Senate Committee Advances Bill to Attract Sundance Film Festival

Bill would create a tax credit to attract film tourism to Colorado

DENVER, CO – The Senate Finance Committee today advanced bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, to attract film tourism to Colorado. 

HB25-1005, also sponsored by Senator Mark Baisley, R-Woodland Park, would create two tax credits: one to encourage the Sundance Film Festival to move to Colorado beginning in 2027, and one to support existing or small film festivals in Colorado.

“The Sundance Film Festival is more than just an economic driver – it would cement Colorado’s place as a global hub for the arts, creating opportunities for filmmakers and audiences alike,” said Amabile. “Our communities would benefit year-round from Sundance’s investments in expanded access to the arts, support for aspiring storytellers, and a platform for powerful narratives that have the potential to move, inspire, and change all of us.”

Boulder was recently selected as a top-three finalist to host the iconic Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027 – which would boost economic growth, tourism, and Colorado’s reputation as a destination for the arts.

As outlined in the legislation, Colorado would create tax incentives of $34 million over the next ten years, or $3-5 million per year, for a film festival that sells more than 100,000 tickets and attracts tens of thousands out-of-state attendees. A recent economic impact report of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival in Utah revealed the festival created 1,730 jobs for residents, generated $69.7 million in wages, $132 million in gross domestic product and generated almost $14 million in state and local tax revenue.

The bill would also leverage $500,000 annually to support small or existing local film festivals entities that are part of Colorado’s growing film festival ecosystem. 

If Boulder is selected, the festival would take place starting in 2027 through 2036. Boulder is in the running to host the film festival starting in 2027 along with Cincinnati, Ohio and Park City, Utah. 

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Senate Approves Pair of Bills to Create Safeguards on Ammunition Purchases, Improve Security at Gun Shows

DENVER, CO – Two bills to raise the minimum age to purchase ammunition for rifles and shotguns to 21 years old and improve security at gun shows passed through the Senate today. 

HB25-1133, sponsored by Senators Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, and Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, would raise the minimum age to purchase firearm ammunition to 21 years old, with some exceptions, and require that sellers verify the buyer’s age using government-issued photo identification. 

“Colorado has suffered a disproportionate number of tragic shootings and we must do whatever we can to prevent future acts of senseless violence,” said Kipp, sponsor of both bills. “Both of these bills are commonsense measures to help ensure dangerous firearms don’t get into the wrong hands and that Colorado state law is being followed wherever firearms are sold.”

“Differing requirements for purchasing firearms and ammunition create dangerously lax conditions for at-risk youth,” Amabile said. “This bill would increase the age to purchase ammunition and strengthen display and delivery requirements to prevent theft and keep ammunition out of the hands of those intent on doing harm to themselves or others.”

Additionally, HB25-1133 would require sellers to take basic safety measures to prevent theft of ammunition in stores by requiring ammunition be stored in locked cases or behind a counter so that it cannot be accessed without a store associate. Delivery providers must also verify the person receiving the package is 21 or older.

HB25-1238, sponsored by Kipp and Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, would strengthen security and safety measures at gun shows. It would require that gun show promoters maintain liability insurance and submit detailed security plans, including information about vendors, 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 to local law enforcement before an event. 

“This bill is another in a long line of measures I’ve supported during my time in the Colorado legislature to prevent gun violence,” Danielson said. “House Bill 1238 will increase safety in our communities by ensuring gun laws are followed at gun shows, where thousands of firearms and rounds of ammunition are on display and available to the public.”

Additionally, the bill would strengthen implementation of other gun violence prevention laws, like age requirements and the three-day waiting period, as well as requiring that firearms and ammunition are appropriately tagged, stored, and displayed at gun shows to prevent theft. 

HB25-1133 and HB25-1238 now head back to the House for consideration of amendments. 

Legislation to Recognize Tribal Court Orders, Improve Public Safety Passes Senate

SB25-009 would affirm tribal sovereignty by ensuring state agencies recognize Tribal arrest warrants, court orders, and civil commitments

DENVER, CO –  Legislation sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to require Colorado state agencies to recognize and enforce Tribal court decisions passed the Senate today.

