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Today, Governor Polis and bipartisan legislators, including Speaker Julie McCluskie, Rep. Meghan Lukens, Rep. Matt Soper, Sen. James Coleman, Sen. Jeff Bridges, and Sen. Mark Baisley, announced legislation to continue strengthening Colorado’s workforce and breaking down barriers to lower-cost education and training pathways. < Back March 7, 2024 Strengthening Colorado’s Workforce: Governor Polis and Bipartisan Legislators Unveil Legislative Package to Support Training and Education for Colorado Workers DENVER - Today, Governor Polis and bipartisan legislators, including Speaker Julie McCluskie, Rep. Meghan Lukens, Rep. Matt Soper, Sen. James Coleman, Sen. Jeff Bridges, and Sen. Mark Baisley, announced legislation to continue strengthening Colorado’s workforce and breaking down barriers to lower-cost education and training pathways. “Colorado’s innovative approach to connecting more Coloradans with the training and skills they need to get good-paying jobs is an example for the rest of the country, and we are proud to do more with this legislative package. I want to thank the bipartisan group of legislators who continue working to support Colorado workers and businesses.,” said Governor Jared Polis. Legislation sponsored by Rep. Lukens, Rep. Soper and Sen. Bridges builds on the success of Opportunity Now, a grant program that has awarded $27 million to 46 grantees representing 145 business and 78 education partners in 38 industries . These grants help connect more Coloradans with in-demand, high-skill, high-wage careers. This bill will support a fourth and final round of grants, investing in building and construction trades specifically. It also creates an annual refundable tax credit to increase the capacity of training providers in industries receiving transformative federal investment (IIJA/IRA/CHIPS). Finally, this bill will create regional summits that will improve regional talent planning. “The success of Opportunity Now programs has helped Coloradans across the state secure good-paying jobs while meeting our diverse workforce needs,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. “This bipartisan bill introduces the final round of funding for this program with an important focus on the construction and building trades. The demand for skilled electricians, plumbers and general contractors is rising, and this bill boosts our construction workforce and helps drive local economies.” “We have seen the success of Opportunity Now in communities across the state, including the Western Slope. I look forward to continuing this work and helping even more Coloradans get training, secure strong jobs, and build a stronger future for themselves,” said Rep. Matt Soper. “Opportunity is a core Colorado value, and every Coloradan should have the opportunity to earn a good life," said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. "That opportunity often starts with a good education, one that's aligned with good-paying jobs in a person's community. Making sure that what schools teach matches what businesses need is exactly what the Opportunity Now grant does, leading to better wages for workers, a well-trained workforce for our employers, and a stronger Colorado economy for everyone." An effort to expand apprenticeship opportunities through a new tax credit, sponsored by Sen. Coleman and Sen. Baisley, provides $30 million in annual, refundable tax credits to support apprentices in new and emerging industries, $2 million for businesses looking to start or scale an apprenticeship program, and $2 million for qualified intermediaries who support the administration of apprenticeship programs. “I’m committed to paving the way for equitable access to opportunity, so that all Coloradans have the chance to get ahead – and a key way we can do that is by investing in our workforce,” Senate President Pro Tem James Coleman, D-Denver, said . “We’re bringing forward resources that will expand existing programs and increase the adoption of registered apprenticeships. These investments can create more than 8,000 new apprenticeships, and give Coloradans the opportunities they need to succeed.” Legislators are also acting on the recommendations of the 1215 Task Force by introducing legislation to study the cost of streamlining the administration and financing of postsecondary workforce readiness programs to the state and local education providers. It also lays the foundation for a data system to measure the impact and outcomes of education and workforce programs. This bipartisan legislation is sponsored by Speaker McCluskie, Rep. Bacon, Sen. Bridges and Sen. Lundeen. “Investing in our workforce requires us to establish career pathways that will lead to good-paying jobs for Coloradans in communities across the state, especially in our rural and mountain communities,” said Speaker McCluskie, D-Dillon. “This legislation lays the groundwork to set Colorado learners on a path toward economic success and career mobility by making it easier for them to access the college credits, industry credentials, or quality work-based learning experiences already in place. Together, we’re investing in our workforce, strengthening local economies and making it easier for Coloradans to thrive in the communities that they love.” “Traditional education methods face the challenge of developing curricula that are relevant to industry. Apprenticeships provide direct application for technical training. The Scale Up Grants are a practical way for the Colorado State Government to encourage employers to engage workers with skills that can be directly