ICYMI: Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act Passes Committee

HB25-1225 would expand protections against intimidation for voters and election workers

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, to protect voters and election workers from intimidation passed the Senate State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee yesterday. 

“Coloradans in rural and underserved communities are disproportionately impacted by efforts to suppress voters,” Hinrichsen said. “It is critical that we shore up protections for voters so that everyone, regardless of zip code or identity, feels safe participating in our democratic process.”

HB25-1225, also known as the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act, would expand protections against intimidation, threats, or coercion while voting, attempting to vote, assisting others in voting, or helping to administer an election. Under the bill, carrying a visible firearm, imitation firearm, or toy firearm while engaging in certain election-related activities would be considered intimidation, with exceptions for law enforcement officials and hired on-site security. The bill would also allow an individual who alleges intimidation or coercion to pursue civil recourse. 

This bill is the latest in a series of legislation passed by Colorado Democrats in recent years to protect voters from intimidation, including a 2022 law to prevent armed voter intimidation by prohibiting the open carry of firearms at or near polling centers.

HB25-1225 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.