A Bipartisan Morning In The Appropriations Committee

Senate Democrats pass mid-year funding adjustment legislation, protect school funding, and address wildfire mitigation

DENVER, CO - This morning, the supplemental funding package was passed through the Senate Appropriations Committee with overwhelming bipartisan support. The package of bills, sponsored by Joint Budget Committee members, provide mid-year funding adjustments to various executive branch departments, which will allow continuous funding streams for priority programs and initiatives. Notable bills include:

• SB21-042: Office of the Governor Supplemental, this bill will provide additional needed funds to support the Colorado Economic Development Fund, which will support statewide and local economic growth programs, and the Advanced Industries Acceleration Cash Fund, which will work to support job creation in various industries.

• SB21-043: Health Care Policy and Financing Supplemental, this bill includes adjustments to account to support and continuation of the emergency public health crisis as well as additional funds for public school health services to make sure our students and teachers can return to the classroom safely.

• SB21-044: Department of Human Services Supplemental, this bill reflects an injection of federal funds to the Child Care Development Fund--a fund that supports increasing equal access to high-quality child care. The bill also includes a one-time decrease in funding to the Division of Youth Services to account for a reduced caseload, with a small increase in funding for visitation improvements and enhancements.

• SB21-049: Department of Public Safety Supplemental, this bill directs $14 million to ensure that our firefighters have the equipment and resources they need to keep our communities and themselves safe. This past year proved to be the most destructive and costly year for wildfires in Colorado state history, and next year could be even worse--our firefighters deserve the tools they need to get the job done.

In addition to the bills in the supplemental package, a further subset of spending priority legislation was passed through the committee, including the following bills that were bipartisanly approved:

• SB21-053: Adjustments To School Funding Fiscal Year 2020-21, this bill fulfills the Senate Democrats’ commitment to maintaining K-12 funding for the current fiscal year, and ensures that school districts will have the resources they need when students and teachers return to the classroom.

• SB21-054: Transfers For Wildfire Mitigation And Response, this bill transfers $13M to the Wildfire Risk Mitigation Grant Program. This program provides assistance grants to local governments facing the threat of wildfires, as well as provides local governments with strategic planning assistance for wildland fire hazard mitigation.

• SB21-110: Fund Safe Revitalization Of Main Streets, this bill allocates $30 million to construction-ready transportation infrastructure projects in municipalities across the state, so that we can get Colorado back to work while simultaneously improving local transit infrastructure statewide.

• SB21-112: General Fund Transfer To Capital Construction Fund State Parks, this bill will transfer $20 million to our state parks for infrastructure costs to help them withstand the increased visitation over the last year.

The supplemental package and additional spending bills now make their way to the floor of the Senate where they will be heard for debate in the coming week.

Bill to Provide Equitable Benefits for LGBT+ Veterans Passes Senate

Legislation would ensure LGBT+ veterans are able to access benefits despite being discharged due to their personal identity

Denver, CO – Today, the Senate unanimously passed the Restoration of Honor Act, sponsored by Senator Dominick Moreno. The bill, SB21-026, would ensure that LGBT+ veterans who receive a dishonorable discharge from the military can access the same veteran benefits as their peers, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

“Anyone who serves this country should be able to return home and be provided with all of the resources our state can muster to improve and enhance their lives after service,” said Senator Dominick Moreno, D-Denver.  "However, LGBT+ veterans who were discharged from the military for being who they are, cannot access the same benefits as their peers. This is unacceptable. We must ensure that all veterans – regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity – can access the benefits they deserve, and that’s what this bill seeks to accomplish.”

During the era of "Don't ask, Don't tell", servicemen and women were discharged other than honorably due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. Because of this kind of discharge status, there are currently LGBTQ+ Coloradans that do not qualify for certain state programs and benefits. 

As such, Senator Moreno’s bill would establish a "discharged LGBT veteran" status for the purpose of Colorado law and amend various existing state programs to make a discharged LGBT veteran eligible for such benefits.

Having passed the Senate on Third Reading, the bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. To track the progress of the bill, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website.

JOINT RELEASE: Lee, Benavidez, Tipper Appointed to Investigate Allegations at Judiciary

DENVER, CO – Senator Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs, Representative Adrienne Benavidez, D-Unincorporated Adams County, and Representative Kerry Tipper, D-Lakewood, have been appointed to an independent panel that will investigate allegations of inappropriate conduct at the Colorado Judiciary and make recommendations to improve the culture at the state’s court system.

“Public trust in our Judicial Department is absolutely crucial to the health and stability of our democracy," said Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs. "The accusations brought against the state judicial branch are serious and have the power to undermine the faith Coloradans have in their judges. Restoring public confidence requires accountability and transparency. I look forward to working with the Executive Branch and Attorney General’s office to oversee an independent, impartial investigation into the claims of misconduct. I anticipate that recommendations for structural, procedural, and systemic changes will be considered to ensure that all employees have a healthy workplace, safe from harassment and discrimination."

There must be a thorough investigation of the allegations at the judiciary and look closely at the culture that could have allowed this behavior to occur,” said Rep. Adrienne Benavidez, D-Unincorporated Adams County. “There’s a lot of work ahead, and it’s going to take time to fully understand and fix the issues we uncover. I am committed to doing everything possible to ensure that the highest standards of workplace conduct, ethics and transparency are upheld at Colorado’s Judiciary.”

