Senate Passes Senator Fields’ Bill to Provide More Mental Health Professionals in Schools

March 25, 2019

Denver, CO– The Colorado State Senate recently voted 22-to-8 (5 absent) to pass SB19-010, Professional Behavioral Health Services For Schools, a bill sponsored by Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) that would put more mental health professionals in schools to support the needs of students across Colorado. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. 

“Our children are suffering, so much so that some decide to take their own life, and the lack of support in our schools is unacceptable,” said Senator Fields. “Our children can thrive if we make mental health resources more robust and accessible, and this bill is an important step towards ensuring we support children’s mental health needs.”

This bill will put more mental health professionals in schools to support the needs of students across Colorado by building on the success of an existing program that allows schools to use grant funding to contract with providers. Those funds would be used to provide students a range of mental and behavioral health treatments including counseling, therapy, and trainings for staff. Schools would be prioritized based on demonstrated need for mental and behavioral health professionals.

SB19-010 passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on January 17, 2019 by a vote of 4-1. It later passed the Senate Appropriations Committee on March 19, 2019 by a vote of 7-3.

For more information on SB19-010, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-010. 

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Statement of Senators Court and Pettersen on Second Reading Passage of Life-Saving Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) Legislation

March 22, 2019

Denver, CO -- After nearly 12 hours of debate, the Colorado State Senate today voted to advance HB19-1177, Extreme Risk Protection Orders, a bill sponsored by Senators Lois Court (D-Denver) and Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood) that will protect Coloradans and save lives by creating a way to act before warning signs escalate into tragedies, to a third and final reading in the Senate. In response, Senators Court and Pettersen released the following statements:

“Extreme risk protection orders (ERPOs) will save lives by keeping firearms out of the hands of people who are at risk of harming themselves and others,” said Senator Court. “Despite obstructionist tactics deployed by Republicans to slow down the process after hours of debate, we were able to move this life-saving legislation forward. The goal for Republicans has never been to develop good policy, it has been to obstruct the legislative process. But Democrats are here to do the work, and I am confident this valuable legislation will become law.”

“While we were debating this life-saving legislation, I was devastated to find out that a Parkland survivor recently took her own life. It is unacceptable to continue to do nothing,” said Senator Petterson. “I grew up in Colorado, I was at Chatfield High School when the Columbine shooting happened, my brother took his own life, and I am sick of seeing gun-related tragedy after gun-related tragedy. This legislation will save lives and I am proud that we are one step closer to it become law.”

For more information about HB19-1177, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb19-1177.

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Senate Passes Bill to Protect and Provide Relief to Coloradans with Student Loan Debt

March 25, 2019

Denver, CO –The Colorado State Senate recently voted 21-to-9 (5 absent) to pass SB19-002, Regulate Student Education Loan Servicers, a priority bill sponsored by Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster) and Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) to protect student loan borrowers in Colorado by regulating companies that service student loans and creating a student loan ombudsman to investigate complaints and provide assistance and education to borrowers. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Student loan companies often take advantage of borrowers by charging excessive fees and not disclosing important information about their loans. The result? There are more than 765,000 student loan borrowers in Colorado who have an outstanding debt of over $26 billion.

“The state regulates and licenses about every other form of debt, but not student loan debt,” said Senator Winter. “We believe that Coloradans with student loan debt should have the same protections that other consumers with debt have. While that has not been the case, we believe that this legislation is a commonsense solution that will make sure that people with student loan debt get treated fairly.”

“Student loans have become a serious burden on hundreds of thousands of Coloradans, stifling our state’s economic growth and limiting a generation’s ability to have children and buy homes,” said Majority Leader Fenberg. “It is time for us to protect student loan borrowers and allow them to focus on their education and careers, rather than worrying about being taken advantage of.”

This bill would regulate companies that service student loans and create a student loan ombudsman to investigate complaints and provide assistance and education to borrowers.

For more information on SB19-002, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-002.

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Senator Zenzinger Passes Several Priority Bills This Week

Denver, CO – Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada) had an incredibly busy and productive week at the Colorado State Capitol, passing several major bills either in committee or on the Senate floor. Those bills include:

SB19-102, Innovation School Operating As A Community School, a bill that would allow a public school to include operation as a community school in its innovation plan, making it eligible for billions of dollars in federal funding. The bill passed the Senate on March 19th and heads to Governor Polis for signature. Read more here.

