Senate Finance Committee Approves Rapid Respond Legislation to COVID-19

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate Finance Committee passed multiple important pieces of legislation that directly respond to the COVID-19 crisis. These bills include proposals to establish a small business recovery loan fund, prevent price gouging, and protect workers from retaliation when they raise work safety concerns. 

”These bills prioritize protecting Coloradans on multiple fronts,” said Sen. Pettersen, D-Lakewood. “From ensuring that workers can raise health concerns without fear of retaliation, to shielding families from being taken advantage of in their time of need, these policies work to fortify people’s defenses where it matters most.”

HB20-1414 Price Gouge Amid Disaster Deceptive Trade Practice, sponsored by Senators Brittany Pettersen and Mike Foote, empowers the Attorney General or local District Attorneys to enforce consumer protections, specifically regarding people or businesses that excessively increase the cost of certain necessary goods or services during public emergencies.

“We, unfortunately, see price gouging during public emergencies and our current one is no exemption,” said Sen. Foote, D-Lafayette. “Price fluctuations are normal market reactions to changes in supply and demand, however, taking advantage of a crisis for profit is unacceptable. We need to hold bad actors accountable and defend Coloradans from being exploited in their time of need.”

HB20-1415 Whistleblower Protection Public Health Emergencies, sponsored by Senators Brittany Pettersen and Robert Rodriguez, protects workers who raise concerns regarding their health and safety in the workplace from retaliation and requires employers to allow their workers to wear personal protective equipment. Sadly, some employees are being punished or fired when they speak out, this bill protects them from such unjust action.

“It’s unacceptable to retaliate against workers for raising safety concerns, but sadly we’ve heard countless stories of that happening,” said Sen. Rodriguez, D-Denver. “This bill ensures that employers can’t fire or punish their staff for speaking out– a crucial protection in a time when the world is facing a deadly viral outbreak and some businesses are not doing enough to keep their workers safe.”

HB20-1413 Small Business Recovery Loan Program Premium Tax Credits, sponsored by Senators Rachel Zenzinger and Kerry Donovan establishes a small business recovery loan fund of $250 million of state and private dollars for loans to small businesses over the next two fiscal years. This fund will help support Colorado’s small businesses community and stimulate the state’s economic recovery.   

“Colorado’s small businesses are integral to our state’s economy, but right now too many are struggling to meet their payroll obligations or to pay their bills,” said Sen. Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “This bill will support small businesses on the road to recovery by granting them additional access to the capital they need to keep their doors open.”

Senate Passes Vital Bills to Increase Coloradans’ Access to Telehealth and Sick Leave

DENVER, CO – In response to the ongoing public health crisis facing the world, Colorado Democrats brought people together and proposed legislation focused on providing immediate relief for hardworking families. Today, two such proposals passed the Senate, bringing the state one step closure to ensuring workers can earn paid sick days and receive health care virtually. 

SB20-205 Sick Leave For Employees, sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges and Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, this bill will empower all Colorado workers to protect themselves and their coworkers by earning paid sick days. Currently, 40% of Colorado’s workforce are not afforded the opportunity to earn paid sick days–– creating a “work while sick” culture in Colorado that increases the deadly transmission of viruses such as COVID-19. This bill will allow those who are feeling ill to keep their coworkers, customers, and loved ones safe by staying home, without the fear of losing their income.

“No one should have to go to work when they’re ill,” said Majority Leader Fenberg, D-Boulder. “Not only is it unhealthy for the person who is sick, but it puts their coworkers and customers at risk. Earning sick days is a basic benefit that all employees should have access to, especially after we’ve witnessed the carnage one virus can inflict on the world. Paid sick leave will help communities curb infection rates and avoid similar devastation caused by COVID-19 happening again.”

“In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that we don’t have many of the necessary provisions in place to protect Coloradans,” said Sen. Bridges, D-Greenwood Village. “When people are going to work sick it hurts all of us. That’s why we are sponsoring this legislation to ensure no Coloradan has to choose between their health and their income.”

SB20-212 Reimbursement For Telehealth Services, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter and Jack Tate, extends patients’ ability to receive care via telehealth that was granted during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Telehealth has kept Coloradans safe by allowing patients to continue their care plan with their providers. This access could have ended when the declared emergency ends unless the state legislature acts.  

“Increasing access to health care is one of the most important things we can do to make a difference in the lives of Coloradans,” said Sen. Winter, D-Westminster. “We are taking the steps necessary to protect all Coloradans by extending this service. This is the responsible thing to do to make sure that while COVID is still with us we have the resources for all Coloradans.  Right now communities across the state, particularly rural areas, struggle to see a doctor in a reasonable timeframe–– often forcing people to forego care or turn to emergency services. This bill protects people’s ability to speak to their doctor virtually and saves families from neglecting their health or going to the hospital unnecessarily.” 

Dems Lead the Charge on Police Accountability, Achieve Bipartisan Support

Denver, CO – Today, Senate Democrats passed historical police reform legislation in the wake of the gruesome killing of George Floyd at the hands of peace officers. This bill outlines a duty to intervene by other officers when excessive force is being used, removes qualified immunity from shielding bad officers, and outlaws the use of a chokehold. 

“George Floyd’s murder may have been the catalyst for this movement, but the truth is, black and brown bodies have been perpetually abused by officers for decades,” said Sen. Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora. “Departments have refused to root out the violent corruption insidiously infecting their culture. It is long overdue that lawmakers step in and mandate accountability and transparency. Thanks to the brave commitment of those calling for justice, we’ve been able to bring this legislation across the line. I am honored to have had the opportunity to channel the power of the people and make real change happen.”

