Legalizing Minors’ Businesses Bill Unanimously Passes Senate Business, Labor, and Technology Committee

Senator Angela Williams Hosts Kids Business Expo to Showcase Young Entrepreneurs

February 11, 2019

Denver, CO —The Senate Business, Labor, and Technology Committee today voted unanimously  to advance SB19-103, Legalizing Minors' Businesses, a bill sponsored by Senator Angela Williams (D-Denver) that would allow children in Colorado under the age of 18 to operate an occasional business without having to purchase a license. The bill now moves to Senate floor for a second reading on consent calendar.

“Whether it be starting a lemonade stand, mowing the lawn, or shoveling snow, we need to be encouraging our kids’ creativity and entrepreneurial spirit - not discouraging it,” said Senator Williams. “I am proud to sponsor this bill, with bipartisan support, so that kids can innovate and let their creativity flow."

SB19-103 would allow Colorado’s kids under the age of 18 to operate their business without having to purchase the multiple permits currently required under local law. The bill stipulates that these businesses must operate for fewer than 84 days of the year and be located a sufficient distance from other commercial entities.

To showcase the importance of youth entrepreneurship ahead of the bills hearing, Senator Williams hosted the Kids Business Expo at the State Capitol where more than 20 kids between the ages of six and 17 presented their businesses to lawmakers.

“The Kids Business Expo was a fantastic opportunity to see the incredible businesses that can flourish if we change our existing laws that prohibit them from operating,” added Senator Williams.

This bill has been introduced alongside a coalition of dedicated partners who believe in the power of young business owners to become future business leaders including: the Young Americans Center, the Colorado Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Lemonade Day, Dream Tank, Tesla FinTech, Denver Public Schools After School Alliance, Dream Catcher USA, Junior Achievement and the National Federation of Independent Businesses – Colorado.

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Bill Creating Peer Health Assistance Program for Emergency Medical Service Providers Passes Committee

February 7, 2019

Denver, CO – The Senate Health and Human Services Committee today voted 4-to-1 to advance SB19-065, Peer Assistance Emergency Medical Service Provider. The bill, introduced by Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo), would create a peer health assistance program for Colorado’s Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers. The bill now heads to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.

“We must ensure that those who protect the health and safety of Coloradans every day have the support they need to do their physically and mentally strenuous work,” said President Garcia. “This bill will help EMS providers who are struggling get the treatment they need to safely return back to service, all under the protection of confidentiality.”

Eighty four percent of first responders – including firefighters, police officers, EMTs, paramedics, and nurses – had experienced a traumatic event on the job, according to a 2017 study by the University of Phoenix. According to that same study, 34 percent of first responders received a formal diagnosis of a mental health disorder such as depression or PTSD. For those diagnosed with depression, nearly half cited incidents at work as the leading cause.

EMS practitioners also suffer from a high rate of suicidal thoughts, according to a 2015 survey of EMTs and paramedics published in the Journal of Emergency Medical Services (JEMS). In fact, the survey found that 37 percent reported contemplating suicide - nearly 10 times the rate of American adults - while 6.6 percent reported having attempted suicide compared to .5 percent of all adults.

“I’ve been in EMS for 18 years, and I teach a paramedic program at Pueblo Community College. I know the challenges facing EMS providers and I’m proud to help make support more readily available,” added President Garcia.

SB19-065 would offer education, support, counseling, and treatment to EMS providers who struggle with chemical dependency, mental illness, or any other personal, emotional, or psychological problems. The program would be overseen by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and funded through fees on each new license and renewal.

To learn more about SB19-065, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-065.

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President Garcia’s Expand Medicated Assisted Treatment Pilot Program Unanimously Passes the Senate Health and Human Services Committee

February 7, 2019

Denver, CO — The Senate Health and Human Services Committee today voted unanimously to pass SB19-001, Expand Medication-Assisted Treatment Pilot Program, a bill to expand the Medicated Assisted Treatment pilot program currently offered in Pueblo and Routt Counties to 10 additional counties across the state. The bill now moves to the Appropriations Committee for consideration.

In 2017, there were 558 opioid overdose deaths in Colorado from both prescription opioids and illegal opioids such as heroin, according to the Colorado Department of Human Services.