SB19-003, Educator Loan Forgiveness Program, passed on second reading on March 21st with bipartisan support, is a creative solution to address our educator shortage in Colorado. The bill will offer educators that agree to teach in a shortage area and/or content area up to $5,000 in student loan forgiveness. This is a creative solution that districts with shortages can use to help recruit educators to these critical shortage areas. Read more here.

HB19-1007, Contribution Limits For County Offices, which passed on second reading on March 21st, will require campaign contribution limits for county candidates. This bill will help level the playing field for candidates for county office. Contribution limits are important for preserving the integrity of our electoral process, they keep candidates accountable, and they help prevent the appearance of impropriety. Read more here.

HB19-1166, Name-based Criminal History Record Checks, a bill that will add require a person to submit a name-based criminal history record check when the fingerprint-based check reveals a record of arrest but does not show a disposition in the case. The bill passed on Second Reading and is scheduled for a Third Reading in the coming days. Read more here.

SB19-144, Motorcyclists And Malfunctioning Traffic Signals, a bill that would allow motorcycles to proceed through a red light if a sensor isn’t working or if the light is malfunctioning. The bill unanimously passed the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee on March 19th and now heads to the Committee of the Whole with a recommendation that it be placed on the consent calendar. Read more here.

SB19-194, National Guard Tuition Assistance Colorado State University Global, a bill that would add Colorado State University – Global Campus to the list of designated institutions of higher education for purposes of tuition assistance for members of the National Guard. Read more here.

The Joint Budget Committee recently completed negotiations on the budget recently and approved the “Long Bill” package for introduction. Read morehere.

The Senate Appropriations Committee, which Senator Zenzinger chairs, also recently passed several priority bills for the Colorado Senate Democrats. Read more here.

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Senator Donovan’s Bill to Deregulate Farm Stands and Support Agricultural Operations Unanimously Passes the Senate, Heads to Governor

March 21, 2019

Denver CO -- The Colorado State Senate recently voted unanimously to pass HB19-1191, Allow Farm Stands On Any Size Principal Use Site, a bill sponsored by Senator Kerry Donovan (D-Vail) that would support the agricultural industry and small businesses by deregulating where farm stands can operate. The bill now heads to Governor Jared Polis for his signature.

“I am a proud rancher, but too much unnecessary regulation prohibits many farms and ranches from selling what they produce,” said Senator Donovan. “This legislation will support those small businesses and let locals buy directly from the farm or ranch.”

In many jurisdictions across the state, a farm stand is not permitted to operate if located on a principal use site that is smaller than a certain acreage size. This bill would removes unnecessary regulation and allow local farmers and ranchers more freedom to sell what they produce.

“The men and women of Colorado’s agricultural industry are some of the hardest working individuals in the state, and we need to do more to ensure their businesses and families can thrive,” added Senator Donovan.

For more information on this bill please visit: http://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb19-1191.

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Senator Donovan’s Climate Change Bill Passes the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee

March 21, 2019

Denver, CO – The Senate Transportation and Energy Committee today voted 5-to-2 to pass SB19-096, Collect Long Term Climate Change Data, a bill sponsored by Senator Kerry Donovan (D- Vail) to collect the necessary data to help Colorado track greenhouse gas emissions to meet reduction goals and protect our environment. The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.   “People in my district depend on clean land, water, and air for their personal enjoyment and livelihood, but climate change is putting that at risk,” said Senator Donovan. “This bill is an important step towards protecting our environment while ensuring that the businesses powering our local economies can continue to operate in the years ahead.”   This legislation would require the Air Quality Control Commission to collect greenhouse gas emissions data throughout the state. This commission would then produce a report and forecast future emissions, as well as propose the most cost-effective way for Colorado to meet its greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals. The Air Quality Control Commission, which is part of the Department of Public Health and Environment, must complete all bill requirements by July 1, 2020.   “I am lucky to represent one of the most beautiful parts of our state and this bill will ensure it remains beautiful for future generations,” added Senator Donovan.   For more information on SB19-096, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-096.

