< Back María González Representative María González represents Colorado House District 32. A Mexican immigrant and Commerce City resident for 36 years, she is the Founder and CEO of Adelante Community Development, where she leads workforce training, business development, and community advocacy. González champions economic opportunity for working families and small-business owners. She helped advance Colorado’s food-truck reciprocity legislation and the Tamale Act alongside entrepreneurs and public partners. Her priorities include expanding workforce opportunities, reducing barriers to business ownership, and ensuring responsive, accountable government. She is committed to practical solutions that help residents build lasting economic security and strengthen the community she calls home.

Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation to prevent discrimination in public schools based on disability, race, sexual orientation and other protected classes. < Back June 1, 2026 Bill to Prevent Discrimination in Schools Signed into Law DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation to prevent discrimination in public schools based on disability, race, sexual orientation and other protected classes. “Our law makes it clear that Colorado students deserve protections if they experience discrimination based on their skin color, sexual orientation and disability,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “With the Trump Administration slashing funding for the federal Office of Civil Rights, it is crucial that Colorado strengthen civil rights protections for students. Students deserve a safe learning environment. This law will help ensure that students who experience discrimination have a pathway to accountability and a remedy to ensure equal access to quality education.” “Students, faculty, and families deserve to know with complete certainty that if they experience discrimination in public schools, Colorado stands behind them, even if the federal government will not,” said Sen. Chris Kolker, D-Centennial. “This new law is a part of our holistic, 360-degree approach to supporting students of all backgrounds and ensuring that Colorado is a place where all students can learn and grow in a safe environment.” “Colorado students are as diverse as the state itself, and that diversity is a strength that we must protect, especially in the face of ongoing threats to the federal Office of Civil Rights,” said Sen. Janice Marchman, D-Loveland. “With this new law, we are following through on that commitment by ensuring equal treatment for protected classes, which now includes those who are pregnant and expecting, in school and after-school programs.” HB26-1141 prohibits public K-12 schools, higher education institutions and their employees from discriminating based on a protected class, like disability, race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion and national origin. The law also adds pregnancy and prenatal status to the definition of “harassment and discrimination" in K-12 public schools. The law outlines discrimination in K-12 schools and higher education institutions as denying a person the full and equal enjoyment of a public accommodation when the school: Excludes a student from participating in school programs or activities, Denies educational services, benefits, or opportunities to a student without a legitimate, non-discriminatory basis and treats the student differently than a similar student, and Fails to take prompt and effective steps to address a complaint that they have created a hostile environment based on a protected class. The law allows an impacted student or their family to file a discrimination complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division. The division is also able to create rules specifically for how to address these types of complaints. Higher education institutions, including community and technical colleges, will be required to establish a discrimination complaint process. They will also be required to designate a Title VI coordinator to ensure compliance with the law and Title VI, educate students and employees about the complaint process, manage and respond to grievances and publish data on violations. Since Trump started his second term, he has slashed the US Department of Education’s workforce by nearly 50 percent , including firing half of the staff in the Office for Civil Rights and closing seven of the 12 regional offices. The Office of Civil Rights leads investigations of discrimination at schools and higher education institutions across the country. Assistant Majority Leader Bacon and Senator Marchman previously passed a law that clearly defines what is considered harassment and discrimination in Colorado’s K-12 public schools. They also passed a law in 2024 that ensures that schools and educators have trauma-informed resources to support youth against harassment and discrimination. Previous Next

