syphilis can be treated simply, and encouraging screening is an important step forward in combating this public health crisis that’s affecting many of our communities. Our goal is to stop the rise in congenital syphilis and create a safer, healthier Colorado for all.” HB24-1456 , passed committee by a vote of 11-2. This bill aims to detect and combat congenital syphilis, or syphilis transmitted from the pregnant person to the fetus during pregnancy by directing the State Board of Health to create prenatal testing standards for syphilis.. On April 19, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and Governor Polis, declared a statewide public health order to address the congenital syphilis epidemic. If passed, this bill would ensure pregnant people receive frequent prenatal testing for sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis, based on public health standards. Congenital syphilis is easily treatable, but if left unchecked can cause severe fetus infections of the brain, eyes, and other body organs. It can also cause miscarriages, stillbirths and other birth defects. CDC data reveals that congenital syphilis has more than tripled in recent years and is the highest it's been nationwide since 1992. In Colorado, cases are also rising at a drastic rate with a 900 percent case increase since 2017 (5 cases in 2017 and 50 cases in 2023). “Sickle cell disease can cause blockages in a person’s small blood vessels and be incredibly painful if left untreated,” said Rep. Regina English, D-Colorado Springs. “This bill would establish the new, Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program, to provide critical outreach and support to Coloradans living with sickle cell disease. Sickle cell disease disproportionately impacts Black communities and this new outreach program will help bridge the gap between health care and access experienced by marginalized communities. I am proud to carry this legislation forward because it will improve health outcomes for so many in our state.” “Long-standing inequities in our health care system have left many Black Coloradans without access to the care they need, let alone specialized care,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “This bill would establish the Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program to connect people living with sickle cell disease with resources and support. Sickle cell disease is genetic, and unfortunately, the rates have been much higher among Black communities. Named after Colorado’s first Black female legislator, the new program honors Ms. Taylor’s legacy by providing individualized support to our community and works to bridge the gap in health care access. By prioritizing the health care of all Coloradans – especially those who have been marginalized and underserved for too long – we can create a healthier state for us all.” SB24-042 , passed committee by a vote of 13-0 and would work to improve health outcomes for Coloradans living with sickle cell disease. This bill would create the Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program within the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to provide support to individuals living with sickle cell disease. Outreach and support services would be administered by a nonprofit organization contracted through CDPHE. Sickle cell disease is an inherited red blood cell disorder that causes red blood cells that carry oxygen to stick together after the oxygen is released, causing blockages in the small blood vessels, anemia, and severe pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), sickle cell disease occurs among about 1 out of every 365 Black or African-American births and occurs among about 1 out of every 16,300 Hispanic-American births. Previous Next

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

The House Education Committee passed two bills today. < Back January 29, 2026 House Education Committee Passes Two Bills to Save Students Money and Support Rural Schools DENVER, CO – The House Education Committee passed two bills today. HB26-1016 would save college students and professors money on education materials, and HB26-1027 would address school staffing shortages in rural or smaller school districts. “Our bill saves college students and instructors money by making high-quality education materials, such as textbooks, available and easily accessible at no cost,” said Rep. Jacque Phillips, D-Thornton, sponsor of HB26-1016. “This legislation ensures the state develops and implements open educational resources to reduce barriers to a well-rounded education and support our higher education professors and students alike.” HB26-1016 , also sponsored by Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, would help college students and professors access no-cost education materials, known as open education resources (OER). OERs include free and openly-licensed teaching, learning and research materials, such as textbooks and videos. OERs save students money, help reduce barriers to high-quality education and spur innovation. HB26-1016 passed committee by a vote of 11-2. This bill continues the development and tracks the implementation of OERs in higher education institutions in Colorado, including the number of classes that use no-cost textbooks. The bill also expands the number of professionals on the open educational resources council, which helps develop Colorado’s OERs to include more librarians and professionals from higher education institutions. “We’ve taken bold action under the gold dome to support our schools, teachers and students, especially those in rural and underserved districts,” said Rep. Tammy Story, D-Conifer, sponsor of HB26-1027. “This legislation allows Board of Cooperative Services (BOCES) executive directors to support our rural and smaller schools and address public education