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Senator Danielson’s Bill to Increase Awareness of Apprenticeships and Vocational Training Passes Senate Education Committee

March 21, 2019

Denver, CO – The Senate Education Committee this afternoon voted 3-to-2 to pass SB19-171, Apprenticeships and Vocational Technical Training, a bill sponsored by Senator Jessie Danielson (D-Jefferson County) to increase awareness of apprenticeship and vocational technical training programs in Colorado. The bill now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

“Every Coloradan deserves a fair shot at success, but no one follows the exact same path,” said Senator Danielson. “Apprenticeship and vocational training programs can give Coloradans a pathway to good-paying jobs and stable careers, but in order to make these valuable programs more accessible to all Coloradans, we need to make sure people know they exist.”

SB19-171 would require the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment to create a state apprenticeship resource directory with detailed information on every apprenticeship program in Colorado. Directory information requirements would include the application process, requirements for enrollment, costs, and program outcomes.

“We need to make sure Coloradans know about the kinds of careers they can pursue through apprenticeships and vocational technical training programs so they can build a future that works for them,” added Senator Danielson.

Thousands of Coloradans already receive similar information about educational opportunities available at colleges and universities, and this bill would simply increase access to such information on lesser-known apprenticeship and vocational programs. The Department of Labor and Employment would be required to promote the availability of the directory to further increase access to these programs.

For more information on SB19-171, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-171. 

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Joint Release: Speaker Becker, Sens. Court & Priola Unveil Bipartisan Bills to Better Fund Public Schools, Transportation & Higher-Ed

March 20, 2019

Denver, CO -- Speaker KC Becker, Sen. Kevin Priola and Sen. Lois Court introduced a bipartisan bill today to better fund public schools, higher education, and roads, bridges, and transit. Colorado has one of the best economies in the country but revenue limits restrict the state’s ability to benefit from economic growth during upturns and protect against downturns. As a result, Colorado’s investment in public schools consistently ranks at the bottom of the nation, and transportation is severely underfunded.

“This effort is supported by a broad, bipartisan coalition. This is about good governance,” said Speaker Becker, D-Boulder. “The TABOR cap is an antiquated fiscal policy that has severely limited Colorado’s ability to invest in basic functions of government－from public schools to transportation and health care.  It’s made our economy easier to bust when recessions hit and harder to boom when they end. This measure is not an answer to all of our fiscal problems, but it’s a critical first step in making sure our fiscal policy actually supports our way of life in Colorado.”

Colorado's TABOR amendment restricts the amount of revenue all levels of government (state, local and schools) can spend, preventing the state from benefiting from economic growth and making critical investments. The vast majority of local governments and school districts have already “debruced,” meaning, they’ve received voter approval to retain all or a portion of the revenue over the TABOR cap. 

Of the state’s 272 municipalities, 230 municipalities have obtained voter approval to retain and spend all or a portion of excess revenue collected. Of the state's 64 counties, 51 counties have obtained voter approval to retain and spend all excess revenue. All but four of the 178 school districts in Colorado have obtained voter approval to retain and spend excess revenue. 

The state has not yet followed suit, having only temporarily suspended the TABOR limit because of budget constraints through the voter-approved Referendum C in 2005. 

In the last 27 years since the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) was voted into Colorado’s Constitution, our state population has increased 50 percent - more than 2.3 million additional people live in our state in 2019 than in 1992. For decades, Colorado has not been able to keep up with the demands of growth because of the outdated fiscal restraints imposed on the state by TABOR. 

“I’ve talked to many Coloradans in my community and they are concerned about transportation and education. They want us to solve problems and fix things,” said Sen. Priola, R-Brighton. “I’m a native Coloradan and this proposal follows TABOR to a T because it goes to the voters.” 

There is a $9 billion project backlog at the Colorado Department of Transportation. Investing in our state’s infrastructure and transportation system is critical for economic development in rural Colorado and across the state. 

“I am proud to work with Speaker Becker and Senator Priola to ask the voters, without changing the constitution, if they’re willing to allow us to keep the funds we’ve collected to provide the services they expect,” said Sen. Court, D-Denver. 

