Senate Dems Discuss Priority Bills to Protect Working Families and Respond to the Ongoing Health/Economic Crisis

Denver, CO – Today Senate leaders spoke in a media availability about newly introduced legislation aimed at tackling some of Colorado’s top priorities, including the ongoing adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"We are leading in difficult times, and the people need action on the issues that matter most to their health and safety," said President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). "This pandemic has hurt so many across our state, so it is critical that we come together and put party politics aside to pass legislation that prioritizes vulnerable communities and the economic wellbeing of all Coloradans." 

SB20-212: Reimbursement For Telehealth Services (Sens. Winter, Tate)

This legislation protects patients’ ability to receive care via telehealth that was granted during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Telehealth has kept consumers and providers safe while allowing patients to continue their care plan with their providers. This access could be removed when the declared emergency ends unless the state legislature acts.  
Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs: June 2, 2020

SB20-207: Unemployment Insurance (Sens. Hansen, Winter)

During times of unprecedented unemployment, this bill works to expand those who qualify for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits and increase the benefits workers can receive. Some of these increased benefits include the amount a worker can earn while remaining eligible for UI, as well as an expanded definition of “good cause” for a worker to quit and still receive the benefit.  From a lack of childcare resulting in school closures to employers not protecting the health of their workers, Coloradans need additional protections if they are laid off or forced to leave their jobs.  
Senate Finance: June 2, 2020

SB20- 205: Paid Sick Leave (Sens. Fenberg, Bridges)

Currently, 40% of Colorado’s workforce are not afforded the opportunity to earn paid sick days–– creating a “work while sick” culture in Colorado that increases the deadly transmission of viruses such as COVID-19. This bill will allow those who are feeling ill to protect their coworkers, customers, and loved ones by staying home, without the fear of losing their income.
Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs

SB20-211: Strengthening Debt Protections (Sens. Winter, Gonzales)

During a disaster emergency such as COVID-19 where so many people are experiencing economic hardship, this bill expands the ability of the Attorney General to provide oversight of extraordinary debt collection actions, like garnishment. The Attorney General also has the ability to freeze new extraordinary debt collection actions, establish a minimum grace period for payments to resume, and require that monthly payment amounts consider a consumer’s ability to repay.
Senate Finance: June 2, 2020