ICYMI: Pair of Bills to Allow Schools to Expand Services Pass Committee

Legislation would allow school districts to pursue long-term leases for renewable energy or affordable housing projects, allow the Emily Griffith Technical College to offer an associate of applied science degree

DENVER, CO –  Two bills to support educational institutions sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, passed the Senate Education Committee yesterday. 

"These bills continue our work to make Colorado more affordable through strategic investments in education and housing," said Bridges. "We're making it easier for folks pursuing an apprenticeship to get the academic credit they deserve for that work with an associates degree. And it just makes sense to let schools use land they already own for housing that's affordable for their teachers and other hardworking people in their community."

HB25-1006, also sponsored by Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, would provide school districts the flexibility to pursue long-term leases for affordable housing projects, solar fields, and energy storage systems. Under current law, school districts can only lease their land for up to ten years, which can hinder bids from investors or developers looking for longer-term leases. This bill would eliminate the ten year limit so school districts have more opportunities to lease their land for long-term, community-focused renewable energy or housing projects.

“This bill is a targeted update to give school districts the opportunity to pursue long-term projects that serve our communities, like providing affordable housing for their own educators or creating a community solar garden,” said Kolker. “It provides the flexibility school districts need to meet their communities’ housing and renewable energy needs.”

HB25-1221, a bipartisan bill also sponsored by Senator Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, would allow Emily Griffith Technical College – a public technical school which offers certificate programs, apprenticeships, and other educational opportunities – to offer an Associate’s Degree of Applied Sciences. This would expand access to a college degree for learners who are not on a traditional higher education path, benefitting students, their families, and the entire Colorado economy. 

Both bills now head to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track their progress: HB25-1006, HB25-1221.