“The conduct of judges, lawyers, and all employees at the judiciary must adhere to the highest standards of honor, integrity, and trustworthiness. Our profession demands it,” said Rep. Kerry Tipper, D-Lakewood. “The women who work in our judicial system should never have to fear harassment or face threats to their careers because of their gender, making these allegations even more shocking and reprehensible. This will be a long, thorough, and independent investigation that I am hopeful will lead to meaningful change at the Judiciary. We have to bring these details to light so every Coloradan can have trust in the fairness and integrity of our courts.”

Lee, Benavidez, and Tipper will join appointees of the minority caucuses, governor’s office and attorney general on the independent panel, which will examine issues relating to workplace conduct and culture. It will also investigate issues surrounding the leadership training contract that was awarded to Ms. Masias. The panel will make recommendations to improve the culture at the judiciary and is expected to engage one or more independent entities to perform investigations into both the culture in the workplace and improprieties around the $2.7 leadership contract.

Bill To Expand Higher-Ed Access for Native Nations Clears Committee

Bill expands access to higher education for members of an American Indian tribe with historical ties to Colorado  

DENVER, CO – Today, Majority Leader Steve Fenberg testified before the Senate Education Committee in support of his bill, SB21-029, Concerning In-State Tuition Classification For Members of American Indian Tribes, which was approved unanimously. The bill would require public state colleges and universities to offer in-state tuition to students who are a member of an American Indian tribe with historical ties to Colorado.

“American Indian students are entering and completing college at alarmingly low rates in comparison to other populations,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “It is our obligation to ensure that educational opportunities are accessible to this critically important population of students, and this bill will bring our state closer to achieving that goal." 

The Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs as well as History Colorado maintain the list of tribes with historic ties to Colorado – including at least 50 distinct communities. According to the United States Census Bureau population survey, approximately 19% of college-aged American Indian tribe members were enrolled in college in 2016, compared to 41% of the total college-aged population – the lowest percentage of all race and ethnicity groups surveyed. 

“We have a particular responsibility to the descendants of American Indian people – recognizing their history and taking steps towards reconciliation,” said Majority Leader Fenberg, D-Boulder. “This bill is an important step in appreciating the tribal nations historically tied to Colorado while simultaneously acknowledging the painful history and forced removal that has had a severely negative impact on Native nations.” 

Senate Bill 21-029 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration. To track the progress of the bill, visit the General Assembly’s website.

Senate Leaders React to State of the Judiciary Address

Senate President and Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee call for thorough, transparent process looking into accusations against state judicial leaders 

DENVER, CO –  Today, in the wake of the State of the Judiciary Address given by Chief Justice Brian Boatright, Senate President Leroy Garcia as well as the Chair of the Judiciary Committee Pete Lee, released the following statements: 

"I was pleased to hear the Chief Justice acknowledge the need for a cultural shift in the Judicial Department, but this is the only first step toward a journey of rectification. If recent allegations are true, harassment, sexism, and power abuse are common occurrences throughout the ranks of the Judiciary – a truly horrifying thing to imagine. Action must proceed quickly and comprehensively to address these allegations, leaving no stone unturned, until we right the wrongs of the past and ensure impeccable leadership going forward," said President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo. "I was also encouraged to hear the Chief Justice recognize the treatment of minority communities in the criminal justice system as an urgent priority to address. For too long people of color have been unfairly discriminated against and I look forward to seeing this long-standing issue permanently rectified." 

"Public trust in our Judicial Department is absolutely crucial to the health and stability of our democracy," said Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs. "The accusations brought against the state judicial branch are serious and have the power to undermine the faith Coloradans have in their judges. Restoring public confidence requires accountability and transparency. The legislature looks forward to working with the Executive and Judicial Branches to oversee an independent, impartial investigation into the claims of misconduct. We anticipate that recommendations for structural, procedural, and systemic changes will be considered to ensure that all employees have a healthy workplace, safe from harassment and discrimination."

Senate Leadership Reacts to Governor's Address

Lawmakers express hope for a collaborative session following State of the State speech

DENVER, CO –  Today, following the Governor's State of the State address to the General Assembly, Senate President Leroy Garcia and Majority Leader  Steve Fenberg released the subsequent statements: 

"I feel incredibly encouraged that the Governor's priorities are aligned with our own. From urgent pandemic relief to long-awaited economic fairness and environmental reforms, it is clear that the democratic leaders in this state are intent on not only recovering from this pandemic but building back a stronger Colorado," said President Garcia, D-Pueblo. "I look forward to working collaboratively with Gov. Polis's administration to deliver meaningful results for our residents this legislative session."  

"I applaud Governor Polis for his leadership over the last year. He has continually put Coloradans first – mitigating the effects of the pandemic and setting us on a path of recovery. This legislative session is not only about getting Colorado back on its feet, it's about setting our state up for even greater success going forward,” said Majority Leader Fenberg, D-Boulder. “I am confident that with the partnership of the Governor's office, we will be able to accomplish great things for Colorado this session." 

JOINT RELEASE: Majority Leaders Release Nominees for Redistricting Commissions

DENVER, CO – Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo, today announced their nominations for the redistricting and reapportionment commissions established by Amendments Y and Z.

“It’s critical that when redrawing our state’s political districts, the people chosen to take on this task reflect the rich diversity of our state. From gender to race to geographic location, we need commissioners that accurately represent Coloradans,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “For far too long history-defining decisions have been made without all relevant voices in the room. This can’t continue. Our lists constitute every corner of the state and will help ensure Colorado’s future political districts will be fairly drawn to reflect the interests, values, and concerns of all of Colorado’s communities.”