educator shortages without losing their retirement benefits. These retired administrators have specialized lived experience and wisdom, and this bill ensures they can continue to share their talents with Colorado students.” “We’re looking at every avenue to support our rural schools and help address the educator shortage,” said Rep. Katie Stewart, D-Durango, sponsor of HB26-1027 . “This bill makes it easier for retired BOCES executive directors to return to the classroom, without risking their retirement benefits. In rural communities like mine, it can be difficult to recruit and retain new school administrators, teachers, and support staff. This bill makes sure retired BOCES executive directors can re-enter the workforce and support their local schools.” HB26-1027 would help support Colorado schools by allowing a retired Board of Cooperative Services (BOCES) executive director to re-enter the schools without losing their retirement benefits. Under this bill, BOCES executive directors would join a list of specific education-related positions, including teachers, paraprofessionals, food service professionals, and bus drivers, who can fill vacant positions in local schools without the risk of losing their Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA) benefits. BOCES exist to support rural or smaller school districts in Colorado by allowing multiple school districts to combine resources and share staff. HB26-1027 passed committee by a vote of 13-0. Previous Next

If Prop HH passes, Coloradans will receive a $661 TABOR rebate for single filers or $1,322 for joint filers, an increase for everyone making under $100,000 < Back May 6, 2023 JOINT RELEASE: Property Tax Reduction Package Will Include Flat TABOR Rebates If Prop HH passes, Coloradans will receive a $661 TABOR rebate for single filers or $1,322 for joint filers, an increase for everyone making under $100,000 DENVER, CO - The House Appropriations Committee today passed a legislative package to lower property taxes for homeowners and businesses and create a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will increase refunds for Coloradans making under $100,000, while simultaneously protecting funding for critical community services. The package is sponsored by Representatives Chris deGruy Kennedy and Mike Weissman and Senators Stephen Fenberg, Chris Hansen, and Nick Hinrichsen. “Everyone deserves to benefit from lower property taxes. If Prop HH passes, Coloradans will all receive the same TABOR refund, putting more money back into the pockets of everyone making under $100,000 while saving homeowners over $1,000 on average on their property taxes,” said Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, sponsor of SB23-303 and HB23-1311. “While Colorado has some of the lowest residential property tax rates in the country, increases in home values will deeply impact homeowners and renters alike. With Prop HH, we’re proposing over $1 billion in savings for homeowners over the next two years and making TABOR refunds more equitable so middle and lower income Coloradans will see a larger refund.” “We’ve worked hard to provide Coloradans immediate property tax relief through Prop HH that will save families across our state more than a billion dollar each year - but not everyone owns property, which is why we’re working to get them relief, too,” Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, said. “This proposal will make TABOR refunds more equitable and directly benefit Coloradans by getting them bigger refunds when they’re needed most.” “Property taxes fund vital community services, from K-12 schools and fire departments to water districts and child welfare,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of SB23-303 and HB23-1311. “Our property tax proposal will reduce taxes on homeowners, with the bulk of the savings going to people who own homes valued under $600,000, seniors on fixed incomes and veterans. As part of this proposal, Coloradans will receive the same flat TABOR refund they did last year, offering help to Coloradans who don’t own a home and who are facing significant rent increases.” “TABOR refunds should be equitable,” Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, said. “Flat TABOR refunds will ensure that hardworking Coloradans from all walks of life are supported fairly. We’re taking care of property owners through Prop HH, and this proposal will help give folks more financial freedom to fill up their tank, put food on the table, buy school supplies, and pay their bills.” SB23-303 creates a long-term solution to prevent growing home values from raising property taxes, and creates limits that protect homeowners and businesses from steep unexpected increases in their property taxes. Coloradans will vote on this package in November, and if approved these measures will provide sustainable, long-term reductions to property tax rates while delivering immediate savings on property taxes this year. Combined with property tax reductions the legislature previously enacted via SB22-238 , this proposal will cut the average homeowner’s tax increase in half, saving $1,264 on average over the next two years. In total, this package would provide between $900 million and $1.6 billion annually in property tax reductions for homeowners and businesses in Colorado. Other property tax reductions and protections proposed in this plan include: Reducing the residential assessment rate from 7.15 percent to 6.7 percent in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences. Incrementally reducing the business property assessment rate from 29 percent to at least 26.9 percent by 2032. Reducing the taxable value of residences by $40,000 in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences in future years. Capping the growth in district property tax collections excluding school