< Back May 17, 2019 GOVERNOR SIGNS BILLS TO IMPROVE WOMEN’S HEALTH Preventative care could help lower cost of health care (May 16) – Two bills to improve women’s access to health care services were signed this afternoon by Gov. Jared Polis. A bipartisan bill sponsored by Rep. Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, looks to address the increasing rate of maternal deaths. This bill will allow the Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC) to review cases of maternal deaths in a timely manner to then work on ways to lower these deaths. “Colorado’s maternal mortality rate has doubled since 2008. That’s unacceptable so we took action.” said Rep. Buckner. “ This new law will work to stop what is preventable and help save the lives of mothers.” HB19-1122 also imposes diversity requirements for the committee as the maternal mortality rate is higher among African-American women and women in urban areas. 80 percent of maternal deaths in Colorado could have been prevented with proper access to services. The new law also funds Colorado Dept. of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to complete regular reports to the legislature on ways to prevent maternal mortality based on the findings of the MMRC. The bill was signed at the Center for African American Health in Denver this afternoon. Earlier today, Gov. Polis signed a bill sponsored by Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Rep. Buckner to require that women’s preventative health, which is already required to be covered under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), include follow-up diagnostic procedures for women with increased risk factors for contracting breast cancer without any additional costs or co-pays by the patient. “Early detection saved my life. We know that early detection is key to both saving women’s lives and lowering the cost of health care, ” said Rep. Michaelson Jenet. “ This law will provide coverage for women on these exams so they no longer have to decide between the cost of their screening and the cost of their life. We are being proactive rather than reactive.” HB19-1301 would require health insurance providers to cover any breast imaging performed after a breast cancer screening study comes back and requires additional testing within the same calendar year. This can be based on factors including a high lifetime risk or an individual’s healthcare provider indicating that further imaging is necessary. “When women are given the resources to detect early signs of breast cancer, lives will be saved,” said Rep. Buckner. “This law will help patients take the proper steps to get healthy and avoid costly procedures to treat their cancer.” The law was signed at the Cancer Center at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora. The 2010 federal Affordable Care Act defined benefits for individually purchased health insurance. It included covering one breast exam screening per year, but did not extend to covering a breast exam if further analysis or tests are needed. Previous Next

Legislation would extend the popular Ozone Season Free Transit Grant Program, extend a tax credit for alternative transportation use, and establish a free transit program for youth < Back May 7, 2024 Vigil, Marvin Bill to Increase Transit Ridership Passes House Legislation would extend the popular Ozone Season Free Transit Grant Program, extend a tax credit for alternative transportation use, and establish a free transit program for youth DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation sponsored by Representatives Stephanie Vigil and Julia Marvin that would increase the use of transit in Colorado. SB24-032 passed by a vote of 44-17. “As a multi-modal traveler in a city on the rise, I'm so proud of the progress that Colorado has made in recent years to expand transit options, and to carry this legislation that will boost and expand our efforts,” said Rep. Stephanie Vigil, D-Colorado Springs. “We’re building on our existing zero fare program to cover either zero fare during the summer months or year-round free transit for Colorado youth. Transportation choice means more freedom and opportunities for Coloradans, less traffic, and cleaner air." “During my time as a local elected official, my community expressed a great need for more transit options in the Northern Corridor to get to work, school, and appointments,” said Rep. Julia Marvin, D-Thornton. “Our legislation looks to address barriers to public transportation ridership, increase connectivity between local and regional transit agencies, and create more multi-modal travel opportunities for our communities. I know this bill will have a significant impact on hardworking Coloradans and will reaffirm our commitment to reaching our air quality goals.” SB24-032 would create the Youth Fare Free Transit Grant Program to provide grants to transit agencies around the state for fare-free year-round transit services for Coloradans ages 19 and younger. The bill would also extend the successful Ozone Season Free Transit Grant Program that funds Colorado’s free transit rides during peak ozone season, which is set to expire without further legislative action. Finally, the bill would extend the income tax credit for alternative transportation options and create a statewide transit pass exploratory committee within the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to produce a proposal for implementing a statewide transit pass. The committee would be created by October 1, 2024, and offer a proposal by July 1, 2026. The committee members would be appointed by the executive director of CDOT and must include representatives of transit agencies from across the state. RTD data revealed a significant increase in the use of services, particularly buses within the district, during RTD’s 30-day Zero Fare for Better Air program. RTD also experienced a 36 percent ridership increase between August 2021 and August 2022 as well as a 21 percent ridership increase between July 2022 and August 2022. There was also a significant increase in ridership in Pueblo, Colorado Springs and mountain communities. 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

