The House Transportation, Housing and Local Government Committee today passed legislation to remove restrictions that require minimum lot sizes of over 2,000 square feet for single-family homes. HB26-1114, sponsored by Representatives Rebekah Stewart and Steven Woodrow, passed by a vote of 9-4. < Back February 18, 2026 Bill to Build More Housing that Hardworking Coloradans Can Afford Passes Committee DENVER, CO - The House Transportation, Housing and Local Government Committee today passed legislation to remove restrictions that require minimum lot sizes of over 2,000 square feet for single-family homes. HB26-1114, sponsored by Representatives Rebekah Stewart and Steven Woodrow, passed by a vote of 9-4. “Every Coloradan deserves a fair shot at homeownership, and our legislation would open up more housing options that families, young professionals and aging Coloradans can realistically buy,” said Rep. Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood. “Open land can be hard to come by in the Denver Metro Area, and it is getting increasingly difficult for affordable housing developers to find lots that meet the minimum lot size requirements. Our communities elected us to make our state a more affordable place to live, and this bill would eliminate barriers to get more housing opportunities built in our neighborhoods that Coloradans can afford.” “If we want to solve the housing crisis, we have to make it easier to build housing that Coloradans can actually afford, and smaller lot sizes mean smaller price tags,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver. “We know that arbitrary rules, like strict lot size restrictions, are often in place just to keep more housing from being built. Our legislation would allow single-family homes to be built on smaller plots of land to reduce urban sprawl and help more Coloradans realize their dream of becoming homeowners.” Beginning October 1, 2031, HB26-1114 would prohibit subject jurisdictions from requiring that a lot size for a single-family dwelling be greater than 2,000 square feet. A 2025 report by the National Zoning Atlas found that 98-percent of land that allows single-family housing has a minimum lot size requirement, with 86-percent of that land having a two-acre minimum lot size mandate. Rep. Woodrow sponsored a 2024 law to support local governments with their efforts to build more housing near public transit, cycling and walking corridors, places of employment and other centers of community. He also sponsored a law to eliminate parking minimum requirements for most new multi-family residential properties within a quarter mile of a transit stop or station to drive down housing costs and reduce traffic. Previous Next

< Back February 8, 2019 COMMITTEE APPROVES BIRD BILL TO INCREASE FUNDING FOR SCHOOLS Bill would invest more marijuana revenue into schools (Feb. 7) — A bill sponsored by Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, that would require a greater portion of state marijuana tax revenue to go towards school renovation and construction through the Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) program passed the House Education committee. The BEST program helps Colorado school districts modernize their classroom spaces by funding projects to rebuild or repair the state’s worst off PreK-12 facilities. “We have schools today that are in desperate need of repair. Kids are going to school in cold classrooms, hot classrooms, classrooms that aren’t in the best condition,” said Rep. Bird. “This bill will help us make an investment and a positive change in the lives of the students who are counting on us.” Some schools in Colorado have sewage and plumbing problems, classrooms that have asbestos and lack central air conditioning. Currently, only 90 percent of state retail marijuana excise tax revenue goes towards school capital construction projects. The bill increases that to 100 percent. This legislation would also bolster the funding for BEST, the only statewide source of capital construction funds for public schools, by allowing the BEST board of directors to fund additional grants via Certificates of Participation (COPs), which help school districts finance construction improvement projects. “When the voters approved Amendment 64 they intended that the vast majority of the tax revenue would go to our schools,” continued Rep. Bird. ”This bill responds to the will of Colorado voters by utilizing this revenue stream to address the dire needs of our schools.” HB19-1055 passed the committee with bipartisan support on a vote of 12-1 and now heads to the Finance committee. The bill is also supported by an array of stakeholders. Previous Next