“Amendments Y&Z were referred to voters with overwhelming bipartisan support, and we are committed to a redistricting process that is fair, inclusive and keeps elected officials accountable to voters,” said House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “The Coloradans whose names we put forward today come from every part of our state and represent the diversity and strength of our communities. Our lists put forward nearly a dozen women and people of color in order to draw legislative and congressional districts in a way that truly represent all of Colorado.”

Colorado is projected to add an eighth congressional district once results of the 2020 Census are released later this year. The nominees selected are acutely aware of how the state has grown and understand the need to protect voting rights and Colorado's communities of interest while drawing districts that provide fair and effective representation in Washington, D.C.

In passing Amendments Y&Z, Colorado voters required that the redistricting commissions be reflective of the state's gender, geographic, and racial and ethnic diversity. Under the amendments, nominees should demonstrate experience in organizing or representing the interests of groups or organizations in Colorado and possess analytical skills and the ability to be impartial. The first six commissioners for the legislative panel, picked through a random lottery, include just one woman, no Latinos or African Americans, and no one from southern Colorado. In light of this, Democratic leadership placed particular emphasis on nominees that can help ensure the commission's makeup is truly reflective of the Centennial State. This includes prioritizing women, indigenous residents, and people of color.

The Majority Leaders nominated the following individuals to be considered for the legislative commission:
· Sonrisa Lucero, CD7
· Adelia Tripp, CD3
· Polly Baca, CD1
· Blanca O’Leary, CD3
· Alice Madden, CD2
· Joan Fitzgerald, CD1
· Heather Barry, CD7
· Pat Waak, CD4
· Leah Pryor-Lease, CD1
· Ray Rivera, CD7
· Tim Wolf, CD2
· Dan Daly, CD5
· Jen Walmer, CD6

The Majority Leaders nominated the following individuals to be considered for the Congressional commission:

· Arnold Salazar, CD3
· Simon Tafoya, CD1
· Sonrisa Lucero, CD7
· Adelia Tripp, CD3
· Martha Coleman, CD2
· Blanca O’Leary, CD3
· Heather Barry, CD7
· Pat Waak, CD4
· Dan Daly, CD5
· Ray Rivera, CD7
· Polly Baca, CD1
· Blanca O’Leary, CD3
· Tim Wolf, CD2
· John Salsbury, CD7
· Bob Morehouse, CD2

The nominees represent the racial, geographic, and ethnic diversity of the state and hail from every part of Colorado.

Amendments Y and Z direct each majority leader to nominate up to ten applicants for each commission. The panel of judges will now select two members from each of these lists to fill the remaining Democratic seats on the commissions.

Senate Democrats Waste No Time Getting To Work

Lawmakers finish first legislative day back having introduced more than 80 bills for consideration

DENVER, CO – Today, Colorado lawmakers reconvened at the State Capitol to begin the majority of their work for the 73rd Session of the General Assembly. This year’s agenda for the Senate Democrats prioritizes responding to urgent needs, restoring community pillars, and reimagining our future. There were a myriad of bills introduced today aimed at accomplishing these goals, a selection of which are listed below:

SB21-013: Reversing COVID-related Learning Loss, sponsored by Senator Fields.

• Throughout the chaos of the last year, public schools have navigated the ever-changing needs of students and teachers – having to redesign methods of instruction, address technology needs, and provide social, emotional, and food support for students. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, our K-12 students are now somewhere between 3-9 months behind, and it’s even worse for our students of color and lower socioeconomic status. This bill seeks to fill in these gaps by directing the Department of Education to prioritize reversing student learning loss, which will urgently address our children’s educational needs and make sure no student is left behind.

SB21-016: Protecting Preventative Health Care Coverage, sponsored by Senators Moreno & Pettersen.

• Although preventative healthcare screenings can significantly increase life expectancy and potential insurance savings, many screenings aren’t covered by typical health plans, leaving consumers to bear the burden of cost. This bill requires the addition of several preventative health care services – including screenings for osteoporosis, urinary incontinence, and STIs – to be covered by health plans so that everyone can get the preventive care they need.

SB21-026: Restoration Of Honor Act, sponsored by Senator Moreno.

• Anyone who serves this country should be able to return home and be provided with all the resources we can muster to improve and enhance their lives after service. However, due to a legal flaw, LGBT+ veterans may not have been discharged honorably from the US Military due their sexual orientation or gender identity, and thus have not had access to the same benefits as their peers. This is unacceptable. This bill establishes the status of “discharged LGBT veteran” for the purposes of Colorado law, which will ensure that no veteran is denied benefits unjustly.

SB21-029: Colorado American Indian Tribes In-state Tuition, sponsored by Majority Leader Fenberg.

• Historically, America has not only marginalized, neglected, and disregarded our nation’s indigenous peoples, but we have swept these atrocities under the rug. To continue our work on the long road of rectifying injustices toward Native Americans, this bill will require Colorado universities and colleges to offer in-state tuition to members of Native American tribes with historical ties to Colorado.

SB21-039: Elimination Of Sub-minimum Wage Employment, sponsored by Senators Zenzinger & Hisey.

• While politicians in Washington, DC and around the country debate the merits of raising the minimum wage, we must remember that there is still a sub-minimum and simply unlivable wage being paid to employees with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our intellectually and developmentally disabled residents are a valuable asset to our community and our workforce, and it is unconscionable that we would pay them anything below the minimum wage. This bi-partisan bill will require businesses in Colorado to phase out the sub-minimum wage allowance and pay all employees what they deserve, regardless of their disability.