SB25-129 strengthens Colorado’s shield laws while SB25-183 implements the will of the voters to protect the right to reproductive health care < Back April 24, 2025 JOINT RELEASE: Pair of Bills to Safeguard Access to Reproductive Health Care Signed Into Law DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills into law to protect Coloradans’ access to reproductive health care. SB25-183 , sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, and House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and Representative Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County, implements the will of the voters by updating Colorado statute to reflect changes necessitated by Amendment 79’s passage, including removing the prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care. “Colorado voters have once again reaffirmed their support for freedom to make decisions about their bodies and their futures,” Rodriguez said. “Our state has a long history of standing up for reproductive health care freedoms, and this represents another chapter in that story. I am honored to sponsor this legislation that implements the will of the voters and ensures reproductive health care is protected in both our state law and our constitution.” “It’s our responsibility to implement the will of the voters, and that’s what this law does by further protecting and increasing access to abortion in Colorado,” said McCluskie. “Nationally, the future of reproductive health care is uncertain, however, it’s clear Coloradans trust people to make their own medical decisions without government interference. This law implements the will of the voters and reduces barriers so public employees can access the essential reproductive health care they need.” “Coloradans deserve the freedom to make their own health care decisions and choices about when to start a family – full stop,” Daugherty said. “Amidst a dangerous national landscape, we have worked hard to ensure that Colorado is a beacon for access to safe and affordable reproductive health care. Last November, Coloradans resoundingly voted to build on that work and permanently protect the fundamental right to abortion care in our state’s constitution.” “Colorado voters have spoken – abortion must remain safe, legal and protected,” said García. “Despite the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle abortion access or restrict funding altogether, Coloradans believe it’s your constitutional right to access the reproductive health care you need. This law will expand access to life-saving reproductive health care, including abortion, by covering these services for public employees and Coloradans on Medicaid.” In November 2024, Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 79 to enshrine the right to abortion in the Colorado Constitution and remove the state’s prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care. The amendment was supported by a majority of votes in each of the state’s eight congressional districts. Beginning on January 1, 2026, the law will ensure that state employee health insurance plans cover abortion care and require the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to authorize reimbursements for abortion care under publicly funded insurance, including community members with coverage through Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program), and the Reproductive Health Care Program. SB25-129 , sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Senator Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, strengthens Colorado’s shield laws to protect patients and providers from out-of-state and federal attacks on reproductive and gender-affirming health care. “We have worked hard in Colorado to protect the freedom to decide what to do with our futures and our bodies, and we won’t allow anyone to put these freedoms in danger,” Cutter said. “As attacks on reproductive rights continue across the country, we are working to implement strong and responsive laws in Colorado to shield health care patients and providers from hostile out-of-state action.” “It’s time to fight back against out-of-state interference and Trump administration threats to restrict abortion and health care for LGBTQ+ Coloradans,” said McCormick. “Whether you're a Colorado resident or not, this shield law will protect your fundamental right to access the full range of reproductive health care, including abortion.” “Colorado is a beacon for reproductive freedom and access to abortion in our region,” said Winter. “Strengthening our shield law would expand protections for patients, providers, and helpers against interstate criminal and civil threats. These measures, like prescription label privacy, telehealth protections, and robust legal safeguards, will ensure that Colorado remains a national leader