SB25-009 would ensure that state entities like courts, law enforcement, hospitals, and behavioral health facilities give full faith and credit to an arrest warrant or civil commitment issued by a Tribal court of a federally recognized Tribe. 

“It is important to honor Tribal orders in all Colorado jurisdictions,” said Danielson. “When a Tribal court issues an arrest warrant, that decision should be the law of the land – full stop. The existing gap in enforcement prevents victims, especially in indigenous communities, from accessing justice. This bill authorizes changes to better serve the American Indian community in our state.” 

“Decisions made in Tribal courts should be enforced throughout the state of Colorado,” said Roberts. “This bill is about sovereignty and safety. By ensuring the state recognizes decisions by Tribal courts, we can honor Tribal sovereignty, improve public safety, and ensure consistency and accountability across our justice system.”

Current law does not expressly allow for the state to recognize an arrest warrant or civil commitment from a Tribal court. Civil commitment orders include orders from law enforcement agencies, behavioral health facilities, and health care providers.

SB25-009 is one of three bills advanced by the bipartisan American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee last year. 

The bill now heads to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Bipartisan Bill to Improve Emergency Transportation Access for People with Disabilities Passes Senate

HB25-1007 would require paratransit services and local agencies to create a plan to communicate information & provide transit during emergencies

DENVER, CO - Today, the Senate approved a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, to ensure that people with disabilities have access to paratransit services during emergencies. 

HB25-1007, also sponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R- Alamosa, would require paratransit providers to coordinate with local public emergency service providers to create a plan for communicating information and providing paratransit services during emergencies such as fires, hazardous materials incidents, and other natural disasters. Paratransit services accommodate individuals with disabilities who cannot use regular or fixed route transit for some or all of their needs.

“The time to prepare for the next emergency is now,” said Winter. “People with disabilities and mobility limitations often face barriers to accessing transportation to safely evacuate when needed. This bill empowers Colorado communities to create an emergency communication and services plan that will work for them, ensuring that Coloradans with disabilities can get out of harm's way during emergencies.”

Under the bill, paratransit providers and public emergency services providers would also be required to submit a report to the Transportation Legislation Review Committee on the implementation of their plan.

HB25-1007 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track its progress HERE. 

JOINT RELEASE: Bill to Increase Judges and Boost Access to Justice Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, Governor Jared Polis signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts and Representative Michael Carter into law. SB25-024 adds 15 judges across Colorado to decrease wait times for court cases.

“As a former deputy district attorney, I know how important it is to have an adequate number of judges serving our communities.,” said Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “Over and over again, we’ve heard from judges, attorneys, victims, and litigants who are hurting from an overburdened court system. Adding 15 new judges to Colorado’s judicial system is a major step forward that will help Colorado fulfill it’s fundamental duty to provide timely access to justice.”

“The right to a speedy trial is guaranteed in our constitution, but the shortage of judges and other judicial staff makes it unrealistic to schedule cases in a reasonable timeframe,” said Rep. Michael Carter, D-Aurora. “When cases are continuously pushed back, victims and their families are delayed justice and innocent Coloradans sit in jail awaiting trial. Federal-level threats on our judges and courts only exacerbate workload and staffing issues. Our new law increases the number of judges, attorneys and other staff to cut down on wait times, protect the autonomy of judicial actors and improve access to justice.”

SB25-024, also sponsored by Sen. Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, and Rep. Matt Soper, R-Delta, increases the number of district and county judges by 15 judges for criminal and civil court cases. The new law also allocates funds for courts to add public defenders, deputy district attorneys, sheriff deputies, behavioral health court professionals and support staff. Under the law, Judicial Districts 4, 7, 13, 17, 18, 19 and 23 and Larimer, Douglas, La Plata, Mesa and Eagle counties will see at least one additional judge.

In early 2025, Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Monica Márquez made a plea to the Colorado General Assembly to add judges during the annual State of the Judiciary address.

Senate Democratic Leadership Welcomes Senator Katie Wallace to Colorado Senate

Senator Wallace was officially sworn into office following her recent vacancy committee appointment

Senator Katie Wallace shaking hands with Chief Justice Monica M. Marquez following her swearing in as State Senator.