SB21-062: Jail Population Management Tools, sponsored by Senator Lee.

• America incarcerates more people than any other nation in the world. From petty crimes, to municipal offenses, to racial profiling – our citizens are arrested and imprisoned more than anywhere else on the planet. Additionally, cash bail policies are broken, resulting in an unjust system that penalizes the poor versus the rich. This bill seeks to address this issue by allowing police officers to issue a summons or a complaint in lieu of an arrest for minor crimes. Additionally, the bill prohibits the unjust practice of cash bail for these same minor crimes.

SB21-072: Public Utilities Commission Modernize Electric Transmission Infrastructure, sponsored by Senator Hansen.

• When it comes to electricity generation and transmission, utility companies want to maximize profit, environmental advocates want clean, zero-carbon energy, and ratepayers want low electricity bills and customer choice. Though these differing priorities may appear to be in conflict, there is a pathway forward that satisfies all three: regionally coordinated transmission organizations. This bill works to transition Colorado toward such organizations, and in doing so enhance grid reliability and interconnectivity, decrease costs for providers and ratepayers, grow capacity for renewable energy and help us reach our statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals.

“I’m pleased to be back in the Capitol with my colleagues, and I’m excited about the work ahead of us this session,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “Responding to the urgent needs of Coloradans remains our top priority, but we must also work to rebuild our economy and our community in a way that ensures everyone can live with dignity and security.”

“As we build back from this pandemic, we will work to reimagine a future stronger than before,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “Beyond providing immediate relief to Coloradans, we must redesign our economy in a way that works for everyone. We must create a healthcare system that puts people first. And we must protect our planet from the crisis of climate instability. Together, we will use this pandemic as a springboard to a stronger future.”

Introduced bills will begin to make their way through Senate committees during the next several weeks. Updates and progress regarding the legislative process can be found at leg.colorado.gov.

Senate Democrats Unveil 2021 Agenda, Commit to Building Back a Stronger Colorado For All

Senate Democrats legislative agenda seeks to restore Coloradans after the pandemic & reimagine a future where everyone can thrive

DENVER, CO – Today, the Colorado Senate Democratic Caucus reconvened its 73rd General Assembly and outlined its agenda for the 2021 legislative session, focusing on building back a stronger Colorado after a year of devastation and loss amid the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The caucus aims to focus on responding to the urgent needs of Coloradans, revitalizing the economy, restoring communities to pre-pandemic health, and reimagining Colorado’s future so that all residents have an opportunity to succeed.  

In his opening day remarks, Senate President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo, said: 

“We come ready and willing to not just recover from this pandemic and the civil discord that has gripped our nation – but build back a stronger, more just Colorado. Like the trials of previous generations, this pandemic has and will make us stronger, but it will also make us more connected, more human. Not because such a conclusion is a given but because we can choose to alchemize pain into purpose. Together, we will turn the page of this disaster to one of replenishment and renewal. We will eliminate the threat of this virus, revitalize our economy, and restore our community pillars so we can ensure that every Coloradans has the chance to thrive."

After 11 months of profound challenges in Colorado and throughout the United States, Senate Democrats are determined to find common ground with colleagues across the aisle, work to combat systems of inequality, and deliver results to struggling communities. 

In outlining their priorities, Senate Democrats describe a stepped approach to their strategy – focusing first and foremost on providing immediate relief and then moving forward on a path of recovery and reform: 

RESPONDING TO THE PANDEMIC: With the pandemic still raging on, Senate Democrats recognize the need to urgently provide direct relief to struggling businesses and families. As such, they will continue to build on the progress they made in the extraordinary session as well as the brief session in January. With a new administration in office at a national level, they plan to direct any potential federal funds to programs most in need. As the session continues they have made a commitment to working in a bipartisan manner and considering any and all ideas that get us past this pandemic.   

RESTORING COMMUNITY PILLARS & REVITALIZING OUR ECONOMY: Beyond providing immediate relief for Coloradans, Senate Democrats acknowledge the need to find solutions that restore and revitalize communities to pre-pandemic health. Critical initiatives and institutions like Medicaid and public schools have suffered devastating funding losses, while the job market has been severely damaged. Senate Democrats are committed to reviving Colorado’s economy and replenishing public programs in order to heal the wounds caused by the pandemic and create the Colorado comeback through school investment, corporate tax reform, job creation, and economic stimulus.  

REIMAGINING OUR FUTURE: The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a serious toll on Colorado, but Senate Democrats know how important it is to use this opportunity to not only recover, but build back in a way that prioritizes hard-working people across the state. Senate Democrats strongly believe that returning to “normal” is not good enough and that reimagining a future where regular people can thrive is a top priority. Senate Democrats are committed to creating an economy that works for everyone, ensuring that Coloradans have access to affordable healthcare, and preserving our planet for generations to come.

“We need to triage the most urgent needs of our residents and then work to rebuild our foundations and redesign our future in a prosperous and equitable way,” said President Garcia. “Returning to the status quo is unacceptable. Too many Coloradans have been overburdened and under-rewarded in a system that siphons work by the many to create power for the few. Bank accounts of the wealthy and bottom lines of the largest corporations do not illustrate the prosperity of our state. We need to use this pandemic to create structural economic change that puts people first.”  

The full transcript of Senate President Garcia’s opening day speech can be found here. 