for reproductive health care and freedom.” “We’re reaffirming Colorado’s position as a sanctuary for safe, legal and protected reproductive health care by strengthening our shield laws,” said Joseph. “Our law expands Colorado’s shield laws to include telehealth and prescription label privacy. In the face of hostile, out-of-state attacks on our reproductive rights, we’re making sure Colorado can fight back and protect our patients and providers.” The new law protects providers by allowing their name to be excluded from a medication abortion label and requiring subpoena requests to include an affirmation that they do not pertain to legally protected health care. The law also bars attorneys, local governments, and state entities like hospitals, clinics, businesses and insurers from assisting with or responding to hostile out-of-state investigations and would strengthen enforcement and compliance mechanisms. Finally, the law updates Colorado’s 2024 telehealth law to clarify that out-of-state health care providers offering telehealth services to Colorado patients are protected under the state’s shield law. In 2023, Colorado Democrats passed legislation to establish shield laws to protect health care providers and people who travel to Colorado for abortion or gender-affirming care from out-of-state lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Previous Next

The House Judiciary Committee today passed legislation to prevent gun violence by prohibiting the three-dimensional printing of firearms, large-capacity magazines or other firearm components. HB26-1114, sponsored by Representatives Lindsay Gilchrist and Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, passed by a vote of 7-4. < Back February 18, 2026 Committee Passes Bill to Prohibit 3D Printing of Ghost Guns DENVER, CO - The House Judiciary Committee today passed legislation to prevent gun violence by prohibiting the three-dimensional printing of firearms, large-capacity magazines or other firearm components. HB26-1114, sponsored by Representatives Lindsay Gilchrist and Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, passed by a vote of 7-4. “Ghost guns circumnavigate Colorado’s gun violence prevention laws like universal background checks, the three-day waiting period and laws that prevent domestic violence abusers from accessing a gun,” said Rep. Lindsay Gilchrist, D-Denver. “These ghost guns are increasingly found at crime scenes, making it harder for law enforcement to track down a suspect because the gun isn’t traceable. This bill would help keep these dangerous weapons out of our communities and save countless Colorado lives.” “Colorado Democrats have passed life-saving gun violence prevention legislation to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people, and our bill would strengthen those protections to save lives,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “Background checks and high-capacity magazine limits are required in Colorado law to prevent gun deaths, and 3D printing guns or gun parts completely evades these safeguards. By cracking down on these ghost guns, we can better protect our communities and limit access to these dangerous, untraceable firearms.” HB26-1144 would prohibit the use of a three-dimensional printer, or similar technology, to make a firearm or a firearm component. The bill would also prohibit the possession of instructions and the sale or distribution of instructions on how to use a three-dimensional printer to create a firearm or a firearm component. HB26-1144 would not apply to federally licensed firearms manufacturers. Since 2016, the number of ghost guns used in crimes throughout the country increased by 1000-percent , yet over 99-percent of those guns cannot be traced back to a user, owner or producer. Between 2016 and 2021, law enforcement reported recovering over 45,000 privately-made firearms, including in nearly 700 homicide or attempted homicide investigations. When an untraceable gun is used in a crime, it can be impossible for a gun violence victim and their family to seek accountability. Speaker Pro Tem Boesenecker passed the original “ghost guns” law back in 2023, which prohibited the possession, sale or transfer of unserialized firearms, frames and receivers. Previous Next

Data challenges add to uncertainty driven by erratic federal policies < Back December 19, 2025 Colorado Budget Squeezed by Federal Tariffs and H.R.1, Economy Facing Headwinds DENVER, CO – Today, Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee released statements after the Legislative Council Staff (LCS) and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) delivered the December quarterly economic forecasts. “Today’s forecasts highlight the damage caused by Trump’s chaotic economic policies that have raised prices for Coloradans,” said JBC Chair Emily Sirota, D-Denver . “Consumer growth is being driven by the top 20-percent earners, while low income earners struggle to make ends meet and dig into their savings. While our legislative efforts have successfully reduced housing costs in Colorado, cuts to federal clean energy tax credits and rising tariffs are leading to higher bills. This will be a very challenging budget year, made even more difficult by the federal GOP budget and decisions in Washington. We will protect funding for our schools and core services and seek responsible solutions to address the shortfall.” “We pulled a rabbit out of the hat with last year’s budget, cutting a billion dollars with