DENVER, CO – Following her official swearing in by Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez, Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, and Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver today welcomed Senator Katie Wallace, D-Longmont, to the Colorado Senate.

“We are thrilled to welcome Katie Wallace to the Colorado Senate,” said Coleman. “She has a proven track record of public service and brings both experience and a fresh perspective to our caucus. I’m looking forward to working with Senator Wallace and all the Senate Democrats to continue our work to lower costs for hardworking families and protect our freedoms during this critical time.”

 "I am deeply honored by the opportunity to serve the people of Senate District 17,” said Wallace. “Having been raised in this district, I’ve spent my whole life collaborating with the folks here to make each of our lives better. As your Senator, I look forward to standing up for working people, fighting for affordable housing, taking on the climate crisis, and protecting our civil liberties & democracy."

“I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to Senator Wallace as she joins the Colorado Senate today,” said Rodriguez. “We have 47 days left in the legislative session to finish strong and make a difference for Colorado families. I am confident that she will work hard and serve with integrity and dedication.” 

Senator Katie Wallace represents Senate District 17 (Longmont, Lafayette, and Erie). Raised in Lafayette and now living in Longmont, Senator Wallace is focused on listening to and creating progress for the community where she grew up and that she is still so proud to call home. Sen. Wallace's legislative work focuses on affordable housing, the environment, and workers rights. 

Senator Wallace is a proud graduate of Front Range Community College in Longmont and CU-Boulder. Prior to her election to the Senate, she spent 13 years working on political organizing in her home community and across the state of Colorado, as well as serving in policy roles at both the State House and Congress. 

Bill to Protect Wild Bison Passes Committee

SB25-053 would make it illegal to hunt wild bison by classifying them as wildlife

DENVER, CO – A bill to classify bison as big game wildlife, unless the bison are privately owned livestock, passed the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee yesterday. 

SB25-053, sponsored by Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, would make it illegal to hunt wild bison. The majority of bison in Colorado are either privately owned livestock or living in a refuge, but in recent years, wild bison have crossed from Utah into northwest Colorado. 

“This bill will protect wild bison, which is a priority for the Native community as well as wildlife conservationists,” said Danielson. “Bison are crossing into Colorado from states like Utah, where they are protected, into a state where they can be poached without consequence. It’s our responsibility to protect these animals that play a key role in our state’s culture, history, and environment.”

Similar laws to protect wild bison exist in Utah, Montana, Arizona, New Mexico, and Wyoming.

SB25-053 is one of three bills advanced by the bipartisan American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee last year. 

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

SIGNED! Legislation to Save Coloradans Money on Mental Health Care

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation to save Coloradans money on health care. The new law will reduce health care costs for families by standardizing insurance coverage determinations to ensure that mental health care is based on clinical evidence, not profit margins. 

“Health care coverage decisions should be made using the best evidence based recommendations of health care professionals, not on profit margins,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “Right now, too many Coloradans struggle to receive the care they need while insurance companies continue to deny coverage for behavioral health care. This new law helps standardize insurance coverage decisions so Coloradans can actually access the behavioral health services they pay for.”

“Access to mental health care and substance abuse treatment is crucial to the health and well-being of Colorado families,” said Sen. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Far too often, insurance companies deny medically necessary mental health claims with little to no justification, and Coloradans who are already struggling end up with huge costs or no care at all. This legislation will help Coloradans get the care they need at a price they can afford.”

“Health insurance companies should cover services for mental health care at the same level they do for all other care, but far too often they deny claims when the care is necessary,” said Rep. Lindsay Gilchrist, D-Denver. “When insurance doesn’t cover claims, that drives up costs for families, and it makes it harder for Coloradans, especially young people, to receive critical care, as too many still don’t receive care at all. Colorado has made major strides in recent years to invest in behavioral health care, and this law carries on this work by ensuring providers can’t deny insurance coverage for medically necessary health care. We’re saving Coloradans money on health care and improving access to the care people need.”

HB25-1002, also sponsored by Senator Bryon Pelton, R-Sterling, will ensure that insurance companies use transparent, evidence-based criteria and programming when deciding whether mental health care should be covered under an insurance plan. This law also codifies the federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act into state law, requiring insurance companies to provide the same level of coverage for mental health services as they do for physical health services. The goal of HB24-1002 is to ensure that insurance providers are covering mental health care and to limit gaps in insurance coverage for Coloradans. 