JOINT RELEASE: Democratic Budget Committee Members Pledge to Fight for K-12 Education Funding

As the budget process continues, House and Senate Democrats commit to prioritizing K-12 education funding

DENVER, CO – Today, members of the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) will take action on recommendations from non-partisan staff regarding mid-year adjustments to the state share of K-12 school finance funding. Democratic members of the JBC pledge to protect K-12 education funding for both the current and upcoming budget years.

“Despite the financial pressures the pandemic has placed on the state, we looked in every corner of the state budget for ways that we could preserve education funding,” said Sen. Dominick Moreno (D-Commerce City), Chair of the Joint Budget Committee. “As we assess our priorities for this legislative session, we know how much our students and teachers are hurting, so we are pledging to do everything we can to make sure their funding is prioritized in our budget.”

“Together, we’ll get through this pandemic and build back stronger by putting our students and teachers first and helping set them up for success,” said Rep. Julie McCluskie (D-Dillon), Vice-Chair of the Joint Budget Committee. “This has been a challenging budget year, and we are continuing to take a responsible approach that prioritizes our schools and the critical services Coloradans need to get through the pandemic and recover as quickly as possible.”

“Many of us are parents ourselves, and we have seen firsthand the difficulties that students and educators have faced,” said Sen. Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “But they have risen to the challenge and taken on one of the most difficult periods in our history. We cannot allow their funding to fall through the cracks, and I am proud that my colleagues on the Joint Budget Committee recognize that.”

“Colorado students have seen their school years and lives upended by this pandemic,” said Rep. Leslie Herod (D-Denver). “They have had to quickly adapt to a life of remote learning without their peers, classroom interactions, and with limited resources. We know this is having an impact, and we can’t let our students fall further behind. Protecting critical funding for our school districts is, and will continue to be, a top priority for the JBC.”

In response to the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 virus on the state economy, the General Assembly was forced to reduce state funding to districts and charter schools for the 2020-21 budget year, with the recognition that schools across the state would receive several hundred million dollars from the federal CARES Act.

Now, due to the ongoing pandemic, many school districts and charter schools anticipate lower student counts than previously estimated in preparing the state budget for the 2020-21 year. Districts are understandably concerned that reduced pupil counts could result in a reduction in the state share of total program funding for this budget year based on the School Finance Formula.

However, in recognition of the challenges public schools continue to face, the Joint Budget Committee will act to protect schools across the state from particularly challenging mid-year cuts.

The Joint Budget Committee hearing begins at 10AM MST this morning, press and members of the public can tune in here.

Chicana Elected Officials Champion Increased Vaccine Access

Local leaders partner with Servicios de la Raza & CDPHE to bring drive-up vaccinations to north, west, southwest Denver

DENVER – Approximately 600 Coloradans over 70 years of age will receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at a free community vaccination clinic this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at Servicios de la Raza, 3131 West 14th Avenue in Denver. This clinic was organized by House Assistant Majority Leader Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez (HD4), Denver Council President Pro Tem Jamie Torres (District 3), Denver City Councilmember Amanda Sandoval (District 1), Denver Public Schools Board Treasurer Angela Cobián (District 2), and Senate Majority Caucus Chair Julie Gonzales (SD34), in partnership with Servicios de la Raza and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

“The Latino population has been hit hard by this pandemic. Thank you to CDPHE for fulfilling our requests for vaccines and hearing our calls for equity coming from our community. Thank you Governor Polis for stopping by to see the work and leadership of our local elected Chicanas, Servicios de La Raza, and the many volunteers are doing to ensure our Latino elders are getting their vaccines. Within days of publicizing this community clinic, we booked six hundred vaccination appointments for elders in our community,” said House Assistant Majority Leader Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, who represents House District 4, comprised of north and west Denver.

“Working together is needed more now than ever, for our community, for our elders, and for our future. Collaborating with these other Chicana elected leaders has been inspiring and shown that representation matters! We have a growing wait list and are excited to bring more of these vital clinics to neighborhoods who have traditionally been underserved, in ways that ensure that regardless of what language you speak, whether you have access to a computer or not, that you can access this life-saving COVID-19 vaccine,” said Denver Councilmember Amanda Sandoval, who represents north Denver’s District 1 on the Denver City Council.

“We’ve seen several barriers emerge since COVID began and an effort like this is absolutely necessary to cut through inequitable access. We recognize that our elders face barriers to tech, uncertainty about documents or identification, and so our relationships in community become a pivotal factor in getting the vaccine to them. We know that when we proactively reach out to our community, en su idioma preferida, in places that they know and trust, that we can build equity and access,” said Denver Councilmember Jamie Torres, who represents West Denver’s District 3 on the Denver City Council.

“We are better together! There’s a reason why we chant, ‘un Pueblo Unido, jamas será vencido.’ We are so thankful for our volunteers who take ownership over our community. We’ve had to navigate a lot of logistics this week, but we are proud of our work and hope that we can serve as a model for other community-based pop up clinics across the metro Denver region and throughout the state of Colorado,” said Director Angela Cobián, who serves as the treasurer for the Denver Public Schools board of directors.

“I’ve seen firsthand how devastating this virus is. Less than three weeks ago, my husband buried his mom, uncle, and grandfather, who all passed from COVID-19 complications. The values of In Lak’Esh — tu eres mi otro yo, I am your other you — are embedded throughout the planning of this event. This vaccine will save lives and getting a vaccine is an act of love for our families and our community. I am so honored to work alongside these fiercely dedicated public servants to bring this clinic to nuestra comunidad,” said Senate Majority Caucus Chair Julie Gonzales, who represents District 34 (north, west, and downtown Denver) in Colorado’s state Senate.