“We are so proud of how many people have been helped by the pilot program in Pueblo and Routt Counties, and it is our hope that this bill will be passed so many more Coloradans can find the help they need,” said President Leroy Garcia, the Senate sponsor. “This bill and the expansion of the pilot program will ensure that Coloradans who are struggling in some of the highest need areas of the state can get the help they need to beat opioid addiction.”

SB19-001 would provide $5 million in funding through marijuana tax dollars over two years to rapidly expand this program across the state to help Coloradans battling opioid addiction in the highest need counties. In addition to expanding and increasing funding for the MAT program, Senate Bill 1 would also shift the administration of the program from the College of Nursing to the center for research into substance abuse disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery support strategies, expanding the work that the College of Nursing is doing and adding more disciplines and communities from around the state and on the Anschutz Campus.

To learn more about SB19-001, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-001.

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Senator Fields’ Bill to Admit Out-of-Court Statements Made by Children Passes Senate Judiciary Committee

February 6, 2019

Denver, CO — Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee passed SB19-071, Child Hearsay Exemption, a bill - sponsored by Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) - that would allow statements made by children to be admissible in court when the child is the victim or the statement describes unlawful sexual behavior. The bill unanimously passed committee and heads to the committee of the whole for consideration.

Only 12 percent of child sexual abuse is reported to the authorities, according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. By allowing children to report through adults they trust over time rather than single interactions with law enforcement or legal systems, the bill aims to enhance truth-seeking and improve community safety.

“This bill is extremely important for protecting children. It allows a child’s voice to be heard,” said Senator Fields. “What is most important is seeking justice to protect the children from those who have disturbed their innocence. This bill will broaden the scope to let more children be heard, and ultimately allow for victims to share their testimony however they are able to find the courage to do so. We need not let the system get in the way of respecting the words of children who have been exposed to sexual crimes.”

The bill amends the statutory exception to the hearsay rule to expand the admission for out-of-court statements made by children under 13 years old for any criminal or delinquency proceeding in which the child is the victim or in which the child describes all or part of any unlawful sexual behavior.

“This statutory exception allows our legal system to ensure children who are often afraid, ashamed, or confused can receive the support and safety they deserve,” added Senator Fields.

To learn more about SB19-071, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-071.

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Senate Judiciary Committee Unanimously Votes to Advance Bill Extending Statute of Limitations for Failure to Report Child Abuse

February 6, 2019

Denver, CO — Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously passed SB19-049, Statute Of Limitation Failure Report Child Abuse, a bill - sponsored by Sen. Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) - that would extend the statute of limitations for mandatory reporters who fail to report child abuse. The bill now heads to the committee of the whole for consideration.

“We have mandatory reporters who have access to kids all day long that are having their cases dismissed because they can keep a secret for 18 months and 1 day. Those 24 hours completely absolve them of any and all responsibility to report. That is unacceptable,” said Senator Fields.
“We need to protect our kids, especially those who have the courage to come forward to report sexual assault, and that is exactly what this bill does.”

SB19-049 extends the statute of limitations for these failures to report from 18 months to 3 years. By extending the window in which mandatory reporters may be liable for failing to report, this bill would help hold sexual abuse offenders accountable.

By age 18, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused and four of five victims will not report their abuse. When children choose to speak, it is especially important that mandatory reporters take the appropriate action these children trust them to take. This bill would help hold these trusted adults to a higher standard.

“This is a law about accountability. If you are an adult who is aware of a child being sexually abused, you should not be able to sit on the sidelines. How do we protect our children better? I believe this bill addresses this issue,” said Stephanie Villafuerte, Child Protection Ombudsman of Colorado.

To learn more about SB19-049, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-049.

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Senate Passes Bipartisan Bill to Require Expanded Disclosure of Funding Behind Campaign Communications

February 5, 2019

Denver, CO – The Colorado State Senate today voted to approve SB19-068, Expand Disclosure Electioneering Communications, a bill which would require expanded disclosure of funding behind campaign communications. SB19-068passed the Senate by a 23-to-12 vote and now moves to the House for consideration.

“This legislation will strengthen our democracy, and I am incredibly proud that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and I worked together to ensure greater transparency during our elections,” said prime sponsor Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada). “Coloradans deserve to know who is behind the messages they see before they head to the polls, and this bill will ensure that the entities who send out fliers or any other electioneering communication must publicly stand by their ads.”