“Racist violence by police in America can no longer be swept under the rug. People are tired of watching black and brown communities be terrorized and unjustly painted as dangerous criminals,” said President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo. “It’s unacceptable that some police departments have been a breeding ground for cancerous belief systems and behavior–resulting in countless innocent lives lost. Peace officers are meant to serve the community, keep people safe, and be guardians of justice, but for too long bad actors have abused their power and gotten away with it. We need to do everything in our power to restore the people’s trust in those whose duty is to protect and serve. I am proud that we were able to bring people together on this issue, even those who have been fighting against reform for decades. But this is not the end of our work. We will continue demanding accountability and transparency until community trust is achieved.”   

SB20-217 focuses on bringing transparency and accountability to policing by codifying multiple sweeping reform measures, including requiring the use of bodycams, outlawing chokeholds as a method of apprehension, and ensuring that bad officers are terminated and banned from the force permanently. 

Another groundbreaking policy provision requires an officer to intervene if another officer is using excessive force. In so many cases of unacceptable police violence, other officers were present and did nothing to halt the incident--supporting a bystander’s culture that allows abuse to continue. 

The bill goes on to outline protections for protesters by limiting when and how police can use projectiles and chemical agents against a crowd. It also ends the use of qualified immunity, which has been shielding bad actors from civil responsibility for years. And finally, it requires that data be compiled and publicly reported regarding incidents surrounding use of force, stops and searches of civilians, and forced entries into homes.

In the U.S., African Americans are at least 2.5 times more likely to be killed by police than white people.  They are also 1.3 times less likely to be armed compared to Caucasians. Even more alarmingly, and despite well-documented cases of the use of excessive force, 99% of killings by police have not resulted in officers being charged with a crime.

Senate Passes Vital Bills to Address Coloradans’ Economic Pains

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate passed two critical bills to support those hit hardest by the economic turmoil resulting from the coronavirus pandemic. 

“These bills work to support Coloradans who have been hurt by the economic crash following COVID-19,” said Sen. Winter, D-Westminister. “From a lack of childcare resulting in school closures to employers not prioritizing the health of their workers, Coloradans need additional protections if they lose or leave their jobs. By strengthening Unemployment insurance and limiting the power of debt collectors, we are giving families the breathing room they need to make it through these difficult times.”

SB20-211 Limitations on Extraordinary Collection Actions, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter and Julie Gonzales expands the ability of the Attorney General to provide oversight of extraordinary debt collection actions, like wage garnishment. The Attorney General would also have the ability to freeze new actions, establish a minimum grace period for payments to resume, and require that monthly payment amounts consider a consumer’s ability to repay. 

“During a disaster emergency such as COVID-19 where so many people are experiencing financial hardship, we need to establish more robust restrictions in terms of debt collection,” said Sen. Gonzales, D-Denver. “Taking someone’s wages when they are barely putting food on the table is unacceptable and this bill will make sure that doesn’t happen. So many hardworking Coloradans are underwater right now–making it more important than ever that we put these protections in place.” 

SB20-207 Unemployment Insurance Expansion, sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen and Faith Winter, aims to expand those who qualify for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits and increase the benefits workers can receive. Some of these increased benefits include the amount a worker can earn while remaining eligible for UI, as well as an expanded definition of “good cause” for a worker to quit and still receive the benefit.

Senate Passes Bills to Support Health of Vulnerable Coloradans

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate passed two critical bills to support the health of vulnerable Coloradans, including those struggling with opioid addiction or Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

HB20-1061 HIV Prevention Medications, sponsored by Senator Dominick Moreno works to improve access to lifesaving medications by allowing pharmacists to dispense both PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) without a prescription from a physician. 

“HIV is a devastating diagnosis for anyone, but it is particularly difficult for vulnerable populations and low-income communities,” said Sen. Moreno, D-Commerce City. “This bill will provide relief to those who struggle with getting the medication they need to both prevent infection and treat it.”

SB20-007 Treatment Opioid and Other Substance Use Disorders, sponsored by Senators Brittany Pettersen and Faith Winter, aims to increase access to treatment by requiring insurance carriers to provide coverage for the treatment of substance use disorders, as well as eliminate deductibles, copays, or other cost-sharing requirements for certain medication.

“Corrupt pharmaceutical corporations have caused opioid addiction to balloon in this country,” said Sen. Winter, D-Westminster. “We need to recognize that the irresponsibility of the medical industry has destroyed countless lives by the careless over-prescription of highly addictive substances, and ensure that people who are suffering from these addictions receive the treatment they need.”  

Senate Passes FY20-21 Long Bill

Denver, CO – Today the Joint Budget Committee Vice-Chair Dominick Moreno and Senator Rachel Zenzinger released the following statements after the Senate passed Colorado's long bill budget for FY20-21 (HB20-1360) on a vote of 24-9.

"The impact of COVID-19 on Colorado’s fiscal health is almost incomprehensible," said Sen. Moreno, D-Commerce City. "But despite being faced with a seemingly insurmountable challenge, we have been able to create a budget that continues to safeguard education and prioritize critical human services. I am incredibly grateful for the hard work of my fellow Joint Budget Committee Members, our nonpartisan staff, and the members of the Senate, who have put politics a budget that reflects what matters most to Coloradans."

"This process was full of difficult, sometimes heartbreaking decisions," said Sen. Zenzinger, D-Arvada. "I get no joy or satisfaction in cutting the budget so drastically. We all sacrificed things we care about, Democrats and Republicans alike. In the end, we protected what matters most to our communities– focusing on the health, safety, and economic well-being of all Coloradans. In this bittersweet moment, I am proud of our state for coming together and being so resilient and determined in these difficult times." 