< Back April 5, 2022 BILLS TO ADDRESS COLORADO’S BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CRISIS WIN COMMITTEE APPROVAL Legislation includes more than $140 million to expand access to behavioral health care for Colorado youth and adults DENVER, CO – The House Public & Behavioral Health & Human Services Committee today unanimously passed two bills to expand access to behavioral health services for adults and youth. These bills were developed based on recommendations from the state’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force and will invest $140 million to build a healthier Colorado. “We’ve made it a top priority to expand access to behavioral health care, and that’s what this transformational bill will do,” said Rep. Serena Gonzales Gutierrez, D-Denver. “With these federal funds, we have a once-in a generation opportunity to significantly expand behavioral heath care and address the cries our state is facing. This legislation provides $90 million directly to local governments, nonprofits and community-based programs to expand access to behavioral health care and fill critical gaps across the state so that more Coloradans can seek the care they need to thrive.” “This transformational $90 million investment will lay the foundation for a more accessible, affordable, and inclusive system of behavioral health care in our state,” said Rep. Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora. “Our behavioral health care crisis will not be solved overnight, but with these funds, we have a unique opportunity to address some of the most pressing concerns in our state. Every community is different and has different circumstances and different needs. This bill encourages collaboration, uplifts local solutions, and ensures that funding reaches every corner of Colorado and that no community is left behind.” Community Behavioral Health Continuum of Care Gap Grants: HB22-1281 sponsored by Representatives Gonzales-Gutierrez and Naquetta Ricks, will ensure Coloradans across the state — including children, youth and families — have access to the behavioral health care they need. This bill will invest $90 million in grant funds for local governments and nonprofit organizations to implement innovative, community-based programs with the goal of filling regional gaps across the continuum of care and transforming behavioral health outcomes for families, children and youth living in Colorado. The bill passed unanimously. Previous Next

< Back April 15, 2021 HOUSE DEMS ADVANCE BIPARTISAN BUDGET TO HELP COLORADO BUILD BACK STRONGER DENVER, CO– The House today advanced the FY 2021-2022 Long Appropriations Bill (SB21-205) on a preliminary vote. The bipartisan budget, which passed the Senate with near unanimous support, helps Colorado recover faster and build back stronger by restoring cuts to essential services, supporting K-12 and higher education, and setting aside substantial funding for the bipartisan Colorado Recovery Plan. “I’m proud of our bipartisan and balanced state budget, which is designed to jumpstart our economy and help Colorado build back stronger,” said JBC Vice Chair Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “This budget sets aside $800 million for the Colorado Comeback state stimulus plan, our bipartisan package of legislation that will create jobs and help Colorado recover faster. We’re providing historic levels of state funding for K-12 education, nearly cutting the budget stabilization factor in half. Coloradans want us to come together to help rebuild our economy, and that’s exactly what we’re doing with this bipartisan budget.” “This year’s state budget makes historic investments in education, equity, and the Colorado Comeback,” said JBC Member Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “I’m especially proud of our efforts to make higher education more equitable and attainable for people of color, and I’m excited that we’ve been able to restore funding for critical services that Coloradans rely on. From supporting workers to addressing health disparities that disproportionately impact Black and Brown communities, this bipartisan budget helps Coloradans in every corner of our state get back on their feet.” Colorado’s $35.9 billion budget funds core state services, such as education, corrections, health care, and human services. A significant portion of the state budget comes from federal matching funds, with lawmakers having direct control of the state’s $13.1 billion General Fund. Last year, budget forecasts estimated the state would face a significant revenue decline, leading lawmakers to enact historic reductions while still prioritizing critical services and education. With the economy and state revenues recovering faster than anticipated, the budget returns funding to pre-pandemic levels while responsibly setting aside historic reserves for the future. Putting Students, Teachers, and Parents First Restores K-12 Funding, Cuts Budget Stabilization Factor Nearly in Half: The FY2022 Long Bill brings the budget stabilization factor back to its pre-pandemic level of $572 million by increasing K-12 education funding by over $480 million. Resumes and Accelerates State Support for Institutions of Higher Ed: After being forced to nearly eliminate state support for institutions of higher education, lawmakers boosted funding in this year’s budget by $494 million to restore the prior year’s reduction. The