HB19-1257 refers a measure to the Fall 2019 statewide ballot asking voters to authorize the state to annually retain and spend all state revenues in excess of the TABOR cap, the constitutional limitation on state fiscal year spending. HB19-1258, the companion bill, is contingent on voters approving the referred measure. It splits up the revenue retained due to the measure to be spent 1⁄3 each on public schools; higher education; and roads, bridges and transit. 

“These bipartisan measures will help ensure rural Colorado can thrive, generate more economic development and provide critical services in our communities,” said Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillion, a co-prime sponsor of the measures. 

At a press conference held earlier today, Speaker Becker read a statement from Governor Polis about the measures. “Governor Polis supports allowing the state to keep the tax revenue it already collects. This common sense policy does not alter the right of citizens to vote on taxes but allows Colorado to keep pace with a growing economy. The governor is engaging bi-partisan civic leaders across the state because he believes broad bipartisan support is essential to win in November,” the statement said. 

The text of the bills can be found here and here. 

Senate Judiciary Committee Passes Legislation to Reform Colorado’s Parole System

March 20, 2019

Denver CO – The Senate Judiciary Committee today voted 3-to-2 to pass SB19-143, a bill from Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver) and Pete Lee (D-El Paso County) to increase public safety, reform parts of the Colorado parole system, and improve inmate reintegration. The bill passed with the support of the Colorado Department of Corrections (DOC), and now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

Nearly 9,000 Colorado inmates, almost half of Colorado’s entire prison population, are eligible for parole but remain in prison. The Colorado DOC vacancy rate should be kept between two and five percent to maintain a safe environment for inmates and staff; yet, as of January 31, vacancy was at just .7 percent. SB19-143 seeks to address these crises by allowing low-risk individuals who meet certain eligibility criteria to be submitted to the parole board for review.

“As a longtime advocate for an effective criminal justice system, I take great pride that this legislation will reduce our prison population and provide needed supportive services to facilitate reintegration of prisoners into society” said Senator Lee. “This bill will  bring critical reforms to our state’s parole system.”

“Our criminal justice system needs to focus on rehabilitation, not just punishment,” said Senator Gonzales. “Giving people a second chance is how they can once again become productive members of our society, and I am excited that these changes to our parole system are in motion.”

Currently, certain prison population measures can be used when vacancy rates drop below two percent. This legislation would change the rate to three percent. Furthermore, it would allow an inmate released from prison without supervision the right to access reentry services for up to one year from their date of discharge to prevent recidivism.

For more information on this bill please visit: http://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-143.

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Senator Winter’s Bill to Create Eviction Legal Defense Fund Clears Senate Judiciary Committee

March 20, 2019

Denver, CO – The Senate Judiciary Committee today voted 3-to-2 to pass SB19-180, Eviction Legal Defense Fund, a bill sponsored by Senator Faith Winter (D-Adams County). This legislation would create a fund to help provide legal counsel to Coloradans who are facing eviction. It now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

“Far too many Colorado renters will never win an eviction battle in court simply because they cannot afford legal representation. The lack of legal representation puts them at an extreme disadvantage, often times leading to eviction for too many hardworking Colorado families,” said Senator Winter, whose district includes Adams County which has the highest eviction rate in Colorado, according to research by Princeton University.

In recent years, rising home and rental prices in Colorado have made it difficult for tenants to afford housing. Many renters are uncertain of their rights when facing a dispute with a landlord. If those renters cannot afford an attorney, they are much more likely to lose in court. Studies have shown that tenants who have legal representation in court face a 77 percent lower chance of eviction, and landlords will sometimes even drop a case if they find out a tenant has representation.

“Our solution is to create an eviction legal defense fund to finance a pilot program with the ultimately goal of providing all Colorado tenants with legal representation,” said Senator Winter. “I am hopeful that this legislation will even the playing field and help tenants and landlords agree upon solutions before it escalates to eviction.”

This legislation would award grants to qualifying organizations that provide legal counsel on behalf of Coloradans who have been or are at risk of eviction. Cities like Denver have seen success in similar pilot programs at the local level that slow down the eviction process by giving both sides a chance to resolve matters before going to court and finding solutions short of eviction.

