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< Back Jacque Phillips Rep. Phillips was a teen mom and a high school dropout. She waited tables while attending Aims Community College and went on to get a doctorate and a law degree. With the help of others and a lot of hard work, she became a special education attorney where she helps vulnerable students. Rep. Phillips remembers what it was like to struggle to make ends meet and will always fight for working families. Her priorities include making housing available as a path out of poverty, preserving our right to choose, ensuring economic and environmental justice for working people, and standing up for marginalized communities. She serves on the House Education and the Transportation, Housing and Local Government committees.

< Back Rep. Meghan Lukens: Getting to work for the Western Slope Jan 17, 2025 See more This story was originally published in the Craig Press here . As we begin the 2025 legislative session, I am honored to continue serving as your voice at the State Capitol, where my colleagues and I will spend the next 120 days tackling issues facing Coloradans. I am thrilled to share that the Speaker of the House, Julie McCluskie, appointed me as Chair of the House Education Committee, which holds special significance for me as both a teacher and legislator. I believe every Colorado student deserves the opportunity to thrive in safe, well-resourced schools. Additionally, I am excited to serve on the House Agriculture, Natural Resources & Water Committee, where I will ensure rural Colorado’s voice is heard. After spending months meeting with community members, leaders, and organizations, I am introducing several bills that address key challenges facing our communities. Building on last session’s achievements — which increased total education funding for K-12 schools by over $560 million and modernized our School Finance Act — my legislative priorities focus on education, rural healthcare, housing and making Colorado more affordable. Upcoming Legislation I am introducing several bills this legislative session, one of which was included in the first 10 House bills. The idea behind HB25-1006 came directly from the Eagle County School District and will help maximize resources by removing the current 10-year lease limitation on district properties when used for solar gardens or affordable housing. It is a win-win for meeting our climate goals and creating more housing in the high country. Across House District 26, I heard time and again concerns from educators regarding student cell phone use in schools. In my classroom, I have experienced how smartphones can impact student learning and mental health. Rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all approach, I am championing legislation this session that would empower school districts to establish their own policies to help with student achievement and address mental health needs. Another bill I am working on will streamline the Division of Water Resources processes to improve water management across Colorado. The goal with this bill is to cut red tape while properly utilizing our valuable water resources. I am also working to strengthen protections for survivors of sexual assault by expanding the Civil Rape Shield Law which prevents unrelated details about a victim’s past to be included in civil court proceedings. Our Focus for 2025 From housing to child care, we have made important progress at the State Capitol to lower costs for working families. As we dive into this session, our focus remains clear — we are building upon our progress to make Colorado more affordable and safer while protecting your rights and freedoms, our investments in public education, and access to quality healthcare. With a tight budget year ahead, I’m committed to protecting our most vulnerable community members while maintaining crucial investments in education, healthcare and public safety. These priorities directly align with what I have heard from community members across House District 26, and I am excited to work alongside my colleagues to deliver results for our rural communities while ensuring Colorado remains a place where everyone can not only get by, but thrive. Please Reach Out As we dive into this legislative session, I remain committed to bringing our community’s pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach to the State Capitol. The next four months will be filled with important decisions that impact our Western Slope communities. Your voice matters in this process, and I want to hear from you. Please reach out to my office at meghan.lukens.house@coleg.gov with your thoughts, concerns, or ideas, or join me at one of my upcoming town halls. Together, we can continue making our Western Slope communities even stronger. Rep. Meghan Lukens represents District 26, which includes Routt, Moffat, Rio Blanco and Eagle counties, in the Colorado House. Previous Next

