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< Back March 18, 2022 TWO BILLS TO BOOST ACCESS TO BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE PASS COMMITTEE Legislation will improve access to care by investing $100 million to expand inpatient and residential treatment, and better integrate physical and behavioral health care DENVER, CO – The House Public & Behavioral Health & Human Services Committee passed two bills today that will boost access to behavioral health care by expanding the state’s inpatient and residential treatment capacity and better integrating physical and behavioral health care. Both bills are based on recommendations from the Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force and seize a once-in-a-generation opportunity to address Colorado’s most pressing needs. “We’re making a $65 million investment to expand inpatient and residential treatment care and services in Colorado,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Right now, we don’t have enough treatment beds to meet the needs of Coloradans with substance use disorders and serious mental illness. This transformational investment will fund 16 beds in Fort Logan and 125 residential care beds across the state so more Coloradans can get access to the treatment they need and deserve. Expanding treatment and residential care capacity is just one of the many ways we’re working to ensure Coloradans have access to the lifesaving care they need, when they need it.” “Improving the integration between physical and behavioral health care will help build healthier communities and improve outcomes,” said Rep. Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “Thanks to the $35 million investment in this bill, Coloradans can access critical behavioral health care and primary care from the same place, saving them time, money and hassle. Behavioral and physical health are equally important in overall health and this bill makes it easier for Coloradans to access critical care such as mental health counseling and substance use disorder screening and treatment.” Adult Inpatient and Residential Care: HB22-1303 , sponsored by Representatives Judy Amabile and Shane Sandridge, invests $65 million to expand inpatient and residential treatment options. Currently, Colorado does not have enough residential treatment beds to treat individuals with serious mental illness or substance use disorders, including individuals with co-occuring conditions or in need of civil commitment. The bill supports the addition of 16 beds at the Colorado Mental Health Institute at Fort Logan and 125 residential treatment beds across the state. These beds will be available for adults with urgent behavioral health needs who need clinical support to become stabilized. They will provide integrated care to flexibly serve all populations, including individuals involved in the criminal justice system and those awaiting competency restoration services. HB22-1303 passed committee by a vote of 9 to 1. Integrating Primary Care and Behavioral Health Care: HB22-1302 , sponsored by Representatives Chris Kennedy and Perry Will, invests $35 million to improve behavioral health outcomes by better integrating physical and behavioral health care. The bill will provide grants to primary care practices to integrate behavioral health care into their clinical models, helping Coloradans access whole person care and early behavioral health interventions before a crisis. The transformational investment will increase access to mental health and substance use disorder screening and treatment and help coordinate referrals to other levels of care. The funding could be used to better streamline and co-locate behavioral and physical health care services in outpatient, pediatric and primary care settings. HB22-1302 passed committee by a vote of 10 to 1. Previous Next

The Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee today advanced bills to facilitate the removal of harmful mining waste, protect fish and wildlife habitats, and explore a sustainable funding plan for future water projects. < Back September 18, 2024 JOINT RELEASE: Water and Agriculture Review Committee Advances Bills to Remove Mining Waste, Protect Habitats, and Plan for Future Water Projects DENVER, CO – The Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee today advanced bills to facilitate the removal of harmful mining waste, protect fish and wildlife habitats, and explore a sustainable funding plan for future water projects. Bill 4 , sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representatives Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, and Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, would create a new permit process in the Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety in the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to facilitate the removal of mining waste piles and refuse, both of which have significant negative impacts on the environment. The new reclamation-only permit would lower barriers to cleanup efforts to reduce the backlog of over 20,000 abandoned mines in Colorado. Also sponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, the bipartisan bill would enter Colorado into the Interstate Mining Compact. States in the compact agree to establish a program for the conservation and use of mined lands, including the conduct of mining and handling of waste. “Waste and runoff from mine tailings can have detrimental impacts on downstream waters,” said Bridges, sponsor of Bill 4. “The bill we advanced today will promote the cleanup of pollution-causing tailings while