put to use. An employee who has worked through these apprenticeships will find fulfillment in the tremendous value that they immediately bring to Colorado companies,” said Senator Baisley. Other workforce focused bills introduced in the legislature include: HB24-1231: State Funding for Higher Education Projects, which invests in Colorado's healthcare workforce by providing funding for the UNC Medical School, Metro State’s Health Institute Tower, Colorado State University’s Veterinary Health Education Campus, and expansion and renovation of Trinidad State College’s Valley Campus main building. Sponsored by Reps. Young & Daugherty, Sens. Kirkmeyer & Mullica. SB24-104: Career and Technical Education and Apprenticeships, which connects K-12 students interested in technical careers with workforce opportunities. Sponsored by Sen. Danielson. HB24-1097: Military Family Occupational Credentialing, which would expand the occupational credential portability program to include gold star military spouses and military dependents and broadens the scope to include the Armed Forces Reserve, Ready Reserve, and National Guard. Sponsored by Reps. Taggart & Weissman, Sens. Fields & Gardner. SB24-050: Funding for Workforce Programs, which invests in scaling nonprofit and apprenticeship programs that train Coloradans for in-demand industries. Sponsored by Sen. Exum. SB24-143: Credential Quality Apprenticeship Classification, which builds on previous efforts to develop more stackable credentials. Sponsored by Sens. Zenzinger & Coleman, Rep. Herod. HB24-1264: Supporting the Educator Workforce, which provides various supports for an online career support and pathways portal for educators with access to career incentives, job postings, and applications. Sponsored by Reps. McLachlan & Catlin, Sens. Zenzinger & Simpson. Previous Next

< Back June 3, 2020 REP. MCLACHLAN’S COLLEGE CREDIT FOR WORK EXPERIENCE BILL PASSES Bipartisan legislation would allow college students to obtain academic credit for work experience DENVER, CO — The House today passed Representative Barbara McLachlan’s bipartisan bill to make it easier to obtain academic credit for work-related experiences across all state institutions. The vote was 62-3. “As we take the necessary steps to get our state back to work responsibly, it is critical that we do everything we can to make it easier for Colorado’s students to compete in a 21st century economy,” said Rep. Barbara McLachlan (D-Durango). “As a former teacher, I know that some of the most important education a student can receive happens outside of the classroom. This bill would allow students who have had formative educational experiences in the workplace to get the academic credits they need to complete their degrees in a more affordable and expedited way.” HB20-1002, which advanced from the Making Higher Education Attainable Interim Committee, and was approved by the House Education Committee earlier this year, would require the Commission on Higher Education to create a model to award academic credit for work-related experiences. The credits would be acceptable and transferable across all state institutions, improving access and affordability for non-traditional students. The bill also includes a provision that will require state institutions to develop a mechanism through which students can test out of any undergraduate class through an individual assessment or other testing means. Previous Next

SB24-042 will provide outreach and support to individuals living with sickle cell disease < Back June 3, 2024 SIGNED! Legislation to Create a Sickle Cell Outreach Program Becomes Law DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law legislation that will provide outreach and support to Coloradans living with sickle cell disease. Sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, and Representative Regina English, D-Colorado Springs and Assistant House Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, SB24-042 will create the Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program within the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to provide support to individuals living with sickle cell disease. Outreach and support services will be administered by a nonprofit organization contracted through CDPHE. “Sickle cell disease is a debilitating condition that takes a toll on an individual’s health and quality of life,” said Fields. “Worse, we see disproportionately high rates of sickle cell disease in Black communities. This important program will provide critical outreach to individuals living with sickle cell disease to help connect folks to supportive health care and community services, and will help address long-standing health inequities that remain far too prevalent in marginalized communities across our state.” “Sickle cell disease can cause blockages in a person’s small blood vessels and be incredibly painful if left untreated,” said Rep. Regina English, D-Colorado Springs . “This law establishes the new, Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program, to provide critical outreach and support to Coloradans living with sickle cell disease. Sickle cell disease disproportionately impacts Black communities and this new outreach program will help bridge the gap between needed health care and access to care experienced by marginalized communities. I am proud to carry this legislation forward because it will improve health outcomes for so many in our state.” “Arie P. Taylor was a trailblazer as Colorado's first female Black representative,” Buckner said. “Creating this program in her name honors her legacy and ensures