The law also clarifies state law around mental health parity and requires the use of clinical standards from select national organizations to ensure parity.

ICYMI: Bill to Crack Down on ‘Junk Fees’ Passes Senate Committee

HB25-1090 would bring down costs for Coloradans by cracking down on unpopular, surprise ‘junk fees’

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, to crack down on ‘junk fees’ and improve price transparency passed the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday. 

“Unexpected, undisclosed fees cost consumers hundreds of dollars every month,” Cutter said. “These ‘junk fees’ can make informed budgeting decisions feel impossible for consumers. Our legislation will increase transparency for consumers, helping them make informed purchase decisions and ultimately save more of their hard earned money.”

“Opaque or dishonest fees cost Americans up to $90 billion per year, taking an average of $650 annually out of the pockets of working families that could be better spent on household essentials like health care and child care,” Weissman said. “Honest, upfront business owners deserve a fair playing field and consumers deserve price transparency in order to make informed financial decisions.”

HB25-1090 would standardize transparent prices upfront, in many cases prohibiting pricing information from being offered or advertised unless the final total price is disclosed. Additionally, the bill would prohibit the misrepresentation of pricing information, require the purpose of a fee that is not part of the total price to be disclosed, and restrict the fees landlords can charge for utilities and third-party services to ensure tenants are not charged additional fees. 

On January 15, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent a letter to Governor Polis to provide information about the efforts they have made to address ‘junk fees’ and called for the passage of legislation like HB25-1090, that works to combat these unforeseen costs. Shortly thereafter, the FTC and the Colorado Attorney General announced they are taking action against the nation’s largest multi-family rental property managers for using deceptive advertising and failing to disclose recurring fees.

HB25-1090 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

joint release: Lawmakers Spotlight State-Driven Solutions to Affordability Issues

Witnesses highlight devastating impact of Trump Administration actions to dismantle consumer protections and let corporations reap record profits by ripping off hardworking people

DENVER, CO – The House and Senate Judiciary Committees today held a joint hearing to examine the Trump Administration’s efforts to protect corporate profits and monopolies at the expense of hardworking Coloradans. 

As the federal government abandons efforts to save consumers money by holding corporations accountable, states like Colorado are leading the way to lower costs for working families by cracking down on rent algorithms, junk fees, and price gouging that drive up prices on critical necessities like housing, groceries and everyday purchases. 

“We are living in a time where corporate profits go unchecked while hardworking people struggle to live paycheck to paycheck,” said Senate Judiciary Chair Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “All this while federal agencies meant to protect everyday Americans are being gutted at the whim of an unelected billionaire and a President more interested in his own bottom line than the well-being of the people. This is why the Colorado legislature’s work to hold corporations accountable and shore up consumer protections is so critically important. We will continue to strengthen protections for Coloradans and level the playing field for all.”

“While the Trump Administration is helping the wealthiest corporate monopolies rip off the American People by dismantling essential worker and consumer protections, we’re saving Coloradans money and boosting wages,” said House Judiciary Chair Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “Colorado Democrats are making our state more affordable by cracking down on price gouging, junk fees and rent algorithms that drive up housing prices. The testimony we heard today makes it clear that if Elon Musk,Trump and DOGE succeed, corporations will raise prices further and more easily scam Americans out of their hard earned money while preying on the most vulnerable among us.”

The committee heard testimony from Federal Trade Commissioner Alvaro Bedoya, who was illegally fired by Trump yesterday, and Seth Frotman, the former General Counsel and Senior Advisor for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The witnesses highlighted how dismantling CFPB and FTC efforts to protect consumers will take money out of the pockets of the people who can least afford it while shielding corporations from accountability.

In the few months since Trump took office, the administration has halted critical efforts to protect consumers from junk fees and rent algorithms. Elon Musk and DOGE have tried to shut down the CFPB, which was established after the Great Recession to crack down on predatory financial products and practices. Both the FTC and CFPB had been actively engaged on policies to make life more affordable for working people  and address these critical issues, but when Trump took office, he stopped those efforts, leaving states like Colorado to fill the gaps. 