expanding economic opportunities for the companies that do these cleanups. By making a simple change to permitting processes and entering Colorado into the Interstate Mining Compact, we can expedite mining reclamation and ensure our environment remains clean and safe for generations to come.” “Colorado’s outdoors is part of our identity, and without resources for our water and agricultural lands, our identity and way of life is threatened,” said Chair McCormick, sponsor of Bills 4 and 12. “One of our new bills will add Colorado as a member of the Interstate Mining Compact and will incentivize the cleanup of abandoned mines to improve and protect our precious waters. We also moved forward with legislation that would create the Future of Severance Taxes and Water Funding Task Force to help secure water funding.” “From agricultural needs to recreational use, access to clean water is crucial for Southwest Colorado,” said Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, sponsor of Bills 4, 12, and 13. “As a member of the Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee, I’ve heard from organizations and community members throughout the state about concerns and requests for policy solutions that can help support Colorado’s agricultural sector. Today, we advanced legislation that will improve water quality, identify possible funding sources to support important water projects, and continue funding for the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Program to support rural Colorado.” The committee also advanced Bill 12 , sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, Senator Simpson, and Representatives McCormick and Martinez, which would create the Future of Severance Taxes and Water Funding Task Force in the DNR. The nine-member task force created by the bill would hire a contractor to conduct a study and develop recommendations to present to the legislature. The contractor would explore options to continue funding water needs for the state while severance tax revenue is expected to decrease. “Protecting Colorado’s vital resources and habitats is one of my top priorities,” said Roberts, sponsor of Bills 12 and 13. “The legislation we’re advancing today will explore how we can future-proof funding sources for critical water projects and make permanent our financial support for fish and wildlife habitats throughout the state. Colorado’s natural resources power everything we do, from agriculture to our outdoor recreation economy, and I’m excited about the potential of these new bipartisan bills to secure funding and support critical preservation projects.” Sponsored by Roberts, Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Representatives Martinez and Ty Winter, R-Trinidad, Bill 13 would make permanent the Wildlife Habitat Stamp Program and the Wildlife Habitat Stamp Committee. The program provides funding for Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s (CPW) efforts to work with private landowners, local governments, and conservation organizations to protect fish and wildlife habitats. Funding comes from the CPW’s habitat stamp sales, which must be purchased in order to buy a hunting or fishing license. The Committee is charged with reviewing relevant habitat projects and making recommendations to the CPW. “The Wildlife Habitat Stamp Program is a great tool to raise funding for critical habitat conservation projects,” said Marchman, sponsor of Bill 13. “This program and its accompanying committee have had proven success in past years, which is why I’m excited that we’re now bringing forward legislation to make them permanent. Fish and wildlife habitat conservation is an important way for us to invest in Colorado's future and ensure our natural spaces remain natural.” The committee also approved five additional bills. The bills will now go to the Legislative Council for approval before being introduced next session. Once introduced in the 2025 session, interim bills will follow the legislative process in the same manner as all other bills. Previous Next

< Back March 17, 2022 BILL TO REDUCE YOUTH RECIDIVISM, PREVENT CRIME PASSES HOUSE DENVER, CO – The House passed a bill today on Third Reading and Final Passage that would improve public safety and prevent juvenile justice involvement. HB22-1003 passed by a vote of 41 to 22 and is part of the Colorado House Democrats’ first ten bills . “When it comes to public safety, we need to invest in communities first,” said Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, D-Denver . “This bill will provide funding for support and intervention programs to prevent youth recidivism and build a safer Colorado for everyone. This is a modern approach to public safety that will help us build safer communities and prevent more youth from entering the juvenile justice system in the first place.” “We’re taking a multi-layered approach to public safety and that includes making smart investments to reduce recidivism,” said Rep. Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. “This bill invests in collaborative, community-based programs that give youth the support and services they need. We’re meeting Colorado’s youth where they are, making investments to reduce crime and delinquency and moving Colorado forward.” HB22-1003 , sponsored by Representatives Lindsey Daugherty and Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, would establish the Delinquency Prevention and Young Offender Intervention Pilot Grant Program. The program would award two-year grants to local governments, American Indian Tribes, school districts, charter schools and nonprofit organizations to fund projects that prevent crime among youth. Preference will be given to projects that demonstrate a community-based response involving collaboration with multiple agencies to reduce crime. Previous Next