bill also allocates an additional $100 million to be used for recruitment and retention including additional financial support for first generation, underrepresented minority, and pell eligible students. Increased Resources for Students: This budget prioritizes accessible teaching and learning resources for students to succeed including $3 million for state grants to public libraries and over $1 million to CDHE’s Open Educational Resources program which provides grants to institutions to develop educational programs using 100 percent publicly available teaching materials. The budget also appropriates $6.9 million to restore K-12 education grant programs including the behavioral healthcare professionals grant program, the K5 social and emotional grant program, the 9th grade success program, the school leadership success program, and the automatic enrollment in advanced courses program. Invests $160 Million in School Infrastructure (BEST Fund) and an additional $100 Million for the State Education Fund (SEF): After nearly eliminating funding last year for the Building Excellent Schools Today grant initiative, lawmakers this year will invest $160 million to construct, renovate, or maintain school facilities and structures. The SEF funds teacher recruitment, full-day kindergarten, early literacy programs, and helps finance public school systems across Colorado. Prioritizes the Teacher Recruitment Education and Preparation program: The JBC set aside $13.4 million for a teacher recruitment toolkit to be established in collaboration with the departments of education and higher education. The set aside includes restorations to CDE’s Quality Teacher Recruitment program and CDHE’s Educator Loan Forgiveness program. In addition, the budget restores CDHE’s teacher mentor grants program and the rural teacher recruitment, retention, and professional development program. Creating Jobs, Getting Colorado Back on Track, and Building Back Stronger $800 Million State Stimulus: The budget sets aside $800 million for the Colorado Recovery Plan , which will create jobs and boost the Colorado Comeback. Creating Jobs Through Investing in Capital Construction Projects: The bill tackles a substantial portion of the state’s capital project backlog by nearly doubling the long bill appropriation for capital construction, creating jobs through creating, maintaining and improving capital construction projects. The bill includes $217.4 million for the capital construction fund, initiating shovel-ready projects at institutions of higher education and across state government. Expanding Job and Skills Training Initiatives: The budget prioritizes workforce and training opportunities through a variety of programs including restoring CDHE’s Colorado First Customized Job Training program, DOC’s Transitional Work Opportunity program, and DHS’ Colorado Works Subsidized Training and Employment Program. Investing in IT Infrastructure & Transportation: This budget package makes significant investments in IT infrastructure including funding for the Office of eHealth Innovation’s Rural Connectivity project, updates to the states unemployment insurance system, and numerous investments in higher education equipment and technology to support increased virtual learning opportunities. In addition, with $124 million set aside for transportation, the budget sets Colorado on a path to address CDOT’s $9 billion project backlog. Addressing Health Disparities: The budget helps Colorado build back stronger by providing over $5 million to combat racial and income-based health disparities that are hurting Colorado communities. Boosting State’s Wildfire Response: After a historic wildfire season and with another one on the way, the budget appropriates $26.2 million for firefighting contracts, aircraft, personnel and state assistance for local response efforts. Building the Reserve and a New Rainy Day Fund: The budget sets aside historic reserves to mitigate downside risks to the forecast and creates a new rainy day fund to provide an additional safety net should state revenues collapse or should the state see a surge in caseload and demand for services. Supporting the Judicial Branch: Recognizing the rise in court cases once trials resume, the budget responsibly allocates funding to increase staffing within Judicial courts and probation as well as within the offices of the public defender, child protection ombudsman, and the public guardianship. The budget also sets aside funding to expand the Senior Judge program to help address the backlog of cases anticipated. Supporting Colorado’s Most Vulnerable Veterans: The budget provides $500,000 in Marijuana Tax Cash Fund to provide grants to enhance workforce center services for veterans, an increase of $200,000 over last year. The Colorado Recovery Act will provide $30 million for a start up loan fund, which will support veteran-owned small businesses. The budget includes $59.4 million for the veteran community living centers, and $425,000 for National Guard tuition assistance. Supporting Hospitals that Treat Uninsured Patients: The bill provides $48.2 million for hospitals that serve a higher share of low-income or uninsured