Bill to Support Families with Newborns in the NICU Passes Senate

SB25-144 would extend the paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance program up to an additional 12 weeks for parents of children in neonatal intensive care

DENVER, CO – Today, legislation sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, to extend the Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Insurance program passed the Senate.

SB25-144 would allow parents of children who are receiving inpatient care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to receive paid family and medical insurance benefits for up to an additional twelve weeks while the child is receiving care. 

“I know firsthand how terrifying and consuming it can be for a parent of a newborn in intensive care,” said Bridges. “It is so important for a child's development to be with their parents in those first few months of life. We need to make it easier for parents with kids in the NICU to have access to that quality time, which is why we’re expanding FAMLI in a way that doesn’t raise premiums for employees or employers.”  

“We know that children are more likely to come home faster from the NICU if their parents can be with them,” said Winter. “Because of the good work and the existing resources of the FAMLI Insurance program, expanding benefits for additional time allows the state to provide additional help to families going through incredibly taxing times.”  

The bill would also modify the premiums for the FAMLI program to extend the current rate of 0.9 percent of wages per employee through the end of the year and change the premium-setting process to reflect the solvency of the program and create more stability for businesses. 

SB25-144 will now head to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Improve Statewide Emergency Alert Systems

SB25-031 would develop a single point of contact to improve statewide emergency alert coverage

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed Senator Dylan Roberts’, D-Frisco, bill to expand access to emergency alert systems. 

SB25-031 would require the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management in the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to develop a single point of contact to improve statewide access to critical emergency alert information, recommend improvements for local governments who administer alert systems to address language needs, provide technical assistance to local communities, and offer recommendations to improve emergency alert systems. 

“In the event of an emergency, every Coloradan deserves access to alerts, no matter where they live. It could literally be the difference between life and death,” said Roberts. “This bill will upgrade several aspects of our emergency communications infrastructure to improve public safety and standardize access for all.”

In addition to improving emergency communications in DPS, SB25-031 would expand the scope of Colorado’s Broadband Office in the Office of Information Technology to include promoting access to wireless service. 

SB25-031 is one of three bills to advance out of the bipartisan Cell Phone Connectivity Interim Study Committee, tasked with identifying gaps in cell phone coverage and connectivity in Colorado. 

SB25-031 now heads to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Bill to Protect HOA Homeowners Passes Senate

The bill would help keep Coloradans housed by strengthening protections against HOA enforcement and foreclosure

DENVER, CO –  The Senate today passed a bill that would strengthen safeguards for homeowners in homeowners associations (HOAs) to help them stay housed and recoup their property’s equity if they are forced to sell.

HB25-1043, sponsored by Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, would add several new requirements to HOAs’ enforcement and foreclosure procedures to protect homeowners. 

“Homeowners deserve the certainty and stability of knowing that their home will not be sold out from under them without an opportunity to retain their equity - regardless of whether or not they have an HOA,” said Exum. “Becoming a homeowner is a way to build generational wealth and secure housing stability for the long haul. By adding measures to increase transparency, strengthen homeowner protections, and prevent hasty enforcement and foreclosure actions from an HOA, we can keep Colorado families in their homes.”

Under the bill, an HOA would be required to comply with its own bylaws and all applicable state laws before collecting money through enforcement actions. In cases where an HOA pursues a foreclosure against an owner, HB25-1043 would allow an owner to file a court motion to delay the sale of their home at auction for up to nine months, during which they could sell their own home at market value instead of losing it at auction. 

The bill would also strengthen and clarify existing notification guidelines, require an HOA to provide owners with a notice regarding their right to credit counseling at least 30 days before initiating foreclosure, and add new reporting requirements to HOAs’ annual registration with the Department of Regulatory Agencies. 

HB25-1043 now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Pair of Bills to Create Safeguards on Ammunition Purchases, Improve Security at Gun Shows Pass Committee

DENVER, CO – Two bills to raise the minimum age to purchase ammunition for rifles and shotguns to 21 years old and improve security at gun shows passed the Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today. 