SB19-068 would require any person or entity spending more than $1000 per year on electioneering communications to publicly state -- on the communication itself -- the name of the person or entity making it. The bill would also increase transparency and accountability in our elections by including electioneering communications that occur any point between the primary and general election.

For more information about SB19-068, visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-068.

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Senate Passes Bill to Help Colorado Borrowers with Student Debt

February 5, 2019

Denver, CO – The Colorado State Senate today voted 25-to-10 to pass SB19-057, the Employee Information Student Loan Repayment Programs Act, a bill that requires the state to distribute informational materials concerning loan repayment and loan forgiveness programs to state employees. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

“I hope this bill will provide much needed debt relief to students across Colorado and encourage more individuals to enter or stay in crucial public service careers like teaching,” said Senator Tammy Story, Senate prime co-sponsor.

The bill was introduced to address the large amount of student loan debt and high student loan default rates in Colorado. As of 2017, student loan debt in the state reached $26.4 billion, and Colorado ranks 36th in the nation on average student debt, with the average borrower carrying $36,032 in debt.

Many Coloradans who have federal student loans qualify for loan repayment programs that allow for lower monthly payments, or allow borrowers to have their loans forgiven after working for a certain period of time in the public sector, as a teacher, or for a nonprofit public service organization. Unfortunately, only an estimated one percent of eligible borrowers are aware of and accurately tracking their payments and employment.

“The State of Colorado must do more to support its employees who are faced with mounting student debt,” said Majority Leader Fenberg. “This is an important step in ensuring Coloradans who qualify for federal student loan repayment programs have access to the information they need.”

As a public sector employer, Colorado can help employees access federal loan repayment and loan forgiveness programs by providing information about these programs. The bill requires the Department of Personnel to develop and annually distribute informational materials to state employees concerning federal student loan repayment programs and loan forgiveness programs for which state employees may be eligible.

This is the first in a series of bills that Majority Leader Fenberg is sponsoring to address the student debt crisis in Colorado. The Regulate Student Education Loan Act, which seeks to provide more oversight over student loan servicers will be heard in the Senate Education Committee this Thursday.

For more information about SB19-057, please visit: http://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-057.

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Bill to Support Police Officers Involved in Fatal Use of Force Incidents Passes Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee

February 4, 2019

Denver, CO - The Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today voted 3-to-2 to pass SB19-091, a bill sponsored by Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) and Senator John Cooke (R-Greeley) that would require law enforcement agencies to develop policies to support and aid police officers involved in use of force incidents before and after they occur. The bill now heads to the committee of the whole for consideration. 

“We need a process in place to prevent tragedies like the loss of Captain Richard Black Jr., and that is exactly what this legislation is designed to do,” said Senator Fields. “It provides recommendations, not a mandate, for what to do before and after a traumatic incident to ensure that the public is safe and that our law enforcement officers are ready to protect and serve again.”

This bill would require agencies to focus on pre-incident training and preparation, as well as offer aid to the officer involved at the scene of the incident. Further, it puts an emphasis on comprehensive post-incident support, including temporary leave or duty reassignment. Agencies would have to review their new support policies every other year to ensure the most effective services are in place. Departments would also be able to apply for and receive a grant from the peace officer mental health support grant program in order to develop and implement their policies.

Police testimony and information gathered from public safety mental health professionals and scientific research show that providing training, support services, and reintegration resources can promote positive outcomes following use of force incidents.

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Colorado Senate President Garcia Urges Trump to Negotiate Return of U.S.S. Pueblo at Second Summit with North Korea

Senate Recently Passed a Joint Resolution Urging National Political Leaders and the Colorado Congressional Delegation to Negotiate Return of U.S.S. Pueblo on the 51st Anniversary of its Capture

January 31, 2019

Denver, CO – Senate President Leroy M. Garcia (D-Pueblo) today sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to negotiate the release of the U.S.S. Pueblo, the only ship held by a foreign government, at the second summit meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in February.

In the letter, Garcia wrote: “As President of the Colorado State Senate and a proud Puebloan, I am writing on the 51st anniversary of the capture of the U.S.S. Pueblo to assert in the strongest possible terms the importance of the return of this ship from the Republic of North Korea.”