< Back April 29, 2021 HOUSE PASSES SIX COLORADO COMEBACK STATE STIMULUS BILLS Legislation will create jobs, help Colorado recover faster and build back stronger DENVER, CO– The House today passed six Colorado Comeback state stimulus proposals to boost Colorado’s events industry, invest in workers, provide free mental health sessions for Colorado students, and make historic investments in the Colorado Water Plan. The bills are part of the state stimulus package that will invest roughly $800 million into helping Colorado recover faster and build back stronger. HB21-1253 , sponsored by Representatives Matt Gray and Meg Froelich, would invest $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 allocated by August 15, 2021. The bill passed by a vote of 40-23. “Renewable energy projects create jobs, sustain communities, and position Colorado for a cleaner future,” said Rep. Matt Gray, D-Broomfield. “HB21-1253 will boost economies across our state by enabling renewable energy infrastructure projects where they’re needed most. We have a tremendous opportunity to build the clean energy infrastructure that will power Colorado into the future.” The lack of qualified talent in Colorado has been one of the primary barriers to business growth. HB21-1264 , sponsored by Representatives Sullivan and Young, would invest $25 million to provide Coloradans with reskilling, upskilling, and next-skilling opportunities that lead to industry-recognized credentials and employment opportunities in growing industries that are looking to hire. The money would go to the Colorado Workforce Development Council, which will work with local workforce boards to distribute funds across the state to local workforce centers and nonprofit entities. The funds will allow these entities to serve up 6,000 Coloradans through the completion of training programs. The bill passed by a vote of X-X. “Building back stronger means making sure that Colorado workers are ready and prepared to fill jobs in the fastest growing industries so we can boost our economy and get people back to work,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “This bill fuels the job and skills training infrastructure we need to be competitive, create jobs, and increase wages for hardworking people.” HB21-1262 , sponsored by Representatives Susan Lontine and Mike Lynch, supports Colorado’s agriculture industry by providing $3.5 million to the Colorado Stock Show–a staple to the state’s agricultural industry and Denver’s economy–as well as $3.5 million for the State Fair, and $2 million to agricultural events organizations across the state. The bill passed by a vote of 55-8. “The National Western Stock Show brings nearly $100 million in economic activity to Denver while agriculture events and programs help create jobs all across Colorado,” said Rep. Susan Lontine, D-Denver. “These events strengthen our western culture and are a big part of who we are as Coloradans. I’m proud the legislature is standing up to support Colorado agriculture, the Stock Show, and local events that are vitally important to our communities.” HB21-1263 , sponsored by Representatives Dylan Roberts and Matt Soper, would create the Meeting & Events Incentive Program within the Office of Economic Development & International Trade’s (OEDIT) Colorado Tourism Office (CTO). The program would provide rebates to incentivize planners to host events in Colorado, bolstering the tourism economy and industry, and supporting thousands of small businesses across the State. The bill appropriates $10 million for the program. The bill passed by a vote of 48-15. Eligible events must generate at least 25 overnight stays. The bill stipulates that the Tourism Office must support events equitably and proportionally across the state and prioritize events with potential to generate local business earnings and tax revenues. Eligible events would receive up to a 10% rebate of the hard costs of the event and a 25% rebate of the COVID-19 related costs. Finally, a small portion of the funds may be used to provide up-front support to attract large events that impact multiple counties and have potential to generate significant economic impact. “Events fill rooms in hotels, tables in restaurants, and shoppers in stores, and that’s exactly what communities across Colorado need right now,” said Rep. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon. “Big events, conferences, festivals and more had to cancel their bookings in our state during the last year and those in the business of events took a hard hit. This bill will provide a direct and impactful incentive for people and organizations to choose Colorado for their events and that investment will benefit businesses all across our state in a big way.” HB21-1258 , sponsored by Representatives Dafna Michaelson Jenet and Kevin Van Winkle, would create a temporary youth mental health services program in the Office of Behavioral Health within the Department of Human Services to facilitate access to mental health services for identified needs, including those that may have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. The program would provide any young person age 18 and under with an online mental health screening and would then reimburse providers for up to three mental health sessions. This support is intended to prepare children for the return to in-person learning and a review of stress management tools, and to make a plan for ongoing treatment when necessary. We estimate that this program can support up to 25,537 children . The bill passed by a vote of 48-15. HB21-1260 , sponsored by Speaker Alec Garnett and Representative Marc Catlin, would provide $20 million to the state water conservation board to implement the state water plan. The funds will be divided between the Water Plan Implementation Cash Fund, which may be used for water plan grants, and the Water Supply Reserve Fund, which provides grants and loans to address water supply issues. The bill passed by a vote of 63-0. Previous Next