communities she represented have the support they need to thrive – just as Ms. Taylor envisioned. I’m proud to see this bill get signed into law and I look forward to seeing how the Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program will support individuals and families and ultimately, change lives.” “Long-standing inequities in our health care system have left many Black Coloradans without access to the care they need, let alone specialized care,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “This new law would establish the Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program to connect people living with sickle cell disease with resources and support. Sickle cell disease is genetic, and unfortunately, the rates have been much higher among Black communities. Named after Colorado’s first Black female legislator, the new program honors Ms. Taylor’s legacy by providing individualized support to our community and works to bridge the gap in health care access.” Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells that carry oxygen to stick together after the oxygen is released, causing blockages in the small blood vessels, anemia, and severe pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), sickle cell disease occurs among about 1 out of every 365 Black or African-American births and occurs among about 1 out of every 16,300 Hispanic-American births. Previous Next

< Back November 10, 2020 MCCLUSKIE AND HEROD APPOINTED TO JOINT BUDGET COMMITTEE DENVER, CO — House Speaker-designate Alec Garnett today announced the appointment of Representatives Julie McCluskie and Leslie Herod to serve on the Joint Budget Committee (JBC). Herod will be the first Black woman from the House to serve on the JBC since Wilma Webb , who served in the House from 1980-1992 and on the JBC from 1983-1986. Rep. Julie McCluskie will now serve as the ranking member from the House Majority caucus. “We have so much talent in our caucus. Rep. McCluskie’s leadership through one of the most difficult budgets in state history was a service to the body and to the entire State of Colorado. The decision to reappoint her is a no-brainier as we chart a course to rebound from the pandemic and get Colorado’s economy back on track,” said House Speaker-designate Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “Rep. Herod has been a leader since the first day she stepped into the Capitol. I’m pleased she will put her policy making skills to work helping the people of Colorado. She’s one of the strongest voices for working families in the state, and I’m glad she will apply those skills to making sure Colorado’s economy works for everyone.” “I’m honored to get back to work on the JBC and to prioritize our students, teachers and critical services as we craft a budget that boosts our economy and helps Coloradans get through this crisis,” said Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillion . “Rep. Herod will bring her wealth of experience fighting for Colorado communities to the JBC where I know she will be a force for justice as we work to build an economy where every Coloradan has a fair shot.” “It is an overwhelming honor to be named to serve on the Joint Budget Committee as our state works to rebound from the economic crisis caused by COVID,” said newly appointed JBC member Leslie Herod, D-Denver . “Being the first Black woman to serve in the role in decades only heightens how proud I am to be selected. I am eager and excited to dig into our state budget and get to work on behalf of the people of Colorado. It’s time to build back a stronger, more just and equitable economy in our state, and to ensure no one is left behind in our state’s recovery.” The JBC will meet tomorrow, November 11 at 9:00 AM, to formalize the JBC leadership for the upcoming session and begin hearings on the FY 2021-2022 budget request. The JBC schedule can be found here . Previous Next

SB25-002 will increase the supply of affordable housing by reducing regulatory barriers on factory-built structures like tiny homes and modular housing < Back May 8, 2025 Signed! Bill to Reduce Housing Costs, Boost Stock of Factory-Built Housing SB25-002 will increase the supply of affordable housing by reducing regulatory barriers on factory-built structures like tiny homes and modular housing DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representatives Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, and Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood, to reduce housing costs by boosting the stock of affordable factory-built housing was signed into law today. SB25-002 will increase the stock of affordable housing by reducing regulatory barriers to the construction, installation, and inspection of factory-built structures like tiny homes and other types of modular housing. Modular housing is usually less expensive than traditional, stick-built homes constructed on-site and can be assembled faster, which can help expand permanent housing opportunities and build more affordable housing options. “Right now, the people that keep our communities running – teachers, nurses, and firefighters – can’t afford to live where they work,” said Exum. “Expanding opportunities for them and their families to thrive and grow together in a stable, safe environment is vital to strong, lasting success for Colorado communities.” “Our law will improve coordination between state and regional partners and cut down on duplicative steps to build more affordable housing in our communities,” said Boesenecker. “Modular homes are a high-quality alternative to traditional housing construction materials, but are