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Bill aims to create more opportunities for Colorado voters to participate in vacancy elections < Back April 23, 2025 Bipartisan Legislative Vacancy Reform Bill Passes House DENVER, CO – The House today passed bipartisan legislation to reform Colorado’s vacancy process used to replace a senator or representative if they leave office before their term ends. HB25-1315, sponsored by Representative Emily Sirota and Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, R-Colorado Springs, passed by a vote of 55-9. “In a bipartisan way, we’re modernizing Colorado’s vacancy committee process to boost voter participation while filling vacancies efficiently,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “We’ve heard the concerns surrounding our current vacancy process, and our bill limits the amount of time someone can serve before facing an election and subjects vacancy candidates to campaign finance laws. Lawmakers resign for many reasons, and this bill is the right balance between creating more opportunities for voters to weigh in and ensuring communities aren’t without representation during the legislative session.” HB25-1315 aims to increase transparency in the vacancy committee process and broaden voter participation when a legislative vacancy occurs. Under current law, vacancies in the General Assembly are filled by vacancy committee selection until the next general election. Colorado’s approach offers voters more opportunities to participate in the vacancy process than many other states, where governors or small commissions make the appointments. The legislative session begins no later than the second Wednesday of January and wraps up 120 days later. HB25-1315 would affect vacancies in the General Assembly in the following ways: If a lawmaker resigns during session or by July 31 in an even-year, the new vacancy committee process will take place, and then the selected candidate would run in the normally scheduled general election that November. If a lawmaker resigns after July 31 in an even-year, the vacancy would be filled first by the new vacancy committee process, and then there would be a new vacancy election in the following odd-year November election. If the seat was already on cycle for that even-year, the general election held in November of that year would continue as normal. If a lawmaker resigns during session or by July 31 in an odd-year, the new vacancy committee process would fill the seat until a new vacancy election can occur in November of that year. If a lawmaker resigns after July 31 in an odd-year, the new vacancy committee process would take place and fill the seat until the next general election in the even-year. In any scenario, lawmakers would only be able to serve one year before having to run in an election. To run for the vacancy, candidates could qualify by collecting signatures from 30 percent of the vacancy committee members or at least 200 same-party voters in their district. This process aims to improve ballot access for candidates. Unaffiliated voters and voters of the same party would be allowed to participate in the vacancy election. Vacancy candidates running in both the new vacancy committee process and the subsequent vacancy elections in November will be subject to campaign contribution limits and disclosure laws. Currently, candidates participating in the vacancy process are not subject to campaign finance laws. Under the bill, the number of precinct organizers serving on the vacancy committee would double and automatically include any county commissioners who are members of the political party and reside within the district. If a precinct committee person is appointed to fill an open position on the selection committee, they cannot participate in the process until 91 days after their appointment. The House also passed HB25-1319 by a vote of 52-12. This bill, sponsored by Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge and Minority Leader Pugliese, would apply the same vacancy committee process and subsequent vacancy elections to county commissioners. Previous Next

< Back February 21, 2023 House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Encourage Incarcerated Coloradans to Pursue College Credits DENVER, CO – The House today passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Representative Matthew Martinez to allow incarcerated Coloradans to earn time off their sentence by pursuing higher education. HB23-1037 passed the House with nearly unanimous support by a vote of 61-1. “This bill is about preparing incarcerated Coloradans for success when they’re released from prison by giving them the tools they need to thrive,” said Rep. Matthew Martinez D-Monte Vista. “I’m beyond proud to champion this bipartisan bill that received nearly unanimous support from Republicans and Democrats. This bill will reduce recidivism in Colorado by creating pathways for incarcerated people to earn credits toward degrees and certificates that create opportunities for good paying careers after they have served their time.” HB23-1037 , sponsored by Representatives Matt Martinez and Rose Pugliese, R-Colorado Springs, would allow inmates sentenced for a nonviolent felony offense to reduce their sentence by completing an accredited degree or other credential awarded by an accredited higher education institution while the inmate is incarcerated in the Department of Corrections (DOC). Specifically, inmates could receive one year of earned time for a bachelor's or associate's degree, 6 months for an earned credential or certificate of 30 credit hours worth, 18 months of earned time for a master’s degree, and two years for a doctoral degree. Right now, offenders in the DOC can reduce their sentence