The U.S.S. Pueblo, named for the city of Pueblo, Colorado, is a United States Navy ship that was attacked by the North Korean military while on an intelligence mission on January 23, 1968. One crew member was killed during the attack while 80 others and two civilian oceanographers were captured and held for 11 months by the North Korean government

“The U.S.S. Pueblo is not just a symbol of the courage and honor of the crew who were captured — it remains a symbol of the strength and pride of our Navy and the American people. As a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, I am grateful for the bravery demonstrated and sacrifices made by the crew of the U.S.S. Pueblo,” wrote Garcia.

The Senate recently passed a joint resolution (SJR19-003) asking for the President and national political leaders to ensure the Republic of North Korea returns the U.S.S. Pueblo. The joint resolution will be heard in the Colorado House of Representatives on Friday. While the General Assembly passes a similar resolution every year, the U.S.S. Pueblo remains the only ship held by a foreign government 51 years later.

However, the recently announced second summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that will take place in February 2019 presents a unique opportunity to demand the return of the U.S.S. Pueblo.

“Given your renowned reputation for negotiations, I am hopeful that you will join our efforts in calling for the return of the U.S.S. Pueblo. Its return from North Korea would represent a meaningful step forward for our two nations, and I look forward to seeing your leadership on this issue at the summit in February,” concluded the letter.

The letter can be found here: https://senatedems.co/2019/01/31/letter-to-president-trump-urging-return-of-the-u-s-s-pueblo/?preview=true. 

The resolution can be found here: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sjr19-003.

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Prescription Drug Imports Bill Passes Senate Health and Human Services Committee

January 31, 2019

Denver, CO - The Senate Health and Human Services Committee today passed SB19-005, Prescription Drug Imports from Canada, a bill that would allow Coloradans to save money on prescription drugs by importing them from Canada. The bill, sponsored by Senators Robert Rodriguez and Joann Ginal, passed through committee on a 4-to-1 vote and now moves to the Appropriations Committee for consideration. 

“It is unacceptable that Coloradans have to pay more than our neighbors to the North for the exact same prescription. No one should ever have to choose between paying for the prescription medicine they need or paying their mortgage, student loan, or even just putting food on the table,” said Senator Rodriguez.

“This legislation is about saving people money on the medicine they need,” said Senator Ginal. “We look forward to working with our colleagues in both the Senate and the House, as well as with Governor Polis, to ensure that prescriptions are affordable for every Coloradan.”

Americans often pay far more for the exact same prescription drug as consumers in other countries, For example, Lyrica costs $6.04 in the United States, but only 63 cents in Canada. Americans pay more than $150 dollars for Lipitor, a popular cholesterol drug, while Canadian patients can pay less than $50.

This legislation would create the "Colorado Wholesale Importation of Prescription Drugs Act," under which the department of health care policy and financing (department) shall design a program to import prescription pharmaceutical products from Canada for sale to Colorado consumers.

For more information about SB19-005, please visit: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-005.

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Senate Passes Financial Incentives For Rural Educators Bill

January 30, 2019

Denver, CO - Yesterday, the Senate passed SB19-009, Financial Incentives for Rural Educators, a bill that would help address the teacher shortage plaguing rural districts. The bill passed the chamber unanimously, with four Senators excused, and now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration, where it is sponsored by Representatives Barbara McLachlan (D-Durango) and James Wilson (R-Salida).

This bill would remove the limit on stipends available and increase the total amount of the stipend available to students in teacher preparation programs who agree to teach in rural schools from $2,800 to $4,000.

“I am thrilled that the Senate has made a commitment to investing in the future of our children and our state,” said Senator Nancy Todd, Senate Education Committee Chair, Senate sponsor of SB19-009, and retired teacher. “This legislation will attract talented educators to our rural districts and ensure that every child, no matter what part of the state they live in, will have access to a quality education.”

There are an estimated 3,000 unfilled teacher jobs in Colorado, with rural school districts feeling the brunt of the shortfall. The problem is compounded by the fact that many Colorado teachers are preparing for retirement and the number of teacher-preparation program graduates in the state has declined by 24.4 percent over the past five years.

Of the 178 school districts in Colorado, 148 are classified as “rural.” There are 109 districts that have fewer than 1000 students, meeting the criteria for “small rural,” with 88 districts made up of fewer than 500 students, according to the Colorado Department of Education.

For more information about SB19-009, please visit: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-009.