patients. This funding draws down $27 million in federal funds. The funding supports several rural hospitals. Ensuring Coloradans Have Access to the Care They Need: With access to health care essential for every Coloradan, the budget affirms the state’s commitment to Health First Colorado, the state’s Medicaid program. It provides $460.1 million for medical care and long-term services such as nursing homes and community-based services. The funds pay nursing home care, senior dental programs, behavioral health, and vaccine administration. Addressing the IDD Waitlist: The JBC allocated $22 million to protect essential Medicaid benefits including $15.5 million to the Adult Comprehensive Waiver to fund 667 spots on the comprehensive waiver waitlist for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Previous Next

< Back April 27, 2022 BILL TO SAVE PEOPLE MONEY ON HEALTH CARE AND PRESCRIPTION DRUGS PASSES COMMITTEE DENVER, CO – The House Health and Insurance Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Representatives Iman Jodeh and Emily Sirota to save Coloradans money on health care and prescription drugs. The vote was 8-2. “Everyone should have access to high quality health care and prescription drugs that they can afford,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “This legislation will save Coloradans money on health care and prescription medications, and make health insurance more dependable for patients. It will cut red tape to ensure patients get the treatments their doctors recommend and prevent health insurance companies from ripping away coverage for critical treatments.” “Prescription drug rebates can lower the cost of medications, but only if insurance companies don’t keep the savings for themselves,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “The bill we passed today will lower the cost of prescription drugs and ensure that consumers, not big corporations, get the savings from manufacturer rebates. Importantly, this legislation requires transparency so patients can know exactly what they’ll have to pay in copays before they get care.” HB22-1370 makes prescription drugs and health care more affordable and dependable. The bill ensures doctors are in charge of a patient’s treatment instead of insurance companies by limiting when a patient has to try and fail a treatment that their insurance company prefers before they can get what their doctor recommends. The bill ensures that patients know what they’ll be expected to pay for services by requiring that 25 percent of health plans have a set dollar amount for co-pays instead of unpredictable percentage-based coinsurance. The bill will save Coloradans money on prescription drugs by requiring insurance companies to pass along the savings from manufacturers’ rebates. The bill also bans health insurance companies from raising the out-of-pocket costs of someone’s prescription medications in the middle of their coverage and prohibits companies from dropping coverage of a medication a patient needs midway through the patients’ coverage. Previous Next

House Speaker Julie McCluskie today introduced legislation to restore critical protections for Colorado’s streams, rivers and wetlands. HB24-1379 is also sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts and Representative Karen McCormick.  < Back March 20, 2024 JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Protect Streams, Rivers and Wetlands in Colorado Introduced DENVER, CO – House Speaker Julie McCluskie today introduced legislation to restore critical protections for Colorado’s streams, rivers and wetlands. HB24-1379 is also sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts and Representative Karen McCormick. “This Colorado approach to protecting our streams, rivers and wetlands will provide certainty to communities, sustain our water quality, and ensure future generations can enjoy the great Colorado outdoors we all love,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “Clean water is our most precious resource on the Western Slope–necessary for everything from our booming outdoor recreation economy and agriculture industry to high country breweries, ski resorts and increasing household demand. I’m proud Colorado is stepping up to secure our water future after the Supreme Court removed important protections and left our waterways in jeopardy.” “Protecting Colorado's threatened water supply is a key priority for the communities I represent on the Western Slope, and is far too important to be left in limbo, which is why we're taking action now," said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. "This critical bill will help us protect our precious water resources while appropriately balancing the agricultural and community needs in our state." “Water is a precious resource and is critical to our economy and way of life. I am committed to protecting Colorado’s water today and building a more water-efficient, sustainable, and resilient future. Today, we further our commitment to protect Colorado’s water for the next generation of Coloradans,” said Governor Polis. The Clean Water Act authorizes the EPA to define waterways of the United States and the