through earned time by participating in group living, counseling sessions and through specific work and training. Generally, inmates cannot reduce their sentence by more than 30 percent. This bill would add higher education to the list of ways inmates can reduce their sentence through earned time. HB23-1037 aims to encourage incarcerated Coloradans to pursue higher education and better prepare them for a high-earning career post-sentence. Access to education opportunities while in prison is one of the most efficient and cost-effective tools to reduce recidivism. Colorado’s recidivism rate is 50 percent , one of the highest in the nation. A comprehensive, nationwide study showed that the recidivism rate among incarcerated individuals who earn associate's degrees is around 14 percent and just 5.6 percent for those who earn bachelor's degrees. These recidivism rates are significantly lower than interacted individuals who receive no education while in prison. Previous Next

SB25-006 invests up to $50 million to activate development of affordable for-sale housing < Back May 15, 2025 Bill to Increase Affordable For-Sale Housing Signed Into Law FRISCO, CO – Today, legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and Representative Manny Rutinel, D-Commerce City, to unlock Colorado’s ability to invest in affordable for-sale housing was signed into law. Cosponsored by Representative Mary Bradfield, R-El Paso County, SB25-006 will allow the state treasurer to invest up to $50 million in Colorado Housing Finance Authority bonds to buy down the construction and mortgage costs of affordable for-sale housing that would otherwise not be built. These funds will give low interest rates to builders in exchange for long-term affordability protections and low mortgage rates to low- and middle-income buyers to ease their way into the housing market. “We know that affordable and attainable housing is a challenge facing our whole state,” said Roberts. “This law will allow us to use existing resources to help build more ‘starter homes’ which is key to giving hardworking Coloradans the opportunity to own a home and accumulate generational wealth.” “This bipartisan law will save people money on housing and open up additional funding to build homes that work for every budget,” said Rutinel. “Coloradans sent us to the Capitol to help make our state more affordable, and that is especially true when it comes to the housing crisis. More ‘starter homes’ in our communities will support local workforces and make it easier for hardworking Coloradans to become homeowners.” The $50 million is expected to finance homeownership for 175-200 new low- and middle-income residents. Previous Next

Colorado’s federally recognized tribes joined the state legislature for third annual address < Back January 16, 2025 JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Democrats Welcome Tribes for Annual Address DENVER, CO – The Colorado General Assembly today was joined by the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and Southern Ute Indian Tribe for their annual State of the Tribes. Chairman Melvin J. Baker of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Chairman Manuel Heart of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe spoke to the legislature about their priorities, successes and challenges, and the importance of Colorado’s strong partnership between the Tribes and the state legislature. “We are honored to be joined by the leaders of Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes for the third annual State of the Tribes address,” said Senate President Coleman, D-Denver. “We are committed to partnering with the Tribes and following their lead on what is most needed in their communities. This address is a yearly reminder of our strong government-to-government relationship, and I look forward to working closely with Chairmen Manuel Heart and Melvin J. Baker during my time as Senate President.” “The State of the Tribes is an important tradition in the legislature and a crucial reminder of the needs and priorities of our Tribal communities as we kick off the legislative session,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “I value collaboration with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe on many issues, most importantly on securing Colorado’s water future and uplifting the unique challenges of Tribal water access. I’m grateful for the leadership of Chairman Manuel Heart and Chairman Melvin J. Baker and I look forward to future conversations on how we can continue to collaborate on policies that impact the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes.” “It is crucial that we as legislators listen to and take action on the priorities of our Tribal partners, always recognizing the foundational principles of mutual recognition and respect of sovereignty,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “It is my honor to partner with the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes on legislation to strengthen our partnership. The Chairmen mentioned several bills that I am proud to lead on, including the Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Amendment, strengthening the Indian Child Welfare Act, and enforcing Tribal court orders. I am also sponsoring legislation to protect wild bison and make the Indian Affairs Interim Committee permanent. I look forward to our continued collaboration this year and in years ahead.” "Today, we had the great privilege of welcoming back the leaders of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe to address the General Assembly,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder. “As we work to strengthen our government-to-government relationship, addresses like this one allow us to learn more