< Back Rep. McCormick: Ballot initiatives 144 and 145 will not help animals Jun 17, 2024 See more This story was originally published in the Longmont Times-Call here . Forty years ago, I swore a lifelong oath when starting my career as a veterinarian. Part of that oath affirms that I will use my scientific knowledge and skill to benefit society through the protection of animal health and welfare. I also promised to prevent and relieve animal suffering and promote our collective public health. And, I swore to do these things keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics. I promised to forever do what is right for animals, their people and the public. It is with that oath and my lifetime of service to animals and people that I must now sound the alarm to all Coloradans. There are two ballot initiatives being circulated collecting signatures for the fall ballot. These initiatives are being driven by big corporate interests from outside of Colorado. They are Initiative 144 and 145 and are being misleadingly sold to voters as a way to “increase access to veterinary care.” The General Assembly worked very hard this spring in a bipartisan, collaborative way to develop a robust approach to how best to utilize teletechnologies in the delivery and expansion of veterinary care. That bill was signed into law by the governor earlier this year. HB24-1048 Providing Veterinary Services through Telehealth passed the House of Representatives unanimously. It is widely supported by veterinarians, veterinary technicians, farmers and ranchers, shelters and humane societies and animal caretakers. The bill strengthens and clarifies that veterinary telemedicine should supplement and not replace in-person care. We absolutely should use telehealth more, and this law will make sure it is done right to protect pets. Initiative 144 also has to do with Veterinary Telehealth but is a danger to pets. 144 would dismantle that well structured law the governor just signed and eliminate the need for a doctor to ever see your animal in person, essentially eliminating the most important tools your veterinarian has to get to the bottom of what is going — their hands, eyes, ears and nose. 144 would not benefit people or their animals and would create real safety concerns. It would only help corporate entities focused on profits, allowing them to push medicine to animal owners via online platforms. Animals would be the ones suffering in this situation, as they would not be getting accurate, affordable, timely care. The second ballot initiative, 145, is also funded by outside corporate interests and will allow creation of a new animal health position called a veterinary professional associate or VPA. 145 would create an individual who is not licensed to practice medicine, has not gone through an accredited veterinary education program, has not passed a national exam, will not have sufficient liability protections, who would not be able to prescribe medicines due to Federal law and who will be under-trained through primarily an online master’s program, who would then be allowed to actually practice veterinary medicine on your pets. This VPA would be allowed to do surgery on your animals, diagnose diseases, interpret lab test results and prescribe a treatment plan — all without a license. Things only a veterinarian is sufficiently trained and licensed to do. Corporate interests want VPAs to practice medicine without the consumer protection safeguards that exist for licensed veterinarians. If this sounds crazy to you, then you can understand my grave concern for the animals of our state for whom we are responsible and my sincere alarm for public safety in the consideration of a VPA. Skilled Veterinary technicians are already more qualified than this contemplated VPA. They have comprehensive training, take a national exam and are regulated by the state. We passed another strong bipartisan bill to elevate vet techs with HB24-1047 Veterinary Technician Scope of Practice. Ballot initiatives 144 and 145 will not help animals nor the people who care for them. Not only do we not need these measures, they are dangerous. Please do not sign these petitions. Karen McCormick is the state representative for House District 11. She can be reached at rep.karenmccormick@gmail.com . Previous Next