faster to assemble and cheaper to build. This law allows us to strategically use tools that have proven to create more affordable housing options for hardworking Coloradans.” "Every Coloradan should be able to afford to live where they work," said Bridges. "We have an affordability crisis here in Colorado, and while there's no silver bullet for housing, there are silver BBs. This is one of them. This legislation will increase Colorado's housing stock by bringing down construction costs, giving more folks the opportunity to live where they work, raise a family, and call Colorado home.” “Modular homes are a creative and proven solution to drive down housing costs and allow more Coloradans to realize their dream of homeownership,” said Stewart. “Construction costs, miscommunication and doubling up on regulation have been significant barriers to building affordable housing, and this law aims to streamline regulations to fully benefit from the potential of modular housing. With this new law, we can make high-quality housing more affordable across Colorado.” This bill directs the State Housing Board in the Department of Local Affairs to develop regional building codes for factory-built structures by July 1, 2026. The new building codes supersede current regulations only for factory-built structures. Previous Next

< Back December 31, 2019 IMPORTANT NEW LAWS TAKE EFFECT TOMORROW DENVER, CO — Last session, House Democrats focused on passing bills to ensure all Coloradans can share in the economic growth the state is experiencing and to protect the Colorado way of life. Several of these important new laws that Democratic lawmakers championed last session take effect tomorrow. “In 2019, we made great strides on efforts to build an economy that works for all and to protect our Colorado way of life,” said Speaker KC Becker (D-Boulder). “These critical bills will lower the cost of health care, help save lives from gun violence, increase workers’ wages and protect them from theft, and increase lobbying transparency. Working across the aisle, we made important progress to address the challenges facing Coloradans, and we look forward to building on this success in the upcoming session.” LOWERING HEALTH CARE COSTS AND PROTECTING CONSUMERS: Ending Surprise Medical Bills: Beginning on January 1, HB19-1174, sponsored by Reps. Esgar (D-Pueblo) and Catlin (R-Montrose), prohibits providers from billing for care when a consumer unknowingly receives out-of-network care through no fault of their own. Providers must also inform consumers of their rights regarding surprise out-of-network bills, and the bill sets a reasonable rate of payment for these bills. Capping the Cost of Insulin: For insurance plans beginning January 1, HB19-1216, sponsored by Rep. Roberts (D-Avon), caps the total co-pay that patients are charged for insulin to $100 per one-month supply. This will save Coloradans living with diabetes who need insulin hundreds of dollars per month and means that no one in the state will have to choose between rationing insulin and meeting necessary household expenses. INCREASING AND PROTECTING WAGES: Preventing Wage Theft: HB19-1267 , sponsored by Reps. Singer (D-Longmont) and Froelich (D-Englewood), makes it a felony criminal offense to illegally withhold wages from an employee. It is currently only a misdemeanor, and often prosecutors don’t go after offenders because the penalties are so low. Starting tomorrow, if more than $2,000 in wages are illegally withheld, it can be charged as felony theft. SAVING LIVES FROM GUN VIOLENCE The Zackari Parrish III Violence Prevention Act , also known as Colorado’s “Red Flag” law, will go into effect tomorrow. “Red Flag” laws have overwhelming bipartisan support and save lives by creating a way to act before warning signs escalate to tragedies.The law is a tool to remove guns from a person who a judge determines is a threat to themselves or others. Colorado is suffering from a suicide epidemic, and preventing a person in crisis from accessing a firearm will save lives. EXPANDING THE RIGHTS OF TRANSGENDER COLORADANS Starting January 1, HB19-1039 will allow transgender Coloradans to change the gender on their birth certificate to male, female or X, to correspond with their gender identity. The new law provides Coloradans changing their birth certificates with an entirely new document without having to go through cumbersome and expensive hurdles like surgery or appearing in front of a judge. The law also removes the publication requirement, making the process safer and more private. IMPROVING LOBBYIST TRANSPARENCY Last session, Reps. Cutter (D-Jefferson County) and Weissman (D-Aurora) sponsored legislation to improve lobbying transparency. HB19-1248 requires more frequent reporting of important information provided by professional lobbyists and requires additional disclosure about who their ultimate clients are. Taking effect on January 1 is section 24-6-301 (6.5) of the Colorado Revised Statutes. This section creates the enhanced 72 hour reporting rules that will soon require lobbyists to disclose if they have undertaken lobbying or a new position in connection with a legislative or administration initiative. Lobbyists must disclose the bill number of the legislation on which they are lobbying and the client’s position (support, oppose, amending, or monitoring). UPDATING MARIJUANA REGULATIONS Updates to Colorado’s marijuana regulations also go into effect on January 1. These include allowing local ordinances to govern licensing timelines, allowing a license holder to continue to operate until a renewal application is processed, and streamlining the licensure process. It also makes certain formerly confidential information public, such as agency actions and some testing and license holder demographic data, on a de-identified basis. It facilitates investment and growth in the industry by creating new ownership definitions that will allow Colorado companies to thrive in the developing national and international legal cannabis marketplace. Previous Next

Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation to reduce lead and noise pollution caused by airplanes. HB24-1235, sponsored by Representatives Kyle Brown and Shannon Bird and Senate President Steve Fenberg and Senator Rachel Zenzinger, will protect communities from aviation fuel lead emissions and noise pollution. < Back May 17, 2024 SIGNED! Legislation to Reduce Lead and Noise Pollution, Protect Colorado’s Air SUPERIOR, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation to reduce lead and noise pollution caused by airplanes. HB24-1235, sponsored by Representatives Kyle Brown and Shannon Bird and Senate President Steve Fenberg and Senator Rachel Zenzinger, will protect communities from aviation fuel lead emissions and noise pollution. “More than 25 years after the phase-out of leaded gasoline for passenger vehicles, leaded aviation fuel is still present in Colorado and can have adverse health effects on our communities, especially children and youth,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “This law will improve our public health and help transition aircraft away from the use of leaded fuel. Our community-driven legislation works to ensure that airports are good neighbors to their surrounding communities by addressing both the dangers of lead exposure and the quality of life impacts of noise pollution.” “Over the last few years, I have received countless constituent emails, phone calls, and town hall questions about pervasive noise and lead pollution caused by aviation,” Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, said. “Time and time again, impacted Coloradans were told that due to federal preemption, there was nothing that could be done to protect them from these negative impacts. This year, we got creative and came up with a policy that asks airports to do their part to reduce aviation noise while supporting them in their transition away from leaded fuels. However, this marks just the first step in meaningfully addressing the problem. There’s much more work ahead to ensure impacted communities and regional airports can coexist in Colorado.” “As our state’s population grows, smaller airports are seeing more traffic than ever before, which means increased noise and air pollution in our communities,” said Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “Coloradans have the right to live peacefully in their homes without the constant noise of low level air traffic; this law will require creation of noise mitigation plans and airports will need to help educate pilots about how they can minimize their impact on residential neighborhoods. There is no safe level of lead exposure for our children, and our law works to clean up our air while prioritizing the health of our neighbors.” “Communities I represent in Jefferson County are experiencing firsthand the effects of aviation noise and lead pollution,” Sen. Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, said. “These adverse impacts take a toll on a person’s well-being and simply shouldn’t have to be a part of life for folks living near regional airports like Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport. This important law is our response to community concerns to help neighborhoods and airports find a way to coexist, protect the health of Coloradans, and make sure our state remains a great place to live and raise a family.” HB24-1235 will help ensure communities and airports coexist better by easing the transition to unleaded fuels for aircraft owners and airports and ensuring airports maintain sustained noise mitigation efforts. Specifically, this law: Incentivizes aircraft owners to transition their planes from using leaded to unleaded fuel by providing a refundable income tax credit for qualified expenses Ensures that the lesser of 10 percent or $1.5M of State Aviation System grant funding per year goes toward aiding the transition to unleaded aviation gasoline Requires grant recipients to both adopt a plan for phasing out sales of leaded gasoline by 2030, and establishes a noise abatement plan Adds two members to the Colorado Aeronautical Board who are residents of communities affected by aviation Requires the Division of Aeronautics to work with the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment to evaluate, educate, and provide technical assistance to airports regarding adverse impacts of aircraft noise and leaded aviation fuel This new law aims to respond to community concerns about increased aviation activity in the Denver Metro area which is home to two of the top five airports with the most general aviation activity in the country. Leaded fuel, commonly used by recreation pilots and pilots-in-training, is a leading source of lead emissions and excessive exposure to lead has many harmful health effects across various bodily functions. Previous Next