about the issues faced by Tribal communities. This year, through the American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee, we created a dedicated space to elevate tribal concerns and seek solutions. Reflecting on this third annual address, I look forward to continuing our great work and keeping an open line of communication between the sovereignty of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and the state of Colorado.” “The State of the Tribes, now three years running, has become a highlight of the start of the legislative session,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “It reaffirms our commitment to an open and collaborative relationship between the legislature and our Tribal partners and is a unique opportunity for us to celebrate, listen to, and learn from Colorado’s Native American communities. The legislation I’m sponsoring that was mentioned during today’s address, SB25-009, will ensure the state recognizes decisions by Tribal courts, helping to honor the sovereignty of Tribal Nations and improving public safety.” “I’d like to thank the leaders of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe for joining us at the capitol today – their remarks provided valuable and important insight,” said Rep. Katie Stewart, D-Durango. “The annual address helps not only strengthen our relationship, but highlights the priorities of the Tribal communities. It’s important to remember, the Ute people were here long before Colorado’s statehood, and their voices and concerns deserve to be heard. I’d like to extend my gratitude to Chairman Melvin J. Baker and Chairman Manuel Heart for joining us for the third annual address as we foster a united pathway forward.” This year, the bipartisan American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee advanced three bills to extend the interim committee for an additional five years, reclassify bison as big game and recognize Tribal legal authority in arrest warrants and civil commitments. SB25-009 , sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, Ron Weinberg, R-Loveland, would change Colorado state law to ensure that a state court gives full faith and credit to an arrest warrant and civil commitment issued by a Tribal court of a federally recognized Tribe with a reservation within the exterior boundaries of the state. Civil commitment orders include orders from law enforcement agencies, behavioral health facilities and health care providers. In 2022, SB22-105 , sponsored by former Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail, and former Representative Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango, created the annual Tribal Governments address to the General Assembly. Previous Next

< Back June 12, 2020 GALLAGHER REPEAL PASSES THE HOUSE DENVER, CO – The House today passed Joint Budget Committee (JBC) Chair Daneya Esgar’s bipartisan bill to repeal the Gallagher Amendment. The bill would ask Colorado voters to decide whether to repeal the Gallagher amendment. The bill passed by a vote of 47-18. “Colorado’s schools, libraries, firefighters, police officers, and special districts can’t afford the Gallagher amendment,” said Rep. Esgar, D-Pueblo. “Today we’re asking voters to decide whether we do away with a policy that is no longer delivering on its original intent. I’ve worked on this issue for long enough to know first hand that the Gallagher Amendment is hampering our local governments’ ability to properly fund needed services. It’s time to relegate it to the history books.” Passed in 1982, the Gallagher amendment requires local jurisdictions to adjust property taxes in order to maintain a 45/55 statewide ratio between residential and commercial property tax collections. Gallagher originally intended for local governments to be able to raise and lower their local property taxes in response to fluctuating property values to ensure adequate local tax collections to support vital services including our K-12 schools and fire districts. However, the passage of TABOR in 1992 prevents local jurisdictions from raising property taxes without voter approval. Consequently, the rise in local property values has drastically reduced the residential assessment rate from 21% in 1987 to 7.15% today and shifted the tax burden to commercial properties, increasing costs for our small businesses across the state. SCR20-001 refers a question to Colorado voters to decide whether to repeal the Gallagher amendment in order to prevent a further decline in the residential assessment rate, as required by Gallagher. Failure to pass the repeal will result in a further decrease in local property taxes, increased state obligation to fund K-12 education, and heightened pressure to cut other services to maintain a balanced budget. SB20-223 is a companion bill to SCR-001 that will freeze the property tax assessment rate if Coloradans approve the ballot measure. Previous Next