< Back Rep. Meghan Lukens: Strengthening rural health care Mar 27, 2025 See more This story was originally published in the Vail Daily here . As we move through the 2025 legislative session, I am excited to share updates on the vital health care initiatives I am advancing to support our Western Slope communities. Health care accessibility, affordability, and quality remain top priorities for families across Eagle, Moffat, Rio Blanco, and Routt counties. This session, I am championing several health care bills that address the unique challenges faced by our rural and mountain communities. Preserving access to rural independent pharmacies For many in our Western Slope communities, the local pharmacy is not just a place to pick up prescriptions — it’s an essential health care resource. That is why I am proud to sponsor HB25-1222 , which helps preserve access to rural independent pharmacies, a bill idea brought to me directly by a constituent in Oak Creek. This bill does a few things. First, it ensures fair reimbursement for rural independent pharmacies and allows the delivery of life-saving drugs by rural independent pharmacies to underserved communities. Next, it makes sure audit recovery practices are fair so rural independent pharmacies don’t close. Finally, it gives pharmacies much needed flexibility to serve their communities through remote operations. These protections will help ensure that our community members can continue to access vital medications and health care services close to home, without having to travel long distances or face unnecessary delays. Supporting our rural health care infrastructure Rural hospitals and health care facilities are lifelines for our communities, providing essential services that save lives and improve health outcomes. However, these facilities often face unique financial and operational challenges that can threaten their sustainability. That’s why I am sponsoring HB25-1085 , which modernizes outdated rules for Colorado county hospitals by allowing government officials to serve as board trustees, making board meetings more flexible, and extending budget deadlines. These common-sense changes were requested directly by a constituent wanting to support Colorado’s rural county hospitals to help them operate more efficiently and effectively. Building on this work, I am also proud to sponsor HB25-1223 , which establishes a task force to study the current capital needs of our rural and frontier hospitals. This legislation will help determine the financial resources required to bring these facilities up to date with existing standards and codes. By identifying these needs, we can make targeted investments to ensure our rural healthcare infrastructure remains strong for generations to come. Additionally, I am sponsoring SB25-078 , which allows nonprofit, small hospitals to enter into collaborative agreements with other hospitals to increase patient health care access. These partnerships will help smaller facilities leverage resources, share expertise, and ultimately provide better care for patients across our rural communities. Protecting our student athletes The health and safety of our young people is a top priority, and that includes during school sporting events. SB25-191 requires high schools — particularly at sporting events — to follow nationally recognized guidelines for all automated external defibrillators in schools. This means there will not be AEDs behind locked doors, and it will be widely known where AEDs are located. With sudden cardiac arrest being the leading cause of death among student athletes, these changes will help schools implement life-saving measures more efficiently. Every minute counts during a cardiac emergency, and having AEDs readily available at sporting events could save a life. Continuing our work together These health care initiatives address specific challenges our communities face while being mindful of our state’s fiscal realities. Each bill responds directly to feedback from health care providers, patients, and community leaders across House District 26, focusing on practical solutions that will make a real difference in people’s lives. As always, I believe we make the best policy when we listen to those closest to the issues. If you have insights about health care in our communities or thoughts on any of these bills, please share them with me. You can reach me at meghan.lukens.house@coleg.gov or attend one of my upcoming town halls. For more frequent updates throughout the legislative session, join my newsletter by sending me an email. Let’s keep in touch and keep making a difference in House District 26. Onward! Meghan Lukens of Steamboat Springs is the representative for Colorado’s House District 26, which encompasses Moffat, Rio Blanco, Eagle, and Routt counties. Previous Next

The House State, Civic, Military & Veterans Affairs Committee today passed legislation to increase security measures at gun shows and strengthen existing gun violence prevention laws. HB25-1238, sponsored by Representatives Junie Joseph and Sean Camacho, passed by a vote of 8-3. < Back February 25, 2025 Bill to Reduce Firearm Theft and Illegal Sales, Improve Security at Gun Shows Passes Committee DENVER, CO - The House State, Civic, Military & Veterans Affairs Committee today passed legislation to increase security measures at gun shows and strengthen existing gun violence prevention laws. HB25-1238, sponsored by Representatives Junie Joseph and Sean Camacho, passed by a vote of 8-3. “From safe storage and waiting periods to reporting requirements for lost or stolen firearms, I’m proud of the work that Colorado Democrats have done to make our communities safer for all, and this bill ensures that these laws are implemented in gun shows where thousands of firearm and ammunition products are present,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder. “Gun shows can be helpful for Coloradans who are interested in learning more about firearms, and this legislation works to ensure that gun show promoters organize appropriate security for the event and vendors adhere to firearm laws that exist to keep our communities safe.” “One of the best ways we can prevent gun violence is by requiring firearm dealers and gun show promoters to utilize proven