< Back March 16, 2021 HOUSE MOVES TO END DISCRIMINATION AGAINST LGBTQ YOUTH AND PARENTS DENVER, CO– The House today passed HB21-1072, sponsored by Representative Meg Froelich, on second reading. The bill prohibits adoption agencies and foster youth service providers from discriminating against LGBTQ youth or prospective adoptive or foster parents. “No prospective parent should ever be denied the right to start a family, and no young person in Colorado should ever be denied the foster services they need because of who they are or who they love,” said Rep. Froelich, D-Englewood. “Today, as adoption and foster agencies across America update their policies to be more inclusive of LGBTQ youth and parents, we’re building on national momentum to make sure our laws are inclusive and lead to more warm, loving, tight-knit families.” HB21-1072, sponsored by Representative Meg Froelich, would require an out-of-home placement provider to ensure fair and equal access to all available programs, benefits, and services offered by the provider. The bill prohibits a foster service or adoption agency from denying any person the opportunity to become an adoptive or foster parent, or from delaying or denying the placement of a child on the basis of any real or perceived disability, race, creed, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, gender expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, or any communicable disease, including HIV of the prospective adoptive or foster parent or the child. In addition, out-of-home placement must be provided in a way that is culturally responsive to the complex social identity of the youth. LGBTQ youth have faced barriers to access critical out-of-home placement services, with some denying services to LGBTQ youth. All Republicans on the committee voted to deny LGBTQ youth equal access to these critical services. Previous Next

New laws to create jobs and support Colorado workers will go into effect on January 1, 2024. < Back December 19, 2023 Laws to Create Jobs and Support Colorado Workers Go Into Effect DENVER, CO - New laws to create jobs and support Colorado workers will go into effect on January 1, 2024. HB23-1212 , sponsored by Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Representatives Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial, and Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton, directs the Office of the Future of Work, the Colorado Department Education and other state agencies to collaborate with schools and trade industries to create apprenticeship pathways for graduating students. The law also requires the creation of an online job board for students, and the incorporation of registered apprenticeship programs into the State’s available career planning tools, including the development of individual career and academic plans by apprenticeship navigators to better support job preparation and awareness for students. “A four year college degree doesn’t make sense for everyone,” said Kolker. “Alternative pathways like apprenticeships can lead to high paying careers and bright futures. I look forward to seeing the Office of the Future of Work and the Department of Education work together to expand apprenticeship opportunities and help bolster Colorado’s workforce.” “This law works to connect graduating high school students with apprenticeships in high-demand industries, including construction and other skilled trades,” said Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial, sponsor of HB23-1212. “We’re making it easier for students to find, apply and get accepted to apprenticeship programs in high-demand fields and graduate with a clear pathway toward a good-paying career.” “Colorado is facing a crippling workforce shortage that is hurting our families and our economy,” Danielson said. “Apprenticeships offer incredible opportunities to people looking to gain hands-on experience and enter our workforce. This new law helps expand pathways to apprenticeships and get more Coloradans on track for a successful future.” “Apprenticeship programs give Coloradans the tools they need to get started and save money on their pursuit of a good-paying career,” said Rep. Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton, sponsor of HB23-1212. “This law will make apprenticeship programs in the trades more accessible to high school students, help fill critical jobs and boost Colorado’s economy.” Colorado’s trade and construction industries are still experiencing workforce shortages following economic disruptions from the pandemic. This law helps create a talent pipeline for graduating students to enter good-paying careers after graduation and support Colorado’s workforce. Sponsored by Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Representatives William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield and Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, HB23-1081 expands the Employee Ownership Tax Credit to strengthen incentives for businesses transitioning to an employee-owned business model. “Employee-owned businesses give hard-working Coloradans a real stake in their work,” said Hinrichsen. “With this law, we’re expanding incentives to help cover the costs associated with transitioning to an employee-owned model. These win-win opportunities help businesses remain in their communities while giving employees a seat at the table when it comes to decision-making about their careers.” “Expanding the employee ownership tax credit in Colorado means local businesses can continue to boost wages and benefits, improve retention and develop strong succession plans,” said Rep. William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield, sponsor of HB23-1081 . “This law encourages employee-owned business models, which means our local businesses are more likely to stay locally owned and operated for years to come. Small businesses are a huge part of our statewide economy, and this law makes it easier for business owners to sell or retire