HB25-1133, sponsored by Senators Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, and Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, would raise the minimum age to purchase firearm ammunition to 21 years old, with some exceptions, and require that sellers verify the buyer’s age using government-issued photo identification. 

“Colorado has suffered a disproportionate number of tragic shootings and we must do whatever we can to prevent future acts of senseless violence,” said Kipp, sponsor of both bills. “Both of these bills are commonsense measures to help ensure dangerous firearms don’t get into the wrong hands and that Colorado state law is being followed wherever firearms are sold.”

“Differing requirements for purchasing firearms and ammunition create dangerously lax conditions for at-risk youth,” Amabile said. “This bill would increase the age to purchase ammunition and strengthen display and delivery requirements to prevent theft and keep ammunition out of the hands of those intent on doing harm to themselves or others.”

Additionally, HB25-1133 would require sellers to take basic safety measures to prevent theft of ammunition in stores by requiring ammunition be stored in locked cases or behind a counter so that it cannot be accessed without a store associate. Delivery providers must also verify the person receiving the package is 21 or older.

HB25-1238, sponsored by Kipp and Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, would strengthen security and safety measures at gun shows. It would require that gun show promoters maintain liability insurance and submit detailed security plans, including information about vendors, 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 to local law enforcement before an event. 

“This bill is another in a long line of measures I’ve supported during my time in the Colorado legislature to prevent gun violence,” Danielson said. “House Bill 1238 will increase safety in our communities by ensuring gun laws are followed at gun shows, where thousands of firearms and rounds of ammunition are on display and available to the public.”

Additionally, the bill would strengthen implementation of other gun violence prevention laws, like age requirements and the three-day waiting period, as well as requiring that firearms and ammunition are appropriately tagged, stored, and displayed at gun shows to prevent theft. 

HB25-1133 and HB25-1238 now head to the Senate floor for further consideration. 

Bill to Streamline Health Care for Colorado Children Passes Senate

HB25-1003 would combine two Medicaid waiver programs to better support children with complex health needs

DENVER, CO – A bill to revise state law to align with a recent change in the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing and streamline health care services for children passed the Senate today. 

HB25-1003, sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, would combine two existing Medicaid waiver programs into one, creating the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver program. 

“We owe it to our children to provide the support they need in their early years. That is not only the right thing to do, but an important investment in our future,” said Cutter. “This bill helps protect and streamline children’s health care and early intervention services to make sure every child in Colorado has the opportunity to thrive.”

This new program would help streamline waivers to better support Colorado youth with behavioral health conditions or complex needs and protect access to in-home services and treatments, including respite care and pain management.

The bill now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track its progress HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: Recession Risk Increases, Tight Budget Conditions Persist

DENVER, CO – Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) today released the following statements after the Legislative Council Staff (LCS) and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) delivered the March quarterly economic forecasts.

“The Joint Budget Committee faces an extraordinarily challenging budget process this year because of the rationing equation in TABOR. Uncertainty at the federal level also poses very real threats to our work at the state level,” said JBC Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “However, unlike Washington, we have combed through the budget to make thoughtful, strategic, and bipartisan cuts. Even tougher decisions lie ahead that will impact everyday services Coloradans rely on. Despite these challenges, we’ll wrap up our work later this week to pass a responsible, balanced budget.”

“Today’s forecast is a reminder that looming trade wars, federal cuts to Medicaid, and sweeping federal layoffs, will significantly harm Colorado’s economy, drive up prices and worsen our budget crisis,” said JBC Member Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “Coloradans are counting on us to responsibly balance our budget, which means we will need to make cuts in places no one wants in order to protect essential services and our most vulnerable community members. Our tight budget condition is the result of increased Medicaid costs and fiscal constraints, and that means we will need to make tradeoffs to deliver on the services Coloradans rely on.”  

“This economic forecast highlights the uncertainty driven by federal decision-making and the concerns many Coloradans share about the nation’s economy,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “These challenges compound an already difficult budgeting process that the Joint Budget Committee has been working through and presents new challenges as we think long term about the state’s budget and economy. As we approach the end of our budgeting process, I will work hard to protect critical funding for services like education and behavioral health care – investments that will build stronger, healthier communities for years to come.”