The House Health & Human Services Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Representative Lisa Feret to reduce workplace violence for health care workers. SB25-166 unanimously passed by a vote of 13-0. < Back April 8, 2025 Feret Bill to Reduce Workplace Violence Against Health Care Workers Passes Committee DENVER, CO – The House Health & Human Services Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Representative Lisa Feret to reduce workplace violence for health care workers. SB25-166 unanimously passed by a vote of 13-0. “Our health care workers have dedicated their livelihood to keeping our communities healthy, and they deserve to feel safe in their workplace,” said Rep. Lisa Feret, D-Arvada. “Health care workers experience higher workplace violence rates than police officers, which is why I’m proud to sponsor this legislation to incentivize hospitals to create a safer work environment for health care workers. This will help retain Colorado’s health care workforce so Coloradans can continue to receive the life-saving health care they deserve.” SB25-166 would add a workplace violence performance metric to the state’s quality incentive program and empower the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to consult with stakeholders to address workplace violence. In consultation with stakeholders, HCPF would develop workplace violence performance metrics, explore funding opportunities, and provide legislative recommendations. The group would include Medicaid providers, hospital associations, rural hospital representatives, nurse representatives, and relevant state agencies. HCPF would be required to consult with the Department of Public Health and Environment and other stakeholders by September 1, 2025. The bill would also empower HCPF to assess hospitals’ adoption of a formal workplace violence policy. Health care and social service workers experience the highest rates of workplace violence-related injuries and are five times more likely to be injured on the job compared to other industries. Previous Next

< Back May 10, 2021 COLORADO PROUD GETS A BOOST DENVER, CO– The House Agriculture, Livestock, and Water Committee today passed legislation by a vote of 11-0 to help Colorado agriculture producers increase sales in markets across the globe. “CO Proud promotes buying locally grown, raised, and processed food and Rural agricultural products. It teaches and educates consumers that when they buy Colorado Proud they are receiving high-quality fresh products and helping Colorado’s economy, farmers, ranchers, greenhouses, manufacturers and processors. Colorado Proud has helped our state’s agriculture producers sell their products all across Colorado, the US and the world,” said Rep Donald Valdez, D- La Jara. “This bill is going to help rural Colorado recover faster from the pandemic and build back stronger. I’m proud that we were able to come together in a bipartisan way to give Colorado Proud a boost and help our farmers sell their goods in markets all across the globe.” Colorado’s robust agricultural sector has been the backbone of our economy for decades, and the pandemic has burdened the industry with unique challenges that require additional resources to overcome. To accelerate the economic recovery of our agricultural and rural communities, SB21-203 , which is sponsored by Representatives Donald Valdez and Rod Pelton, provides $2.5 million to the Department of Agriculture for the Colorado Proud program. Colorado Proud provides new opportunities for Colorado’s food and agricultural producers to increase sales globally and helps support the growth and resiliency of Colorado food systems. Previous Next

The House passes three bills to address housing affordability, water quality, and rental protections < Back April 29, 2023 Housing Affordability, Rental Protections, and Mobile Home Water Quality Bills Pass House The House passes three bills to address housing affordability, water quality issues, and rental protections DENVER, CO - The House today passed three bills to increase flexibility in the housing affordability programs approved by voters by the passage of Proposition 123, improve water quality in mobile home parks, and reduce overbearing rental application qualifications, making it easier for lower-income communities to access housing. “From mountain communities to the Front Range, Coloradans are struggling to find housing that they can afford,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, sponsor of HB23-1304. “Voters approved of Proposition 123 in the 2022 election to direct resources to create more housing options for Coloradans that are affordable. This bill offers some flexibility for our mountain towns to address the housing shortage. I’m proud to deliver legislation that makes the path to homeownership easier for Coloradans around the state, and especially in rural and mountain communities.” HB23-1304 will ensure the housing affordability programs created through Proposition 123, which voters approved in the 2022 election, can be implemented effectively across the state and have the greatest impact by getting dollars out the door as soon as possible. The bill ensures that tribal governments can access Proposition 123 funds in addition to local governments. It also makes it possible for rural resort communities to access the historic funding of Proposition 123 to accommodate the high cost of living in these areas. Local governments across the state will also be able to partner with neighboring communities to reach their targeted growth rate of three percent. In 2022, voters approved Proposition 123, which created new housing affordability programs funded with surplus state income tax revenue. The proposition dedicated an estimated $300 million to help local governments purchase land for affordable homes, provide financing for low- and middle income multi-family housing and provide direct support to renters, supply debt financing for projects that qualify for housing tax credits, offer grants and loans for nonprofits to help people purchase homes, and fund programs for people experiencing homelessness. HB23-1304 passed the House by a vote of 61 to 4. “Access to safe drinking water is a basic human right,” said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, sponsor of HB23-1257 . “Mobile home park residents in my district have been forced to live in conditions where their water is colored red and smells like sewage, which is staining their clothing, breaking appliances, and making them and their family sick. No one should have to live like this. Our legislation would improve Colorado’s water quality standards to ensure that mobile park residents have access to clean and safe water.” “Veterans, senior citizens, people with a disability, and racial and ethnic minority groups are disproportionately represented in mobile home park communities where residents often do not trust the water in their homes,” said Rep. Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB23-1257 . “This legislation creates a framework to address water quality concerns to better protect vulnerable communities from water that can cause long term health problems.” HB23-1257 addresses water quality concerns in mobile home parks by establishing a water quality testing program and creates a path to remediation for mobile park owners to fix water quality issues discovered through the testing program. Under this bill, all mobile home parks must be tested by July 1, 2028. If the water test does not comply with drinking standards and contamination levels set by the US Environmental Protection Agency, mobile park owners would have to notify residents within 48 hours of receiving the test results in English, Spanish, and any other applicable language. The bill also creates the Mobile Home Water Quality Grant Program to help mobile home park owners, eligible non-profit groups, and local governments to address water quality and wastewater issues in mobile home parks. Mobile home park residents have been raising concern over the poor water quality in their homes in recent years. A 2022 study by the Colorado Latino Policy Agenda found that 30% of Latino Coloradans do not trust or drink the water in their homes, but that number rises to 40% with Latino mobile home residents. Water quality issues are especially difficult to remediate for mobile home park residents because they do not own the pipes or parts that connect their home to the water source. HB23-1257 passed the House by a vote of 45 to 18. “Sky-rocketing rent prices are quickly pricing Coloradans out of their communities,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, sponsor of SB23-184 . “People are picking up second or third jobs to meet the often excessive income requirements that landlords require just so they have a place to live. By capping income requirements and setting a limit on security deposits, we can create more realistic housing opportunities for hardworking Coloradans that want to stay in their community.” “Senior Coloradans, Coloradans with a disability, and others that rely on a fixed income through public assistance programs are finding it increasingly difficult to qualify for housing because their income isn’t matching the rising cost of housing,” said Rep. Lorena Garcia, D-Unincorporated Adams County, sponsor of SB23-184 . “People are desperate for housing, and some of our vulnerable Coloradans can’t just pick up additional work to offset the increasing cost of living. Our legislation is crucial in keeping our lower-income and fixed income communities healthy, safe, and housed.” Because there are no current regulations to prevent landlords from requiring prospective tenants to make three to five times as much as their annual rent, some hardworking Coloradans find it impossible to qualify for housing opportunities even if they can afford the rent through their income or housing assistance. SB23-184 would expand access to housing by limiting any minimum income requirement to two times the cost of the rent. For prospective tenants with a housing voucher or subsidy, this cap would only apply to their portion of the rent obligation, and landlords wouldn’t be able to inquire about or consider their credit score. Large security deposits can also price renters out of housing. This bill would break down cost-barriers by capping security deposits at two times the monthly rent. Although Coloradans who experience housing discrimination can sue or file a civil rights complaint, they’re not able to raise discrimination as a defense to an eviction. SB23-184 would further protect tenants from eviction by establishing that a violation of the bill's new prohibitions is an unfair housing practice and clarifying that fair housing violations, including source of income violations, are an affirmative defense to eviction. SB23-184 passed the House by a vote of 43 to 22. Previous Next

< Back June 4, 2020 POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY LEGISLATION (PASSED BY THE COLORADO GA 2015-2019) HB15-1285 : Widespread Use of Body Cameras Sponsors: Rep. Daniel Kagan , Sen. John Cooke Summary: Creates a grant program for law enforcement agencies to purchase body cameras and to train law enforcement officers in their use. Establishes a study group best practices on the use of body cameras and to develop those policies for law enforcement agencies. HB15-1287 : Police Training Improvements Sponsors: Rep. Angela Williams , Sen. John Cooke Summary: Expands the Peace Officers Standards and Training board from 20 to 24 members, expands the POST board’s duties to include completing a review and evaluation of the basic academy curriculum and establishing subject matter expertise committees to develop skills training programs, academic curriculums, and POST board rules. Duties also include the development of a community outreach program and development of a recruitment program that creates a diversified applicant pool. Requires the POST board to include anti-bias, community policing and de-escalation courses in regular in-service training. HB15-1290 : Stop Police Interference Cop Incident Recordings Sponsors: Rep. Joe Salazar , Rep. Daneya Esgar , Sen. Lucia Guzman , Sen. David Balmer Summary: Guarantees a person’s right to film any incident involving a police officer. If an officer seizes or destroys a recording without consent or a