< Back May 11, 2022 HOUSE SENDS COMPREHENSIVE FENTANYL BILL TO GOVERNOR Legislation significantly increases penalties on dealers and invests in proven public health solutions to save lives DENVER, CO – The House today passed the conference report on HB22-1326, comprehensive legislation sponsored by Speaker Alec Garnett to combat the fentanyl crisis and save lives. The vote was 35-30. “This legislation is a giant step forward in our fight to combat the fentanyl crisis, crack down on the dealers peddling death in our communities, and accelerate our state’s public health response to get this deadly drug off our streets and save lives,” said Speaker Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “Working together over several months with public health experts, district attorneys, and members of both parties, we crafted a comprehensive approach that pairs severe penalties on fentanyl dealers with proven public health strategies to prevent overdose poisonings and deaths. We worked hard to find a compromise between the Senate and House versions, and we’ve agreed on language that ensures district attorneys’ ability to prosecute while creating reasonable guardrails for those who had no idea they were in possession of fentanyl.” HB22-1326 is a comprehensive approach that includes both proven public health solutions and enhanced criminal penalties targeting dealers to save lives and get fentanyl off Colorado streets. The bill will strengthen criminal penalties on any individual distributing fentanyl. In line with other models for substance use convictions, the bill will also integrate mandatory SUD assessments and treatment into the state’s sentencing to ensure people get the treatment they need. The bill focuses on compound fentanyl, which is fentanyl mixed with other drugs or substances and which is by far the prominent form of fentanyl found in CO. It will provide law enforcement with additional tools to go after dealers while providing treatment options to individuals with an SUD. Individuals who are dealing fentanyl will face increased felony charges, and if the defendant has distributed any amount of fentanyl and it leads to someone’s death, they can be charged with a level one drug felony and face the drug code’s strongest penalties. The bill gives law enforcement tools to require treatment for individuals with a substance use disorder. Defendants in possession of any amount of fentanyl compound will be assessed for a substance use disorder and required to complete an education program developed by the Office of Behavioral Health in CDPHE. Individuals assessed as having a substance use disorder will have to complete mandatory treatment. HB22-1326 would make it a felony to possess more than one gram of fentanyl compound/mixture while creating legal guardrails for individuals who genuinely didn’t know they were in possession of fentanyl. The new language says that if a defendant can successfully argue that they made “a reasonable mistake of fact,” then they will be sentenced with the lesser charge – a level one drug misdemeanor. Additionally, once Colorado’s labs have the ability to test for the percentage of fentanyl within a compound, this bill turns on a no tolerance policy for the possession of pure fentanyl. The new felony, which is not prison eligible, includes what is known as a “wobbler” provision that allows individuals who complete treatment to have the felony moved down to a misdemeanor on their record. The legislation creates a grant fund for law enforcement agencies to pursue investigations of fentanyl poisonings, provides additional funding to crisis stabilization centers and detoxification centers, and expands Medication-Assisted Treatment in jails. This crisis also demands a robust public health approach that will address the root causes of fentanyl use and keep people alive. Colorado will save lives by investing in effective public health and substance use prevention and treatment strategies and giving people the tools they need to protect themselves from this more deadly drug. The legislation directs $29 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds to implement recommendations from the Behavioral Health Task Force on effective harm reduction strategies and increased access to substance use disorder treatment in the criminal justice system. While public awareness of fentanyl has risen, education campaigns that promote effective overdose prevention tools will save lives. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment will develop, implement and maintain an ongoing statewide prevention and education campaign to address fentanyl education needs in the state, including the message that no amount of fentanyl is safe. The bill will also provide grants to develop and implement community-focused education campaigns on the dangers of fentanyl. The proposal also makes opiate antagonists more widespread, which will help save lives by preventing overdoses. Previous Next

< Back February 25, 2021 DEMS DEFEAT ANTI-WORKER, “RIGHT TO WORK” FOR LESS BILL Legislation would strip workers of their rights to collectively bargain for better wages and safe conditions DENVER, CO– Democrats on the House Business Affairs and Labor Committee today defeated union-busting legislation sponsored by Republican Representatives Tonya Van Beber and Kim Ransom. The legislation would have made it nearly impossible for workers in Colorado to collectively bargain for better conditions and wages. “There couldn’t be a worse time to pass the anti-union legislation that Republicans brought forward today,” said Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo, a strong union supporter and sponsor of the Colorado WINS legislation. “We’re here to help Colorado Build Back Stronger. These policies, which are being pushed by thriving corporations and a minority party that doesn’t care about working people, would make it nearly impossible for Coloradans to bargain for better wages and safer conditions. We’re eager to work with