With the legislative session just around the corner, I wanted to share an update about what I’ve been working on this summer and some of my goals for the next session. < Back Speaker McCluskie: Connecting with Colorado: Progress and Goals for Legislative Session Sep 29, 2023 See more This op-ed appeared in The Flume on Sept. 29, 2023 . With the legislative session just around the corner, I wanted to share an update about what I’ve been working on this summer and some of my goals for the next session. While in session, I must spend most of my time in Denver, but I always look forward to the summer months when I can reconnect with our community. Recently, I held town halls and constituent meetings in Park, Summit, Grand, Jackson, Lake, and Chaffee counties. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to drive across Colorado’s most beautiful district and connect with the hard-working local families who are the heart of our mountain and rural communities. In this last session, we worked to save Coloradans money on what are often the three most expensive costs for families: housing, health care, and child care. We also passed legislation to bolster Colorado’s workforce, protect our air and water, and increase education funding to historic levels. This past session, we delivered real resultson the issues that matter most to Coloradans by: Investing a record amount toward Colorado’s K-12 public schools, which equates to more than $10,600 in per-pupil funding, reducing the Budget Stabilization factor by $180 million and a $30 million investment for rural schools. Establishing the wolf depredation compensation fund to compensate livestock owners and agricultural producers for the depredation of livestock and working animals by wolves. Sending Proposition 123 dollars out the door as soon as possible to provide funding for affordable housing across Colorado’s diverse communities. Investing $45 million over two years for aspiring professionals in high-demand fields to receive free college toward short-term degrees and industry certificates. Creating an insurer-of-last-resort or FAIR Plan for individuals and businesses who can’t get property coverage in the traditional market due to the threat of wildfire. Establishing a Colorado River Drought Task Force, which will make policy recommendations for a collaborative solution to future drought on the Colorado River. I am immensely proud of the bipartisan progress that I and the rest of the legislature have made, but we know there is still a lot of work left to do. I remain focused on making sure the voices of rural Coloradans are heard clearly at the Capitol. I am committed to ensuring that people can live where they work, afford a health care plan that doesn’t break the bank, obtain accessible, high-quality childcare options, and have access to sustainable water for agriculture, municipal use, and outdoor recreation. I look forward to continuing discussions with community members to ensure voices are heard ahead of this upcoming legislative session. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at Julie.McCluskie.House@coleg.gov . Previous Next

< Back Yara Zokaie Yara Zokaie is the State Representative for House District 52 in Fort Collins. Representative Zokaie is a first generation child of immigrants and the first Iranian American to serve in the Colorado General Assembly. Rep. Zokaie serves on the House Judiciary and Finance Committees. Representative Zokaie is an attorney with a masters in taxation and former Deputy Assessor. As a tax attorney, she has represented hundreds of individuals and small businesses against the IRS and Colorado Department of Revenue. Rep. Zokaie also founded a non-profit that worked to bring resources to marginalized communities in Northern Colorado, including COVID vaccinations during the pandemic and voter registration drives. Rep. Zokaie is committed to using her expertise to champion policies that bring meaningful and lasting improvements to the lives of working class families and marginalized communities. Her priorities include strengthening public education, supporting workers’ rights, creating affordable housing, increasing access to affordable health care, addressing climate change, and creating an equitable tax code. Representative Yara Zokaie is a mother to three young boys, and enjoys spending her free time with her family and crafting for her children’s school parties and projects.

< Back Rep. Joseph: Rethink the Kids Online Safety Act to balance safety, freedom Aug 20, 2024 See more This story was originally published in Colorado Politics here . As our children and teenagers become increasingly intertwined with social media and online platforms, ensuring their safety has become a pressing issue. The bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which recently passed the Senate and now awaits action in the House, reflects a unified concern for the well-being of our youth. This cross-party collaboration is a hopeful sign we are collectively invested in protecting our children and promoting their rights. However, as with any legislation, it is crucial to examine both its potential benefits and its possible downsides. KOSA aims to impose a "duty of care" on social media companies to regulate content deemed “harmful to minors.” At first glance, this seems like a prudent step toward safeguarding young users. Yet, the implementation of such regulations could have unintended consequences that might undermine the very protections the bill seeks to enforce. For marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ+ community and individuals seeking reproductive health information, online platforms are not just sources of social interaction but essential lifelines. Research shows more than 70% of LGBTQ+ individuals find online communities are pivotal in shaping their understanding of their identities. This digital connection is particularly crucial for transgender youth, who benefit from supportive online networks, contributing to lower rates of attempted suicide among those with access to these spaces. Similarly, the online realm has become a critical source of information and support for those seeking reproductive health care, especially in the wake of the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade. Social media platforms provide vital resources and community support for navigating reproductive health, which can be overshadowed by harassment and legal challenges in other forums. However, KOSA's broad mandate to regulate content could lead to overzealous moderation by social media companies. Much like the SESTA/FOSTA legislation from the previous administration, there is a risk platforms may excessively censor content to avoid legal repercussions, potentially erasing valuable resources and support networks for marginalized communities. This overreach could silence crucial conversations and support systems, leaving these communities vulnerable. Moreover, there are concerns KOSA could be weaponized for political or ideological agendas. Some sponsors of the bill, like Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), and affiliated groups have expressed intentions to use KOSA to suppress specific types of content, such as information related to transgender issues. This opens the door for extremist figures, like certain state attorneys general, to exploit the legislation against those they target, further entrenching the suppression of constitutionally protected speech. In Colorado, we have made strides in safeguarding the rights of women and LGBTQ+ individuals. However, many other states have moved in the opposite direction, highlighting the need for vigilance. The bipartisan nature of KOSA brings a glimmer of hope, reflecting a shared commitment across party lines to protect our children. It is a testament to our collective desire to ensure the safety and well-being of the next generation. As a legislator, this bipartisan effort reassures me there is a common goal to safeguard our youth, and I believe we can find a balanced approach. I urge policymakers to consider amendments to KOSA or explore alternative measures that effectively protect young users while preserving the essential freedoms and support systems that many rely on. By working together, we can ensure our online spaces remain both safe and inclusive for all. Colorado state Rep. Junie Joseph is a child welfare and family law attorney. Previous Next