minimal impact on the people of Colorado,” said JBC Vice Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “This year, we're all out of rabbits. Despite a growing economy, we'll have to cut another billion dollars from Colorado's budget because of TABOR's rationing cap, a financial relic of the 90s. We have a resilient state that can weather Washington's shutdowns and tariffs, but TABOR means cuts people will feel in their communities, clinics, and classrooms." “Working people are facing headwinds from Trump’s tariffs and Congress’s failure to extend health care tax credits,” said JBC Member Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “Our efforts during the special session set Colorado on the right trajectory, but only Congress can stop skyrocketing health care premiums. This forecast also reaffirms that Medicaid costs are rising unsustainably and far faster than the state’s revenue caps under TABOR, and H.R 1 will only make it worse. With session around the corner, we know that painful budget decisions are ahead. Colorado Democrats have governed responsibly through difficult economic times before, and I know the JBC will meet the moment once again and responsibly balance our budget.” “Every year we face difficult decisions about what we can and cannot fund – and these decisions keep getting harder,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder . “Restraints caused by TABOR coupled with the chaos from the Trump Administration’s tariffs and reckless budget bill have squeezed our state budget even more than we initially anticipated, and Coloradans are feeling it. Faced with yet another budget deficit this year, we will do everything we can to protect essential funding for education, health care, and public safety.” The 43-day federal government shutdown in October and November disrupted the economic and inflation data collection, making some data unavailable or less reliable than normal. The data challenges combined with potential federal policy changes has led to uncertainty in the forecasts. The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $16.9 billion in FY 2025-2026 – a $304 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the September revenue forecast. The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.0 billion for FY 2025-2026 – an $87 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the September revenue forecast. By the LCS forecast, Colorado’s revenue is now below the TABOR cap by $465 million for FY2025-2026. For the upcoming year (FY 2026-27), LCS forecasts General Fund revenue growing to $18.3 billion, above the TABOR cap by $501 million. Democrats’ housing policies have led to rent prices stabilizing in key markets. According to OSPB, an influx of multifamily apartment units in late 2024 led to decreased rent prices. In Colorado, inflation ticked down below the national average at 2.2 percent in the Denver area, compared to 2.7 percent nationally. Unemployment also decreased below the national average of 4.6 percent to 4.1 percent in Colorado. While the economy is expanding, it is showing signs of slowing and recession risk remains high at 50 percent. Wage growth for low-income workers is lagging, real U.S. household savings are declining, and consumers are relying more on credit card debt. Economic policies spearheaded by the Trump Administration, including tariffs, continue to raise prices for consumers. Tariffs are expected to slow economic activity by weakening consumer demand and limiting business development, which will result in lower spending, falling business profits, and slower wage growth. Medicaid costs, driven by increasing caseload, health care costs, and Colorado’s aging population, continue to rise faster than what Colorado’s budget is allowed to grow by under TABOR. Medicaid is the fastest-growing part of the state budget, and the latest forecast indicates an increase of $631 million in the next year if no action is taken to reduce costs. Legislation passed during August’s special session helped blunt some of the rising health care costs caused by H.R. 1. However, if Congress does not extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies by the end of the year, upwards of 75,000 Coloradans could lose their health insurance. Due to the corporate tax cuts in H.R.1, the Family Affordability Tax Credit (FATC), which boosts the incomes of hardworking families, will be fully turned off for Tax Year 2026, but LCS anticipates it will partially return in Tax Year 2027. Previous Next

< Back June 7, 2022 JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! FUNDING TO PROTECT RELIGIOUS CENTERS AND NONPROFITS DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed HB22-1077 into law. The legislation, sponsored by Representatives Dafna Michaleson Jenet and Iman Jodeh and Senators Chris Hansen and Kevin Priola, creates a grant program to enhance security for nonprofits. “Today, we’re making Colorado communities safer by providing grant funding to boost security at sacred spaces, including synagogues, churches, temples and mosques,” said Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City. “With violence and threats on the rise, I am worried about the safety of my community. Antisemitic incidents are increasing to new records, and reported incidents in Colorado grew by 53 percent in 2021. This law secures funding to protect our communities from violence now by creating a grant program to improve security and help make Colorado safer for everyone.” “We