“As we get closer to delivering a balanced budget for Coloradans, federally-fueled economic uncertainty is creating alarming risks to our economy and new pressures on our budget process,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “While we have difficult, painful budget decisions still before us, we’ve worked hard to prioritize the investments that Coloradans rely on in education, health care and public safety. Colorado has a long history of passing bipartisan budgets, and I’d like to recognize the JBC’s diligent, thoughtful work to find responsible cuts that, while still painful, will help us finalize a balanced and responsible budget in these difficult circumstances.”

Despite headwinds exacerbated by federal policies, Colorado’s economy remains strong. Driven by lower housing inflation, headline inflation in the Denver area is lower than the nation, and inflation in Colorado has been measured at much lower levels than nationally. The LCS forecast anticipates Colorado’s economy will continue to grow, however “rapidly shifting federal policy” has resulted in downward revisions to the economic forecasts. According to LCS, “over the forecast period, increased tariffs are expected to reduce trade volumes, put upward pressure on prices, and dampen business investment in structures and equipment.” Tariffs will “put upward pressure on retail gasoline prices.”

Given the uncertainty surrounding consequential economic decisions made by the Trump administration, including tariffs, freezing federal funds and promised extensive changes to federal economic and tax policy, Colorado’s recession risk has been elevated. President Trump's tariff policies have resulted in more business volatility and uncertainty for consumers, and LCS staff believes there are now more risks to the forecast that could worsen budget conditions (downside risks) as a result of these federal policies. For example, tariffs on the import of crude oil from Canada could raise prices for Colorado consumers. 

Colorado has a large number of federal employees, some of whom have been subject to mass layoffs by the Trump administration at the USDA, NOAA, IRS and other federal departments.

Colorado’s budget conditions remain constrained as costs grow. Medicaid costs have increased in Colorado, mainly due to aging demographics and higher demand for more expensive services, such as long term care. Colorado is facing a budget deficit of more than $1 billion, however, increased costs in Medicaid make up nearly 60 percent of this deficit.

Colorado’s Medicaid funding could further be jeopardized if Congress adopts a plan to drastically reduce Medicaid spending. This federal funding cut to Medicaid has the potential to impact Colorado's ability to provide health care to nearly 400,000 Coloradans.  

The state is also required to fulfill voter-approved investments that further reduce the amount available in a capped budget and require legislative trade offs. 

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.89 billion in FY 2025-2026, adding to an opening balance of $2.20 billion in reserves, and $18.78 billion in FY in 2026-2027 – a 6.5 percent decrease in total funds available when compared year over year. 

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.2 billion for FY 2024-2025 and $18.0 billion for FY 2025-2026 – a $344.6 million decrease for FY 2024-2025 and a $108.5 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the December revenue forecast.

Legislation to Recognize Tribal Court Orders, Improve Public Safety Passes Committee Unanimously

SB25-009 would affirm tribal sovereignty by ensuring state agencies recognize Tribal arrest warrants, court orders, and civil commitments

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to require Colorado state agencies to recognize and enforce Tribal court decisions passed the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously today.

SB25-009 would ensure that state entities like courts, law enforcement, hospitals, and behavioral health facilities give full faith and credit to an arrest warrant or civil commitment issued by a Tribal court of a federally recognized Tribe. 

“It is important to honor Tribal orders in all Colorado jurisdictions,” said Danielson. “When a Tribal court issues an arrest warrant, that decision should be the law of the land – full stop. The existing gap in enforcement prevents victims, especially in indigenous communities, from accessing justice. This bill authorizes changes to better serve the American Indian community in our state.” 

“Decisions made in Tribal courts should be enforced throughout the state of Colorado,” said Roberts. “This bill is about sovereignty and safety. By ensuring the state recognizes decisions by Tribal courts, we can honor Tribal sovereignty, improve public safety, and ensure consistency and accountability across our justice system.”

Current law does not expressly allow for the state to recognize an arrest warrant or civil commitment from a Tribal court. Civil commitment orders include orders from law enforcement agencies, behavioral health facilities, and health care providers.

SB25-009 is one of three bills advanced by the bipartisan American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee last year. 