After the economic devastation caused by COVID-19, Colorado was left with a $3.3 billion hole in our budget– a shortfall larger than all of the previous recessions combined. Without assistance from the federal government, this forced Colorado lawmakers to cut more than 20 percent of the budget for FY20-21.

The Senate also passed HB20-1366, a bill that reforms the higher education funding formula– changing the focus from volume to long-term sustainability and performance. After a robust stakeholding process that included institutions and rural communities from across the state, this legislation passed unanimously.

Senate Passes Bills to Protect Vulnerable Coloradans & Public Health

Denver, CO – Today, the Senate passed several initiatives to support vulnerable Coloradans, including mobile-home park residents and domestic abuse victims. The body also fought to protect respiratory health by prioritizing the long-term improvement of air quality. 

SB20-170 Update Colorado Employment Security Act, sponsored by Senator Danielson would make it easier for domestic violence victims to receive unemployment insurance benefits. Currently, the law requires those who are forced to leave their jobs due to domestic violence, to jump through burdensome administrative hoops to receive benefits. SB20-170 removes these hurdles and supports those suffering from abuse.  

“With people being forced to stay home due to the public health emergency, there has been a stark uptick in reports of domestic violence and abuse,” said Sen. Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge.” We need to help people stuck in violent situations by removing unnecessary barriers for them to keep themselves safe.” 

SB20-204 Additional Resources To Protect Air Quality, sponsored by Majority Leader Fenberg protects public health from dangerous air emissions by ensuring that environmental regulations are enforced, including measures to eliminate the statutory fee cap and direct the commission to increase fees by a minimum of 25%.

“The “Clean Up Colorado’s Air Act” will ensure Colorado has the resources and scientific expertise to improve Colorado’s air quality. This bill will ensure my generation, my daughter’s generation, and all future generations in Colorado have clean air to breathe,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “Colorado has for far too long failed to meet basic federal clean air standards. With the coronavirus pandemic continuing to impact the respiratory health of Colorado families, there has never been more urgency to clean up Colorado’s air.”

SB20-1001 Nicotine Product Regulations, sponsored by Senator Bridges and Senator Priola raises the minimum age of nicotine products and tobacco sales from 18 to 21, requires relevant retailers to obtain a license, and increases enforcement to prevent underage sales.

“Colorado has the highest rate of teen vaping in the nation, and in a time when our community is being devastated by a respiratory virus, it is more critical than ever that we protect the health of our young people,” said Sen. Bridges, D-Greenwood Village. “This bill makes Colorado a leader in keeping tobacco out of the hands of teenagers.”

HB20-1196 Mobile Home Park Act Updates, sponsored by Senator Fenberg and Senator Lee, protects mobile park residents by defining the meaning of retaliation and outlining a process to defend residents when they speak out. Low-income communities have been ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people have lost their jobs and are facing unreasonable, aggressive landlords that use retaliatory tactics when they are unable to pay rent. This bill works to protect these Coloradans by ensuring that mobile park owners are not allowed to retaliate against residents with unwarranted evictions.

Senate Passes Bills to Increase Access to Health Care, Strengthen Rural Economies, and Support Teachers

Denver, CO – Today, the Senate passed several initiatives to increase access to health care, strengthen rural economies, and support teachers. 

HB20-1236 Health Care Coverage Easy Enrollment Program, sponsored by Senator Bridges and Senator Tate, works to establish a program that would make it easier for health care consumers to find affordable coverage. According to the Colorado Health Institute, more than half of Coloradans who don’t have health insurance in fact qualify for public health insurance programs or subsidies such as premium tax credits or cost-sharing reductions. This bill would allow Connect for Health Colorado to reach out to these individuals, if they checked the box on their tax return, and help them obtain free or subsidized coverage.

“Now more than ever, it is critical that every Coloradan receives adequate health care coverage,” said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village. “Hundreds of thousands of Coloradans are currently uninsured, many of them after losing their employer-based health care due to COVID-19. We need to help connect people to the resources they are eligible for so that families can get the care they need and have a right to.”

HB20-1003 Rural Jump-Start Program, sponsored by Senator Donovan and Senator Ray Scott, would enable more businesses to take advantage of the incentives and benefits offered in the Rural Jump Start Program by widening eligibility. It also extends the program for five years and allows organizations to form programs to authorize new businesses to participate.

“Small businesses are the backbone of rural Colorado, and after the devastation caused by COVID-19, we need support new businesses more than ever,” said Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail. “The Rural Jump Start Program helps crucial community businesses open and create jobs in their  hometowns– revitalizing depressed economies and putting hardworking Coloradans back on the job.” 

SB20-158 Professional Training For Educators sponsored by Senator Todd, works to expand the educator loan forgiveness program by making it available to individuals who graduate from any preparation program that leads to educator licensure and removing the limitation of no more than 100 new participants per year.

“Teachers have worked tirelessly under an enormous amount of pressure during this public health crisis–– highlighting even further the indispensable role they play in our communities, “ said Senator Todd, D-Aurora. “We need to do everything we can to support the teaching profession and ensure that our incredible educators are not overly burdened, financially or otherwise. This bill helps those who choose to make it their life’s work to shepherd and guide the next generation.”

Sponsors Introduce Bill to Hold Law Enforcement Accountable

Denver, CO – Today, Senate President Leroy Garcia, Senator Rhonda Fields, Representative Leslie Herod, and Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez unveiled legislation to improve public confidence in the integrity of law enforcement. The bill formalizes repercussive actions regarding police brutality and requires increased transparency by requiring the use of body-worn cameras. 