Army Corps of Engineers to regulate discharges from dredge and fill activities into waters that meet that definition. The May 2023 US Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA redefined what constitutes waters subject to federal regulation and placed an estimated 60 percent of Colorado wetlands at risk of losing protections. “Protecting our vital freshwater resources is one of the most important things we can do as Colorado lawmakers,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont. “Everyone from our farmers and ranchers to the native plants and animals that call Colorado home, rely upon our rivers, streams and wetlands. This important legislation provides certainty and clarity for businesses and landowners while protecting Colorado’s watersheds–securing our water future for generations to come.” The legislation introduced today protects Colorado waters that are not federally protected. The permitting framework is based on well-established approaches already used by the Army Corps of Engineers and will provide clarity on when a permit is needed. Normal farming and ranching activities, such as plowing, farm road construction, and erosion control practices would not require a permit. "As demands on water resources increase, and the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, Colorado will be wise to step up its efforts in wetland preservation," said Gregory Hill, fourth-generation farmer, Yuma County. "Speaker McCluskie and Senator Roberts are stepping up where the courts have left off. I applaud their leadership to fill in the gap in regulation left by the Supreme Court, and to regulate and preserve our wetlands and all the benefits provided by them. Until the recent decision, the Army Corps’ permitting program safeguarded the vast majority of Colorados’ state waters from pollution caused by dredge and fill activities. Dredge and fill activities involve digging up or placing dirt and other fill material into wetlands or surface waters as part of construction projects. These operations are necessary in many infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, housing developments, flood mitigation, and utility pipelines. The legislation provides a way for these projects to move forward and to protect Colorado’s water resources. "As the owner of a brewery in a resort town I depend on cold, clean water to craft award-winning beers. Clean water allows me to run my business, create jobs and contribute sales tax revenue for my community. Our town depends on clean water for a multitude of tourist activities that bring people from all over the world. We need to protect our waterways and wetlands. House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Senator Dylan Roberts' bill is a needed remedy to a terrible decision by the U.S. Supreme Court," said Tom Caldwell Co-owner and Head Brewer at Big Trout Brewing Company, Winter Park, Colorado. "The Supreme Court’s Sackett decision threatens my community's water supply and resilience to climate change, especially those already living with disproportionate impacts of polluted water," said Steve O'dorisio, Adams County Commissioner (District 4) and member of Governor Polis' WOTUS Task Force. "I applaud Speaker McCluskie and Senator Roberts for introducing HB24-1379 . This legislation creates regulatory certainty allowing for responsible development to occur in a manner that also protects the wetlands and streams which are critical to providing safe, affordable, drinking water for all." 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

Failing to extend enhanced premium tax credits will dramatically increase health insurance costs for Coloradans < Back August 7, 2025 General Assembly Dems Urge Colorado’s Congressional Delegation to Extend Tax Credits, Save Coloradans Money Failing to extend enhanced premium tax credits will dramatically increase health insurance costs for Coloradans DENVER, CO - General Assembly Democrats today sent a letter to Colorado’s congressional delegation, calling on them to extend the enhanced premium tax credits that were omitted from the GOP Megabill to prevent Coloradans’ health insurance costs from skyrocketing. In the letter, the General Assembly Democrats wrote: We are writing to express our profound concern regarding Congress’s inaction on extending enhanced premium tax credits (tax credits) for individuals who purchase their health insurance from the healthcare marketplace. Failing to extend the tax credits Coloradans rely on to afford their health insurance will have devastating impacts. By not extending these tax credits, the GOP-led Congress is making a conscious choice to dramatically increase people’s health insurance costs. Enhanced premium tax credits play a vital role in ensuring Coloradans can access quality health insurance coverage, and we urge Congress to take action to ensure these tax credits are extended. Failure to extend enhanced premium tax credits will result in harmful impacts to your constituents, including increased costs and loss of coverage. Enhanced premium tax credits must be extended in order to ensure stability and affordability for the Colorado insurance market. We urge