methods that keep guns out of the wrong hands, like running background checks, securely storing firearms and ammunition, and boosting security measures like video cameras,” said Rep. Sean Camacho, D-Denver. “This legislation helps enforce responsible gun-selling practices and that makes gun shows more resilient to illegal sales or theft. With this bill, we’re bolstering Colorado’s gun violence prevention laws to keep our communities safe and save Colorado lives from senseless gun violence.” HB25-1238 would help reduce gun violence and theft by creating requirements for gun show promoters and vendors and strengthening existing state firearm laws. The bill would require a gun show promoter to create a security plan at least 14 days before the gun show and submit the plan to each local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the show. The security plan would include a list of gun show vendors who are expected to participate, an estimated number of attendees, the number of security personnel secured for the show, and a layout of the event that includes entrances and exits and locations of video camera security. The bill also requires the gun show promoter to: Obtain liability insurance for the gun show, Implement security measures at the gun show, Prohibit people under the age of 21 years old from entering the show unless accompanied by a parent, grandparent, or guardian, Verify that firearm sales adhere to the 3-day waiting period law, and Post certain notices at the gun show regarding state firearm laws. To participate in a gun show, a vendor would be required to certify to the gun show promoter that they meet the requirements to be a gun show vendor and will comply with federal, state, and local firearm laws during the gun show. Vendors would also be required to display copies of their federal firearms license and state firearms dealer permit and conduct a background check for each firearm transfer at a gun show. The bill would prohibit a vendor from participating in the gun show if they do not hold a federal firearms license or a valid state firearms dealer permit. If they have been convicted of a second offense of unlawful gun show vendor activity or have not completed a gun show certification, the vendor would also not be allowed to participate. The bill outlines requirements for displaying firearms, including: Keeping the firearms unloaded, Securely attaching firearms to a countertop or wall, Safeguarding ammunition enclosed in a display case, behind the vendor’s counter, or other strategies to restrict customer access without the help of a vendor, and Providing written information regarding safe storage and lost or stolen firearm reporting requirements in Colorado law with each firearm sale. The bill helps enforce recent laws that Colorado Democrats have passed to tackle gun violence, including implementing a minimum three-day waiting period , promoting responsible gun ownership by requiring firearms to be securely stored in residences and vehicles , creating a requirement to report lost or stolen firearms , requiring firearm dealers to hold a state license to ensure they have the education and tools to prevent gun violence, and strengthening Colorado’s gun background check system to prevent people convicted of violent crimes to access guns for five years. Previous Next

< Back May 26, 2022 JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO SAVE COLORADANS MONEY ON HOUSING New laws will extend the Colorado Affordable Tax Credit program, help transform our state’s housing infrastructure ARVADA, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed a pair of bipartisan bills to save Coloradans money on housing and create, modify and improve housing that families can afford. SB22-159 , sponsored by Senators Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, and Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Representatives David Ortiz, D-Littleton, and Perry Will, R-New Castle, will invest $150 million to create the Transformational Affordable Housing Revolving Loan Program to develop and integrate housing-related infrastructure, provide gap financing for housing development projects, and preserve and rehabilitate existing affordable housing. “Families are feeling squeezed as housing prices continue to skyrocket across our state, leaving far too many without housing options they can afford,” Bridges said. “With this new law, we’re going to make a historic investment to cut costs and make Colorado a more affordable place to live, work and raise a family. By developing more housing that is affordable to families, we can ensure that more Coloradans have a safe place to call home.” “Today, we’re making the largest investment in affordable housing in Colorado state history – and I couldn’t be more proud of our bipartisan efforts,” Ortiz said. “Thanks to recommendations from the Affordable Housing Transformational Task Force, we’re investing $150 million to create, modify and improve Colorado’s affordable housing stock. This once-in-a-generation investment will boost the supply of affordable housing and make an affordable home a reality for so many Coloradans across our state.” “To solve Colorado’s crisis in affordable housing, we must encourage developers and the construction industry to expand our inventory,” Zenzinger said. “The task force made this program a top priority because of the regenerative nature of the funds attached. The availability of affordable housing allows us to make progress on the solution of a myriad other problems in Colorado, and I am pleased to see it signed into law.” SB22-159 is