“Communities of color have been brutalized by police discrimination and violence for far too long and the recent demonstrations reflect that,” said President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “Police officers are in a position of public trust and should be held to the highest standard of conduct and accountability. But countless officers have escaped justice–eroding people’s confidence in those responsible for protecting the community. We need to root out those causing this erosion and reform our police transparency and repercussion standards.”

“Coloradans who have taken to our streets to protest injustice and declare that Black Lives Matter were sparked by an incident in Minnesota, but we’ve seen similar tragedies happen in our own state,” said Black Caucus Chair Leslie Herod (D-Denver). “We need to make changes here at the State Capitol and at statehouses across the country. We will take action to protect black lives, hold law enforcement accountable, and ensure that police officers truly serve and protect all of us.”

Additional transparency measures outlined in SB20-217 include mandating that all law enforcement agencies must track and publicly report data, including demographic information on uses of force, stops of civilians, searches of civilians, and forced entries into homes. This information will then be used by the Department of Public Safety to complete an annual report. 

The bill also works to rein in the use of deadly force by officers – bringing Colorado law in line with Supreme Court precedent which specifies that deadly force may only be used when there is an imminent risk to human life. If any peace officer is convicted of, pleads guilty to, or fails to intervene in the inappropriate use of physical force, they will be immediately terminated, de-certified, and barred from any future posting.

Furthermore, SB20-217 works to prevent the rehiring of officers who are found untruthful, terminated for cause, or are decertified, by listing them in a database that would prevent them from moving from one law enforcement agency to another, where they could continue to do harm. 

Finally, this legislation would remove the ability of officers to avoid public accountability by removing their eligibility for qualified immunity which has shielded officers from consequences and denied families justice

In the U.S., African Americans are at least 2.5 times more likely to be killed by police than white people.  They are also 1.3 times less likely to be armed compared to Caucasians. Even more alarmingly, and despite well-documented cases of the use of excessive force, 99% of killings by police have not resulted in officers being charged with a crime.  

According to recent studies, there are solutions that are proven to significantly reduce the number of police killings, but few departments have adopted them.

Senate Bill to Protect Access to Telehealth Advances

Denver, CO – Today, the Senate State, Veterans & Military Affairs approved SB20-212 Reimbursement For Telehealth Services, a bipartisan bill that seeks to protect Colorado patients’ access to telehealthcare.

Senate Bill 212 — sponsored by Sen. Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Sen. Jack Tate, R-Centennial — protects patients’ ability to receive care via telehealth that was granted during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Telehealth has kept consumers and providers safe while allowing patients to continue their care plan with their providers. This access could be removed when the declared emergency ends unless the state legislature acts.  

“Access to healthcare is one of the most fundamental rights that citizens should be afforded,” said Senator Faith Winter. “As our community recovers from this global health crisis, it is important that we continue to build upon the innovations utilized during these times to keep people safe. By further codifying telehealth services, we will be expanding the ease and access of vulnerable communities to the health care they desperately need. We need to use technology to our advantage as we work to make the world a more just and equitable place.”

Among other things, SB20- 212 requires that health insurance carriers, including Medicaid, cover telehealth visits for behavioral, mental, and physical health care, as long as they are delivered on a HIPAA-compliant platform. It also waives the requirement that patients have a pre-existing relationship with a provider in order to receive telehealth, and it bars insurers from imposing additional certification or licensure requirements on telehealth providers.

On March 20, Colorado’s Medicaid program expanded access to telemedicine in order to better serve its 1.2 million members. The new rule allowed community health centers, rural health clinics, and the Indian Health Services to bill for telemedicine visits. Additionally, home health and physical and occupational therapies via telehealth were included as covered services. The new rule is expected to expire on July 18. 

Specifically, SB-212:

• Allows telehealth for assessment, diagnosis, consultation, treatment, education, care management, self-management, remote monitoring, and recommendations for a consumer. 

• Continues parity for in-person and telehealth billing.

• Includes behavioral, mental and physical health. 

• Requires the Colorado Department of Healthcare Policy and Financing (HCPF) to reimburse federally qualified health centers, rural health centers and the Indian Health Service for telemedicine services.

• Prohibits health insurance carriers from imposing specific limits on the technologies used for telehealth, as long as they are HIPAA-compliant. 

• Allows consumers to establish care with a provider via telehealth

The bill will now be heard by the Committee of the Whole.

Debt Protections, Unemployment Insurance Bills Pass Committee

Today the Senate Finance committee advanced legislation to protect Colorado's working families with the passage of SB20-207 and SB20-211.

“These bills seek to implement essential protections for working Coloradans and their families — so they can get the support and protection they need, without worrying about unsafe conditions, paying their bills, or putting food on the table,” said Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster.)

SB20-207: Unemployment Insurance (Sens. Hansen, Winter)
During times of unprecedented unemployment, this bill works to expand those who qualify for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits and increase the benefits workers can receive. Some of these increased benefits include the amount a worker can earn while remaining eligible for UI, as well as an expanded definition of “good cause” for a worker to quit and still receive the benefit.  From a lack of childcare resulting in school closures to employers not protecting the health of their workers, Coloradans need additional protections if they are laid off or forced to leave their jobs. 

"Hundreds of thousands of Coloradans have lost their jobs or are worried about unsafe working conditions. We need to refortify our Unemployment Insurance Program so that it can protect Colorado's most vulnerable populations who have undoubtedly been hit the hardest by COVID-19 and our subsequent economic downturn," said Senator Hansen (D-Denver).  

SB20-207 will now be heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee. 

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

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

“Families need financial flexibility and relief, now more than ever," said Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver). "The commonsense regulations we’re pushing for in this legislation will help protect working Coloradans from egregious debt collection practices."