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Campaign Finance Bill Advances Through Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee

January 30, 2019

January 30, 2019 Denver, CO - The Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today advanced SB19-068, Expand Disclosure Electioneering Communications, a bill which would require expanded disclosure of funding behind campaign communications. The bill passed out of committee on a 4-to-1 vote and now moves to the Senate floor for second reading.   “Creating more transparency in our campaign finance system is not a blue or a red idea,” said prime sponsor Sen. Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada). “This bill will require anyone who makes campaign communications to step out of the shadows and publicly stand by their words, and it will give voters the information they deserve to make informed decisions.”   For too long, wealthy outsiders have not only had an outsized ability to influence our political campaigns, but they’ve also been able to do it in secret. Coloradans deserve to know who is behind the messages they see before they head to the polls.   SB19-068 would require anyone spending more than $1000 per year on electioneering communications to publicly state -- on the communication itself -- the name of the person making it. It would also increase transparency and accountability in our elections by expanding the definition of “electioneering communications” to include any point between the primary and general election.   “I am proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move such important legislation forward,” said Sen. Zenzinger. “This bill will help strengthen democracy in Colorado.” For more information about SB19-068, visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-068.

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Senate Judiciary Committee Passes Bill to Provide Constitutional Relief for Immigrants Who Successfully Complete Deferred Judgments

January 30, 2019

Denver, CO -- The Senate Judiciary Committee today voted 3-to-2 to advance SB19-030, Remedying Improper Guilty Pleas, a bill that would allow defendants to vacate unconstitutional guilty pleas that have been withdrawn after the successful completion of a deferred judgment. “For six years, my work with noncitizen clients at a criminal defense and immigration law firm underscored the need for this kind of progressive policy,” said Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver), the Senate sponsor. “No Coloradan should suffer because they were not advised about the immigration consequences related to their successfully completed deferred judgement.” When defendants accept deferred judgments under current law, they are advised that their case will be dismissed upon completion of the deferred judgment. However, successfully completed deferred judgment cases affect immigrants under federal immigration law, even after the case is dismissed in the Colorado criminal courts. Consequently, noncitizen Coloradans who accept deferred judgment are too often wholly unaware that this acceptance may harm their immigration status. This legislation was written in partnership with defense attorneys, district attorneys, immigration attorneys, constituents, and directly-impacted individuals who have been adversely affected by the gap in policy between federal immigration law and Colorado statute. It is supported by a wide variety of stakeholders, including the Office of the Denver District Attorney, the University of Denver Sturm College of Law Immigration Clinic, the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, and immigration and criminal defense practitioners, including the Meyer Law Office, P.C., Joseph Law Firm, P.C., and Johnson Knudsen, LLC. Erica Cano, a constituent who provided testimony in support of the bill, explained that its passage would offer “hope” for her and her husband Francisco, a lawful permanent resident who suffers ongoing immigration consequences after successfully completing a deferred judgment nearly a decade ago. Cano stated, “Francisco has made sure that I am okay [throughout the duration of his legal battle], and now it is my turn to stand up and be an advocate for him.” “Senate Bill 30 is the first in a long series of steps to remove unjust burdens from ordinary Coloradans who have interacted with a criminal justice system that too often adversely affects community members of color, immigrants, and individuals who cannot afford the costs of private legal representation,” said Senator Gonzales. SB19-030 is the first of many progressive criminal justice reforms that will come before the Senate Judiciary committee this legislative session. To learn more about SB19-030, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-030.

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Colorado State Senate Passes National Popular Vote 19-to-16

January 29, 2019

Denver, CO -- The Colorado State Senate today passed SB19-042, the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, on a 19-to-16 vote. The bill, which would add Colorado to a growing coalition of states allocating their electors to the winner of the national popular vote in presidential elections, now moves to the Colorado House of Representatives for consideration, where it is sponsored by Representatives Emily Sirota and Jeni James Arndt.

The National Popular Vote Compact is an agreement, supported by both Democrats and Republicans, between 11 states (California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington) and the District of Columbia to award all of their electoral votes to whichever presidential candidate wins the popular vote. This group of states currently has a total of 172 electors, 98 short of the 270 needed for the Compact to go into effect should a presidential candidate win the electoral college but not the national popular vote.

If this bill were signed into law, Colorado would officially add nine electors to this growing national movement. Sen. Mike Foote (D-Lafayette), the bill's prime Senate sponsor, said the bill represented a step forward for all American voters.

