Bill to Expand Canadian Prescription Drug Importation Program Passes Senate!

Legislation lowers cost of prescription drugs, expands access to more Coloradans and improves patient outcomes

Denver, CO -- Today, the Senate passed legislation that would expand the Canadian Prescription Drug Importation Program with bipartisan support. The bill, sponsored by Senator Joann Ginal, seeks to increase access to prescription drugs for Coloradans at a lower price as health care costs continue to rise throughout the country. 

“The ever-increasing rise of pharmaceutical costs has kept patients across Colorado from accessing the critical medications they need,” said Senator Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins. “By expanding this program, we have the ability to drive down costs while improving patient outcomes. This bill will bring us a step closer toward addressing barriers that keep patients from getting the care they need and lead us on a pathway to a more equitable, affordable, and accessible system of care for all.” 

Drug prices continue to increase in Colorado and throughout the nation, presenting a great need for this legislation as patients struggle to afford medications. A 2020 analysis of 2018 claims from the Colorado All Payer Claims Database (CO APCD) shows that Colorado spent nearly $4 billion, or 13% of total health care spending ($23 billion), on prescription drugs -- an increase of over $300 million since 2016.

SB21-123 would authorize the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to expand its current drug importation program to include importation from other countries in addition to Canada if federal policy allows such an expansion. This bill would ensure Colorado’s readiness to expand opportunities for consumer savings on prescription drugs if federal statute changes to allow importation from additional countries.

HCPF estimates that drugs imported from Canada, on average, are 63% cheaper compared to Colorado prices. If the current Importation Program with Canada expands to other countries, the Department’s initial analysis shows that Colorado could access even lower drug prices.

Colorado is the third highest state for growth of our senior population, which almost doubled between 2003 and 2013. The AARP reports that the average annual retail cost in 2017 for widely used prescription drugs that treat chronic conditions reached almost $20,000 per year, nearly 20% higher than the average Social Security retirement benefit ($16,848). If passed, this bill would highly impact Colorado seniors’ ability to access prescription drugs at a price they can afford.

Under the bill, all prescription drugs approved for importation through the Colorado program will be the same as the current FDA-approved versions, which are produced worldwide for the U.S. market today. They will meet federal supply chain laws and U.S. labeling requirements, and be tested for authenticity and degradation.

Having passed the Senate, SB21-123 now moves to the House for consideration. To track the progress of the bill, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website. 

Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Legislation to Reduce the Detention of Juveniles

DENVER, CO - Today, the Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee passed SB21-071, a bill that will work to reduce juvenile incarceration and eliminate cash bail for kids.

Specifically, the bill reduces the maximum number of juvenile detention beds managed by the Colorado Department of Human Services from 327 to 188 and prohibits the use of cash bail on juveniles charged with or accused of committing a delinquent act.

“Forcing juveniles to await trial for months on end because they cannot afford bail is unconscionable. Ability to pay should never determine someone’s freedom,” said bill sponsor, Sen. Janet Buckner (D-Aurora). “We need to create a more effective system that supports and rehabilitates our youth rather than simply punishes them. With this bill, we are reducing the long-term and harmful costs associated with youth incarceration while providing an avenue for kids to re-enter their communities safely.”

Despite the lowest youth crime rates in decades, nearly a thousand young people are locked away every year in Colorado – about 70 percent of which are detained for nonviolent offenses.

Detention centers are intended to temporarily house youth who pose a notable risk to the community, but the nation’s use of detention is increasing, and facilities are packed with young people who do not meet those high-risk criteria.

Existing literature on longitudinal health effects of youth incarceration suggests that any incarceration during adolescence or young adulthood is associated with worse general health, employment opportunities, and mental well-being. 

According to A Justice Policy Institute Report: 

“Detained youth, who are frequently pre-adjudication and awaiting their court date... can spend anywhere from a few days to a few months in locked custody. At best, detained youth are physically and emotionally separated from the families and communities who are the most invested in their recovery and success. Often, detained youth are housed in overcrowded, understaffed facilities—an environment that conspires to breed neglect and violence.” 

Detention also disproportionately affects youth of color in Colorado. With Black youth four times as likely and Latinx youth twice as likely as white youth to be detained, current detention policies and practices reinforce systemic racism and institutionalized discrimination.  

The bill now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

Bill to Reduce Testing Burden, Support Teachers Clears Committee

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Education Committee approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Jefferson County) that aims to reduce the standardized testing burden on students and teachers this academic year.  

The bill would direct the Colorado Department of Education to ask the federal government to waive the many required standardized tests for Colorado students in 2021. Instead, schools would administer abbreviated testing to students – ensuring districts still have access to valuable assessment information while maintaining critical learning time.  

“Students, teachers and others in the education system have already endured more than their share of difficulties in the last 12 months, and we don’t need to add unnecessary burdens to them as they continue to recover,” said Senator Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “This bill will reduce the number of standardized assessments given this spring, offer maximum flexibility to districts administering the tests, and still meet the federal testing requirements.” 

Upon approval from the federal government, HB21-1161 would suspend the administration of state science assessments for students enrolled in grades 5, 8, and 11; math assessment for students enrolled in grades 3, 5, and 7; and English language arts assessments for students enrolled in grades 4, 6, and 8. For the 2020-21 school year, the bill suspends the administration of the social studies assessment for students enrolled in elementary and middle school.

The bill does allow the parent of a student to request that their child participates in the English language arts or the math assessment if they would have normally received one – allowing parents some choice. 

HB21-1161 also prohibits school districts from using test results to evaluate educator performance for the 2020-21 school year. 

The bill now moves to Senate Appropriations for consideration. To track the progress of the bill, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website.