warrant, or if the officer interferes with the recording or retaliates against the person making the recording, that person is entitled to damages and a civil penalty of $15,000. SB15-185 : Police Data Collection And Community Policing Sponsors: Sen. Mike Johnston , Sen. Rhonda Fields Summary: Known as the ‘Community Law Enforcement Action Reporting’ Act, or CLEAR Act. Requires each law enforcement agency to report disaggregated offense and arrest information – the numbers and types of charges that resulted from arrests; the race and gender of the defendants; the associated incident report numbers; convictions at trial, acquittals, plea agreements, and dismissals; and the race and gender of the defendants. Also requires reporting on the number of parole hearings held and the race, ethnicity, and gender of the inmates who received parole hearings, as well as those who are granted or denied parole. SB15-217 : Data Collection After Officer-Involved Shootings Sponsors: Sen. Ellen Roberts , Sen. John Cooke , Rep. Angela Williams Summary: Requires that after an officer-involved shooting occurs, the peace officer’s law enforcement agency provides the division of criminal justice with demographic information on the officer and individual shot and search, citation, and arrest information related to the incident. Colorado law enforcement agencies will provide this information for all shootings that occurred between 2010 and 2015, and for each successive year until 2020. SB15-218 : Disclosure of Misrepresentations by Peace Officers Sponsors: Sen. Ellen Roberts , Sen. John Cooke , Rep. Angela Williams Summary: Requires a state or local law enforcement agency that formerly employed a peace officer who applies for employment to another Colorado agency to disclose to the hiring agency information indicating whether the officer’s employment history included any instances in which the officer made a knowing misrepresentation. SB15-219 : Peace Officer Shootings Transparency Measures Sponsors: Sen. Ellen Roberts , Sen. John Cooke , Rep. Joe Salazar Summary: Requires law enforcement agencies to develop protocols for involving other law enforcement agencies in the investigation of a peace officer-involved shooting, requiring that detectives investigating an officer-involved shooting not come from the officer’s own agency. Also requires a district attorney who declines to file criminal charges against a peace officer in a peace officer-involved shooting to make a written public disclosure of their findings that were the basis for not charging the officer. HB16-1117 : Record Custodial Interrogations Sponsors: Rep. Daniel Kagan , Rep. Lori Saine , Sen. Irene Aguilar , Sen. John Cooke Summary: Requires Colorado law enforcement agencies to make video recordings of all interrogations of suspects when they are investigating class 1 or class 2 felonies or felony sexual assaults, reducing the incidence of false confessions as well as bogus claims of coerced confessions. HB16-1262 : Law Enforcement Background Check Employment Waiver Sponsors: Rep. Angela Williams , Sen. John Cooke Summary: Requiring law enforcement job applicants to sign waivers allowing their previous employers to release the applicants’ personnel records, and giving the state Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Board the authority to deny certification to an applicant who entered into a deferred judgment. The bill addresses the problem of officers who have committed serious offenses but are able to hide their past by latching on with a different police force. HB16-1263 : Racial Profiling Prohibition Sponsors: Rep. Angela Williams , Sen. Jessie Ulibarri Summary: Updates the police profiling statute to forbid consideration of race, ethnicity, gender, national origin, language, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability in a law enforcement decision to pull a driver over or make a pedestrian stop. HB16-1264 : Ban Law Enforcement Use of Chokehold Sponsors: Rep. Jovan Melton , Sen. Mike Johnston Summary: Prohibits police officers from using a chokehold, except to save their own lives. HB16-1265 : Expunge Arrest Records Based On Mistaken Identity Sponsors: Rep. Jovan Melton , Rep. Daneya Esgar , Sen. Mike Johnston , Sen. John Cooke Summary: Allows someone who’s arrested in a case of mistaken identity to have the arrest deleted from his or her police record, free of charge. Currently, the arrest record remains unless the arrestee goes to court, at considerable expense, to have it removed. HB19-1119 : Peace Officer Investigation Open Records Sponsors: Rep. James Coleman , Sen. Mike Foote Summary: Makes some aspects of an internal investigation file of a peace officer’s conduct with the public subject to an open records request. Allows some information to be redacted, and also allows the custodian of a file in which there is an ongoing criminal case to deny inspection of the file. The file becomes open for inspection after all the charges are dismissed or the defendant is sentenced. Applies to files of internal investigations were started after 4-12-19. HB19-1244 : Expand Peace Officer Mental Health Support Program Sponsors: Rep. Jonathan Singer , Sen. Rhonda Fields , Sen. John Cooke Summary: Requires law enforcement agencies to develop policies to support officers involved in a shooting or fatal use of force. Policies must address pre-incident training and preparation, support for the officer at the scene of the incident, post-incident support and services, guidelines for temporary leave or duty reassignment, and guidelines for return to duty. All policies must be completed by 1-1-20. Agencies must review them on a biennial basis. SB19-091 : Support Peace Officers Involved in Use of Force Sponsors: Sen. Rhonda Fields , Sen. John