the minority on proposals to stimulate our economy and strengthen our workforce, but we won’t let them tear down a fundamental path to success for hardworking people.” “Make no mistake, this bill would hurt workers when they are some of the Coloradans already hurting the most right now,” said Business Affairs and Labor Committee Vice Chair Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial, a member of the AFL-CIO Colorado Board of Directors and a union member. “Can you imagine if the workers at the meatpacking plant didn’t have a union to fight for them? During the pandemic we’ve seen more and more workers rally behind forming a union to protect themselves and their families. Unions create good paying jobs, grow our economy, and have been essential partners in keeping our economy open while keeping workers and consumers safe during this pandemic. Today, Democrats stood up for workers in the face of powerful corporate interests that will do anything to avoid paying an acceptable wage or provide safe conditions.” HB21-1049 would prohibit unions from recovering any costs for mandatory representation of non-union members in collective bargaining procedures. It would deal a death blow to unions and make it nearly impossible for them to negotiate for better wages, benefits and safer working conditions for workers. The average worker in a “Right to Work” state makes 16.6 percent less than in non-right to work states. Right to work states have higher poverty rates , higher uninsured rates , and significantly larger wage gaps between men and women. Previous Next

Last month, Governor Polis, the Sundance Institute, Visit Boulder, and others announced that Colorado was selected to be the new home of the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027. < Back April 8, 2025 Colorado, It’s Showtime! Governor Polis Signs Film Festival Tax Credit Bill Into Law, Celebrates Colorado as the New Home of the Sundance Film Festival Last month, Governor Polis, the Sundance Institute, Visit Boulder, and others announced that Colorado was selected to be the new home of the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027. To support the festival's historic move to Colorado and the many other film festivals that call Colorado home, today Governor Polis signed HB25-1005 - Tax Incentive for Film Festivals - sponsored by Representatives Monica Duran and Brianna Titone, and Senators Judy Amabile and Mark Baisley. “Colorado is the best state for film and television artists, and I am thrilled today to sign this bipartisan law to support our growing film industry in Colorado that is captivating audiences, supporting hard-working Coloradans, and strengthening our tourism and economy. As the iconic Sundance Film Festival joins many successful film festivals operating across the state, we are ensuring that Colorado continues to be the top film festival state in the nation,” said Governor Polis. “From original films to panel discussions with filmmakers, the Sundance Film Festival will be right at home in Boulder,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “Since Boulder was selected as the next location for the Sundance Film Festival in 2027, we expect our small businesses, restaurants and hotels to benefit from the boost in local tourism and out-of-state visitors. The Sundance Film Festival will strengthen Colorado’s reputation as a destination for the arts and will generate new jobs in our state.” “It’s an incredible honor to host the Sundance Film Festival because it will solidify our state’s reputation as a destination for the arts,” said Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada. “The 2024 festival attracted 24,000 out-of-state visitors and generated $132 million in gross domestic product, and we expect to see a similar positive economic impact in Colorado. We’re proud that the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival will call Boulder home for the next ten years.” “This law demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the success of the Sundance Film Festival in Colorado,” said Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Sundance is more than just an economic driver – it will cement Colorado’s place as a global hub for the arts, creating opportunities for filmmakers and audiences alike. Our communities will benefit year-round from Sundance’s investments in expanded access to the arts, support for aspiring storytellers, and a platform for powerful narratives that have the potential to move, inspire, and change all of us.” “Today’s bill signing is a tremendous win for Colorado small businesses. We welcome the Sundance Film Festival making its new home in Boulder. This will boost sales at restaurants, retailers and other small businesses throughout the region that rely on tourism, bringing much needed revenue to Colorado communities during a quiet time of year,” said Colorado Sen. Mark Baisley. Previous Next