Bill to Protect Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse, Hold Institutions Accountable Clears Committee

Denver, CO – Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee approved the Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act with bipartisan support. Sponsored by Senator Jessie Danielson and Senator Rhonda Fields, SB21-088 seeks to clarify existing law to protect survivors of child sexual abuse and hold bad actors accountable in an effort to provide necessary protections for children and deter instances of sexual abuse from happening in the future. 

“We have a duty to protect those who cannot protect themselves, but for decades, victims of child sexual abuse have been denied justice. It’s time for that to change,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “This vitally important bill will ensure that we hold abusers and their enablers accountable. We know that the healing process is long and hard – providing additional time for survivors to disclose their abuse will give us a greater opportunity to stop predators from causing additional harm and empower victims to find closure on their own terms.”

“Current law serves as a barrier to survivors of sexual abuse,” said Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora. “The window for disclosing abuse is incredibly limited, which ends up benefiting predators and hurting survivors. This bill rebalances the scales of justice by allowing survivors to report the abuse they experienced when they are ready to come forward versus forcing them to comply within an arbitrary time frame that is often misaligned with their healing journey.” 

A long, documented history of institutional coverups around child sexual abuse in Colorado demonstrates a great need for the Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act. Institutions entrusted with the care of children have many times failed to respond to instances of child sexual abuse.

Delayed disclosure of these abuses has impacted the path to healing for survivors. By the time victims are able to come forward about their experience, Colorado’s extraordinarily short window of opportunity to file civil legal claims may have expired. This barrier has already barred hundreds of child sexual abuse victims from accessing the only option they have to seek monetary compensation for the pain they suffered – a necessary resource to rebuild their lives after experiencing such trauma. 

The Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act would create an entirely new and freestanding cause of action, specifically tailored to address the institutional coverup that has persisted for decades. The bill would create a new right of relief for any person sexually abused in Colorado while participating in a youth program as a child.

Under the bill, a “Managing Organization” would be held liable if it failed to protect children either by active avoidance of acquired knowledge of abuse or willful negligence of suspected abuse.

SB21-088 now moves to Senate Appropriations for consideration. To track the progress of the bill, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website.

Joint Statement: Leaders Celebrate American Rescue Plan, Praise Senator Bennet

DENVER, CO – Senate President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo, and House Speaker Alec Garnett, D-Denver today released the following joint statement in response to the passage of the American Rescue Plan:

“The American rescue plan is the most meaningful, comprehensive piece of legislation to come out of Washington in years. Not only does it send targeted relief to small businesses, reduce healthcare premiums, and support the unemployed, it delivers life-saving assistance to families. Under this bill, low and middle-income parents will receive monthly support payments for their children – cutting child poverty by as much as 45 percent. 

This critical measure will protect millions of kids, thanks to Colorado’s own, Senator Michael Bennet. Senator Bennett fought tirelessly to include this provision in the rescue plan. He rolled up his sleeves, fought for Colorado families, and got it done. We are incredibly proud that we have such an effective, hardworking senator in D.C., and are looking forward to seeing his efforts pay off here at home.” 

The Colorado Recovery Plan is Here

DENVER, CO -- House and Senate Leadership from both parties and Governor Jared Polis today announced the Colorado Recovery Plan, which will invest roughly $700 million into helping Colorado recover faster and build back stronger.

“This is a bipartisan stimulus that works for Colorado. As we look to build our economy and our state even stronger than before the pandemic, we also have an opportunity to reimagine Colorado’s future and truly create a Colorado for all,” said Governor Jared Polis. “I want to thank the legislature for their collaborative work on this important package of legislation. These one-time, strategic investments will help Coloradans get back to work and not only make important investments in our infrastructure and workforce today, but help keep us moving forward together for years to come.”

“We’ve known from the start of the legislative session that forging a just and inclusive recovery for Colorado was our top priority this year,” said Speaker Alec Garnett, (D-Denver). “Today’s announcement represents an important step towards keeping our promise of building back a stronger Colorado. With this bold plan, we’re not only providing support for the small businesses and families who need it most, but also building the economy of the future through strategic investments in infrastructure and our communities.”

“The last year has brought immense challenges and unearthed many of the inequities and underlying issues in our society that have been swept under the rug for too long,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “To move Colorado forward, we can’t leave anyone behind. This stimulus package will work to ensure that we lift up our most marginalized communities, and provide a pathway to a prosperous future for all. I am grateful for the bipartisan collaboration and bold thinking that guided us as we developed a uniquely Colorado solution to build our state back stronger.”

“As we work to build back a stronger Colorado, it’s crucial that we invest in our economy’s most important asset: our workers,” said House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar (D-Pueblo). “Our stimulus plan supports workers and communities displaced by market changes, makes investments in workforce development, and helps create jobs to get Coloradans back on their feet. We’re investing directly in rural Colorado and the industries that create jobs on the Western Slope, throughout my beloved Southern Colorado, across the Eastern Plains, and everywhere in between.”

“The last year has had a devastating impact on small businesses in every corner of our state, across every sector of our economy,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg. “To move Colorado forward, we can’t leave them behind. This stimulus package will ensure that all small businesses, particularly those in marginalized and under-resourced communities, will have the support they need to get their feet back on the ground as soon as possible.”

"After the challenges of this last year, it is time to come together and work to restore Colorado. By working together to prioritize fixing our roads and bridges, getting Colorado back to work, and getting students back in school, this is an opportunity to get our lives going again and bring Colorado back to life," said House Minority Leader Hugh McKean (R - Larimer County).

“Senate Republicans are focused on getting people back to work, kids back to school, and funding for our roads and bridges. These are our priorities because they are the priorities of the people of Colorado and we are optimistic to work on them with our colleagues across the aisle,” said Minority Leader Chris Holbert (R-Douglas County).