Cooke , Rep. James Coleman , Rep. Terri Carver Summary: Opens the peace officers’ mental health support grant program to additional “eligible applicants”, which include other types of law enforcement agencies, a statewide association of police officers and former police officers, and organizations that provide services and programs that promote the mental health wellness of peace officers. SB19-166 : Peace Officers Standards And Training Board Revoke Certification For Untruthful Statement Sponsors: Rep. Dylan Roberts , Sen. Rhonda Fields , Sen. Bob Gardner Summary: Requires the Peace Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) board to revoke the certification of a peace officer if they knowingly made an untruthful statement or omitted a material fact on an official criminal justice record, while testifying under oath, or during an internal affairs investigation. The law enforcement agency certifies that it completed an administrative process, including any appeals process, as defined by a published policy of that agency and determined by a clear and convincing standard of the evidence. Previous Next

< Back March 4, 2020 PAY FOR COLLEGE ATHLETES IS ABOUT TO CROSS THE FINISH LINE The House today passed legislation to allow collegiate athletes to be compensated for the use of their image and likeness. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Leslie Herod and James Coleman, passed the House by a vote of 55-9 and now moves on to the Governor’s desk for final approval. “This bill sends a message to colleges across the country: student athletes have the right to share in the wealth that their presences bring into institutions of higher education,” said Rep. Herod, D-Denver . “Student athletes should be able to profit off of the brand they work so hard to create and cultivate. With the boom of the social media influencer profession, it’s more important than ever to give student athletes to earn from their likeness.” “This bill will give College athletes the opportunity to earn while they learn,” said Rep. Coleman, D-Denver . “This is a huge win and we hope that the bill will bring equity to the world of collegiate sports and allow more student athletes to stay in school without fear of financial instability.” Last October, the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) Board of Governors announced their intention to permit student athletes to profit from the use of their likeness. Prior to the NCAA announcement, California passed a bill that banned in-state schools from preventing athletes from accepting compensation from advertisers. It also allows them to hire agents. Illinois , New York , Florida and now Colorado have introduced bills to allow for athletes to profit from their likeness. SB20-123 would prevent higher education institutions in Colorado from upholding any rule, requirement, standard or other limitation that prevents a student athlete of the institution from earning compensation from the use of the athlete’s name, image or likeness. The bill would also prevent collegiate institutions from providing prospective athletes with compensation prior to their signing. Additionally, athletes will be able to secure athletic and legal representation, and any compensation the athlete receives cannot affect their eligibility to participate in collegiate sports. Athletes who decide to enter into an endorsement deal would have to let the athletic directors of their institutions know 72 hours after the contract is signed. Previous Next

The House Business Affairs & Labor Committee today passed legislation to study remediation and restoration standards in homes affected by wildfire. < Back March 6, 2024 Bill to Study Wildfire Damage, Address Health Risks Passes Committee DENVER, CO – The House Business Affairs & Labor Committee today passed legislation to study remediation and restoration standards in homes affected by wildfire. HB24-1315, sponsored by Representative Brown and Amabile, aims to outline health concerns caused by in-home wildfire damage and create new remediation procedures. “The list of those impacted by the Marshall Fire goes beyond just those whose properties were completely destroyed – there are many families whose homes were partially damaged by wildfire smoke, soot or ash,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “Long exposure to wildfire smoke and ash can lead to health risks, including cardiovascular and respiratory effects. This bill aims to help establish standard protocols regarding remediation for cleaning up these damaged properties. With this bill, property owners, insurance companies and the Division of Insurance will be on the same page about proper next steps for making wildfire-impacted homes safe again.” “Even if your wildfire-impacted home is still standing, it could be considered a health risk because of the lingering contaminants from smoke, soot and ash,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “This bill would create a state-run study to uncover standard protocols for cleaning spaces contaminated by wildfire and make sure they’re not a health risk to residents. From indoor air quality to structural contamination, this bill would help establish much needed guidelines for making wildfire-impacted properties safe for Coloradans.” HB24-1315 , passed by a vote of 11-0 would direct the Division of Insurance to study and make recommendations regarding guidelines and standards for insurers in covering the remediation of homeowner losses due to smoke, soot, and ash. The 2021 Marshall Fire completely destroyed nearly 1,100 residential properties in Boulder County in addition to the hundreds of homes that were impacted by wildfire smoke, soot and ash. Many of the Marshall Fire survivors have been exposed to wildfire-related contaminants found in smoke, soot, and ash which can lead to health issues. Some of these contaminants can become embedded in the infrastructure of homes, making it incredibly difficult to remediate and ensure a healthy and livable space for residents. This bill would help lay the groundwork for uniform standards surrounding proper cleaning of structural elements or personal property and indoor air quality. HB24-1315 would help address health concerns related to in-home wildfire damage, provide clarity and consistency for homeowners, renters, and insurance companies, and support housing availability by creating a procedure for properly cleaning homes damaged by wildfire smoke, ash or soot. Previous Next