Senate Celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Members highlight the continued need for racial justice and civil rights

DENVER, CO – In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, the Colorado State Senate passed a resolution sponsored by Senator James Coleman and Senator Rhonda Fields commemorating his birth and legacy. 

After the reading of the resolution last Friday, several members provided poignant remarks regarding the continued impact of Dr. King’s work on this country and the world.  

“Dr. King arrived at the right time in the right place to hold high a moral compass across the hurts [of inequality], with a clarion call that hope would conquer,” said Senator Coleman, D-Denver. “Today in Colorado and in this Chamber, we find ourselves at another ‘right time’ and in another ‘right place’ to hope. It is our time to be those conduits, those champions, those drum majors for justice; to hold to hope, despite the hurts, knowing that we can heal our land and live free as a single garment of destiny because of the choices we make together in this chamber.” 

“We all must strive to ‘Be Like King’ in our actions, words, and interactions with others,” said Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora. “We need to suspend judgment when it comes to the color of people’s skin or their diversity or their differences – and give people the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas in a way that is respectful. We must build on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, so let's continue to keep his dream alive with the work that we do here in the State Senate chamber.” 

“We must honor Dr. King by actively contributing to the vaults of opportunity by the actions we take every day – to take our role as custodians of truth seriously and make a deposit into the bank of justice,” said Senator Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs. “We make deposits when we promote equal opportunity and social justice when we pass laws to reduce mass incarceration, utilize restorative justice to rebuild communities when we eliminate racial disparities in our schools. We do that when we make the law – fair for everyone – not just a privileged few, and that must be our focus moving forward.” 

“We have romanticized the civil rights movement – we have children’s books that portray Rosa Parks as being ‘a tired woman that once sat down’,” said Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster. “But in reality it was so much more than that – it was two years of deep organizing, training and work to make sure that, once the boycott started, people could get to work. And that organizing continues today. Organizing is building power through people and making sure that we’re working furiously every single day to provoke change. This year, that organizing has been more important than ever as we have seen Black Lives Matter come to the forefront and demand justice. It takes all of us together with collective action to make the difference we want to see.”

View the full text of the resolution here. 

General Assembly Concludes Initial Meeting of the 73rd Session

Senate Democrats pass several essential bills before entering one-month temporary adjournment

DENVER, CO - Today, Colorado legislators concluded their initial three-day meeting of the first regular session of the 73rd General Assembly. Throughout the three days, lawmakers passed a slate of necessary bills that make minor fixes to legislation from last year and improvements to existing law, which will provide immediate relief to many Coloradans. 

The package of bills that now await the Governor’s signature will allow relief payments to be more efficiently allocated to disproportionately impacted businesses, provide more flexibility for debtors facing financial hardships, present greater clarity for tax credits initiated by the CARES Act, and reform legislative procedures during declared disaster emergencies. 

Additionally, legislators passed several measures that modify House and Senate rules to allow for remote participation and other methods for lawmakers to safely continue essential legislative work over the next month. The legislature now enters a one-month recess to allow the latest COVID-19 spike to subside.

“I’m pleased that our caucus was able to work collaboratively across the aisle and in tandem with the lower chamber to make this week as efficient as possible,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “With the work we accomplished in these three days, we will be able to confidently recess for the next month to allow COVID cases to decline, and to refine our legislative priorities for debut in February.”

“Though we have already successfully passed meaningful legislation to help get families back on their feet, there is still so much work ahead to ensure Colorado can recover from this pandemic,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “When we reconvene next month, our priority will be supporting small businesses, frontline workers, families, educators, and taxpayers in not only getting out from under this crushing pandemic, but growing beyond it as well. Because returning to an economy that already disadvantaged workers and kept families in debt is not an option. We will use this opportunity to rebuild a stronger, more just Colorado.”

The legislature is tentatively set to reconvene in mid-February. When the General Assembly returns, Senate Democrats plan to introduce bills that protect & expand access to affordable, equitable & high-quality healthcare; preserve jobs, protect businesses & create workforce opportunities; help utilities and businesses reach statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals; protect our communities of color & ensure equal opportunity; and address the rising cost of living in our state by expanding housing assistance, protecting renters, and helping Coloradans afford their bills on time. 

Throughout the legislative recess, the Joint Budget Committee will continue to convene, as well as select committees that are statutorily required to receive SMART Act briefings from executive branch departments. Additionally, legislators will continue conducting sunset hearings in order to stay on top of the approaching expirations of certain programs, boards, and commissions.

Senate Rebukes Trump Decision to Remove Space Force from Colorado

Top military officials thwarted by outgoing president in politically-motivated verdict

DENVER, CO - On Wednesday, January 13, President Donald Trump announced his decision to award a permanent posting of the U.S. Space Command to Huntsville, Alabama – removing this prestigious military operation from its current home in Colorado Springs.

This decision comes after top Pentagon officials are said to have recommended Colorado Springs as the best location for Space Command’s permanent placement.

“We are extremely disappointed by this decision,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo. “Colorado is clearly the best choice for Space Command, making Trump’s politically-motivated announcement painfully transparent. Rather than respect the recommendation of his military leaders, Trump is attempting to punish political opponents and reward loyalists at the expense of our country’s security.”  