Developed with bipartisan input from lawmakers and community partners across the state, this stimulus plan prioritizes one-time investments that will have a stimulative effect on the economy, create jobs and benefit the hardest-hit communities.

Five big goals will guide dozens of bills narrowly tailored to meet the challenge at hand:
1. Strengthening small businesses
2. Revitalizing our infrastructure
3. Supporting Colorado families
4. Investing in rural Colorado
5. Developing our workforce

The plan will be financed by one-time dollars that are available as a result of improved economic projections for the FY 2020-2021 budget year.

Legislation to Enhance Public Safety & Reduce Gun Violence Passes Senate

DENVER, CO - Today, Democrats in the Senate passed SB21-078, a bill to promote responsible gun ownership and increase regulations around lost or stolen firearms.

Specifically, the bill requires gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement, who is then tasked with notifying the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and the National Crime Information Database. 

“Responsible gun ownership starts with knowing where your guns are,” said bill sponsor, Sen. Jaquez Lewis (D-Boulder County). “This bill will require that lost or stolen firearms are reported quickly and efficiently to law enforcement, so they can track down and prevent illegally obtained guns from being trafficked and causing subsequent harm.”

“Gun violence is tragically on the rise,” said bill sponsor, Senator Jessie Danielson (D-Wheatridge). “Across the country, nearly 380,000 guns are stolen each year – being trafficked illegally and used violently. This common-sense, gun violence prevention legislation is a first step solution to a widespread problem, and will help address an urgent public safety concern that has only been exacerbated by the pandemic.”

Between 2015-2019, the FBI estimates that more than 30,000 guns –worth $13.5+ million– were stolen in Colorado. Lost and stolen guns are responsible for increasing numbers of crimes, both within and outside of Colorado, and the lack of a reporting regulation opens up a loophole for those who have been prohibited from owning a gun to obtain one. SB21-078 seeks to rectify this situation by enacting a reporting requirement for lost or stolen guns.

The legislation is supported by both Colorado Ceasefire and Everytown for Gun Safety Action. The bill now moves to the House for consideration.

Bill to Expand Canadian Prescription Drug Importation Program Clears Committee!

Legislation lowers cost of prescription drugs, expands access to more Coloradans and improves patient outcomes

Denver, CO -- Today, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee approved legislation sponsored by Senator Joann Ginal that would expand the Canadian Prescription Drug Importation Program. The bill, SB21-123, seeks to increase access to prescription drugs for Coloradans at a lower price as health care costs continue to rise throughout the country. 

“The ever-increasing rise of pharmaceutical costs has kept patients across Colorado from accessing the critical medications they need,” said Senator Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins. “By expanding this program, we have the ability to drive down costs while improving patient outcomes. This bill will bring us a step closer toward addressing barriers that keep patients from getting the care they need and lead us on a pathway to a more equitable, affordable, and accessible system of care for all.” 

Drug prices continue to increase in Colorado and throughout the nation, presenting a great need for this legislation as patients struggle to afford medications. A 2020 analysis of 2018 claims from the Colorado All Payer Claims Database (CO APCD) shows that Colorado spent nearly $4 billion, or 13% of total health care spending ($23 billion), on prescription drugs -- an increase of over $300 million since 2016.

This bill would authorize the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to expand its current drug importation program to include importation from other countries in addition to Canada, if federal policy allows such an expansion. This bill would ensure Colorado’s readiness to expand opportunities for consumer savings on prescription drugs if federal statute changes to allow importation from additional countries.

Colorado needs to be prepared to move forward when Congress amends federal law to allow for the importation of drugs beyond Canada. HCPF estimates that drugs imported from Canada, on average, are 63% cheaper compared to Colorado prices. If the current Importation Program with Canada expands to other countries, the Department’s initial analysis shows that Colorado could access even lower drug prices.

Moreover, Colorado is the third highest state for growth of our senior population, which almost doubled between 2003 and 2013. The AARP reports that the average annual retail cost in 2017 for widely used prescription drugs that treat chronic conditions reached almost $20,000 per year, nearly 20% higher than the average Social Security retirement benefit ($16,848). If passed, this bill would highly impact Colorado seniors’ ability to access prescription drugs at a price they can afford.

Under the bill, all prescription drugs approved for importation through the Colorado program will be the same as the current FDA-approved versions, which are produced worldwide for the U.S. market today. They will meet federal supply chain laws and U.S. labeling requirements, and be tested for authenticity and degradation.

Currently, a majority of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) or finished drugs sold in the U.S. are already manufactured overseas. About 80% of active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturers are located outside of the country and 70% of popular brand name drugs are imported.

Having passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, SB21-123 now moves to the Committee of the Whole for consideration. To track the progress of the bill, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website. 

Colorado Women’s Caucus Unveils POWR Act

Bill would protect survivors of sexual harassment and discrimination, improve accountability measures, and enhance equity in the workplace

Denver – Today on International Women’s Day, the Colorado Women’s Caucus unveiled the Protecting Opportunities and Workers Rights Act (POWR Act), which would provide necessary anti-discrimination protections for workers throughout Colorado. The bill makes updates to the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) in an effort to protect more workers from sexual harassment and discrimination, hold bad actors accountable, enhance equity in the workplace, and deter predatory actions from happening in the future.

“For too long, individuals – particularly women – have faced workplace harassment and discrimination without proper protections, leaving bad actors unchecked, providing no incentive for employers to address bad behavior, and allowing abuse to endure without real repercussions,” said bill sponsor Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster. “On this International Women’s Day, we are taking a leap forward with a bill that will not only support women but enhance equity in the workplace so that all workers can be protected.”

“Far too many women have been forced out of the workforce for being caregivers this year. We’re going to change that,” said bill sponsor Senator Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood. “The POWR Act establishes caregivers as a protected status and ensures that employers don’t discriminate against those caring for children or loved ones – a crucial provision if we are going to fully recover from this pandemic both socially and economically.”  