< Back Lisa Feret Lisa Feret is an Air Force Veteran, Social Worker and Humanitarian. She brings her unique blend of experience and energy to every challenge. From her time as a military policewoman to her work in emergency management and housing advocacy, Lisa loves to tackle tough problems with creativity and heart. She’s a champion for innovative solutions—whether it’s piloting home-sharing programs, responding to natural disasters, or helping older adults remain in their lifelong home. As a mom, Lisa’s dedication to building a brighter future is personal, driving her focus on stronger healthcare systems, and safer neighborhoods. Lisa’s not just about policies—she’s about people. Her hands-on approach to local, national, and international issues shows her commitment to making a real difference. Lisa believes in rolling up her sleeves and working alongside her community to create a Colorado that works for everyone. Rep. Feret is a member of the State, Civic, Military & Veterans Affairs and the Health & Human Services committees.

< Back Rep. Katie Stewart: Federal cuts and frozen funds threaten Southwest Colorado schools, hospitals, individuals and families Jul 16, 2025 See more This story was originally published in the Journal here . To start off on a positive note, my family and I had a wonderful time celebrating our nation’s Independence Day. We enjoyed the Rotary pancake breakfast in Durango and fireworks in Mancos at Boyle Park. However, the 4th of July also marked the final passage of the budget bill in Congress. The bill includes heavy cuts to funding for health care and education that will hit rural communities hard. It’s projected that 140,000 to 230,000 Coloradans will lose their health care coverage. This doesn’t only mean people will be forced to delay care and go into medical debt. These cuts also mean that when those people get sick, hospitals won’t be able to get reimbursed for their care. Paired with more direct cuts to hospital funding, hospitals in rural Colorado will have to reduce services and some may even have to close their doors – including hospitals here in the Southwest. Colorado will also have to complete regular employment verification for more than 377,000 people enrolled in Medicaid, when strong data shows that the vast majority of Medicaid patients already work. This will force our counties to shoulder heavy administrative overheads that they don’t have the staffing or funds to handle. Confusion around paperwork and deadlines will also cut many people off from coverage, even though they work full time. Arkansas and Georgia both tried – and failed – to put Medicaid employment verification in place in recent years. Both states faced massive administrative costs and losses in coverage due to paperwork errors, with no increase in employment among Medicaid patients. Regarding our schools, the Department of Education has frozen funding for programs focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) initiatives, English language education, student mental health, and more. School districts across Southwest Colorado have been blocked from accessing hundreds of thousands of dollars that were promised to them, with the school year starting in less than six weeks. Our rural schools have already been struggling with two decades of underinvestment, and cannot afford delays, much less the cuts that are likely to come after the DOE finishes their ‘administrative review.’ These will directly harm our students' ability to prepare for their futures, and they threaten the jobs of local educators. Right now, Montezuma-Cortez School District stands to lose over $410,000, Archuleta $380,000, Silverton $230,000, Durango $220,000, Mancos $191,000, Ignacio $67,000, Bayfield $54,000, and Dolores $34,000. Unfortunately, as many of you know, Colorado is already in an ongoing budget crisis. We managed to avoid significant cuts to K-12 education and Medicaid at the state level this year by tightening our belt across the rest of the budget and making heavy cuts in areas like transportation and road maintenance. We fought to protect affordable health care and the education our kids need for their bright futures. However, this means that we do not have the funds to cushion federal cuts like some other states do. I have been in many meetings this week and last, both with my colleagues at the State House and local health and education providers, and we are working hard on what to do next. At this point, there is no clear way forward and this is going to be a very difficult road for us. Hope springs eternal though, and tomorrow is another day that I have a chance to fight for rural Colorado. Katie Stewart represents House District 59 in the Colorado State House, which encompasses Archuleta, La Plata and San Juan counties and most of Montezuma County. Reach her at katie.stewart.house@coleg.gov . Previous Next