The bill now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Bill to Protect HOA Homeowners Passes Committee

The bill would help keep Coloradans housed by strengthening protections against HOA enforcement and foreclosure

DENVER, CO – The Senate Local Government and Housing Committee today passed a bill that would strengthen safeguards for homeowners in homeowners associations (HOAs) to help them stay housed and recoup their property’s equity if they are forced to sell.

HB25-1043, sponsored by Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, would add several new requirements to HOAs’ enforcement and foreclosure procedures to protect homeowners. 

“Homeowners deserve the certainty and stability of knowing that their home will not be sold out from under them without an opportunity to retain their equity - regardless of whether or not they have an HOA,” said Exum. “Becoming a homeowner is a way to build generational wealth and secure housing stability for the long haul. By adding measures to increase transparency, strengthen homeowner protections, and prevent hasty enforcement and foreclosure actions from an HOA, we can keep Colorado families in their homes.”

Under the bill, an HOA would be required to comply with its own bylaws and all applicable state laws before collecting money through enforcement actions. In cases where an HOA pursues a foreclosure against an owner, HB25-1043 would allow an owner to file a court motion to delay the sale of their home at auction for up to nine months, during which they could sell their own home at market value instead of losing it at auction. 

The bill would also strengthen and clarify existing notification guidelines, require an HOA to provide owners with a notice regarding their right to credit counseling at least 30 days before initiating foreclosure, and add new reporting requirements to HOAs’ annual registration with the Department of Regulatory Agencies. 

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: Bill to Encourage Increased Transportation Options Passes Committee

SB25-030 would encourage alternative modes of transportation

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee approved legislation sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, to encourage increased transportation options to make sustainable transportation more accessible, convenient, and reliable. 

“This bill is a bold step to give Coloradans freedom and choice in how they move and access transit. It helps connect different modes of transportation like biking, walking, taking transit, or driving, to ensure everyone can get to where they need to go," Winter said. “A third of Coloradans don't drive due to economic circumstances, disability, age or choice – this bill increases equity in access. Eighty nine percent of Coloradans want an increase in choice on mobility and this bill is an important step forward.”

“This bill is a practical, long-term solution to a host of different issues – from traffic congestion to climate change,” Hinrichsen said. “We all love shorter commute times and more options to get to school, work, and community spaces. Senate Bill 30 would help give us a clear, practical path to make sure the state’s transit agencies are partners in achieving that goal.”

SB25-030 would establish “Transit and Active Transportation Project Inventories” to allow the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and local governments to efficiently identify gaps in transit, bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure in state and regional transit systems. Inventories would be utilized to inform future planning of multimodal infrastructure projects and allow CDOT to better identify funding gaps and opportunities. 

The transportation sector is one of Colorado’s largest air polluters. This bill would build on past efforts by Senate Democrats to support multimodal transit infrastructure, such as last year’s SB24-036, also sponsored by Senator Winter, which funded bicycle and pedestrian safety infrastructure.

SB25-030 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Bill to Make it Easier for Consumers to End Automatic Contract Renewals Passes Committee

SB25-145 would require sellers to offer simple, online cancellation of automatic renewal contracts or trial periods

DENVER, CO – A bill to protect consumers from burdensome automatic renewal contract cancellations passed the Senate Business, Labor and Technology Committee today. 

Sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, SB25-145 would require sellers of goods and services to implement simple mechanisms for consumers to cancel automatic renewal contracts and trial periods either online or in-person. Failure to do so would constitute a deceptive trade practice under the Colorado Consumer Protection Act.

“There is nothing more frustrating than signing up for a free trial or a subscription only to have to jump through hoop after difficult hoop to try to cancel that subscription,” Kipp said. “This bill would help prevent deceptive practices and simplify the process for Coloradans to cancel their subscriptions online, saving them time and money in the long run.”

SB25-145 closes a loophole in Kipp’s HB21-1239, which provided transparency to consumers entering into automatic renewal contracts, to further shore up consumer protections.

This bill joins a host of other bills by Colorado Democrats to protect consumers this session, including SB25-157, which would prevent deceptive trade practices that mislead consumers into buying a product or service, HB25-1090, which would protect against junk fees, and HB25-1010, which would prevent price gouging. 

SB25-145 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.