while giving employees more opportunities to own the business they work for.” HB23-1081 expands on the Employee Ownership Tax Credit by: Making partially employee-owned businesses eligible to help cover the costs associated with expanding employee ownership; Expanding eligible methods that businesses may use to transfer equity to employees; Strengthening incentives for eligible businesses that are transitioning to employee ownership with existing resources. Finally, SB23-292 , sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge, and Representative Shannon Bird, D- Westminster , creates clear and fair working standards for the energy industry to support workers transitioning into the clean energy sector. “Colorado is committed to a clean energy future and a competitive economy that uplifts all workers,” said Fenberg. “More and more clean energy development projects are receiving state funds, which is why we took action to ensure those projects are supported by truly good paying jobs with great benefits. With this important law, we’re upholding our commitments and making sure no worker gets left behind.” “As Colorado gears up for more construction of clean energy projects, we need to ensure our highly-skilled workers are compensated fairly and protected while on the job,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge, sponsor of SB23-292. “Our law ensures workers, including electricians, plumbers, and those essential to completing a large-scale clean energy project are paid a fair wage for their work. This law is an important step forward in our ongoing efforts to create safer working conditions and ensure liveable wages for Coloradans.” “Colorado’s clean energy future ultimately depends on high quality, well-paid jobs,” Hansen said. “This new law ensures that as the clean energy sector continues to grow, workers’ rights grow too. When workers win, so does Colorado’s infrastructure and economy, and I’m proud to have championed this new law that helps move Colorado forward.” “Establishing high labor standards for clean energy projects ensures our highly-skilled workers are paid fairly and are protected while on the job,” said Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, sponsor of SB23-292. “Our law going into effect establishes fair wages and safety initiatives for construction jobs in Colorado’s energy sector. Colorado is preparing for some of the most innovative, clean energy projects in the county and this law protects workers and strengthens our construction-based economy.” The law creates a new category of public projects called Energy Sector Public Works Projects to the 2019 State Prevailing Wage Law. These Energy Sector Public Works Projects must comply with current apprenticeship and prevailing wage requirements to be eligible for state funding or approved by the Public Utilities Commission. Previous Next

The House today introduced legislation sponsored by Representatives Meg Froelich and Judy Amabile and Senators Tom Sullivan and Chris Hansen to establish a three-day waiting period to purchase a firearm. < Back February 23, 2023 JOINT RELEASE: Colorado Democrats Unveil Bill to Establish Waiting Periods for Firearm Purchases DENVER, CO - The House today introduced legislation sponsored by Representatives Meg Froelich and Judy Amabile and Senators Tom Sullivan and Chris Hansen to establish a three-day waiting period to purchase a firearm. “The research is clear–this legislation will reduce suicide deaths and homicides,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “By delaying access to a firearm, waiting periods create opportunities to intervene and prevent impulsive acts of gun violence. We are committed to advancing commonsense proposals like this bill that will improve public safety and reduce gun violence in our communities.” “Right now, if you want to get your hands on a gun, you can do so with near immediacy,” said Senator Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial. “Whether you intend to harm yourself or others, waiting periods on firearm purchases delay immediate access to weapons and cut down on impulsive acts of violence. I’m proud to champion this legislation that will save lives and create safer communities for all Coloradans.” “When someone is in crisis, readily accessible firearms make it easier for them to attempt self-harm or engage in other violent acts,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Waiting periods limit options to obtain a firearm for someone who may be contemplating suicide or making a quick decision to engage in violence. No single piece of legislation will stop every gun death, but simple and broadly supported solutions, like three-day waiting periods, will save lives, improve public safety, and make a real difference in reducing firearm-related deaths in Colorado.” “A cooling off period could be the difference between life and death for a person in the midst of a mental health crisis,” Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, said . “This legislation is backed by research and will reduce gun deaths by suicide and homicide. I’m incredibly proud of Colorado’s leadership on this issue and am eager to continue to take meaningful steps forward, like implementing a three day waiting period, to reduce the epidemic of gun violence.” Research shows that creating a waiting period for purchasing a firearm has led to a 7 to 11 percent reduction in suicides by firearm and a 17 percent reduction in firearm-related homicides. In 2020, Colorado had the seventh highest suicide rate in the US, and in 2021, there were 740 suicides by firearm in Colorado, accounting