Women have left the workforce at four times the rate of men since March 2020, and the economic ramifications will be felt for years to come. The bill would extend protections against ageism in the workforce, prohibit employers from making decisions about terms and conditions of employment based on caregiving status, and fix a loophole that allows businesses to opt-out of anti-discrimination laws from some employees.

Colorado workers who are classified as “independent contractors” have very little protection against workplace discrimination and sexual harassment. As such, the POWR Act aligns Colorado’s legal protections for workers with the economic reality of the modern workplace by including independent contractors, subcontractors, and unpaid interns. This is particularly important as the future of work is expected to be more and more centered around the gig economy. 

The legislation also strengthens worker protections against sexual harassment – eliminating the excessive “severe or pervasive” hostile work environment requirements, empowering victims to set the terms of any settlement agreement, and extending the amount of time a worker has to file a claim. 

“No one should ever face harassment in the workplace, but far too many workers, especially women, don’t have the protections they need,” said bill sponsor Representative Susan Lontine, D-Denver. “This bill would extend critical protections to caregivers and close loopholes to make workplaces safer and stop the discrimination that is causing many women to leave the workforce.”

In addition, SB21-176 repeals a policy within the CADA that prohibits victims of age discrimination from receiving compensatory or punitive damages, all in all protecting disadvantaged workers from being excluded from the workforce due to unfair categorization and stereotyping. 

The POWR Act will be heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee sometime in the next few weeks. 

The bill is being co-sponsored by Senators Jaquez Lewis, Buckner, Danielson, Ginal, Gonzales, Hansen, Kolker, Story, and Representatives Bernett, Caraveo, Cutter, Esgar, Froelich, Jackson, Jodeh, Kipp, McLachlan, Titone, Young.

The Colorado Women’s Caucus is a caucus of Democratic women in the General Assembly working to advance women’s issues.

Democrats Introduce Legislation to Reduce Costs and Increase Affordability of Life-Saving Prescription Drugs

DENVER - This afternoon, Senators Jaquez Lewis and Gonzales, along with Representatives Caraveo and Kennedy, in partnership with Governor Polis, announced the introduction of SB21-175, a bill to establish the Prescription Drug Affordability Board.

“Prescription drugs cost too much and Coloradans are sick and tired of being ripped off. This bill is an important step toward our goal of saving people money on health care,” said Governor Jared Polis. “I want to thank the bill sponsors for their efforts to ensure that hardworking Coloradans can get the medicine they need for themselves and their families without worrying about astronomical costs.”

“As prescription drug costs continue to skyrocket, people are forced to make impossible choices,” said Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Boulder County,  a pharmacist and prime sponsor of the legislation. “This proposal--this group of non-partisan experts--has the potential to save Coloradans as much as 75%  on the most unaffordable drugs. We have no choice but to address this issue--we absolutely must get this under control so we can build a healthy Colorado for all!”

“The painful and heartbreaking accounts of Coloradans who are forced to choose between filling prescriptions, skipping doses or paying for basic necessities are far too common,” said bill sponsor Representative Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “The skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs is hurting families, and it’s hurting our economic recovery. Coming out of this pandemic, we must build back stronger, and that means making common sense reforms to lower the costs of the drugs that are eating away at the bottom line of so many hardworking Coloradans.” 

Too many Coloradans skip doses, stretch the length of their prescriptions, or delay filling prescriptions because they simply cannot afford them. As established in the bill, the Prescription Drug Affordability Board will convene a panel of experts to investigate prescription drug cost increases, and set guardrails on cost increases for the most expensive prescription drugs in the state. 

The affordability board would set upper payment limits for prescription drugs that meet certain cost increase thresholds. These payment limits would apply to all purchasers in the state, but will only be placed on the highest cost drugs, with purchasers continuing to be able to negotiate rates for the vast majority of drugs. The board will collect and evaluate the data necessary to review the affordability of prescription drugs and make policy recommendations to legislators. The board will be made up of nonpartisan, unpaid experts who are free from conflicts of interest. 

“Even prior to the pandemic, nearly 1 in 3 Coloradans struggled to afford the prescription drugs they need to stay healthy, forcing families to choose between buying their prescriptions or paying rent and buying groceries,” said bill sponsor Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “At a time when Coloradans are struggling with the economic and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, we should ensure that all Coloradans - particularly in communities of color - have access to affordable health care.” 

“Prescription drugs are essential to managing, preventing, and curing diseases, but not every Coloradan can access them because cost is a barrier when it shouldn’t even be a consideration,” said bill sponsor Rep Yadira Caraveo, D-Thornton, a physician. “Coloradans need us to act now. Colorado families are struggling with unfair and unaffordable drug costs. The affordability board will reign in the highest cost drugs and stop the out of control increases that are reaching deeper and deeper into Coloradans pockets and driving up the cost of healthcare for everyone.” 

A recent poll from the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative found that 77% of Coloradans supported the idea of establishing a Prescription Drug Affordability Board to analyze and act to lower the cost of certain prescription drugs -- and this bill seeks to answer their call.

To read the full text of the bill and track it through the legislative process, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-175

Big Week Ahead for Senate Democrats’ Legislative Priorities

Bills on prescription drug price reduction, veterans mental health services, electric grid reliability, and substance abuse prevention make their way through the legislative process

DENVER, CO - This week, priority legislation sponsored Senate Democrats will be heard in various committees as they make their way through the legislative process. Highlights include:

SB21-123: Expand Canadian Rx Import Program, sponsored by Senators Ginal & Coram.