"This really is a victory for those who believe that every vote should be counted equally," said Senator Foote. "SB19-042 is about making sure ‘one person, one vote’ becomes the law of the land. Colorado is one step closer to saying that every vote should be counted equally, no matter where that voter happens to live."

Since the historically bipartisan proposal was first introduced in Colorado in 2006, more than 2,800 legislators across the country have signed onto the proposal as co-sponsors, one third of whom are Republicans.

"This really isn't a red versus blue idea. This is about making sure that the President of the United States is elected by the entire nation, not just a handful of ‘battleground states’ that get to decide our Presidential elections under the current system,” said Senator Foote. “All of Colorado’s voters should be heard, regardless of whether or not we are considered a battleground state."

For more information about SB19-042, please visit: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-042.

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Senate Passes Bill to Foster Innovation in Cryptocurrency Across Colorado

January 28, 2019

Denver, CO - The Colorado State Senate today passed SB19-023, The Digital Token Act, a bill that clarifies regulations surrounding cryptocurrency and other blockchain technologies in order to foster innovation across Colorado. Sponsored by Sens. Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) and Jack Tate (R-Centennial), the Senate passed the bill unanimously and it now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.   “This bill allows our regulations to enter the 21st century. By enabling businesses to more easily deal in cryptocurrency, we can ensure Colorado is a leader in promoting healthy innovation of blockchain technology and help grow Colorado’s economy,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg.   Blockchain technology is new and rapidly evolving. Over the past three years, blockchain companies affiliated with Colorado have raised over $50 million in venture capital funding. In the past, a lack of regulatory clarity has impeded growth; however, the Digital Token Act modernizes statute to ensure Colorado remains a leader in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.   “We introduced the Colorado Digital Token Act to streamline the regulation of digital assets and to provide regulatory clarity for companies who offer them. The bill will promote growth in the blockchain space by facilitating capital investment,” said Senator Tate.   The bill was developed through the collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders and the Blockchain Council, a 16 member working group to which Senator Fenberg and Senator Tate were appointed by Governor John Hickenlooper. The Council was tasked with developing a legal framework for blockchain in Colorado to promote and support healthy innovation in the space.   “Together with Governor Jared Polis, we are committed to the Colorado Blockchain Council’s work that furthers our state’s role as a blockchain industry leader,” said Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade Executive Director Betsy Markey, “Blockchain offers transformative potential in government, economic development and personal identification data and we will keep Colorado at the forefront of its adoption as a driver of economic growth.”   For more information about SB19-023, please visit: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-023.

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Colorado State Senate Unanimously Passes Bill to Simplify Electronic Sales Tax and Use

January 28, 2019

Denver, CO - The Colorado State Senate today unanimously voted to pass SB19-006, a bill sponsored by Senator Angela Williams (D-Denver) that will solicit bids for upgrading the sales and use tax system. This bill does not create a new tax law, but clarifies existing law so that it is easier for small businesses to do business in Colorado and help local economies thrive. The bill now moves to the Colorado House of Representatives for consideration. “This bill is about making it easier for small businesses to succeed in Colorado,” said Senator Williams. “By soliciting bids for upgrading the electronic sales tax and use system, we can help entrepreneurs focus on their businesses instead of the tax code.” Colorado has the hardest tax system for businesses to navigate, according to a 2018 analysis by the Council on State Taxation. With its passage on the Senate floor this morning, SB19-006 took another step forward towards creating a simpler taxation system for Colorado businesses. To learn more about SB19-006, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-006.

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Senate Education Committee Passes Financial Incentives For Rural Educators Bill