you to take immediate action to extend enhanced premium tax credits to ensure Coloradans can continue to access the quality healthcare coverage that they deserve. The full text of the letter is below: Dear Senators and Representatives, We are writing to express our profound concern regarding Congress’s inaction on extending enhanced premium tax credits (tax credits) for individuals who purchase their health insurance from the healthcare marketplace. Failing to extend the tax credits Coloradans rely on to afford their health insurance will have devastating impacts. By not extending these tax credits, the GOP-led Congress is making a conscious choice to dramatically increase people’s health insurance costs. Enhanced premium tax credits play a vital role in ensuring Coloradans can access quality health insurance coverage, and we urge Congress to take action to ensure these tax credits are extended. We care deeply about making Colorado a more affordable place to live and work, and that means making sure that health care remains accessible and affordable for all Coloradans, in every part of our state. The existing tax credits help lower costs for hardworking Coloradans, and their removal would only stand to exacerbate the affordability challenges that so many in our state face. Over 321,000 Coloradans enrolled in healthcare through the public marketplace in 2025. If action is not taken to renew the tax credits, an estimated 110,000 Coloradans could lose healthcare coverage as early as next year. It is not difficult to understand why so many people will lose coverage if Congress allows the tax credits to expire. The Colorado Division of Insurance estimates that the average statewide net premium increase for a silver plan will be nearly 200% for a middle class person. This will mean that the average net premium for a silver plan will increase by approximately $25,000.00 next year for a middle class family of four. The situation is only slightly better for those earning lower than middle class incomes. Instead of a 200% premium increase, the Division estimates that they will on average receive a net premium increase of 174%. Quite simply, Congress’ decision to allow these tax credits to expire is unconscionable and heartbreaking. Not only are these increases in premiums unsustainable for most people, they will also lead to more uncompensated care, which will be particularly challenging for our rural and safety net hospitals that are constantly struggling to keep their doors open. And, the costs of uncompensated care will be passed on to the employers in our state. No corner of our health care market will be safe from the decision to allow these tax credits to expire. Costs will increase for everyone, no matter the type of insurance they purchase. Extending the enhanced tax credits will ensure Coloradans can continue to afford quality healthcare coverage and can avoid having to make impossible decisions between healthcare coverage and other expenses. Failure to extend the tax credits will also reduce the impact of Colorado's bipartisan reinsurance program by 40%, only increasing premiums further. From 2020-2025, Coloradans have saved $2.1 billion due to the reinsurance initiative. By not extending the tax credits, the reinsurance program will have less funds available to lower premiums for consumers, and will negatively impact those seeking healthcare coverage. Failure to extend enhanced premium tax credits will result in harmful impacts to your constituents, including increased costs and loss of coverage. Enhanced premium tax credits must be extended in order to ensure stability and affordability for the Colorado insurance market. We urge you to take immediate action to extend enhanced premium tax credits to ensure Coloradans can continue to access the quality healthcare coverage that they deserve. Sincerely, Representative Julie McCluskie Speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives Senator James Coleman President of the Senate Representative Monica Duran Majority Leader of the Colorado House of Representatives Senator Judy Amabile Joint Budget Committee Member Senator Matt Ball Senator Jeff Bridges Joint Budget Committee Chair Senator Lisa Cutter Assistant Majority Leader Senator Lindsey Daugherty Senator Tony Exum Senator Julie Gonzales Senator Nick Hinrichsen Majority Whip Senator Cathy Kipp Senator Iman Jodeh Senator Chris Kolker Senator Janice Marchman Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet Senator Dylan Roberts Majority Caucus Chair Senator Marc Snyder Senator Tom Sullivan Senator Katie Wallace Senator Mike Weissman Senator Faith Winter Representative Jennifer Bacon Assistant Majority Leader Representative Shannon Bird Joint Budget Committee Vice-Chair Representative Andy Boesenecker Speaker Pro Tempore Representative Kyle Brown Representative Sean Camacho Representative Michael Carter Representative Chad Clifford Representative Regina English Representative Cecelia Espenoza Representative Meg Froelich Representative Lorena Garcia Representative Lindsay Gilchrist Representative Eliza Hamrick Representative Jamie Jackson Representative Junie Joseph Majority Caucus Co-Chair Representative Sheila Lieder Representative Mandy Lindsay Majority Caucus Co-Chair Representative William Lindstedt Representative Meghan Lukens Representative Matthew Martinez Majority Caucus Co-Whip Representative Tisha Mauro Representative Karen McCormick Representative Amy Paschal Representative Jacque Phillips Representative Naquetta Ricks Representative Manny Rutinel Representative Gretchen Rydin Representative Emily Sirota Joint Budget Committee Member Representative Lesley Smith Representative Katie Stewart Representative Rebekah Stewart Representative Tammy Story Representative Elizabeth Velasco Majority Caucus Co-Whip Representative Jenny Willford Representative Steven Woodrow Representative Yara Zokaie Previous Next

Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation to create healthier learning environments by requiring schools to implement policies concerning cell phone use during the school day. < Back May 1, 2025 JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Bipartisan Bill to Require Cell Phone Policies in Schools DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation to create healthier learning environments by requiring schools to implement policies concerning cell phone use during the school day. HB25-1135 is sponsored by Representatives Meghan Lukens, Mary Bradfield, R-El Paso County and Senators Janice Marchman and Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock. “This law will allow us to create healthier learning environments for our students by limiting distractions caused by cell phones,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs . “As an educator, I know reducing classroom distractions is essential for fostering a learning environment where students are focused on the material, asking questions and learning alongside their peers in person. This bipartisan law empowers school districts to create their own student cell phone use policy to limit distractions and boost engagement.” “Many teachers already work hard to limit phone use in class, but they need backup,” said Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland. “This new law gives local schools the support to set clear, consistent policies – so students can focus, learn, and take a real break from the pressures of constant connectivity." HB25-1135 requires school districts and the Charter School Institute schools to adopt policies concerning cell phone use during the school day no later than July 1, 2026. The law does not specify what the policy should say; it must not interfere with disability standards, special education programs, or students’ ability to monitor a medical condition. Research shows that student use of cell phones in schools can have negative effects on performance, including lower test scores and smaller learning gains. Additionally, excessive cell phone use is associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety. From Florida to Ohio, at least 19 states have laws or policies that address the use of student cell phone use in schools or encourage districts to create their own policies as a best practice. Previous Next

< Back April 24, 2019 HOUSE UNANIMOUSLY PASSES BUCKNER BILL TO HELP COLORADO STUDENTS Bill is fulfilling legacy of the late John Buckner (Apr. 24) – The House unanimously approved a bill sponsored by Rep. Janet Buckner that creates a pilot program to increase the number of students taking advanced, honor, or accelerated courses. “It was always a priority of my late husband John to help students grow and succeed in their academia. I am honored to bring forward a bill that continues on his legacy and also helps kids realize their full potential,” said Rep. Janet Buckner, D-Aurora. Rep. John Buckner passed away in 2015 after a battle with sarcoidosis, a chronic respiratory illness. Rep. Janet Buckner now holds the seat. Under SB19-059, a grant program would be created under the Colorado Department of Education that will provide support for districts who want to automatically enroll students in advanced courses for subjects in which they have demonstrated proficiency or above on state assessments. A portion of the funding from the grant program could go toward expanding the number of advanced courses offered, increasing the use of technology, incentivizing teachers to teach advanced courses, developing a curriculum, enrollment, and student success. During the third reading of the bill, Republican Reps. Colin Larson and Jim Wilson offered an amendment to rename the bill after former Rep. John Buckner. It was unanimously approved. The bill heads back to the Senate for approval of amendments. Previous Next