districts at inflation and allowing local governments to override the cap after giving notice to property owners. Protecting funding for public education and backfilling revenue to fire districts, water districts, ambulance and hospital districts in areas of the state that aren’t growing as fast by dedicating a portion of the state TABOR surplus to backfill them. Providing seniors who currently receive the Homestead Exemption a larger reduction of $140,000 and allowing them to continue to receive this reduction if they move. If Colorado voters adopt Prop HH, HB23-1311 would require the TABOR surplus for FY 2022-2023 to be refunded equally to qualifying taxpayers. Without this legislation, the FY 2022-2023 TABOR refund would be refunded by the six-tier sales tax refund mechanism, giving lower earners smaller refunds than higher earners. If voters do not approve of Prop HH in the November 2023 election, the six-tier mechanism will be applied to TABOR refunds; single filers that make under $50,000 per year would receive a TABOR refund of $454, while single filers that make over $270,000 would receive a TABOR refund of $1,434. Under HB23-1311, Colorado taxpayers could expect to receive a refund of $661 for single filers, and $1,322 for joint filers. This will return more money to everyone making under $100,000 than under the current six tier refund mechanism. Final refund amounts will be determined based on updated revenue statistics. Further, after accounting for the portion of refunds that will backfill property tax reductions, Coloradans who make less than $100,000 can expect to see an increase in their TABOR refund if Prop HH passes. This legislation creates a more equitable TABOR refund mechanism for FY 2022-2023 and supports hardworking Coloradans better afford everyday necessities. SB23-303 passed House Appropriations by a vote of 7 to 4. HB23-1311 passed House Appropriations by a vote of 6 to 4. Previous Next

House Democrats today elected Representative Elizabeth Velasco to serve as co-whip on the majority leadership team for the 75th General Assembly. < Back January 10, 2025 House Democrats Elect Representative Elizabeth Velasco to Leadership Team for 75th General Assembly DENVER, CO - House Democrats today elected Representative Elizabeth Velasco to serve as co-whip on the majority leadership team for the 75th General Assembly. “I am proud to welcome Representative Velasco to the leadership team to join me in uplifting Western Slope voices in the House,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “Rep. Velasco is a strong advocate for Colorado’s rural communities and has worked to bolster Colorado’s emergency response systems, improve wildfire-related grants, and generate new funding for land and wildlife habitat conservation and restoration. Her dedication to her communities is evident in the thoughtful and effective legislation she has passed in her first term as a legislator. I’m thankful for Sen. Iman Jodeh’s hard work and dedication to serving our caucus, and I look forward to working alongside Rep. Velasco as she carries forward the work to make our communities a more affordable and safer place for all.” “Representative Velasco has demonstrated great leadership during her time in our caucus, passing legislation that saves Coloradans money, protects our freedoms, and prevents senseless gun violence, and her new role on the leadership team will help us accomplish more for the people of Colorado,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “As the first immigrant lawmaker from Mexico, Rep. Velasco will work tirelessly to protect our immigrant communities, safeguard our air and water and prioritize working families at the legislature.” “I’m honored to have been elected to the leadership team by my caucus, and I am committed to helping us pass legislation that advances our priorities and protects the rights and freedoms of Coloradans,” said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs. “As a Western Slope legislator, I will work to ensure voices in my community are heard by championing legislation that will protect Colorado’s waters, combat wildfire threats, and make our state a more affordable place to live. Being the first Mexican-born state representative to serve in Colorado, I know how important immigrants are in communities across our state and the struggles they face. I’m thankful that the Colorado House Democrats have put their trust in me to help guide our caucus as we build on our successes of reducing health care costs, supporting our ranchers and agriculture workers, and protecting the freedoms of all Coloradans.” Rep. Velasco succeeds Iman Jodeh, who was selected for the Colorado State Senate District 29 seat on January 6, 2025. Rep. Velasco joins co-whip Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, who was elected to the leadership team in November 2024. Rep. Velasco was elected to the State House in 2022 to represent House District 57, which encompasses Western Slope communities in Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin counties. She is the first Mexican-born state representative in Colorado history, the first Latina legislator from the Western Slope, and the first open LGBTQ legislator in Western Colorado. Her accomplishments include making Colorado communities more resilient to wildfire damage , preventing gun violence by strengthening firearm storage requirements, boosting funding for community organizations that provide the tools immigrants need to build a life in Colorado, and improving water quality and tenant protections in mobile home parks. She serves as the Chair of the Wildfire Matters Interim Committee, Vice Chair of the House Energy & Environment Committee and a member of the House Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources and House Appropriations committees. Previous Next