Trump’s decision has been widely called into question and will likely result in a congressional probe into how the choice was made. Many insiders report that despite Air Force Secretary Barabara Barnett traveling to the White House this week to inform the President of the military’s choice, Trump instead awarded the honor to Alabama where six lawmakers voted in favor of blocking the certification of the presidential election results.

Today, in response to the administration’s determination to remove the United States Space Command out of Colorado Springs, the Senate passed a Joint Memorial reaffirming Colorado as the best choice for the Space Force headquarters and urging the incoming Biden administration to reconsider the selection:

Colorado is paving the way for new discoveries in the frontiers of space by having a rich history in aerospace development and being at the forefront of space travel, exploration, and aerospace research...Moving the United States Space Command to Huntsville, Alabama, will be incredibly disruptive to the National Defense Strategy. In addition, it will cause a major upheaval in existing infrastructure and jobs in the state, which will result in higher costs and less efficient outcomes for the United States military... Furthermore, we strongly urge the Department of Defense and the incoming presidential administration to permanently base the United States Space Command (USSPACECOM) in Colorado, recognizing that Colorado provides the existing command structure, base infrastructure, and communications platforms necessary to successfully host additional national security initiatives and ensure coordination of efforts without committing additional funds; [We, the members of the General Assembly] proudly express that Colorado has deep ties with the Department of Defense and immense patriotic commitment to providing prior draft for the nation's security and bolstering our defense; Express our most sincere and deepest appreciation to our service members and civilian employees working in and supporting military and civilian aerospace companies, military installations, and civil organizations in Colorado; and Hereby declare Colorado to be the prime location for the permanent headquarters for USSPACECOM.

The Joint Memorial was passed unanimously by the Colorado Senate and will now be sent to incoming President Joe Biden, Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, as well as the leaders of the U.S. House and Senate, Colorado’s Congressional delegation, and top military officials. 

To read the full text of the memorial click here.

Senate Concludes Second Day of 73rd Session

Gives initial approval of four time-sensitive bills before temporary adjournment

DENVER, CO - This afternoon, the Colorado Senate passed the following package of bills out of committee and approved them on second reading. 
 

• HB21-1001: Remote Participation In Party Committee Meetings. This bill, sponsored by Majority Leader Fenberg, will allow political parties to continue to conduct committee meetings remotely or virtually through the end of 2021.

• HB21-1002: Reductions Certain Taxpayers' Income Tax. This bill, sponsored by Joint Budget Committee members, Senators Moreno & Hansen, makes alterations to the Tax Fairness Act of 2020 to provide clarity regarding tax refunds and changes initiated by the CARES Act, which will allow taxpayers continued relief as we recover from the pandemic.

• HB21-1003: Legislative Proceedings During Disaster Emergency. This bill, sponsored by Majority Leader Fenberg, authorizes the Executive Committee of the Legislative Council to allow virtual participation in legislative proceedings during a declared disaster emergency caused by a public health emergency.

• HB21-1004: Colorado Uniform Electronic Wills Act. This bill, sponsored by Senators Lee & Gardner, allows electronic wills to serve as wills for all intents and purposes under Colorado law.

The Senate will give final approval to the bills tomorrow morning and is expected to conclude legislative business Friday before entering their temporary adjournment.

Lawmakers React to Greenhouse Gas Reduction Roadmap

Original sponsors of groundbreaking climate legislation highlight need for equity in implementation

DENVER, CO – In reaction to the Governor's announcement regarding Colorado's Climate Roadmap, Senator Faith Winter and Representative Dominique Jackson released the following statement:

"In 2019, we passed historic legislation to address the devastating impacts of climate change by setting ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We are pleased to see the roadmap moving forward today and appreciate the hard work from the Governor and his administration on this issue.

To truly tackle the crisis of climate change, we need a definitive path forward that prioritizes equity first and foremost. We are committed to that work. Historically disadvantaged communities have borne the brunt of climate change and their voices must be centered in order for our plans to affect meaningful change and to guarantee no communities are left behind.

As legislators, we look forward to ensuring Colorado succeeds in rising to this challenge by codifying the targets identified in this roadmap across individual sectors. We are committed to providing the resources and legal tools necessary to make this vision a reality."

Senate Passes Timely Legislation Before Temporary Adjournment

Bills approved extend limitations on debt collectors and update qualification criteria for small business relief programs 

DENVER, CO - Today, the Colorado Senate passed three bills on third and final reading. All three pieces of legislation represent timely changes in policy necessary before the legislature begins a temporary recess in response to the continued COVID-19 pandemic. 

• SB21-001: Modify COVID-19 Relief Programs For Small Business. This bill, sponsored by Senators Winter & Priola, makes minor tweaks to the COVID-19 small and minority business relief program that was established in last year’s special session, to allow relief payments to be more efficiently allocated to disproportionately impacted businesses.
  

• SB21-002: Extending Limitations on Debt Collection Actions. This bill, sponsored by Senators Winter & Gonzales, extends the time in which debtors experiencing a COVID emergency may have debt collections suspended by 120 days.
  

• SB21-003: Recreate Occupational Therapy Practice Act. This bill sponsored by Senator Fields and Minority Leader Holbert, recreates the Occupational Therapy Practice Act to allow continuity in occupational therapy regulations after the Act expired in September of 2020.

CORRECTION: In yesterday's release, it was stated that the Senate passed a chamber rule to allow for remote participation in committees. That was inaccurate. The Senate will however, hear a bill to consider such a policy today in the form of HB21-1003.