for more than half of all suicides in the state. From 2014 to 2019 , the number of firearm deaths in Colorado was greater than deaths from motor vehicle crashes and opioid overdoses. Among firearm deaths, more than 75 percent were caused by intentional self-harm or suicide. HB23-1219 establishes a three-day waiting period to purchase a firearm. Creating a waiting period delays immediate access to firearms and can help prevent impulsive acts of violence, including suicides, homicides and assaults. Current law mandates that a state and federal background check is complete before a firearm can be transferred. Background checks can typically take far less than three days to complete. In the case they take longer, the firearm cannot be transferred until the background check is complete. Transferring a firearm prior to the expiration of the waiting period would be a civil infraction punishable by a $500 fine for the first offense, and a $500 to $5,000 fine for a second or any subsequent offenses. The bill would not apply to antique firearms or to sales taking place between an active duty military servicemember who is set to deploy overseas and their family. Previous Next

Representative Meghan Lukens today toured local nonprofit, Better Tomorrow, to learn more about their community-led efforts to support Coloradans at risk of harm.  < Back August 5, 2024 Rep. Lukens Tours Local Nonprofit STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO – Representative Meghan Lukens today toured local nonprofit, Better Tomorrow, to learn more about their community-led efforts to support Coloradans at risk of harm. “Meeting with the team at Better Tomorrow was inspiring, thank you for having me,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs . “Their community-driven support helps Coloradans get connected to the resources they need, when they need it. Under the gold dome, and thanks to lawmakers like Majority Leader Monica Duran, we’ve invested more than ever before to support survivors of crime and domestic violence. From securing stable housing to legal representation, we know our community partners work tirelessly to keep the lights on and the doors open so they can continue to provide essential services to youth, survivors and their families.” During the 2024 legislative session, Rep. Lukens sponsored bipartisan legislation to create a program to provide short-term financial assistance for survivors of domestic or sexual violence. Specifically, the law helps survivors secure housing. Better Tomorrow manages four programs, Advocates of Routt County, Brighter World Child Advocacy Center, COMMA Projects, and Queer Futures, to provide support to youth, families and survivors of crime. Previous Next

New law protects visitation rights for incarcerated Coloradans < Back June 4, 2025 Right to Visitation, Family Connection Becomes Law New law protects visitation rights for incarcerated Coloradans DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation into law to ensure that Coloradans who are incarcerated have visitation rights with their family and loved ones . “This law is about treating incarcerated Coloradans as humans and making their re-entry into their communities more successful to reduce recidivism and improve safety across our state,” said Rep. Regina English, D-Colorado Springs. “From alleviating stress to fostering hope, human connection has proven to provide many benefits for incarcerated Coloradans and our communities. This law ensures that incarceration does not prevent Coloradans from accessing their support systems during some of the most traumatic times in their life.” “Families are where we find strength, healing, and support,” said Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver. “But for too many families, the criminal justice system creates barriers that fracture these bonds. Regular visits, phone calls, and moments of connection empower families to support their loved ones’ journey toward rehabilitation. This new law helps to make our justice system a tool for repair and recovery, not a weapon of division.” “Visitation is rehabilitation, and revoking visitation privileges should never be a tool to force justice-involved Coloradans to work or as a form of punishment,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “America abolished slavery in the 1800s, yet incarcerated Coloradans are being forced into labor just to be able to have a conversation with their friends and family. This law ensures that Coloradans, regardless of whether or not they are incarcerated, have the right to access their loved ones.” “Ensuring that people who are incarcerated have the right to connect with their loved ones makes all Coloradans safer,” said Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs. “It reduces recidivism, supports rehabilitation, and eases the transition back into our communities after incarceration. Currently, people can lose family visitation rights – including contact with their children – as a form of punishment. Protecting the right to family connection leads to better outcomes for individuals, families, and communities across Colorado.” HB25-1013 protects visitation rights for incarcerated Coloradans to ensure they can stay connected with their family, friends, and loved ones and be set up for success after they serve time and re-enter the community. Visitation includes in-person visits, family time visits, phone calls, and video calls. A study found that visitation in prison results in a 26 percent decrease in post-release criminal activity as well as a 28 percent reduction in new convictions overall. Previous Next