SB20-211 now heads to the Committee of the Whole.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Black Democratic Legislative Caucus and Colorado Latino Democratic Caucus Joint Statement on the Police Killing of George Floyd

Black Democratic Legislative Caucus and Colorado Latino Democratic Caucus Joint Statement on the Police Killing of George Floyd

For generations, Black Americans are harassed and killed by racist police officers and vigilantes, and every year communities cry out and voice concerns about the unjust treatment of people of color. When it comes to seeking justice, the motives of Black people are questioned, even during simple activities like taking a jog, watching TV in their own homes, or picking up trash around their front yard. Our criminal justice system gives the benefit of the doubt to those who have committed hate crimes, stolen lives and robbed families of their children, spouses, parents, and loved ones.

The lack of accountability for the vast majority of perpetrators is rooted in the racist history of our country, including slavery, Jim Crow laws, and the suppression of voting and other civil rights. This legacy has had lingering and devastating impacts on Black communities and continues to cast Black individuals as not worthy of justice, of full protection by the law, or of basic civil rights. 

This has been seen once again in our nation through the brutal killing of George Floyd by an officer of the Minneapolis Police Department that knelt on his neck while Mr. Floyd gasps that he could not breathe. Witnesses called for the Officer to stop, but the officer ignored their pleas. The officer was then able to walk about freely and live his life for four days before he was charged and arrested. This is not what justice looks like.

We the members of the Black Democratic Legislative Caucus of Colorado and the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus jointly condemn the tragic killing of George Floyd at the hands of law enforcement, and the slow response for justice in the arrest of the officer that took his life. This is a continuation of the systematic racism that has plagued our nation since its inception. This must come to an end. We continue to commit ourselves towards working together on solutions that bring equality and stops the fear, hurt, pain, and loss of life that minorities experience everyday because of the color of their skin.

While this took place hundreds of miles away in another state, we recognize that hate takes place here too. In the most recent hate crimes report of statistics released by the FBI, there were “123 reported hate crimes in Colorado [in 2018] compared to 106 in 2017. Of those 123 incidents, 78 were based on race, ethnicity or national origin” (Westword). And with hate crimes on the rise, we also mourn all of the deaths of minority Coloradans who lost their lives from the inexcusable actions of law enforcement like Elijah McClain, Marvin Booker, Michael Marshall, Jessie Hernandez, and De’Von Bailey to name a few. Our respective caucuses are deeply concerned by the increase in bigotry and racism not only across our country, but across Colorado. 

Just as Latinos and immigrants ask for support from all Coloradans against an increase in xenophobic and racist hate crimes, as the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus, we call on Latinos and allies to show collective support and solidarity for the survivors of hate crimes and of police brutality. We mourn the senseless deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and countless other Black individuals who do not feel safe simply being Black in public or at home. We applaud the recent arrests and investigations of alleged perpetrators of these hateful acts, but rue the fact that arrests and investigations only take place after gruesome video footage is released. A person’s murder should not have to be broadcast in order to achieve some semblance of justice. 

Furthermore we the members of the Black Democratic Legislative Caucus of Colorado call on the support of African Americans throughout Colorado to stand together for the multitude of families of those that have lost loved ones due to police brutality and hate crimes across this nation. They are our sons and daughters, they are brothers and sisters. Our lives and our liberties must not be stolen from us. We will not accept a double standard. We demand justice and equality. And in our call for justice we remind those that demonstrate their grief to do so in a manner that uplifts our united cause peacefully; our demands for justice must be justifiable in their own right. 

Our caucuses together ask that all Coloradans stand up against racism, speak up and report hate crimes in your communities, and support each other as neighbors, as communities, and as Coloradans to build a brighter, less fearful Colorado for our increasingly diverse children and future generations. Join us in putting in the effort to make Colorado more inclusive and welcoming for all people: the effort we put in today will save lives tomorrow. 

Black Democratic Legislative Caucus of Colorado

State Representative Leslie Herod

State Senator Rhonda Fields 

State Representative Janet Buckner

State Representative James Coleman

State Representative Tony Exum

State Representative Dominique Jackson

State Representative Jovan Melton

State Senator Angela Williams

Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus

State Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez

State Representative Monica Duran

State Representative Adrienne Benavidez

State Representative Alex Valdez

State Representative Bri Buentello

State Representative Yadira Caraveo

State Representative Sonya Jaquez Lewis

State Representative Donald Valdez

State Representative Kerry Tipper

State Senator Robert Rodriguez

State Senator Julie Gonzales

State Senator Leroy Garcia

State Senator Dominick Moreno

Senate Democrats Release Statement Following Demonstrations in Denver

Denver, CO – Today Senate Democrats released the following statement in response to last night’s protests for police accountability following the death of Minnesota resident George Floyd:
 
“The murder of George Floyd was a senseless, gruesome act of police violence that should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The racism and violence that black communities are forced to navigate on a daily basis is abhorrent and must be stopped. We are shocked and heartbroken by the violence that erupted in our city last night and stand in solidarity with those calling for justice. Our duty is to represent the people of Colorado and the best way we can do that right now is by respecting the gravity of this moment. Therefore, in deference to the demands for police accountability, we will be suspending all legislative work until Monday, June 1. When we return, our priority will continue to be the health, safety, and well-being of all Coloradans.”

JOINT RELEASE: Democrats Introduce Bill to Provide Earned Paid Sick Days to All Hardworking Coloradans

DENVER –– Today, Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg and Senator Jeff Bridges, alongside Speaker of the House KC Becker and Representative Yadira Caraveo, provided a comprehensive overview of their newly introduced bill, SB20-205 which empowers all Colorado workers to protect themselves and their coworkers by earning paid sick days.