• It is no secret that prescription drugs in this country are overpriced and financially untenable for too many. In fact, Coloradans pay 60% to 85% more than people living in other countries for the same prescription drugs. In 2019, the General Assembly made Colorado a leader as one of the first states to adopt a Canadian Prescription Drug Importation Program. This bill seeks to build on that progress by extending the program to nations other than just Canada, so that we can continue to work to ensure that every Coloradan has access to affordable life-saving prescription drugs.

This bill will be heard by the Senate Health & Human Services Committee at 1:30PM today, Monday March 8th in Senate Committee Room 357.

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

• To achieve our state’s greenhouse gas reduction goals and stimulate economic recovery, we must invest in our electric transmission system to reduce costs for ratepayers and enhance grid efficiency. This bill works to transition Colorado toward a regionally connected transmission system, while simultaneously interconnecting the grid, enhancing grid reliability, decreasing costs for utilities and ratepayers, and increasing capacity for renewable energy – ultimately helping us reach our statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals.

This bill will be heard by the Senate Transportation & Energy Committee at 2:00PM on Tuesday March 9th in Senate Committee Room 357.

SB21-129: Veteran Suicide Prevention Pilot Program, sponsored by Senate President Garcia.

• Every single day, approximately 17 veterans take their own life. Serving in the military is one of the most selfless acts of service someone can undertake, and we should provide our veterans with all the mental health and well-being services that we can. This bill establishes a Veterans Suicide Prevention Pilot Program for post 9-11 veterans to receive confidential treatment for conditions that lead to suicide like PTSD, depression, substance abuse, sexual trauma, or traumatic brain injuries.

This bill will be heard by the Senate State, Veterans, & Military Affairs Committee at 2:00PM on Tuesday March 9th in the Old Supreme Court Chambers.

SB21-011: Pharmacist Prescribe Dispense Opiate Antagonist, sponsored by Senator Fields.

• The opioid epidemic plaguing our nation is running rampant in Colorado. On average, Colorado doctors write 53 opioid prescriptions for every 100 citizens. This practice of over-prescribing perpetuates a toxic system of addiction and dependency that too often results in death, and has caused thousands of lives to be ruined across the state. This bill requires pharmacists who prescribe opioids to notify patients of the dangers of opioids, and if appropriate, prescribe an opioid antagonist in the event that the patient overdoses on their medications – a much-needed life-saving measure. 

This bill will be heard by the Senate Health & Human Services Committee at 1:30PM on Wednesday March 10th in Senate Committee Room 357.

Information and updates on these bills can be found at leg.colorado.gov/bills. To listen to committee hearings, visit leg.colorado.gov/watch-listen.

Bill to Address Student Debt Crisis, Protect Students Clears Committee!

Senate Education Committee approves bill to provide Colorado students with protections against predatory student loan lenders

Denver, CO – Today, Senator Faith Winter and Senator Julie Gonzales testified before the Senate Education Committee in support of their bill, SB21-057, the Student Loan Equity Act. The bill aims to address the growing student debt crisis and would provide Colorado student loan borrowers with some of the most comprehensive protections in the country. 

“Private student loan lenders have been using predatory practices to take advantage of borrowers for years. And as people struggle to find work during the economic downturn, this issue has only been exacerbated,” said Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster. “If we are going to successfully recover our economy following this devastating pandemic, we need to provide protections for the hundreds of thousands of Coloradans who are crippled by student debt and allow them the space to forge a path towards financial freedom. ”

“The growing student debt crisis is hurting people of color the most,” said Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “Paying back student loans should be fair and transparent, yet student borrowers and their families are continually exploited by predatory lending practices, exacerbating racial disparities and inequity. This bill will protect vulnerable and marginalized borrowers in Colorado – giving people a chance to fight for their economic future.” 

Statewide, Colorado borrowers currently owe $9.1 billion in private student loan debt and that number is only growing as the industry expands. High rates of debt accumulation, especially as the cost of college has risen, widens an already large intergenerational debt and wealth gap for historically disadvantaged communities.

In an effort to address the student debt crisis, this legislation would secure necessary consumer protections for private student loan borrowers, including: providing protections for cosigners, requiring companies to tell borrowers about all the available repayment options, expanding disability discharge requirements, giving borrowers legal recourse when facing abuse, putting an end to predatory practices, and holding bad actors accountable.

Over 90% of undergraduate private student loans are cosigned, usually by a parent or grandparent. This bill would support co-signers by requiring more robust disclosures, allowing cosigner release if certain conditions are met – including 12 months of consecutive on-time payments – and ensuring that cosigners have access to all documentation and records.

In addition, the bill would end “robo-signing”, a practice used in collection lawsuits, and place the burden on creditors to verify the validity of debts to ensure that creditors are not obtaining judgments against borrowers for time-barred or unsubstantiated debt.

The legislation would also close the loopholes that allow predatory lenders to operate without supervision and transparency, promote unfair loans, and prey upon vulnerable borrowers.

Private student loan borrowers have limited and inconsistent options or recourse when managing repayment and navigating exploitive servicers. This legislation provides legal recourse for borrowers who are harmed by predatory acts and practices. Under this law, when borrowers’ rights are violated, they will be empowered to bring an action against the lender or servicer for restitution and damages. Borrowers will additionally be able to pursue class actions.

SB21-057 now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration. To track the progress of the bill, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website.

Senate Democrats Champion Legislation to Enhance Public Safety & Reduce Gun Violence

Lost or stolen firearms legislation now heads to the full Senate for consideration

DENVER, CO - Last night, Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee passed SB21-078, a bill to promote responsible gun ownership and increase regulations around lost or stolen firearms.

Specifically, the bill requires gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement, who is then tasked with notifying the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and the National Crime Information Database. 