worked tirelessly this session to pass legislation to build a safer Colorado for all, and this effort builds on that progress by ensuring the safety and security of marginalized communities,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood, and this new law will help protect Coloradans who experience threats, violence, hate crimes, and other forms of bigotry in their places of worship, community centers, schools, and other spaces.” “With this law, we’re prioritizing the safety and well-being of Colorado’s minority communities who continue to experience threats and acts of violence at their places of worship,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora . “We’re not waiting around for the next incident or threat of violence at community centers, places of worship, schools and community spaces. This law provides funding to help the pillars of our communities improve security and keep people safe.” HB22-1077 creates the Colorado Nonprofit Security Grant Program in the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The program would offer grants to eligible entities to enhance the physical security of Colorado’s nonprofit and charitable organizations. Currently, the federal government provides grants for this purpose through the Department of Homeland Security, however the increase in threats combined with not enough funding have led to unmet security needs for Colorado-based organizations. The law provides $500,000 for these grants to additional Colorado organizations to complete critical security upgrades for their facilities. Minority communities are facing a growing threat from violent extremists who are targeting shared spaces such as mosques and synagogues. In Colorado, there has been an increase in violent rhetoric and threats. In 2019, there was an attempted bombing at a synagogue in Pueblo and an individual was recently arrested after threatening congregants with a weapon outside of the Downtown Denver Islamic Center. Previous Next

In the spirit of celebration and appreciation, I am reminded how grateful I am to represent all of you in the state legislature. I am excited for the work ahead this legislative session to continue delivering results for our communities. < Back Rep. Meghan Lukens: Gratitude in focus: Investing in education and community in House District 26 Dec 7, 2023 See more Originally published in the Steambot Pilot & Today here . In the spirit of celebration and appreciation, I am reminded how grateful I am to represent all of you in the state legislature. I am excited for the work ahead this legislative session to continue delivering results for our communities. This year, we have a historic opportunity to significantly increase funding for K-12 public schools and finally eliminate what is known as the Budget Stabilization Factor, which has reduced state funding for schools since the Great Recession. This landmark investment in our schools will finally meet the long-promised funding levels that Colorado students deserve. It will put more money into classrooms to increase teacher pay and reduce class sizes. For the last few years, Colorado Democrats have been working hard to increase funding for our schools to put us in the position we are in now. Each year, we have increased funding for schools and gotten closer to eliminating the Budget Stabilization Factor. The increase we are planning this year is badly needed and will set up our state to finally fund schools closer to the levels we need. For far too long, schools have had to make do with fewer resources than they need, which has led to some of the lowest teacher salaries in the country. These additional dollars will help us recruit and retain new teachers and ensure every student in our community has the resources they need in the classroom to thrive. Under the governor’s budget for next year, the state will fully fund its share of public education, keeping our promise to invest in students’ success and increasing per-pupil funding to an average of $11,317 per student. This commitment to our students and their future is the Western Slope Way. During our special session last month, we reaffirmed our commitment to our schools while delivering urgent property tax relief. I am proud of the responsible package we passed that will reduce property taxes and protect funding for our schools, fire districts, emergency responders and critical local services our communities rely upon. As a teacher, I know we have to step up to make our state more affordable and prevent teachers from losing their homes because they can’t afford rising property taxes. At the same time, I know how important it is that we protect funding for our schools. It was important to do both, and we did. I know that the Western Slope Way is why so many of you bring up education when we bump into each other at the grocery store, on the slopes or at a community event. When we support and increase resources for our students, our entire community benefits. The 2024 legislative session begins on Jan. 10, and I have been working tirelessly with constituents and colleagues from both sides of the political aisle to gear up for the upcoming legislative session. I am committed to serving the people of Eagle, Routt, Moffat and Rio Blanco counties, and am looking forward to passing laws this legislative session that deliver results on the issues most important to the people of House District 26, like affordable housing, behavioral health, education and economic prosperity. I would love to hear from you about education, and any other issues that matter to you. Please contact me at repmeghanlukens@gmail.com with comments and concerns. If you would like to be added to my newsletter for more frequent legislative updates, feel free to send me an email as well. Follow me on social media to be the first to know when I will be hosting town halls to answer your questions in person. Let’s keep in touch and keep making a difference in House District 26. Onward! Previous Next