For more information about this legislation, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-180. 

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JBC Joint Release: Democrats Working to Deliver for Colorado

March 21, 2019

Denver, CO -- The Joint Budget Committee completed negotiations on the budget recently and approved the “Long Bill” package for introduction. Democrats are focused on responsibly managing tax-payer dollars while taking care of the priorities of the entire state. Democratic members of the committee released the following statements:

“I am confident that this budget will enable us to address the needs of Coloradans across this great state in a fiscally responsible manner,” said JBC Chair Senator Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “We won Democratic majorities because we had a strong, clear vision for solutions to issues like rising healthcare costs and a lack of education and transportation funding. I am confident that this budget will enable us to make necessary investments to help hardworking Colorado families while also protecting our state’s long-term finances.”

“I’m proud of the bipartisan and responsible budget we are putting forward that addresses our state’s most pressing needs and reflects the values of all Coloradans,”said JBC Vice-Chair Representative Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “Families and individuals in Southern Colorado will be better served by the responsible investments we are making in health care, transportation and other priorities by having more access to full-day kindergarten.” 

Several highlights of the budget package completed today are:

• Increases K-12 education funding by $335.9 million, including an additional $77 million buy-down of the budget stabilization factor and a $185 million set-aside for a bill that would begin to implement full-day Kindergarten
• Invests in higher education to keep tuition flat for students
• Frees up preschool slots for Colorado’s youngest learners
• Increases funding towards the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities waitlist so more people can access the services they need
• Invests an additional $30 million General Fund in transportation, on top of $200 million already budgeted this year for transportation
• Adds $10 million for implementation of the Colorado Water Plan
• Adds $1 million for family planning services
• Makes critical investments in mental health care services 
  

“We were able to balance many competing priorities because of the JBC’s commitment to writing this budget in a bipartisan and fiscally responsible way,” said Senator Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “These decisions were difficult, but I believe that we have drafted a budget that will address many of our state’s biggest needs and ultimately improve the lives of Coloradans in every corner of our state.”

“In the face of needless trade wars, a poorly targeted federal tax change and uncertainty from Washington, we are still able to put forward a budget that is responsible and works for all,” said Rep. Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “This an historic opportunity for all of us here in Colorado to put more kids on the path to receiving a strong education and I’m happy we have a found a way to invest in Colorado’s students and education that carefully manages tax payer dollars.”

The Joint Budget Committee staff will complete drafting on the Long Bill package that was approved today, and the package will be introduced in the Senate for consideration next week.

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Senator Bridges’ Bipartisan Bill to Allow Creation of Early Childhood Development Service Districts Heads to Governor

March 20, 2019

Denver, CO – The Colorado State Senate today voted 23-to-12 to pass HB19-1052, Early Childhood Development Special District, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges (D-Arapahoe County) to allow the creation of early childhood development service districts. The bill now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature.

“When it comes to making a difference for Colorado children, we know that our dollars go farthest when it comes to early childhood services,” said Senator Bridges. “That’s why this bill is so important – it will help every child in Colorado get the educational and developmental services they need to succeed later in life. I’m proud to see this legislation pass the Senate with bipartisan support. Making smart investments early on is how we will give Colorado’s next generation the best head start possible.”

The creation of early childhood development service districts would support children up to eight years of age with educational and developmental services as well as physical and mental healthcare. HB19-1052 would not only encourage the creation of such districts, but would also allow local communities to vote on how they would pay for early childhood development services.

HB19-1052, which has bipartisan prime sponsors in both the Senate and the House, passed the House of Representatives 50-13-1 on February 26, 2019.

For more information on this bill, please visit: http://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb19-1052.

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Senator Zenzinger’s Bill Supporting Community Schools Heads to Governor Polis

March 19, 2019

Denver, CO - The Colorado State Senate today voted 23-6 (with 6 excused) to pass SB19-102, Innovation School Operating As A Community School, a bill sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada) that would allow a public school to include operation as a community school in its innovation plan, making it eligible for millions of dollars in federal funding. The bill now heads to Governor Jared Polis for signature.