based on recommendations from the Affordable Housing Transformational Task Force . Polis also signed HB22-1051 , championed by Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, and House Minority Leader Hugh McKean, R-Loveland, and Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Dennis Hisey, R-Fountain, which will save Coloradans money on housing by extending the Colorado Affordable Housing Tax Credit until 2031. “The seven-year extension to the Affordable Housing Tax Credit is critical to its success right now, because everyone involved in the production and allocation of affordable housing is looking for stability in the system,” Zenzinger said. “We can’t allow ourselves to get halfway down the road toward a solution, only to have the rug pulled from under developers, bankers and other stakeholders.” “When it comes to affordable housing in Colorado, demand vastly exceeds supply which is why we’re extending this successful tax credit program to ensure more families have access to quality, affordable housing,” Bird said. “To date, the CHFA tax credit has directly supported the development and preservation of over 8,000 affordable homes across our state and has attracted more than $1.07 billion in private sector equity to support the state’s housing needs. This law extends the tax credit and will make housing more affordable for many more Coloradans.” The new law will extend the tax credit program – set to expire in 2024 – for an additional 7 years, which will continue to help leverage private funds to support the development and preservation of affordable rental housing. This simple extension will result in at least $420 million in additional tax credits that can be allocated by the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) over the next nine years. According to CHFA , the Colorado Affordable Housing Tax Credit has directly supported the development of 8,294 affordable rental units and allowed CHFA to support 28,267 total units using state and federal funds. Estimates suggest the development of these units generates more than $3.6 billion in economic activity for the state and supports almost 24,000 jobs, while generating more than $1 billion in private sector equity investment in Colorado. The program is an important source of funding for constructing new affordable rental housing in communities across the state. Previous Next

< Back February 26, 2020 HOUSE VOTES TO REPEAL DEATH PENALTY DENVER, CO– The House today voted 38-27 on SB20-100 to repeal the death penalty in Colorado. The bill is now awaiting the governor’s signature. “The death penalty is applied inconsistently and it is the one punishment in our entire justice system that can’t be undone or corrected,” said bill sponsor Rep. Adrienne Benavidez, D-Brighton. “Across the nation, over 165 people have been wrongly convicted and sentenced to death since 1973. It’s time to end the death penalty in Colorado and set an example for other states to follow.” “I, like many of my colleagues who supported this bill today, believe that our state should no longer take part in capital punishment,” said bill sponsor Rep. Jeni James Arndt, D-Fort Collins. “I do not believe the state should hold the power of life and death.” “Today, the House sent legislation to the governor to repeal the death penalty in Colorado,” said Speaker KC Becker, D-Boulder. “Humans are not infallible, and no system of justice can ever be perfect. The finality of the death penalty means that a mistake could not be corrected, and the potential for injustice is too great to bear.” “Rarely are we asked to decide an issue that is as momentous, impactful, and as hard as this, and I have empathy and understanding for my colleagues who may find a different answer,” said Majority Leader Alec Garnett, D-Denver . “I have been humbled and moved by the testimony and debate that we have heard. My hope is for a society where we spend our resources on rehabilitation, not on appeals; on treating drug addictions, and not administering lethal injections.” The House debated SB20-100 for 12 hours Monday night and into Tuesday morning. According to the Death Penalty Information Center, since 1973, more than 165 people have been wrongly sentenced to death and later exonerated. Of those exonerated, 87 were black. The bill previously passed the Senate on a bipartisan vote of 19-13. ### Previous Next

< Back March 17, 2022 HOUSE PASSES $27 MILLION TO SUPPORT NURSING FACILITIES DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation sponsored by Representatives Leslie Herod and Julie McCluskie to provide an additional $27 million to skilled nursing facilities that are Medicaid providers. The vote was 59-4. “Some skilled nursing facilities are at risk of closing because they don’t have enough staff or revenue to cover their expenses,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “We’re taking swift action to stabilize nursing facilities in Colorado by distributing $27 million in state and federal funds. This assistance will keep thousands of Coloradans from being forced out of where they live. “Colorado’s skilled nursing facilities need assistance, and we’re delivering with $27 million in state and federal funds to help them stay open and attract the workforce they need,” said JBC Chair Rep. Julie McCluskie. “This funding will be directed at the facilities with the greatest need to shore up their finances so Coloradans won’t lose access to affordable skilled nursing options.” HB22-1247 would direct additional payments to skilled nursing facilities that are Medicaid providers to help them address staffing