< Back Karen McCormick Chair of the Ag., Water & Natural Res. Committee Representative Karen McCormick is the Chair of the House Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources Committee, member of the House Health & Human Services and represents House District 11 which includes most of the city of Longmont. Rep. McCormick, a practicing veterinarian for over 34 years, advocates for families, health care, education, LGBTQ+ protections, reproductive rights, economic opportunity and the future of our planet. Rep. McCormick has championed important legislation to protect Colorado’s watersheds, preserve ecosystems, improve access to veterinary care, facilitate the move to renewable energy, expand access to health care and more. Her dog Pippin comes to the capitol to intern regularly!

< Back Katie Stewart Rep. Katie Stewart is a fourth-generation Durangoan who represents House District 59 in the Southwest corner of Colorado, including Archuleta, La Plata, San Juan counties, and most of Montezuma County. She is a member of the House Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources and the Health & Human Services committees. Her background as an emergency responder in Silverton and Durango and a member of the Durango 9-R Board of Education shapes her priorities in the Colorado Capitol - which are addressing the affordability crisis, strengthening the state’s education system, and advocating for rural Colorado. Rep. Stewart is ready to work across the aisle to be a strong voice for Southwest Colorado and its future.

< Back Matthew Martinez Majority Whip Representative Matthew Martinez is the Vice Chair of the House Education Committee and a member of the Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources Committee. Rep. Martinez represents House District 62 which includes Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Huerfano Mineral, Pueblo, Rio Grande, and Saguache counties. Veteran and educator, Rep. Martinez is passionate about post-secondary education opportunities, workforce development, veterans’ issues, and supporting local communities. During the 2023 legislative session, Rep. Martinez sponsored bipartisan legislation to provide financial assistance to high school seniors to pursue career or education opportunities after graduation.

< Back Andrew Boesenecker Speaker Pro Tempore Andy was elected via a vacancy committee to represent House District 53 in April of 2021. He was re-elected in November of 2022 and 2024 and is serving in his third term as the State Representative from House District 53. In addition to serving as the Speaker Pro Tempore of the House, he also serves on the following committees: Transportation, Housing, and Local Government Committee Appropriations Committee Audit Committee Health Insurance Exchange Oversight Committee Wildfire Matters Review Committee In his time in the legislature, Andy has prioritized legislation that reflects the values and concerns of our community. He has championed bills that address affordable housing, climate change, gun violence prevention, healthcare, transportation, public education, and more. In 2023, Andy was recognized by the Colorado Center on Law and Policy as the Legislative Champion of Economic Justice and Equity. Voces Unidas honored Andy with their 2023 Community Ally award, and Health Care for All Colorado recognized him as the 2023 Legislator of the Year. Andy also received the Community Investment Alliance's 2023 Political Impact Award and was recently honored as a Legislative Champion by Young Invincibles. Andy earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Western Michigan University in 2001 and a Master of Divinity Degree from the Iliff School of Theology in 2013. A former public school teacher in a Title I school, Andy has also worked in the non-profit sector. He was previously ordained as a minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and worked to advance LGBTQ+ rights within the church. He lives in West Fort Collins with his spouse, Stacey, and their three children.

< Back Julie McCluskie Speaker of the House Representative Julie McCluskie is the first female from the Western Slope to serve as Speaker of the House and represents House District 13 which includes Chaffee, Grand, Jackson, Lake, Park, and Summit counties. Over her years as a State Representative, McCluskie has served on the Rural Affairs and Agriculture, Education, Appropriations, Wildfire Matters, Early Childhood and School Readiness Commission, and Water Resources and Agricultural Review committees, and as Chair of the Legislative Interim Committee on School Finance. Notably, she was appointed to the Joint Budget Committee in January 2020 and was appointed Chair of the JBC in November 2021. She was elected Speaker of the House for both the 74th and 75th General Assemblies. Speaker McCluskie’s legislative achievements include student success and workforce revitalization, healthcare affordability and accessibility, water and wildlife conservation, wildfire mitigation, and affordable housing initiatives. Additionally, she passed the first significant rewrite of the Colorado School Finance Act in 30 years, making it more equitable and increasing funding for every student in the state. Speaker McCluskie is dedicated to preserving the Colorado Way of Life for those living from the the Eastern Plains to the Western Slope and everywhere in between.