“In this new reality, we must ensure that people are able to prioritize and protect the health of themselves, their families, and their communities,” said Majority Leader Fenberg, (D-Boulder). “Currently nearly half of Colorado workers are not able to earn a single sick day. To keep our communities safe, our businesses open and our economy on the road to recovery, we need to ensure that all workers can stay home when they are sick.”

“We are focusing on how we can help Coloradans safely get back to work as we protect our most vulnerable and prioritize the health and safety of all,” said Speaker KC Becker, (D-Boulder). “Too many of those on the frontlines of this pandemic, our health care workers, food service workers who are restocking grocery stores, and so many other essential workers, don’t have paid sick leave. If Coloradans return to work sick, then we will reverse the progress we’ve made and our economic crisis will worsen. Paid sick leave will lead to healthier communities, stronger businesses, and a safer road to recovery.”

“In many ways the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that we don’t have many of the necessary provisions in place to protect Coloradans,” said Sen. Bridges, (D-Greenwood Village). “When people are going to work sick it hurts all of us. That’s why we are sponsoring this legislation to ensure no Coloradan has to choose between their health and their income.”

“As a pediatrician, I see and treat sick children all day long,” said Rep. Caraveo, (D-Thornton). “COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease that can affect an entire family. When people have paid sick days, it means that they are more likely to go to the doctor and get the care they need to prevent further spread of the disease to the rest of their family and loved ones. If we’re faced with anything like this again, Coloradans need to have access to paid sick days for the health of us all.”

Currently, 40% of Colorado’s workforce are not afforded the opportunity to earn paid sick days–– creating a “work while sick” culture in Colorado that increases the deadly transmission of viruses such as COVID-19. SB20-205 will allow those who are feeling ill to protect their coworkers, customers, and loved ones by staying home, without the fear of losing their income. 

Earned sick days are a paid, job-protected benefit to ensure people can stay home to care for themselves or a family member during a short-term illness. Under SB20-205, employees will earn a sick day for every 26 hours worked. Most employees in Colorado will be able to earn a maximum of 80 hours of paid sick time per year, and businesses with 50 or fewer employees will be able to earn a maximum of 40 hours. Employers are not required to pay the balance of sick days to employees when they leave, and because days are earned by employees, there will be a gradual phase of this benefit.

Studies show that employees working while sick costs the national economy approximately $160 billion per year—and that was before coronavirus. Studies also show that providing paid sick days allows businesses to benefit from higher employee productivity, healthier workplaces, and lower employee turnover.

JOINT STATEMENT: New Legislation To Complement Paid Family & Medical Leave

DENVER, CO – Senator Faith Winter and Representative Matt Gray released the following statement today after the Senate introduced SB20-205 which addresses the immediate needs of individuals and families facing mental or physical illness.  

“We are excited about the introduction of SB20-205 and how it will provide some immediate relief for Coloradans. At the same time, it is worth noting that this legislation is entirely distinct from a Paid Family & Medical Leave program. SB20-205 is a necessary life raft during this pandemic—allowing people to stay home when they feel sick rather than be forced to work and risk the health of countless others. However, it does not eclipse the need for a comprehensive solution that provides extended leave benefits for the birth of a child or long term illnesses, such as cancer. This is why it is so critical that we continue to fight for parallel solutions that grant Coloradans the ability to care for themselves and their loved ones over a longer period of time.” 

SB20-205 requires all employers to provide 80 hours of paid sick leave related to COVID-19 through the end of this calendar year. Then starting January 2021, all employers would be required to provide at least 48 hours of paid sick leave per calendar year. 

The paid sick leave can be used for the following reasons: mental or physical illness; caring for a family member with a mental or physical illness; if employee or family member has been the victim of domestic abuse, sexual assault or harassment; or if there are closures due to a public health emergency which would necessitate the employee’s absence from work. This bill also prohibits an employer from retaliating against an employee who uses their paid sick leave.

JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Dems Demand Federal Relief; Send Letter to Congress

DENVER, CO–– General Assembly Democrats today sent a letter to Congress following Tuesday’s devastating economic and revenue forecast, calling on Congress to prioritize flexible state funding to protect communities from revenue shortfalls caused by COVID-19. 

“Colorado is facing a desperate budgetary situation. With a more than $3 billion deficit, many of our critical programs that Coloradans have come to count on are facing crippling cuts,” said Senator Dominick Moreno, Joint Budget Committee (JBC) Vice-Chair. “We need the federal government to step up and use our tax dollars to bail out people rather than corporations, or we will suffer severe consequences for years to come.” 

“With a severe budget shortfall, we are doing everything we can to protect education and critical health-and-safety services,” said JBC Chair Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “We have spent the last several weeks reviewing options for how we can balance the budget responsibly, and it’s clear that without more federal aid, our state will see heartbreaking cuts to essential services. We need our leaders in Washington to come together and support our communities through this crisis.”

The letter asks Congress to pass several bills being supported by members of the Colorado delegation including The Coronavirus Relief for States Act, sponsored by Rep. Ed Perlmutter, and co-sponsored by Rep. Joe Neguse, Rep. Jason Crow, Rep. Diana DeGette, and Rep. Scott Tipton; as well as The State Operations Stabilization (SOS) Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, Rep. Neguse, and Rep. Crow.

Coloradans can add their name to the letter here.

The full text of the letter is below:

Dear Members of Congress, 

Our state, like so many others, is experiencing extreme hardship due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Not only have more than 1000 of our residents died of this disease so far, but hundreds of thousands have lost their jobs and are in desperate need of assistance.  