shortages, provide quality care and support their short term solvency. Our state investment of $17 million will draw additional $10 million in federal dollars, bringing the total additional funding for nursing homes to $27 million. The bill also instructs the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to seek additional opportunities to draw down federal funds. The legislation also requires the department to establish reporting and result tracking requirements. Nursing facilities across Colorado, especially those with Medicaid patients, have faced funding and staffing challenges, and some have struggled to stay open. At the same time, nurse staffing agencies and travel nursing agencies have been able to attract providers with higher wages than what facilities that care for Medicaid clients can pay, exacerbating the staffing challenges at nursing facilities that are Medicaid providers. Previous Next

The House Education Committee today passed Representative Martinez’s bipartisan bill to help graduating high school students afford the training they need to land jobs within good-paying, in-demand fields. < Back April 20, 2023 Martinez’s Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Career Pathways, Strengthen Workforce Sails Through Committee DENVER, CO – The House Education Committee today passed Representative Martinez’s bipartisan bill to help graduating high school students afford the training they need to land jobs within good-paying, in-demand fields. “We’re breaking down the financial barriers students face after graduation, boosting our workforce and creating strong pathways to in-demand careers,” said Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista. “This legislation provides a $1,500 scholarship to graduating students for universities and community colleges, trade schools, apprenticeship programs and on-the-job training so they can jumpstart the career of their dreams. I’m proud to sponsor this bipartisan bill that will foster meaningful career planning while helping meet Colorado’s growing workforce needs.” SB23-205 , sponsored by Representatives Matthew Martinez and Don Wilson, passed committee unanimously. This bill would create a Universal High School Scholarship Program to make it easier and more affordable to access postsecondary education and training opportunities for Colorado students. The program will provide each qualifying applicant with a scholarship up to $1,500 to take to any approved training provider in Colorado, from apprenticeships and on-the-job training to trade school, community colleges, and colleges and universities. This transformative financial support has the capacity to serve 15,000 graduating students in the class of 2024, more than 25 percent of all high school graduates statewide. Scholarships are available to Colorado residents who graduated from a Colorado high school or earned a high school equivalency credential in the 2023-2024 academic year, completes the state or federal financial aid application, submits the scholarship application, and has not received a grant or other scholarship. On April 3, the First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, visited the Colorado State Capitol to discuss SB23-205 and other pieces of legislation that prioritize workforce training and uplift aspiring professionals to pursue quality career paths by breaking down financial barriers to earning a degree or credential to increase the workforce and grow Colorado’s economy. Previous Next

Legislation would improve the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s ability to address illegal transfers, ghost guns, and investigations on tip line requests < Back April 10, 2024 Bill to Improve Investigations of Illegal Firearm Activity Passes Committee Legislation would improve the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s ability to address illegal transfers, ghost guns, and investigations on tip line requests DENVER, CO - The House Judiciary Committee today passed gun violence prevention legislation sponsored by Majority Leader Monica Duran and Representative Meg Froelich that would improve investigations of illegal firearm activity. SB24-003 passed by a vote of 8-3, with all Republicans on the committee voting against more resources to crack down on illegal activity. “Colorado Democrats should be proud of what we have accomplished on Gun Violence Prevention, including magazine limits, safe storage, and prohibitions on unregistered “ghost” guns,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “But we must ensure that our law enforcement officials are able to investigate illegal firearm crimes. This bill gives CBI the authority and the resources to act on the investigations with local law enforcement.” “One of my top priorities as a legislator is making our communities safer, which is why I’m proud to carry this bill to help the Colorado Bureau of Investigations prevent gun crimes,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “This bill creates a framework for CBI to identify and prevent illegal firearm transfers and ghost guns, as well as investigations from a tip line, to give them more tools to improve safety in every corner of Colorado.” SB24-003 would give the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) the ability to investigate illegal activity involving firearms. It would appropriate $1.7 million to the Department of Public Safety to create a team that investigates individuals convicted of felonies who are attempting to illegally purchase a firearm, and other illegal firearm crimes such as possession of a ghost gun. Previous Next