HB23-1311 is part of legislative package to reduce property taxes and would send $661 TABOR rebates for single filers or $1,322 for joint filers if Prop HH is approved by voters in November < Back May 7, 2023 Flat TABOR Rebates Pass House HB23-1311 is part of legislative package to reduce property taxes and would send $661 TABOR rebates for single filers or $1,322 for joint filers if Prop HH is approved by voters in November DENVER, CO - The House today passed one part of a legislative package to reduce property taxes and create a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will increase refunds for Coloradans making under $100,000. “A flat TABOR rebate fairly supports Coloradans making under $100,000, putting more money back into the pockets of hardworking families,” said Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “With voter approval, Colorado’s TABOR refund will provide our middle and lower income neighbors their fair share. With their TABOR refunds in hand, our neighbors can finally afford that repair they’ve been putting off, pay lingering bills, and support local businesses. Simply put, a more equitable refund makes our whole state economically stronger.” “Colorado’s economic growth is strong, yet rising property taxes have left many families and seniors in a bind,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “Under this bill, Coloradans will receive a flat TABOR refund, which helps all Coloradans participate in and benefit from our state’s booming economy. This comprehensive property tax proposal works to support our renters and property owners alike, while protecting critical community services like water districts, fire districts, libraries and K-12 education that we all rely on.” HB23-1311 is contingent upon the passage of SB23-303 . This legislative package lowers property taxes for homeowners and businesses, increases TABOR refunds for those making under $100,000 and protects funding for critical community services. HB23-1311 passed the House by a vote of 44 to 17. 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 to better afford everyday necessities. SB23-303 creates a long-term solution to prevent rapidly growing home values from causing sharp rises in property taxes, and creates limits that protect homeowners and businesses from steep unexpected increases in their property taxes. If passed, 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 Previous Next

Legislation will shield legally-protected health care providers, patients and helpers < Back March 9, 2023 JOINT RELEASE: Democrats Introduce Bill to Protect Reproductive Health Care Patients and Providers, Ensure Access to Critical Care Legislation will shield legally-protected health care providers, patients and helpers DENVER, CO – Democrats today introduced legislation sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, that establishes that criminal prosecutions for receiving, providing, or assisting legally-protected health care - including abortion and gender-affirming care - will not be recognized by the state of Colorado. Sponsored in the House by Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, and Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada, SB23-188 also prevents Colorado from recognizing or enforcing civil lawsuits concerning protected health care that are penal in nature or without jurisdiction, and prevents Colorado state employees from participating in or assisting with interstate investigations or divulging information concerning protected health care. “The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade unleashed a wave of anti-abortion legislation across the country, and it’s putting Coloradans' ability to access critical reproductive and gender-affirming care in jeopardy,” Gonzales said. “Any barrier to health care in our state is unacceptable and puts lives at risk. This bill will protect the people who both seek and provide that care in our state, and will ensure that Coloradans can continue to access the life-saving care they need to thrive.” “Abortion is safe and legal in Colorado, yet every day we see threats to our fundamental rights to make our own reproductive health decisions,” said Froelich. “This bill codifies important protections to make sure our patients, providers and helpers are shielded from interstate criminal threats, retaliation and imprisonment. Accessing and providing reproductive health care isn’t a crime, and no one should face legal threats for receiving or offering these services. This bill makes clear that Colorado will never extradite a provider or patient to another state, protecting Coloradans from anti-abortion lawsuits and extreme prosecutors in other states.” “When we passed RHEA, Colorado became a safe haven for legal reproductive health care,” said Titone. “Nationally, our fundamental rights are under attack, and it’s our responsibility in Colorado to protect those seeking legal gender-affirming health care from vicious and outright dangerous legal overreach by other states. Having access to gender-affirming care saves lives and gives people the power to live their life unapologetically, and be true to themselves. Our bill prioritizes patients and providers, fights back against anti-abortion and anti-trans rhetoric, and protects our privacy.” "We must do everything we can to protect vital health care professionals in Colorado,” said Jaquez Lewis. “As a pharmacist, if I dispense certain drugs that are considered abortive care in repressive states, I could be extradited, charged with homicide and fined hundreds of thousands of dollars. I am very concerned that health care experts can no longer feel safe making medically necessary decisions." Previous Next