However, these are still only the immediate and obvious impacts of the crisis. The longer, more insidious effects are those that will ripple out for years to come, as our state infrastructure crumbles from inadequate funding.

Currently, we are facing a revenue shortfall of at least $3 billion due to the COVID crisis. This represents a massive reduction of our fiscal resources and it spells catastrophe for many of our already-underfunded institutions. Schools, law enforcement offices, health clinics, and correctional facilities all face extreme financial pressures, while literacy, suicide prevention, child welfare, and job training programs will likely need to be eliminated. Urgent transportation projects that would ensure the safety of our roads are also on hold, and public employees face potential pay cuts, furloughs, and benefit reductions. 

These fiscal losses are particularly poised to decimate the people who are helping get us through this crisis––mainly our first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, and state personnel. These professionals have been working tirelessly under immense pressure to cope with the needs of their patients, students, and service users. But now with draining funding reserves, our community servants are set up to receive even less support.

Our situation is devastating and far exceeds that of any downturn we have ever faced. So you can understand our outrage when Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he would rather let state governments declare bankruptcy than receive more federal funding. He also had the audacity to claim that it’s not Congress’ job to help states who didn’t save for a recession.

This kind of sentiment is unacceptable and blatantly disregards the severity of this crisis. Real people are suffering and more will in the coming weeks, months, and years if we do not receive adequate assistance. 

The federal funding so far, while much appreciated, has come with painful restrictions that prevent state or local governments from fully addressing their dwindling resource pools. So now, after hundreds of billions of tax dollars have gone towards bailing out big business and buying down corporate debt, states are completely unable to care for their own people. 

This issue is further compounded by the fact that COVID’s revenue impacts will last multiple budget cycles, and Colorado is uniquely unable to make up for revenue shortfalls due to TABOR. Our state needs the funding and the flexibility to backfill lost revenue, or we will be left with huge fiscal gaps in essential governmental functions.

Therefore, in recognition of this immense and continuing revenue decline, we seek your help in working to ensure that any forthcoming federal stimulus package addressing the COVID-19 outbreak includes substantial aid for state revenue shortages. 

There are presently three congressional bills we would urge you to support: 
 

The Coronavirus Relief for States Act, sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, and co-sponsored by Rep. Neguse, Rep. Crow, Rep. DeGette, and Rep. Tipton provides $500 billion to states and tribal governments affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for FY 2020-21. These funds could be used to cover costs accrued from the public health emergency, to replace revenue lost as a result of COVID-19, or to contribute to economic recovery of the state or tribe.The bipartisan proposal for a State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (SMART) Fund is set to be formally introduced in the Senate shortly. The bill calls for an additional $500 billion in COVID-19 state stabilization funds to support state and local governments. The funds would be split 3 ways: one-third would be provided to all 50 states and the District of Columbia; one-third to state and local governments based upon the number of COVID-19 cases in each place; and one-third to state and local governments based upon state revenue loss from COVID-19. The State Operations Stabilization (SOS) Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, Rep. Neguse, and Rep. Crow, authorizes a state, tribal government, or unit of local government to use funds made available under the Coronavirus Relief Fund to cover expenditures related to COVID-19 or to reduce a budget deficit due to loss of revenue related to COVID-19.  All three of these initiatives would greatly assist Colorado’s ability to recover and maintain vital services for our residents. Fortunately, some of you have already begun the critical work necessary to secure flexible funding for Colorado, and for that, we are exceedingly grateful.  

Going forward, as Congress begins to consider the next phase of national relief, we implore all of you to protect our state’s future by advocating for such measures. We are currently just over a week away from passing a budget with dire consequences and request that you also act urgently. Colorado will need billions of dollars in direct aid to survive the extreme and continued loss of revenue or we will be forced to cut essential services in the midst of a pandemic and potentially crippling economic recession. 

Thank you for your leadership and continued support. We appreciate you rising to the challenge of today’s unprecedented public health emergency with courage, compassion, and commitment. We hope we can rely on you to secure the resources we need to protect the health and wellbeing of Coloradans and we look forward to working with you to craft our state’s path to recovery. 

Sincerely, 

President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo)
Senator Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder)
Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora)
Senator Mike Foote (D-Lafayette)
Senator Joann Ginal (D-Fort Collins)
Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver)
Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver) 
Senator Dominick Moreno (D-Commerce City)
Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood)
Senator Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver)
Senator Tammy Story (D-Golden)
Senator Nancy Todd (D-Aurora)
Senator Angela Williams (D-Denver)
Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster)
Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada)
Senator Jessie Danielson (D-Wheat Ridge)
Senator Pete Lee (D-Colorado Springs) 