The legislature is planning to adjourn on Friday, January 15th, and is tentatively set to reconvene in mid-February. Throughout the legislative recess, the Joint Budget Committee will continue to convene, as well as select committees that are statutorily required to receive SMART Act briefings from executive branch departments. Additionally, legislators will continue conducting sunset hearings in order to stay on top of the approaching expirations of certain programs, boards, and commissions.

General Assembly Convenes 73rd Session

Senate Democrats introduce timely legislation before temporary recess

DENVER, CO - Today, Colorado lawmakers kicked off the first regular session of the 73rd General Assembly –swearing in new members and considering three bills aimed at addressing timely policies before temporarily adjourning on Friday. 

The following bills were heard and unanimously passed out of the Senate Finance Committee: 

• SB21-001: Modify COVID-19 Relief Programs For Small Business. This bill, sponsored by Senators Winter & Priola, makes minor tweaks to the COVID-19 small and minority business relief program that was established in last year’s special session, to allow relief payments to be more efficiently allocated to disproportionately impacted businesses.
  

• SB21-002: Extending Limitations on Debt Collection Actions. This bill, sponsored by Senators Winter & Gonzales, extends the time in which debtors experiencing a COVID emergency may have debt collections suspended by 120 days.
  

• SB21-003: Recreate Occupational Therapy Practice Act. This bill sponsored by Senator Fields and Minority Leader Holbert, recreates the Occupational Therapy Practice Act to allow continuity in occupational therapy regulations after the Act expired in September of 2020.

In addition to considering the bills listed above, the Senate approved resolutions that refined Senate rules to accommodate remote participation in committees, as well as clarified protocol around states of emergency. 

“Our goal with these three days is to meet for as little amount of time as possible, and to only address essential items that we can pass quickly,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “Of course, there are many more priorities that we will tackle when we reconvene in February, but given the state of the pandemic, we do not feel that we can safely gather for much longer at this time.”

“COVID relief has been and will continue to remain our top priority,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “As we wait for COVID cases to decline, we are committed to working on additional relief legislation as well as strategies to increase vaccine distribution so that Colorado can recover quickly and build back stronger.”

The legislature is planning to adjourn on Friday, January 15th, and is tentatively set to reconvene in mid-February. Throughout the legislative recess, the Joint Budget Committee will continue to convene, as well as select committees that are statutorily required to receive SMART Act briefings from executive branch departments. Additionally, legislators will continue conducting sunset hearings in order to stay on top of the approaching expirations of certain programs, boards, and commissions.

Colorado Senate President Selected Leader of National Conference of State Legislatures

Denver, CO—Colorado Senate President Leroy Garcia, Jr. (D) has been selected as the immediate past president of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), a bipartisan organization serving the nation’s 7,383 state lawmakers and legislative staff.

The position exists as one of seven officers who help steer NCSL to best serve legislators and legislative staff by guiding important policy and budgetary decisions.

“I am honored to have been selected to serve on NCSL’s officer’s team,” Garcia said (D-Pueblo). “NCSL’s research, training programs and networking opportunities are integral to the success of the Colorado Legislature, and I am looking forward to working with other leaders from around the country as NCSL’s immediate past president.”

Garcia was appointed to serve the remaining term of former Vermont Speaker Mitzi Johnson (D), who lost her election in November. 

The Colorado Senate president will serve as the past president through the 2021 NCSL Legislative Summit, at which time NCSL’s current president, Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R) will assume the role. Hawaii House Speaker Scott Saiki (D), NCSL president-elect, will become NCSL’s president and Idaho Speaker Scott Bedke (R), NCSL vice president, will ascend to president-elect. NCSL’s executive officers alternate between parties annually.

Garcia was elected in 2014 to represent Colorado Senate District 3 and previously served in the Colorado House of Representatives since 2013. He was named assistant minority leader at the start of the 2017 legislative session, minority leader in 2018, and was unanimously elected Senate president by his colleagues at the start of the 2019 legislative session, making him the first Latino Senate president in Colorado. 

Garcia has been an active participant in NCSL events, particularly with NCSL’s Leaders’ Center and NCSL’s Task Force on Military and Veterans’ Affairs. He is a former member of the Appropriations and Agriculture, Natural Resources and Energy Committee and current chair of the Legislative Council in Colorado.

A sixth-generation Coloradan, Senator Garcia lives in Pueblo’s south side. He is a United States Marine Corps veteran that served in Iraq as a mortuary affairs specialist and works in Pueblo Colorado as a Paramedic and an EMS instructor at Pueblo Community College. Senator Garcia holds a master’s degree in organizational management from Ashford University, a bachelor’s degree in management from the University of Pheonix and an associate’s degree in emergency medical services from Pueblo Community College. 

JOINT RELEASE: Democratic Leadership Condemns Attack on American Democracy

DENVER – Senate President Leroy Garcia, House Speaker-designate Alec Garnett, Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, and House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar today released the following joint statement condemning the violent assault on the US Capitol and attack on American Democracy: 

“American democracy is under attack. Nothing short of a siege is raining down on Congress, incited by a president who has refused to give up power after a free and fair election and enabled by those willing to turn a blind eye as our foundational principles are trampled.  Our democracy is precious and requires constant vigilance and protection. Today was a harrowing reminder that it can crumble without the efforts of everyday Americans working to keep it strong.   

“Now is the time for every patriotic leader in our nation, regardless of party, to call for peace and an immediate halt to this violent attack. Our country has a rich history of bipartisan cooperation and common sense. We must work together to ensure that these values prevail again and encourage the public to remain peaceful and solemn in the face of those who wish to divide us.”