“Responsible gun ownership starts with knowing where your guns are,” said bill sponsor, Sen. Jaquez Lewis (D-Boulder County). “This bill will require that lost or stolen firearms are reported quickly and efficiently to law enforcement, so they can track down and prevent illegally obtained guns from being trafficked and causing subsequent harm.”

“Gun violence is tragically on the rise,” said bill sponsor, Senator Jessie Danielson (D-Wheatridge). “Across the country, nearly 380,000 guns are stolen each year – being trafficked illegally and used violently. This common-sense, gun violence prevention legislation is a first step solution to a widespread problem, and will help address an urgent public safety concern that has only been exacerbated by the pandemic.”

Between 2015-2019, the FBI estimates that more than 30,000 guns –worth $13.5+ million– were stolen in Colorado. Lost and stolen guns are responsible for increasing numbers of crimes, both within and outside of Colorado, and the lack of a reporting regulation opens up a loophole for those who have been prohibited from owning a gun to obtain one. SB21-078 seeks to rectify this situation by enacting a reporting requirement for lost or stolen guns.

The legislation is supported by both Colorado Ceasefire and Everytown for Gun Safety Action. The bill now moves to the Committee of the Whole for consideration.

Zenzinger Defends Coloradans With Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

The Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee passed a bill to eliminate the sub-minimum wage with bipartisan support

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee gave unanimous approval to SB21-039, a bipartisan Zenzinger bill that would eliminate the sub-minimum wage in Colorado. The sub-minimum wage is an unlivable wage that is legally allowed to be paid to employees with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

“Individuals with disabilities are valuable members of our communities and our economy. Paying them a lower wage than their counterparts for doing the same work is an unfair and discriminatory practice that must end,” said Senator Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “This bill will carefully address this inequity while ensuring the individuals in these programs are successful in transitioning to competitive employment by meaningfully enhancing employment supports overall."

Currently, some employers hold certificates that authorize them to pay people with intellectual and developmental disabilities a sub-minimum wage – currently set at 15% lower than the minimum wage. Starting this summer, the bill would prohibit an employer from hiring employees at the sub-minimum wage and would require those with sub-minimum wage employees to submit a plan to the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment (CDLE) detailing how they plan to phase out the sub-minimum wage by 2025. 

Additionally, the bill would task CDLE with developing a list of recommendations to address the structural and fiscal barriers to phasing out sub-minimum wage employment to ensure businesses can comply and have the support they need during these already-difficult times.

Several states and municipalities across the country have passed legislation to eliminate the sub-minimum wage for employees with disabilities, including Vermont, Maine, and Alaska – if SB21-039 passes, Colorado would become the 8th state to do so.

The legislation now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration. Information and updates regarding the bill can be found at leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-039.

Senate Moms Fight For Vital Funding to Help Struggling Parents Amid Pandemic

Senate Health & Human Services Committee approves bill that allocates $4 million to provide low-income Colorado families with diaper essentials

Denver, CO – Today, Senator Brittany Pettersen and Senator Jessie Danielson testified before the Senate Health and Human Services Committee in support of their legislation, SB21-027, Emergency Supplies For Colorado Babies And Families. The bill would ensure that diaper essentials are made available to all low-income Colorado families in need amid the COVID-19 public health crisis.

“As a new mother, it pains me to know that parents who are unable to afford diapers for their babies have resorted to reusing old diapers, plastic bags and toilet paper,” said Senator Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood. “The situation families are currently in is truly heart-breaking and, frankly, unconscionable – no parent should have to choose between paying for food or paying for diapers. At a time when women in the workforce have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, we need to ease the burden on families so they can fully care for their little ones, and that’s what this bill accomplishes.” 

“We are the wealthiest nation in the world and yet some of our parents can’t afford diapers – that’s just unacceptable,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “It costs at least $80 per month to provide diapers for a child, which is simply unfeasible for families who have lost their jobs and struggle to afford rent, pay their bills, or buy food. Our families have suffered enough over the last year – providing access to diapers is the least we can do to help lessen the stress parents are already facing.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused thousands of Coloradans with children to lose their jobs, leaving families unable to afford basic needs, like diapers for their babies. As a result, many families are resorting to harmful alternatives that lead to painful rashes and health complications.

This bill requires the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to select one or more non-profit organizations to administer diaper distribution centers to provide $4 million in funding for diapering essentials to low-income families. This additional funding will help ensure that diaper essentials are widely available to Colorado residents in need. 

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, 1 in 3 U.S. families reported needing more diapers. With unemployment on the rise due to COVID-19, those numbers have undoubtedly increased. Currently, there are 202,608 children under the age of three in Colorado, 33% of which are experiencing the negative effects of unmet diaper needs. Moreover, parents report missing up to 4 days of work per month due to not being able to supply the required amount of diapers to daycare centers.

According to the National Diaper Bank Network, it costs at least $80 per month to provide diapers for a child, a high figure when 35% of Coloradans are currently struggling to pay for basic necessities. This issue is compounded by the fact that diapers cannot be purchased through other public assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Woman, Infants, and Children program (WIC). By using existing infrastructure with diaper organizations on the ground, Colorado will be able to get diapering essentials to all low-income residents at a minimal cost.

The Yale School of Medicine found a strong association between diaper need and maternal depression, which harms both mothers and children. The mothers in the study explained that diaper need was more stressful than food insecurity. 

The legislation has support from over 70 advocacy organizations throughout Colorado and would provide a tangible way of reducing parenting stress, a critical factor that influences child health and development. 

SB21-027 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration. To track the progress of the legislation, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website.

Senate Unanimously Passes Bill to Protect Survivors of Sexual Abuse

Danielson bill eliminates the civil statute of limitations often used to defeat claims of sexual assault 

Denver, CO – Today, bipartisan legislation that seeks to protect survivors of child sexual abuse passed the Senate with unanimous support. The bill, sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson and Don Coram, allows survivors of sexual abuse to sue individuals or institutions for damages, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred. 