Speaker KC Becker (D-Boulder)
Majority Leader Alec Garnett (D-Denver)
Representative Jeni Arndt (D-Fort Collins)
Representative Shannon Bird (D-Westminster)
Representative Janet Buckner (D-Aurora)
Representative Bri Buentello (D-Pueblo)
Representative Yadira Caraveo (D-Thornton)
Representative James Coleman (D-Denver)
Representative Lisa Cutter (D-Jefferson County)
Representative Monica Duran (D-Wheat Ridge)
Representative Daneya Esgar (D-Pueblo)
Representative Tony Exum, Sr. (D-Colorado Springs)
Representative Meg Froelich (D-Englewood)
Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez (D-Denver)
Representative Leslie Herod (D-Denver)
Representative Edie Hooton (D-Boulder)
Representative Dominique Jackson (D-Aurora)
Representative Sonya Jaquez-Lewis (D- Boulder)
Representative Chris Kennedy (D-Lakewood)
Representative Cathy Kipp (D-Fort Collins)
Representative Tracy Kraft-Tharp (D-Arvada)
Representative Susan Lontine (D-Denver)
Representative Julie McCluskie (D-Dillon)
Representative Barbara McLachlan (D-Durango)
Representative Jovan Melton (D-Aurora
Representative Dafna Michaelson Jenet (D-Commerce City))
Representative Kyle Mullica (D-Northglenn)
Representative Dylan Roberts (D-Avon)
Representative Jonathan Singer (D-Longmont)
Representative Emily Sirota (D-Denver)
Representative Marc Snyder (D-Manitou Springs)
Representative Tom Sullivan (D-Centennial)
Representative Kerry Tipper (D-Lakewood)
Representative Brianna Titone (D-Arvada)
Representative Donald Valdez (D-La Jara)
Representative Mike Weissman (D-Aurora)
Representative Steven Woodrow (D-Denver)
Representative Mary Young (D-Greeley)

JOINT RELEASE: JBC Dems Prioritizing Education, Health & Safety as State Faces $3.3B Revenue Shortfall

DENVER, CO –  Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after the Legislative Council and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered revised economic forecasts, both of which project significantly lower General Fund revenue compared to earlier estimates. Both estimates forecast General Fund shortfalls next fiscal year of more than $3.3 billion.  

“Colorado is facing what may be the most dire budget situation in our state’s history, but I know that we will join together and meet this challenge,” said JBC Chair Rep. Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “The JBC has been working hard to protect vulnerable Coloradans and soften the impact of these cuts, as we prioritize education and critical health and safety services. We’re exploring every possible option for how we can best support our state’s recovery, but it’s critically important that Congress provide additional aid if we are to minimize the impact of these cuts on our schools and essential services.”

“Colorado’s economy has a long road to recovery, and today’s forecast assures that there will be difficult cuts,” said JBC Vice-Chair Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “We are prepared to meet these challenges head-on to prioritize our education and health care systems. Our task is not an enviable one, but we will work tirelessly to protect the vital programs and services that our communities depend on.”

“Today’s budget forecast is stark. Coloradans are strong and resourceful, and I am confident that we will step up to the enormous challenge that COVID-19 has presented,” said JBC Member Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “We will continue to look for ways to address our state’s pressing public health concerns and minimize the impact from this crisis on education and critical public health and safety services. We are going to work as hard as we can to deliver a budget that eases the pain of these cuts, supports our recovery and helps Coloradans regain their footing through this crisis.”

“This forecast confirms what we have anticipated for some time: there will certainly be painful decisions ahead,” said JBC Member Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “We must figure out how to do more with much less. Nevertheless, we remain steadfast in our convictions to ensure anticipated cuts do not fall disproportionately on our students, schools or health and safety programs.”

The updated forecast from Legislative Council staff (LCS) estimates a $895.8 million General Fund deficit at the end of FY 2019-20, a reduction of $900.1 million than what was projected in the March forecast. Revenues will fall by 11.6 percent  in FY 2020-2021 from the current fiscal year, a figure that was revised down from 1.4 percent growth in the March forecast. General Fund revenues are now expected to be $892.8 million less in FY 2019-2020 and $2.42 billion less in FY 2020-2021 than anticipated in the March revenue forecast. LCS anticipates lawmakers will have $10.3 billion available for the general fund next year, a 25.3 percent drop from FY 2019-2020, and $4 billion less than estimated in the December forecast. 

The forecast from the governor’s Office of State Planning and Budgeting anticipates General Fund revenues will fall by 7.5 percent in FY 2020-2021 over the current fiscal year, a drop from 3.3 percent projected growth in the March forecast. General Fund revenue forecasts relative to the March estimate are down by $1.1 billion for FY 2019-2020, $2.4 billion in FY 2020-2021 and $2 billion for FY 2021-22. The OSPB estimates that $11 billion will be available for the General Fund next year, $1.9 billion less than FY 2019-2020. 

The LCS estimate indicates there is downside risk to the forecast from a prolonged economic recovery or a double dip recession due to the resurgence of COVID-19 this fall or “vicious cycle.” There is upside risk to the estimate from a faster economic recovery. 

Bipartisan Letter Calls For Coordination In COVID Response

Members urge banks, lending institutions to unify in relief efforts

Denver, CO – Six members of the Senate Finance Committee sent a bipartisan letter to Colorado's banking and lending community on Friday, urging them to take uniform steps to address relief for Coloradans in the wake of unprecedented job losses and economic uncertainty.

Committee members — including chair Sen. Julie Gonzales, vice chair Sen. Pete Lee and Sens. Chris Hansen, Nancy Todd, Jack Tate and Paul Lundeen — called on all major banks, credit unions, and landlord associations to provide coordinated efforts for Coloradans.
 

"Every day we are hearing from constituents across our communities who are asking for our help in these dire circumstances," members wrote. "Many struggle to both provide enough food for the family and also pay rent, sometimes forced to make the decision where to cut costs between necessities. Businesses are trying to stay solvent so that they might have jobs to which Coloradans may return."

Members have witnessed desperate needs emerge in Colorado communities. The letter requests that banks and lenders lead a coordinated, unified response to provide flexibility to building owners that can be passed on to tenants, as well as participation in efforts to relieve loan holders such as fee waivers, deferred payments, interest payment reductions, and debt restructure options.

"Coloradans need a clear path forward, urgently. During this time of national crisis, we stand in solidarity with those affected by this real estate emergency."

You can find the full text of the letter here.

Senate Finance Committee Members Send Bipartisan Letter To Colorado Banking, Lending Institutions