“Every student deserves a high-quality education, but too many don’t have a fair shot at success because of a lack of school funding,” said Senator Zenzinger. “The bill costs us zero dollars, but makes us eligible for $22 billion from the federal government that we can now access by simply mentioning community schools in our statutes."

Under existing law, a public school may become an innovation school by submitting an innovation plan to its local school board and having the local school board approve that plan. The bill defines "community school" and permits a public school to include in its innovation plan that it will operate as a community school.

"This bill is one of the most important that I have passed during my time in the legislature and I look forward to Governor Polis signing it into law,” added Senator Zenzinger.

For more information on SB19-102, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-102.

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Senator Lee’s Bill to Expand School Safety Grant Program Unanimously Clears Senate Finance Committee

March 19, 2019

Denver, CO – The Senate Finance Committee unanimously voted today to pass SB19-179, Enhance School Safety Incident Response Grant Program. The bill, sponsored by Senator Pete Lee (D-El Paso County), would update and improve an existing program designed to increase school safety. The bill now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

“There is nothing more important than protecting our students,” said Senator Lee. “I was proud to create this safety program when I served in the House, and I am hopeful that we can enhance its effectiveness through these small adjustments and additional funding. Ensuring the safety of students and educators is essential.”

In 2018, then-Representative Lee passed HB18-1413, a bill that created a program to provide grants to nonprofit organizations experienced with school safety training and working with law enforcement for research and training in how to respond to school shootings and other emergencies. SB19-179 will improve this program by appropriating an additional $1,150,000 to the department of public safety for its administration.

For more information about this legislation, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-179.

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Several Senate Democrats Priority Bills Pass Appropriations Committee, Head to Senate Floor for Consideration

March 19, 2019

Denver, CO – The Senate Appropriations Committee today voted to advance several priority bills sponsored by members of the Colorado Senate Democrats to help Coloradans tackle issues like rising healthcare costs, a lack of access to mental health services, student loan debt, and campaign finance reform. These pieces of legislation now head to the Committee of the Whole for a Second Reading. “We have worked tirelessly over the past several months to make healthcare more affordable and accessible to Coloradans, reform unfair campaign finance laws, and provide much needed relief to those with student debt across the state. We are more than halfway through the legislative session, and many of our top priorities are well on their way to becoming law,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia. The five bills that passed the Senate Appropriations Committee include: SB19-002, Regulate Student Education Loan Servicers: More than half of Colorado’s college graduates finish school with some form of student debt, totaling more than $26 billion. This bill will regulate companies that service student loans and create a student loan ombudsman to investigate complaints and provide assistance and education to borrowers. SB19-003, Educator Loan Forgiveness Program: An estimated 3,000 educator openings 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. This legislation is a creative solution to solve Colorado’s teacher shortage by improving an existing, but unfunded, program. It would provide applicants as much as $5,000 in loan forgiveness upon completion of a year of teaching in a targeted geographical or subject area.   SB19-005, Import Prescription Drugs From Canada: Americans pay far more for prescription drugs than Canadians. For example, the popular cholesterol drug Lipitor can cost Canadian patients under $50, compared to more than $150 for the same dose sold on the US market. This legislation will allow Coloradans to save money on prescription drugs by importing them from Canada. SB19-010, Professional Behavioral Health Services For Schools: Coloradans can thrive if we ensure mental health resources are robust and accessible, and this bill will take an important step towards ensuring we support children’s mental health. This bill will put more health professionals in schools to support the needs of students across Colorado by building on the success of an existing program that allows schools to use grant funding to contract with providers and invest in telehealth. HB19-1007, Contribution Limits For County Offices: Colorado does not currently have a law setting limits on contributions to candidates for a county office. In order to reform campaign finance laws, this bill sets a maximum donation amount for individuals and small donors.

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Senate Judiciary Committee Advances Bill to Ban the Box on Job Applications

March 18, 2019

Denver, CO — The Senate Judiciary Committee today voted 3-to-2 to pass HB19-1025, Limits on Job Applicant Criminal History Inquiries, a bill sponsored by Senators Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver) and Mike Foote (D-Lafayette). This legislation would prohibit employers from asking about criminal histories on job applications. This now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

“I believe that people should take responsibility for their actions -- but once a crime is committed and a sentence is served, they should not be hobbled by it for the rest of their lives,” said Senator Foote. “This bill gives people a chance to move beyond the one-size-fits-all screening device that all too often prevents people from even making it to the job interview stage.”