< Back May 20, 2019 BILLS TO IMPROVE RENTERS RIGHTS & HELP COLORADO’S MOST VULNERABLE PEOPLE SIGNED INTO LAW Colorado ranks poorly when it comes to rights of renters (May 20) – Today, Gov. Jared Polis signed two bills to improve the rights of renters in Colorado and expands the benefits and eligibility for the Property, Tax, Rent, Heat Credit program (PTC Rebate). “I believe that having a safe and affordable place to live is a cornerstone to self-sufficiency,” said Rep. Dominique Jackson, D-Aurora, during the House floor debate. “This is real life. When Coloradans are paying market rents, they deserve to live in a safe and habitable place. This is a very fair, and very necessary bill.” HB19-1170 is a commonsense bill that would improve renters’ rights if their home becomes uninhabitable or otherwise unfit for human habitation. Under this bill, tenants can notify the landlords of uninhabitable conditions through written notice including through electronic means. The landlord will then have 24 to 72 hours to begin to address the complaint. If the issues persists, the tenant has a right to withhold an estimate cost of the repairs from their rent payment and they have the right to break a lease if the uninhabitable condition persists. “If you are paying rent you have the right to expect a home that is safe and healthy to live in, with remedies available if it isn’t,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “With a rent market as challengin g as ours is right now, we need to ensure these protections for residents now more than ever.” In addition, the Governor also signed another bill, HB19-1118, sponsored by Rep. Jackson to allow sufficient time for tenants to remedy a lease violation before getting evicted. Under HB19-1118, tenants will now receive 10 days to pay their rent or address a minor lease issue before an eviction is filed against them, up from three days. The Governor also signed HB19-1085, sponsored by Rep. Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs. “This program helps keep some of Colorado’s seniors, disabled and most vulnerable families and individuals warm and secure in their own homes. I am proud to see this program come to fruition so we can help keep people safe and potentially save a life when temperatures plummet,” Rep. Exum said. This program, within the Department of Revenue, provides property tax, rental, fuel and heat assistance to seniors over the age of 65, those with disabilities and surviving spouses over the age of 58. This bill expands these benefits and eligibility for the PTC rebate program. The bill passed the House last session but was blocked in the previously Republican controlled Senate. Previous Next

< Back May 5, 2022 COLORADO ELECTION SECURITY ACT ADVANCES GOP election conspiracy theories on full display as Republican lawmakers oppose bipartisan, common-sense measures to protect elections from insider threats DENVER, CO – The House today advanced the Colorado Election Security Act on a preliminary vote. “Colorado is taking steps to defend our elections from insider threats and “Big Lie” conspiracy theorists who have used their positions to jeopardize our elections,” said Rep. Susan Lontine, D-Denver. “Our gold standard elections system leads the way nationally when it comes to voter access and election security. This common sense legislation strengthens our elections system and will hold people accountable when they break the law and tamper with election equipment. It also bars anyone convicted of an election crime from overseeing our elections.” “Conservative leaders in the legislature used the debate on this bill to attack our election system and spread baseless and unproven conspiracy theories,” said Rep. Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood , chair of the House State, Civic, Military and Veterans Committee that held the initial hearing on the bill. “It’s important to pass this common sense legislation, which is supported by the county clerks, to prevent insider threats and protect our democracy. It’s a shame that GOP lawmakers refuse to support this bill and have become too blinded by partisan rhetoric to see that this bill is simply common sense and should have their support.” SB22-153 , the Colorado Election Security Act, is sponsored by Representative Lontine. The bill will improve election security by, among other measures, prohibiting anyone from serving as an election official if they have been convicted of any election offense or any offense or conspiracy to commit sedition, insurrection, treason, or conspiracy to overthrow the government. Republicans ran an amendment that would allow county clerks to copy sensitive hard drives with voting information and provide them to whomever they wish–the exact actions Clerk Tina Peters has been accused of taking that led to her indictment. SB22-153 also prohibits election officials or candidates from physically tampering with voting equipment, and from having access to or being present in a room with voting equipment without being accompanied by one or more persons with authorized access. The Colorado Election Security Act further seeks to protect Colorado’s gold standard elections by improving training for clerks and election workers, and penalizes anyone who interferes with or obstructs the notification of a potential violation, or retaliates against someone providing notice. The bill also prohibits accessing electronic equipment or a reporting system without authorization, makes knowingly publishing passwords or other confidential information a class 5 felony, and directs the District and Supreme Courts to expedite scheduling and issuance of final rulings of any orders in connection with a violation of election code. Previous Next