< Back March 9, 2023 Bills to Advance Climate Goals Pass Committee DENVER, CO – The House Energy & Environment Committee passed two bills to accelerate Colorado's clean energy transition and save consumers money on their energy bills. HB23-1161 and HB23-1210 are part of a broader package unveiled by Colorado Democrats to meet our state’s climate goals. “Colorado is leading the way on clean energy as we develop new tools to reduce our emissions and save families money,” said Chair of the Energy & Environment committee, Rep. Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB23-1161. “This bill updates Colorado’s energy and water efficiency standards for household fixtures so Coloradans have access to the cleanest, greenest devices that reduce their utility bills, save water and improve indoor air quality. Our legislation is part of a broader package to meet our state’s climate goals, reduce harmful emissions and invest in renewable energy sources that create jobs and lower costs for Coloradans.” “Coloradans are invested in our state’s transition to clean energy, and this bill makes it easier for them to obtain high-efficiency and cost-effective household appliances,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, sponsor of HB23-1161. “This bill ensures we are stretching our precious energy and water resources as far as they can go by updating standards so consumers benefit from the latest technology. Through this and other bills moving through the legislature, Colorado Democrats are committed to putting forward smart policies that are good for the planet and our wallets.” HB23-1161 , passed committee by a vote of 8 to 3 and would update energy and water efficiency and emissions standards for appliances and fixtures. This bill would make it easier for Coloradans to access the cleanest high-performance models of appliances, including heating and plumbing fixtures. “This bill will create funding and develop a strategic plan to manage one of the biggest climate change culprits – carbon dioxide,” said Rep. Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial, sponsor of HB23-1210 . “Colorado has many innovative thinkers and emerging technologies surrounding carbon capture, removal, use, and storage. This bill strategically positions our state to be a global leader in carbon management. We need innovation and entrepreneurship to reach our climate goals, and this bill is a great step to combat climate change and boost the economy." HB23-1210 , passed committee by a vote of 8 to 3 and would direct the Colorado Energy Office to develop a carbon management roadmap and help Colorado companies successfully undertake carbon management projects. The bill will also identify early investment opportunities to de-risk projects that hold the promise of reducing emissions from sectors of the economy that are hardest to decarbonize. Previous Next

The House today passed legislation to protect electric vehicle (EV) drivers by improving charging infrastructure and oversight. < Back April 21, 2025 House Passes Bill to Protect Consumers, Improve EV Charging Oversight DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation to protect electric vehicle (EV) drivers by improving charging infrastructure and oversight. HB25-1267 passed by a vote of 40-23. “EVs are incredibly popular in Colorado, and our EV charging stations need to be reliable and accurate,” said Rep. Amy Paschal, D-Colorado Springs . “Consumer protections are already in place for Coloradans who drive gas-powered vehicles to ensure they’re getting what they pay for at the pump; this bill extends similar protections to EV drivers. The demand for EVs is only growing in Colorado, and this bill ensures divers receive the electricity they pay for.” “We’re taking steps now to make sure Colorado’s charging station infrastructure can meet the growing demand for EVs and help us reach our climate goals,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont. “Colorado’s EV market share is number one in the country, and this bill makes sure EV charging stations are reliable and accurate. Gas pumps are regularly inspected to ensure drivers get what they pay for, and this bill does the same for EV drivers.” HB25-1267 aims to improve oversight of retail EV charging stations to ensure consumers receive the energy they pay for. To accomplish this, the bill creates a new statewide retail EV charging station oversight program to establish and oversee minimum standards for charging stations. The state already monitors gas pumps to ensure consumers receive the amount of gas they are paying for; this bill extends the same consumer protection protocols for EV drivers The popularity of EVs in Colorado continues to grow. Colorado recently became number one in the country regarding market share of new EVs, surpassing California. This legislation also aims to help Colorado meet current and future EV infrastructure demand by modifying the EV grant fund. This includes updated policies, procedures and utility oversight of public charging stations. In 2023, Colorado Democrats championed an expansive tax credit package that included incentives for EV buyers to reach our state’s climate goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent by 2030. Previous Next