< Back June 14, 2021 GOV SIGNS BILLS TO CREATE JOBS IN RENEWABLE ENERGY INDUSTRY DENVER, CO — Governor Polis today signed three bills into law that will invest nearly $50 million to create jobs in the renewable energy sector and save consumers money on their utility bills. The new laws are part of the Colorado Comeback state stimulus plan to help Colorado recover faster and build back stronger. HB21-1253 , sponsored by Representatives Meg Froelich and Matt Gray , invests $5 million in grants to local governments for job-creating projects in the renewable energy sector. The grants would be distributed by the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) and are intended to be awarded by August 15, 2021. When awarding grants, DOLA will prioritize communities in which renewable and clean energy infrastructure is sparse and consider geographical diversity. “This bill helps our local governments save money on energy as we meet Colorado’s climate goals,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “The bills Governor Polis signed today will help Colorado build back stronger, stimulate our economy and create jobs in communities across our state by constructing new renewable energy projects.” “By providing local governments, especially in rural areas, additional resources to develop and construct renewable energy projects, we can create jobs, build renewable energy infrastructure and extend clean, reliable and efficient power to more communities across Colorado,” said Rep. Matt Gray, D-Broomfield. SB21-231 , sponsored by Representatives Mike Weissman and Edie Hooton, provides $3 million in additional funding to supplement the Colorado Energy Office’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), which offers free weatherization support for Colorado’s low-income residents. WAP works to maximize energy cost savings for each client by providing them with cost-effective energy efficiency services for their homes, reducing wasted energy and lowering heating bill costs while improving the overall comfort and safety of a home year-round. Services include solutions like air sealing, furnace safety testing, LED light bulb retrofits and more. Under its current $20 million budget, the program only serves about 2,000 homes per year, although about 500,000 Colorado households could qualify. “Colorado’s Weatherization Assistance Program helps thousands of lower-income households improve the energy efficiency of their homes each year,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “Weatherization saves consumers money, reduces energy use and creates jobs in the energy retrofit industry. The bill Governor Polis signed today will provide a $3 million boost to this program so that more Coloradans can access assistance to undertake energy efficiency projects that will lower their utility costs and save energy.” “By fostering more energy efficient homes, we can create jobs, reduce our energy use, create healthier and more comfortable living spaces and protect our air and water from emissions that cause climate change,” said Rep. Edie Hooton, D-Boulder. “This funding will help Colorado recover faster by putting people to work on home energy efficiency projects and save consumers money on their utility bills.” Sponsored by Representatives Alex Valdez and Tracey Bernett, SB21-230 invests $40 million in clean energy finance initiatives through the Colorado Energy Office. The majority of the funds will go to the Colorado Clean Energy Fund (CCEF), which uses the “green bank” model already in operation in over a dozen states to finance clean energy projects and bridge the gaps between businesses and private capital providers. By leveraging limited public funds, the CCEF can draw over $120 million of total investment and create over 2,000 jobs in Colorado communities most impacted by climate change. The remaining funds will be allocated to proven programs within the Colorado Energy Office that support clean energy retrofits, energy-efficient new construction, clean energy lending and funding for the installation of EV charging stations at facilities across the state. “The $40 million we’re investing today will create thousands of jobs in Colorado and help our state meet our climate goals by constructing critical renewable energy projects in communities all across our state,” said Rep. Alex Valdez, D-Denver. “These funds will be leveraged to draw down significant private capital and bridge the gap between businesses and lenders to get major projects off the ground.” “Green banks, like the one we’re supporting in Colorado, leverage their resources to draw down five to ten times as much in private capital to finance job-creating renewable energy projects that are better for our environment and power our communities,” said Rep. Tracey Bernett, D-Longmont. “I’m proud Governor Polis signed my legislation into law that will help Colorado consumers save money on clean energy retrofits, improve access to electric vehicle charging stations and generate more renewable energy.” Previous Next