January 24, 2019

Denver, CO - The Senate Education Committee today passed SB19-009, Financial Incentives for Rural Educators, a bill that would help address the teacher shortage plaguing rural districts. The bill passed committee with a 5-to-0 vote and now moves to the Senate floor for a second reading.   There are an estimated 3,000 unfilled teacher jobs in Colorado, with rural school districts feeling the brunt of the shortfall. The problem is compounded by the fact that many Colorado teachers are preparing for retirement and the number of teacher-preparation program graduates in the state has declined by 24.4 percent over the past five years.   “We have short-changed our children for too long,” said Senator Nancy Todd, Senate Education Committee Chair, Senate sponsor of SB19-009, and retired teacher. “Every child deserves a high-quality education, but too many students in rural parts of our state simply do not have access to one because thousands of teacher positions go unfilled.”     This bill would remove the limit on stipends available and increase the total amount of the stipend available to students in teacher preparation programs who agree to teach in rural schools from $2,800 to $4,000.   “This bill is an investment in our children’s future. It will ensure that we are able to attract talented educators to our rural districts and give every child the opportunity to succeed,” added Senator Todd.   Of the 178 school districts in Colorado, 148 are classified as “rural.” There are 109 districts that have fewer than 1000 students, meeting the criteria for “small rural,” with 88 districts made up of fewer than 500 students, according to the Colorado Department of Education.   For more information about SB19-009, please visit: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-009.

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Senate Education Committee Passes Educator Loan Forgiveness Program Bill

January 24, 2019

Denver, CO - The Senate Education Committee today passed SB19-003, Educator Loan Forgiveness Program, a creative solution to addressing Colorado’s teacher shortage by improving an existing, but unfunded, program. The bill, which has bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate, passed committee with a 3-to-2 vote and now moves to the Appropriations Committee.   There are an estimated 3,000 teacher jobs remain unfilled in Colorado, particularly in rural districts and in certain fields including math, science, and special education. That number does not include unfilled positions for other support positions like speech pathologists.   “It is unacceptable that there are thousands of unfilled educator positions in districts across our state,” said Senator Rachel Zenzinger, the Senate sponsor and teacher. “When these positions continue go unfilled, our children lose out. This bill is a necessary investment in the future of our state and our children.” This bill would address the issue of educator shortages by providing applicants as much as $5,000 in loan forgiveness upon completion of a year of teaching in a high-need geography or subject area.   “Educators are struggling to pay for rent, school supplies, student loans, and other necessities. We can take some of that burden away so that they can stop worrying about making ends meet and shift their focus to kids in the classroom,” said Senator Zenzinger.   Low salaries and high student loan debt balances are major obstacles towards attracting and retaining educators in the field, in certain geographies, and in certain subject areas. Colorado teacher salaries were 15 percent below the national average of $59,660 in 2017. But teacher salaries vary widely by district, with average salaries in some urban and suburban districts in Colorado as high as $70,000 while many rural districts have average salaries of about $30,000. “This bill is designed to help educators in high-need subject areas and geographies. While the program is not specifically targeted to rural areas, I have no doubt that it will have some of the biggest impacts in those districts,” added Senator Zenzinger. For more information about SB19-003, please visit: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-003.

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Initial Results Show Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Pilot Program Has Helped Hundreds of Coloradans Struggling with Opioid Addiction

Senate Bill 1 to Build on Success of the MAT Pilot Program to Tackle Opioid Epidemic Across Colorado