The House Public & Behavioral Health & Human Services Committee today passed legislation to bolster community-based health care services across the state. It passed by a vote of 8-3. < Back March 29, 2023 Hospital Community-Benefit Bill Passes Committee DENVER, CO - The House Public & Behavioral Health & Human Services Committee today passed legislation to bolster community-based health care services across the state. It passed by a vote of 8-3. “Hospitals can claim state non-profit status, which exempts them from state sales and property taxes, but in return, they must allocate time and money on programs that benefit the community,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “This legislation provides some parameters for how that money can be spent to increase access to the services communities need, improve community input in the process, and lower the cost of care. By strengthening guidelines for hospitals’ community benefit spending, Coloradans will receive health care services that better fit the needs of their communities.” HB23-1243 centers hospitals’ community benefit spending around local under-privileged communities by incorporating community feedback into the community benefit implementation plan and restricting the amount of out-of-state spending that can be counted as “community benefit” spending. The bill would also require each reporting hospital to seek feedback from their community during its annual proposed community benefit implementation plan, submit a detailed report about any discussions or decisions at the annual meeting, make the report public, and execute a community benefit plan that addresses the needs of the community as discussed in the annual meeting to better understand the impact of the spending has on the health of Coloradans. Under the bill, the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) would be required to hold stakeholder meetings to ensure low-income residents, people of color, people with disabilities, and others are fairly represented in the hospital’s community benefit spending plan. HCPF would also create an annual report that summarizes the estimated federal and state tax exemptions of each reporting hospital, establish a minimum annual community investment requirement, and sets compliance requirements for hospitals. HCPF would be able to apply corrective action or fines for reporting hospitals that do not abide by the guidelines set by this bill. Additionally, the bill enhances existing public meeting requirements and ensures representation from the tribal council and Urban Indian Organization who have hospitals within their communities. Institutions of higher learning will also be represented to help bring meaningful input into discussions on spending. Previous Next

< Back June 8, 2021 HOUSE STANDS UP FOR AGRICULTURAL WORKERS House passes bill to strengthen protections for agricultural workers DENVER, CO– The House today passed Representatives Karen McCormick and Yadira Caraveo’s bill to advance the basic rights of Colorado’s agricultural workers and modernize the agriculture industry. The bill passed by a vote of 40-24. “Colorado’s agriculture industry is a part of our western culture and the fabric of our state,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, a veterinarian. “This bill advances the human rights of agriculture workers in Colorado while helping to keep Colorado’s agriculture workforce competitive with other large agricultural producing states across the country that have already adopted similar standards. The workers in Colorado’s agriculture industry need the same protections and supports that the folks I employ in my clinic do, and today, we are taking a big step forward toward making that a reality.” “Workers who put food on our tables deserve the same protections and opportunities as others in Colorado, like being able to negotiate for better health and safety conditions and to earn a fair wage,” said Rep. Yadira Caraveo, D-Thornton. “This bill is a balanced approach that considers the varied producers that make up Colorado’s diverse agriculture industry and is a long overdue step forward that will improve conditions, keep Colorado agriculture competitive and protect these essential workers.” SB21-087 takes several steps to bring Colorado’s agricultural workers under the same labor standards that other workers in the state have and takes other steps to keep Colorado’s agriculture workforce competitive. Among other provisions, the bill would: allow workers to form and join unions to bargain for better pay and increased benefits, remove the exemption that allows certain workers to make less than the minimum wage, provide protections from retaliation and set more humane standards around break times and working in extreme weather conditions. Importantly the bill limits the continuous operation of physically demanding tools that lead to chronic health problems–tools that have been banned in other states for decades. The bill also ensures workers are provided transportation to critical services and access to healthcare providers while creating a pathway for aggrieved workers to seek remedies available to workers in other industries. Previous Next