In addition to asking about criminal history on initial job applications, this legislation would prohibit employers from advertising or stating that individuals with criminal histories cannot apply for certain positions.

“This legislation will help give Coloradans a second chance to rebuild their futures by making it easier for them to move forward in the job application process,” said Senator Rodriguez. “This is one of two bills I am sponsoring this session to make it easier for Coloradans who have already answered for their crimes to move on with their lives.”

HB19-1025 would take effect in September 2019 for large companies, those with 11 or more employees, and in September 2021 for all other companies. Exemptions to the legislation include certain jobs where criminal histories are not allowed, positions for which the law requires criminal history record checks, or employers that are trying to encourage employment of people with criminal histories.

For more information about this bill, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb19-1025.

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Life-Saving Extreme Risk Protection Order Legislation Passes Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee

March 15, 2019

Denver, CO – The Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today voted 3-to-2 to pass HB19-1177, Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO), sponsored by Senators Lois Court (D-Denver) and Brittany Pettersen (D-Jefferson County). ERPO would save lives by allowing family members and law enforcement officers to request a court order to temporarily remove firearms from someone who is deemed a danger to themselves or to others. This bill now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.   HB19-1177 is named in honor of Douglas County Deputy Sheriff Zackari Parrish III who was killed on duty in 2017 by an individual whose mental health concerns were well-known to others around him. This legislation would give law enforcement and family members the opportunity to seek a temporary order for someone who appears at risk of dangerous behavior.   “I have sponsored similar legislation in the past, and I will continue to fight for gun violence prevention efforts that will save lives,” said Senator Court, “Extreme risk protections orders are about saving lives, protecting those who are a risk to themselves and others, and keeping our first responders safe. This legislation will give an essential tool to law enforcement to temporarily remove a firearm before warning signs escalate to tragedies.”   “If legislation like this had already been in place, Deputy Zackari Parrish would still be alive today. Deputy Parrish’s murderer was a clear risk to himself and others, but those who knew him lacked the legal protections to act on the threat he posed,” said Senator Pettersen. “Extreme risk protection orders will prevent future tragedies like this in communities across our state. ERPO laws enacted in other states have been proven to be constitutional and have been proven to save lives. It’s time Colorado does more to keep firearms out of the hands of dangerous people.”   To successfully block firearm access, a petitioner would have to demonstrate a preponderance of evidence that the individual poses a significant threat to themselves or others by possessing a firearm. After a petition is filed, a court would place a temporary order for up to two weeks until a hearing determines whether a full protection order is appropriate. A full protection order could then be approved for up to 364 days.   “What is essential to keep in mind is that HB 19-1177 is designed to save lives and that it will save lives,’ said Attorney General Phil Weiser, who testified before the Senate State, Military, and Veterans Affairs Committee in support of HB19-1177. “According to one study that evaluated ERPOs in other states, researchers estimated that one life was saved for every 10 to 20 ERPOs issued by the courts.”   “The Attorney General’s Office has concluded that HB 19-1177 is constitutional… we believe that HB 19-1177, as drafted, is a proper and appropriately drafted regulation that is consistent with the Second Amendment’s requirements. I pledge to you that the Department of Law is committed to doing our part to support the successful implementation of HB 19-1177 when and if it is enacted into law,” added Attorney General Weiser.   The Attorney General’s full testimony can be found here.   This bill went through an extensive stakeholder process with feedback from law enforcement, mental health and gun violence prevention advocates, and legislators. It passed the House of Representatives on third reading 38-to-25. If passed and signed into law, Colorado would be the 15th state to enact ERPO legislation.   For more information on the Extreme Risk Protection Order legislation, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb19-1177. ###

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JOINT RELEASE: Joint Budget Committee Democrats Respond to Newly Released Budget Forecast

March 15, 2019

Denver, CO – This afternoon, the Governor’s office and the Colorado Legislative Council released a quarterly budget forecast that will help lawmakers write the annual state budget. In response, members of the Joint Budget Committee released the following statements:

“While this budget forecast might not be as strong as we hoped for, the Joint Budget Committee's priority must be to serve as responsible stewards of taxpayers dollars as we work to balance the state budget,” said JBC Chair Sen. Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “I am still confident that we will be able to find a way forward that protects the state’s finances while also delivering on many of the important legislative priorities that our Democratic majorities were elected on.”