January 24, 2019

Denver, CO – Colorado Senate Democrats today released data and testimony from theMedication Assisted Treatment (MAT) pilot program (SB17-074), which show the program has helped hundreds of Coloradans struggling with opioid addiction get the treatment they need. “We are very proud of the initial results and know that the pilot program is making a profound impact in these communities and in the lives of those struggling with opioid addiction. I look forward to continuing to invest in programs with a proven record of success to ensure that we are helping Coloradans and communities across this state fight back against this terrible epidemic,” said President Leroy M. Garcia.   The early patient outcomes of the MAT program have been promising. More than 90 percent of patients with follow-up data reported abstinence from all opioids and alcohol for at least 30 days, and nearly half reported they had some paid employment and were in good or excellent health. The programs have also seen a dramatic increase in the number of Coloradans treated. In Pueblo County, the number of clients provided MAT services increased from 99 clients at both agencies in 2017 to 691 clients in 2018. In Routt County, which had no services for MAT clients in 2017, 60 clients were provided MAT services in 2018. During the first year of the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) pilot program, two MAT programs in Pueblo County were selected to receive funding and one MAT program was launched in Routt County, overseen by the CU-College of Nursing with ongoing input provided by the Pilot MAT Community Advisory Board. Over the course of the first year, there were five X-waivered providers for programs in Pueblo County and four X-waivered providers in Routt County designated as Advanced Practice Providers (NP/PA) who are able to prescribe medications to treat opioid use disorder. These numbers include only those providers who received funding as part of the grant, not the total number of providers who received an X-waiver. In addition, provider-level education on Opiate Use Disorders and related issues in assessment and treatment was given to 102 prescribing providers in 2018. These three programs also utilized cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and other group and therapeutic modalities to increase engagement in services and active treatments towards days without opiate use. In 2016, there were 536 opioid-related overdose deaths in Colorado, a rate of 9.5 deaths per 100,000 persons, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. In 2017, there were 558 opioid overdose deaths from both prescription opioids and illegal opioids such as heroin, according to the Colorado Department of Human Services. Given the initial success of this program and the severity of opioid addiction across the state, Senate President Leroy M. Garcia sponsored and introduced Senate Bill 1 on January 4, 2019 to provide $5 million dollars in funding through marijuana tax dollars to rapidly expand this program across the state to help Coloradans battling opioid addiction in the highest need counties. “As a paramedic, I have seen the effects of the drug epidemic firsthand and I can tell you that it’s a huge problem that demands serious action,” said President Garcia. “Hundreds of Coloradans die every year at the hands of opioids while countless others struggle with abuse and addiction. The epidemic is devastating communities across this state, and that is why we made it a top priority for the Senate.” The ten counties in Colorado with the highest rate of overdose deaths in 2016 -- according to an April 2018 report by the Colorado Health Institute -- include Huerfano, Rio Blanco, Las Animas, Montezuma, Rio Grande, Conejos, Fremont, Pueblo, Logan, and Routt Counties. Senate Bill 1 will expand MAT programs to counties in the San Luis Valley as well as two additional counties in the state. "Senate Bill 1 is a very significant investment in addressing one of the most serious problems in Colorado: access to Medication Assisted Treatment for opioid use disorder, particularly in rural parts of our state. It builds upon a successful pilot program, which has increased the number of MAT providers and patients served in Pueblo and Routt counties. Expanding this program to 12 counties will increase access for our highest need areas, train additional providers in MAT, get more patients into treatment, and save lives. We are thrilled to have Senate President Garcia's continued leadership on this issue," said Robert Valuck, PhD, RPh, Director of the Colorado Consortium for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention, and a professor at the University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy at the Anschutz Medical Campus. Below are several testimonies from MAT program participants and care providers; however, names have been removed in order to protect their identities: “I have a new job, my own apartment, was able to grieve a recent loss appropriately without using drugs, and can now focus on my two children. I now lead a healthy life, like normal people do,” said a participant from Pueblo County. “I tried and tried to get sober on numerous occasions, but could not quit this horrible drug. I would literally feel like I was going to die. The staff literally saved my life. Not only was I able to get the medical treatment I needed, but I also got additional help from support groups. I am now seven months sober thanks to this program,” said a participant from Routt County. “Today, both my patient and my patient's mother said, ‘we don’t know what we would have done if you were not available to see me today. We had called several other places and no one is accepting new patients until mid-February. You saved his life and our family,’” said a practitioner in Pueblo County. In addition to expanding and increasing funding for the MAT program, Senate Bill 1 would also shift the administration of the program from the College of Nursing to the center for research into substance abuse disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery support strategies, expanding the work that the College of Nursing is doing and adding additional disciplines and communities from around the state and on the Anschutz Campus. Read the full text of the bill here.

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Statement of Sen. Kerry Donovan and Rep. Dylan Roberts in Response to Gov. Polis' Executive Order Establishing the Office of Saving People Money on Health Care

January 23, 2019

Denver, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed an executive order establishing the Office of Saving People Money on Health Care. In response, Senator Kerry Donovan and Representative Dylan Roberts - sponsors of two cutting-edge pieces of legislation that would establish a public option in the state of Colorado - released the following statement:  "We are glad to see Governor Polis make health care one of his top priorities and we are ready to pass legislation this session to start saving Coloradans money on their health care as soon as possible. After watching our legislation to lower health care costs die on a party-line vote in recent years, we are looking forward to bringing our cutting edge solutions to save people money on health care to Governor Polis' desk for him to sign into law and make sure that this new office can begin its mission with legislative success.  Addressing the skyrocketing cost of health care in Colorado will take commitment and leadership from all branches of government and all parties. Nothing short of hard work will solve the crisis of cost facing many individuals in Colorado. We are excited to see Governor Polis sign an executive order that sends an unmistakable message that this administration will make lowering the cost of health care a priority."

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