HB26-1007 saves Coloradans money on their energy bills by expanding access to cost-saving solar < Back May 7, 2026 Bill to Allow Plug-In Solar Panels Signed Into Law DENVER, CO – Legislation to remove barriers to plug-in solar panels and save Coloradans money on their utility bills was signed into law today. HB26-1007 , sponsored by Senators Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, and Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Representatives Lesley Smith, D-Boulder, and Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood, authorizes access to plug-in solar panels, which can be plugged into a home electrical outlet and are more affordable than traditional rooftop solar. “This new law reduces barriers and establishes safety standards so that Coloradans who want a reliable, affordable source of renewable energy can use plug-in solar panels,” said Kipp. “Coloradans are interested in plug-in solar for a variety of reasons like reducing their carbon footprint, lowering their utility bills, or ensuring a reliable back-up source of energy in the case of a power outage. No matter their reasoning, Coloradans should be able to pursue this technology without unnecessary barriers.” “We’re thrilled our plug-in solar bill is getting signed into law today because it means Coloradans will soon have access to safe, affordable solar energy,” said Smith. “Our law removes unnecessary barriers and establishes safety standards to ensure Coloradans can take advantage of our 300 days of sunshine to generate solar energy. HB26-1007 makes plug-in solar a reality so more Coloradans can save money on their utility bill, especially those living in shared spaces or apartments.” “Plug-in solar panels expand access to solar energy for people who live in an apartment or can’t afford a full rooftop system,” said Ball. “The technology is safe, cost-efficient, and already widely used in other places. This law gives Coloradans the option to use plug-in solar and connect to the grid through a meter collar to start saving money and producing their own clean energy.” “We know plug-in solar can lower your utility bill, and soon Coloradans will have access to this cost-saving, reliable energy source,” said Stewart. “To keep Coloradans safe, this law establishes important safety standards for plug-in solar and meter collars. Together, we’re making it possible for Coloradans who are interested in solar to try it out at an affordable price point.” Plug-in solar, also referred to as balcony solar, can be plugged into a home electrical outlet and is more affordable than traditional rooftop solar. It consists of one to four solar panels plus an inverter and optional battery and is designed for simple, safe installation. Plug-in solar can be used to power household appliances and offer Coloradans an alternative, reliable energy source that can also reduce traditional utility costs. The bill establishes protective guardrails on the types of plug-in solar products that can be used. All plug-in solar devices installed must meet the UL 3700 product safety standard. HB26-1007 also encourages the use of meter collars. Meter collars are devices installed between an electric meter socket and a utility billing meter to provide immediate interconnection of customer-owned solar devices to the grid. Meter collars eliminate the need for a costly electrical panel upgrade, saving Coloradans money and time on solar installation. The bill outlines a safe, consistent and repeatable solar installation process with minimal disruption and short installation times to benefit Coloradans. Plug-in solar is common in Europe. For example, in Germany, approximately 4 million households have installed plug-in solar. With this law, Colorado joins Utah in becoming early adopters of safe, reliable, plug-in solar in the United States. Previous Next

< Back November 19, 2021 JOINT RELEASE: ECONOMY IS RECOVERING STRONGLY JBC Dems to prioritize saving people money and making Colorado more affordable DENVER, CO – Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after the Legislative Council staff and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered the December economic forecasts, which project strong General Fund revenue, but warn of continued budget challenges in years to come and uncertainty as the economy rebuilds from the pandemic. “Today’s forecast shows that Colorado’s recovery is well underway and that many of our efforts to boost the economy have been successful,” said JBC Chair Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “While we’re all heartened to hear that many of our most treasured industries have come roaring back, we are also keenly aware of the rising cost of living in Colorado and are determined to craft a budget that saves people and businesses money and leaves more money in their pocket at the end of the month.” “This forecast shows that our focus on getting Colorado’s economy back on track is working,” said JBC Vice Chair Sen. Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “But while this continued progress is welcome news, we know that this recovery is still leaving too many of our neighbors behind. We must keep working to close those equity gaps and ensure that Colorado’s comeback lifts up all communities.” “As we head into a new year, it’s encouraging to see our economy continue to pick up steam,” said JBC Member Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “I’m excited to see the job gains in our state, however, there are still income and regional gaps in our recovery. As we begin our legislative session in January and continue the JBC’s work to design a budget that supports the recovery of everyone in our state, making Colorado a more affordable and prosperous state for all will be our top priority.” “We continue to make strong progress in our recovery, but there are many gaps that need attention to ensure an equitable economic recovery for all,” said JBC Member Chris Hansen D-Denver . “As