“I am incredibly proud and relieved to see this legislation move forward today. For too long victims of sexual abuse have watched their perpetrators live on without recourse. It is high time that these survivors – whose innocence or dignity was stolen from them – see their abusers held accountable. Consequences for predators can have no time clock,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge.

In an effort to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable, this legislation would further define sexual misconduct and eliminate the civil statute of limitations, which is often used to defeat childhood and adult claims of sexual assault. 

Currently, the statute of limitations to bring a civil claim based on sexual abuse against a child is 6 years in most cases. As such, the bill would eliminate the restriction on damages for those currently within the statute period as well as for those victimized going forward.

The bill has strong support from the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA), which provides leadership, advocacy and support to address and prevent sexual violence in Colorado.

"Statutes of limitations are the tool most often used to deny and defeat claims of sexual abuse, but we know that healing from trauma has no timeline; that is why the civil statute of limitations needs to be eliminated,” said Raana Simmons, CCASA’s Director of Public Affairs. “Survivors in Colorado deserve the ability to access the civil legal system on their own schedule.”

In addition to this piece of legislation, Danielson has introduced the Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act, SB21-088, which would create a new path for survivors of child sexual abuse to pursue civil claims against their abusers and the youth programs or organizations that were responsible for covering up that abuse. 

SB21-073 now moves to the House for consideration. To track the progress of the bill, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website.

Senate Passes Critical Funding Bills Prioritizing Schools, Business Owners, Environment

Senate Democrats support community pillars and protect Colorado’s natural beauty

DENVER, CO - Today, Senate Democrats passed both the mid-year funding package, as well as a slate of additional priority funding legislation. The collection of bills addresses a number of urgent needs throughout the state, including entrepreneurial diversity, state parks, wildfire mitigation, K-12 education funding, and local infrastructure. The bill sponsors released the following statements regarding the passage of their legislation:

SB21-111: Program To Support Marijuana Entrepreneurs, sponsored by Senators Moreno & Gonzales

“Since the passage of Amendment 64 in 2012, Colorado’s marijuana industry has become an invaluable asset to our state’s economy, workforce, and tourism,” said Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver). “However, Coloradans with past marijuana convictions were disqualified from participating in the industry. By creating a program in the Office of Economic Development and International Trade to directly address these social injustices, this bill will advance equity and address structural racism by rectifying many of the lingering detriments of the unjust war on drugs.”

SB21-112: General Fund Transfer To Capital Construction Fund State Parks, sponsored by Senators Garcia & Simpson

“With the pandemic restrictions and increased isolation over the past year many Coloradans have sought to escape by spending time in our many great state parks,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “Consequently, with this increased rate of visitation, our parks are understaffed and underfunded. This bill will provide much-needed additional funding to support our state parks –ensuring that they have the resources necessary  to handle the increased volume of  people  enjoying  our great outdoors.”

SB21-113: Firefighting Aircraft Wildfire Mgmt And Response, sponsored by Senators Fenberg & Rankin

“Last year was the most costly and devastating wildfire year in Colorado state history,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “Our firefighters are overworked and under-resourced, and next year’s wildfire season could be even worse. By allocating additional funds to the Colorado firefighting air corps, this bill will support future wildfire mitigation and response efforts, as well as help, prevent more wildfire destruction.”

SB21-053: Adjustments To School Funding Fiscal Year 2020-21, Sponsored By Senators Moreno & Zenzinger 

SB21-110: Fund Safe Revitalization Of Main Streets, sponsored by Senators Zenzinger & Priola

“It’s no secret that our schools and small businesses have borne the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic, and I’m pleased to sponsor two bills that will help the recovery process,” said Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada). “The school funding bill adjusts for decreases in student count and tax revenues caused by the pandemic that the schools could not afford to absorb. And SB-110 helps small businesses by committing $30 million from the general fund for the revitalization of main streets in Colorado. I look forward to the positive impact these bills will have on our students and our economy when they ultimately receive the Governor’s signature.”

Having passed the Senate on Third Reading, this package of bills now move to the House for consideration. To track the progress of these bills, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website.

LGBTQ Caucus Condemns Boebert's Transphobic Floor Remarks

DENVER, CO-- The Colorado Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, Representative Brianna Titone, and House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar today released the following statements in response to Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s insidious and unacceptable transphobic speech on the House Floor yesterday.

Speaking against the Equality Act, Boebert once again spewed hateful rhetoric against the transgender community, especially trans kids.

Statement from Colorado Legislative LGBTQ Caucus:
“We, the Colorado Democrats LGBTQ Caucus, strongly condemn the hateful and dangerous words of Congresswoman Boebert. Her words hurt people, propagate dangerous tropes, and cause mental distress to those she berates. When leaders like Congresswoman Boebert use their position of power to fuel tropes about trans people, a group facing discrimination, violence, and poverty all over the globe, they exemplify why we need The Equality Act now.

“In her speech, Congresswoman Boebert incorrectly stated that this bill is willing to lay down the rights of millions of Americans, especially women. The truth is that the Equality Act protects and restores the rights of millions of Americans, especially womxn and children. We, the Colorado Democrats LGBTQ Caucus, stand with the Equality Act, because Trans Lives Matter, BIPOC Trans Lives Matter, and trans children deserve to live safe, healthy lives free of fear and hatred.”

Statement from Representative Brianna Titone, D-Avada, the Chair of the LGBTQ Caucus and the Second Transgender Woman Ever Elected to a Statehouse:

“Colorado has come such a long way from when we were deemed the ‘Hate State’ in 1992. Congresswoman Boebert’s words seek to bring us back. Coloradans deserve to be shown respect and dignity from Congressional leaders, but she has instead attacked children and endangered the lives of trans kids in Colorado and in every community in our country. Congress must pass the Equality Act, and everyone who claims to stand with the LGBTQ community should condemn the congresswoman’s dangerous remarks.”