“We remain focused on putting forth a bipartisan and responsible budget that addresses our state’s most pressing needs and reflects the values of Coloradans,” said JBC Vice-Chair Rep. Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “Hardworking individuals and families in southern Colorado and across our state are struggling to keep up with the cost of living. We must work together to support them and give them the tools they need to get ahead.”

“The budget forecast is not a red or a blue issue, and regardless of party, we must be smart with our decisions and balance many competing priorities with the need for fiscal responsibility,” said Senator Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “We take these decisions very seriously, and will carefully identify what our biggest financial needs are as we debate and finalize our state’s budget.”

“A poorly targeted federal tax change and pointless trade wars and tariffs have manufactured uncertainty in the economy and are beginning to drag down hardworking families,” said Rep. Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “We must work together to responsibly invest in education, work to cut the cost of health care to ensure our state remains prosperous.”

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Senator Story’s Bill to Regulate Online Schools Passes the Senate

March 15, 2019

Denver, CO — The Senate voted 21-to-14 this morning to advance SB19-129, a bill sponsored by Senator Tammy Story (D-Evergreen) that would increase accountability for online schools. The bill now heads to the Colorado House of Representatives for consideration.

“As a longtime advocate for education, I am pleased the Senate has voted to advance my bill to help students attending online schools,” said Senator Story. “Every student in Colorado deserves a shot at a bright future, and that starts with a great education. Our online schools serve a portion of our students and we want to ensure their needs are being met when online schools are their choice.”

SB19-129 would require the online division of the Department of Education to report information about students who disenroll from an online school after the annual pupil enrollment and if known, where they go next. The Department of Education would summarize this information and then present it annually to the State Board of Education and the House and Senate Education Committees.

Under existing law, an online school is subject to the same accountability requirements as other public schools. The bill states that if an online school is on performance watch and changes authorizers, the online school remains on performance watch. If an online school is closed because of actions taken as a result of accountability, the online school must apply for new certification before it can operate again, either as the original online school or as a successor school, regardless of whether the online school changes authorizers. 

“This legislation will help us hold online schools accountable, ensuring that Colorado students can get the quality education they deserve,” added Senator Story.

To learn more about SB19-129, please visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-129.

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Senate Passes Senator Court’s Bill to Increase Safety on Colorado Roads

March 15, 2019

Denver, CO – The Colorado State Senate today voted 26-to-9 to approve SB19-012, Use Of Mobile Electronic Devices While Driving, a bill sponsored by Senator Lois Court (D-Denver) that would ban the use of handheld electronic devices while operating motor vehicles. The bill now heads to the Colorado House of Representatives for consideration.

“Distracted driving is an epidemic, and using a cell phone while driving is too often the cause of deadly accidents. Our cars are not moving phone booths and shouldn’t be used as such,” said Senator Court.

SB19-012 would make using cell phones while driving - except with a hands-free device - illegal for everyone, expanding on current Colorado law that prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from using cell phones while operating motor vehicle.

“This bill, which has overwhelming support from the public, is designed to stop dangerous behavior and ultimately save lives,” said Senator Court. “It does that by making it illegal to physically hold your cell phone while driving, although drivers can still use their phones with hands-free technologies."

“We just want people to put their phones down and focus on driving. There are more than 40 distracted driving accidents each day in Colorado, adding up to more than 14,000 accidents every year. But these aren’t accidents – they are preventable tragedies,” said Susan Danes, Co-Chair of Coloradans Organized for Responsible Driving. “There are already 16 states with hands-free laws in place, and we don’t want Colorado to be last on that list. Using cell phones while driving has become commonplace, so we need to change behavior - that is what we hope this bill will do.”

To learn more about SB19-012 visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb19-012. 

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