The Colorado Energy Office yesterday announced the recipients of the third round of the Colorado Geothermal Energy Tax Credit Offering (GETCO). Over $7.3 million was awarded to support thermal energy network projects, including $6.8 million for Colorado Springs, Steamboat Springs and Vail. < Back October 16, 2025 Reps. Lukens, Paschal Applaud Nearly $7 Million in Grants to Save Coloradans Money on Energy Costs DENVER, CO – The Colorado Energy Office yesterday announced the recipients of the third round of the Colorado Geothermal Energy Tax Credit Offering (GETCO). Over $7.3 million was awarded to support thermal energy network projects, including $6.8 million for Colorado Springs, Steamboat Springs and Vail. “This investment in the Western Slope will help us harness renewable energy to protect our environment while saving Coloradans money," said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. “Colorado is leading the way in these geothermal technology projects, and we’re showing the country that geothermal energy can be used to meet the heating needs of rural communities like Steamboat Springs and Vail. It is exciting to see policy in action in our communities that will save Coloradans money and provide reliable energy.” “Focusing on geothermal energy advances our commitment to clean, affordable energy and drives down our reliance on fuels that harm our environment,” said Rep. Amy Paschal, D-Colorado Springs. “Geothermal technology utilizes the heat beneath our feet to reduce energy costs, which saves businesses and Coloradans money. This $5 million award gives Colorado Springs District 11 Schools the resources to break ground on this innovative project that will reduce energy costs for the district, improve air quality and create renewable energy jobs.” GETCO is funded through a 2023 law passed by Colorado Democrats to save Coloradans money, create good-paying jobs and help the state meet its climate goals. HB23-1272 created a refundable tax credit to help communities advance and adopt geothermal electricity development. The following projects were announced as grant recipients in the third round of GETCO funding: The Town of Vail was awarded over $1.7 million to install a thermal energy network between the Vail Public Library and the Dobson Ice Arena, with the possibility of extending the network to the ski area and nearby facilities in the future, Steamboat Springs was also awarded grant money to conduct a feasibility study on a ground source loop thermal energy network to heat and cool municipal buildings, and Colorado Springs District 11 was awarded $5 million to install a thermal energy network at Palmer High School. Last year, Rep. Paschal passed a bipartisan law to encourage more geothermal energy production, establish a long-term funding mechanism to ensure the safety of carbon storage operations and save consumers and businesses money on energy costs. Previous Next

< Back March 15, 2019 EDUCATION COMMITTEE APPROVES BIPARTISAN LONTINE BILL TO REDUCE SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS (Mar. 14) – The House Education committee voted in favor of Rep. Susan Lontine’s bipartisan bill to reduce preschool and early elementary out-of-school suspensions and expulsions. In Colorado and across the country, young children are being removed from pre-school and early elementary grades at alarming rates “Suspensions and expulsions disproportionately impact children of color and children with disabilities,” said Rep. Lontine, D-Denver. “This bill addresses a civil rights issue for our youngest learners.” Suspensions and expulsions result in the loss of valuable learning and enrichment time for Colorado’s kids. Young students, when they return to school, are often behind their classmates and more likely to be disruptive. In 2014 the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights released data showing that black students are suspended and expelled at three times the rate of white students. That year, the Obama administration issued discipline guidelines aimed at reducing school suspensions of students of color. In 2018, the Trump administration and Sec. Betsy DeVos rescinded those guidelines. Suspensions and expulsions of students increase the likelihood of dropouts, academic failure and an increased likelihood of entry into the criminal justice system. The bill is aligned with national recommendations that seek to limit school removal for young children while promoting thoughtful exceptions that ensure school safety. The bill is supported by a number of stakeholders, including the Arc of Colorado, Colorado Children’s Campaign, Padres Jovenes Unidos, Colorado PTA and Colorado Education Association. HB19-1194 was approved on a bipartisan vote of 11-2 and now heads to the House floor. Previous Next