we have seen, many Coloradans have bounced back from the economic consequences of the last year and a half, but many – especially our low-income neighbors – have not. Uplifting low-income groups, investing in education and supporting jobs must be a priority as we head into the new year and continue our fight to create opportunities for every Coloradan to succeed and prosper.” The Legislative Council staff (LCS) Forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $15.9 billion in FY 2021-22 and $16.4 billion in FY 2022-2023 – a $791.4 million increase for FY 2021-22 and a $528.4 million increase for FY 2022-2023 as compared with the earlier September revenue forecast. These continued improvements in the state’s economic outlook are due in large part to consumer spending, strengthening household finances and wage growth. However, waning federal stimulus and the ongoing uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic pose downside risks. The unemployment rate continues to fall in Colorado and is projected to decrease further to 4.1 percent in 2022. Colorado, however, is still seeing inequitable recovery trends driven by differing rates of recovery by region and sector, with employment growth recovering more slowly in areas in Northern Colorado and with several in-person industries, such as leisure and hospitality, including remaining heavily impacted by health concerns and uncertainty.. The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $16 billion for FY 2021-22, which OSPB revised upward by $704.5 million relative to its September estimate. For FY 2022-23, OSPB projects General Fund revenue will be close to $16.3 billion, which OSPB revised upward by $600 million relative to its September estimate. The state will exceed its TABOR limit due to higher than anticipated income tax collections, and both OSPB and LCS anticipate the state exceeding the TABOR limit in the upcoming fiscal years, as well. In addition, LCS and OSPB identified the uncertainty of the pandemic, evolving fiscal policy, inflation, and supply chain disruptions as risks to the forecast. Previous Next

The House Transportation, Housing and Local Government Committee today passed the Housing Opportunities Made Easier (HOME) Act to streamline the process for many non-profits, schools and transit districts to build housing on their land to save Coloradans money on housing. HB26-1001, sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker and Rep. Javier Mabrey, passed by a vote of 9-4. < Back February 3, 2026 Committee Passes HOME Act to Build More Housing Now DENVER, CO - The House Transportation, Housing and Local Government Committee today passed the Housing Opportunities Made Easier (HOME) Act to streamline the process for many non-profits, schools and transit districts to build housing on their land to save Coloradans money on housing. HB26-1001, sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker and Rep. Javier Mabrey, passed by a vote of 9-4. “Colorado Democrats are exploring every avenue to create more housing now that hardworking Coloradans can afford,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “We know that Colorado needs to build at least 100,000 more housing opportunities to meet growing demand. This legislation cuts red tape to build more housing on land in the heart of our communities. It will increase the supply of housing that is affordable by making it easier for nonprofit developers, schools and transit districts to build housing that is affordable on the land they own. This bill will lower housing costs and make it easier for Coloradans to find a place to live in their communities.” “We believe in an economy that works for everyone, and that means lowering costs for hardworking families and creating housing and homeownership opportunities that Coloradans can afford,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “It’s harder and harder for families to get ahead when they are spending so much on housing each year. This bill will bring down housing costs by making it easier to build more housing in our communities. This bill is one of many steps that Colorado Democrats are taking to drive down housing costs and lower costs for hardworking people.” Beginning December 31, 2027, HB26-1001 would streamline the process for building housing by allowing non-profit organizations, housing authorities, school districts, state colleges, Board of Cooperative Educational Services or universities and transit districts to build on their land. Under the “Housing Opportunities Made Easier Act” (HOME Act), local governments could not reject the construction of a residential development due to height, as long as the development is no taller than three stories or 45 feet or adheres to the height standards of the zoning district. These residential developments could also include childcare centers and facilities that provide recreational, social, or educational services to residents. HB26-1001 applies to land up to five acres. Exemptions to this bill would include land that is not connected to water and sewage treatment systems, land where state or federal regulations restrict residential housing and conservation easements. A 2022 report found that removing bureaucratic barriers in the permitting process can expedite the approval process by 28-percent . Previous Next