Statement from House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo, founding chair of the Colorado Legislative LGBTQ Caucus.

“Trans kids have enough to worry about without having a Congresswoman bullying them on national television. The role of an elected official should be to proudly and honorably represent the people of their district, and that’s why I’ve worked my entire career to protect all of our children. Instead, yesterday, Lauren Boebert used her perch to attack, undermine, and dehumanize countless of LGBTQ Coloradans in her district. She took acute aim at trans children, who already face tragically high rates of suicidal ideation and attempts. Lauren Boebert should be ashamed of herself, and as one of her constituents, I know her district certainly is.”

Senate Committee Approves Danielson Bill to Protect Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse

Bill would eliminate the civil statute of limitations often used to defeat claims of sexual assault

Denver, CO – Today, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee unanimously approved legislation sponsored by Senator Jessie Danielson that seeks to protect survivors of child sexual abuse. Under the bill, SB21-073, survivors would be able to sue individuals or institutions, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred. 

“So many of our kids have faced unimaginable abuse at the hands of people who we’ve entrusted to care for and protect them, leading to profound trauma and lifelong medical and mental health issues,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “We need to hold these perpetrators accountable so that the individuals and families affected by this abuse can finally begin to heal and get the closure they desperately need. This bill would allow survivors of child sexual abuse to get the justice they deserve and prevent this kind of behavior from happening in the future.” 

In an effort to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable, this legislation would further define sexual misconduct and eliminate the civil statute of limitations, which is often used to defeat childhood and adult claims of sexual assault. 

Currently, the statute of limitations to bring a civil claim based on sexual abuse against a child is 6 years in most cases. As such, the bill would eliminate the restriction on damages for certain crimes.

The bill has strong support from the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA), which provides leadership, advocacy and support to address and prevent sexual violence in Colorado.

"Statutes of limitations are the tool most often used to deny and defeat claims of sexual abuse, but we know that healing from trauma has no timeline; that is why the civil statute of limitations needs to be eliminated,” said Raana Simmons, CCASA’s Director of Public Affairs. “The civil legal system is the single system designed to provide survivors with the financial resources they need to cover the costs of things like counseling, medical care, and other issues caused by sexual assault.  Survivors in Colorado deserve the ability to access the civil legal system on their own schedule. We're hopeful that Colorado's State Senators will recognize the need to eliminate the civil statute of limitation sexual assault and vote 'yes' on Senate Bill 73."

In addition to this piece of legislation, Danielson has introduced the Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act, SB21-088, which would create a new path for survivors of child sexual abuse to pursue civil claims against their abusers and the youth programs or organizations that were responsible for covering up that abuse. 

SB21-073 now moves to the Committee of the Whole on the consent calendar. To track the progress of the bill, visit the Colorado General Assembly’s website.

Lawmakers Take a Stand to Protect Colorado Election Integrity, Maintain Voter Access

Bipartisan Rejection of GOP Bill to Restrict Voting Rights

DENVER, CO - This afternoon, in a bipartisan move, the Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee acted to postpone indefinitely a bill that would threaten Colorado’s vote-by-mail system. The legislation, SB21-007, would pose a significant threat to Colorado’s election integrity by requiring voters to cast their ballots in person, and only allowing vote-by-mail if specifically requested by a voter.

Colorado’s automatic vote-by-mail system is hailed by advocates nationwide as the gold standard of transparent and accessible elections. This bill would result in a serious reversal of the election process that has worked so well for so long, weakening democracy and silencing the voices of Colorado voters.

“This bill is disguised as a provision to enhance election integrity, but in reality it would result in the erosion of our safe, secure, and accessible electoral process,” said Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver), Chair of the State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee. “This session, Democrats are introducing legislation that will ensure multilingual ballot access, implement ranked-choice voting in cities and counties if they desire, and ban county-level gerrymandering. We should spend our time enhancing the great system that we have in place, rather than trying to find solutions to problems that only exist in the minds of people who have been addled by conspiracy theories.”

According to the Colorado Secretary of State, 94% of Coloradans returned a mail ballot in last November’s record-setting General Election. To burden voters with the task of requesting a mail-in ballot would significantly reduce participation and jeopardize Colorado’s record-high turnout.

Non-partisan advocacy groups and local election officials alike welcomed the decision to reject the bill.

"At New Era, we believe in democracy that represents the people—and that is why we strongly oppose SB21-007,” said a spokesperson for New Era Colorado. “As an organization that engages heavily in elections, we have worked over the years to bring more access to historically disenfranchised communities in Colorado. Last election, young people in Colorado shattered records—turning out to vote at 70% and making up 27% of the vote share. This bill would restrict access and create barriers to voting and disenfranchise Coloradans who should have their voices heard. As a state, we need to work to strengthen our democracy—not hinder it and take steps back."

“Mi Familia Vota has worked tirelessly for years to ensure our communities, no matter their zip codes, race, or class are able to participate in our Democracy with safe and secure mail-in-ballots,” said Salvador Hernandez, Colorado State Director of Mi Familia Vota.  “Senate Bill 21-007 rolls back these efforts and protections, which would disenfranchise voters, especially latinx and voters of color which is why we strongly oppose this bill.”

“With our current system, every eligible voter receives a ballot to their home, ensuring that Colorado leads the nation in voter turnout with safe, effective, and accessible elections. Our democracy is strongest when we all participate that’s why I oppose SB 07 which creates an unnecessary burden on voters to request a mail-in ballot and will lower voter turnout as a whole,” said Paul Lopez, Clerk and Recorder City and County of Denver.