STATEMENT: Pettersen Reacts to ACA Ruling

DENVER, CO — Following the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act (ACA) after numerous attempts by Republicans to dismantle it, Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood) released the subsequent statement:

"Despite consistent attacks for over a decade, the Affordable Care Act has survived yet another attempt by special interests, Republican states, and former President Donald Trump to rob millions of Americans of health insurance. While there is still more work to do to lower costs and expand coverage, the Supreme Court’s refusal to entertain this senseless lawsuit means Coloradans get to keep their insurance and Colorado can keep improving on the law. I’m particularly disappointed in Justice Gorsuch who is operating on the furthest ideological fringe and against the vast majority of Coloradans with whom he shares a home state."

During this year's legislative session, the Senate and House successfully passed a bill sponsored by Senator Pettersen that would enshrine provisions already established by federal law under the Affordable Care Act, solidifying their place in Colorado law and ensuring that Coloradans will be protected – regardless of potential national rollbacks of insurance coverage.

SB21-016 is currently pending final approval from the Governor. Track the progress of the legislation here.

SIGNED! Colorado Comeback Bills to Address Student Learning Loss & Support Educator Workforce Become Law

New laws will help fill gaps for students impacted by learning disruptions as well as address teacher shortages

DENVER, CO – Today, the Governor signed two Colorado Comeback bills into law that will provide tutoring for K-12 students across Colorado – helping to address learning loss kids endured during the pandemic as well as support the state’s educator workforce. 

HB21-1234, sponsored by Senators Moreno and Rankin, allocates $5 million to the newly created Colorado high-impact tutoring program to provide grant funding to local education providers, to create high-impact tutoring programs to address student learning loss and unfinished learning resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Between school closures, at-home learning and social isolation, students have faced some of the toughest challenges of this pandemic,” said Senator Moreno (D-Commerce City). “This law will invest in our kids’ future by making high-impact tutoring available to address the gaps in student learning – giving them a chance to not only catch up but succeed going forward.”

Due to the learning disruptions of the last year, Colorado 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 law will work to fill in those gaps.

SB21-185, sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger, will help reduce the teacher shortage in Colorado by empowering local leaders to recruit subject matter experts into the educator workforce, supporting the development of a workforce that more closely reflects the diversity of Colorado’s students, and expanding pathways into the profession.

“Especially after such a challenging year for educators, we must implement strategies that will help attract, recruit, and retain talented teachers so that we have the workforce we need to continue guiding students’ educational success,” said Senator Zenzinger (D-Arvada). “This new law will help reduce the teacher shortage, expand and create new pathways into the profession, diversify our educator workforce to meet the unique needs of all students, and raise the profile of the teaching profession. These resources will help pave the way for the most talented educators to enter the profession and serve as effective and inspiring role models for Colorado’s future leaders.”

End of Session Report Details Highly Successful Legislative Year

This year, Democrats focused on revitalizing our economy, delivering urgent relief & forging a more prosperous future for Coloradans

DENVER, CO – Today, the General Assembly Democrats released the annual ‘End of Session Report’, detailing the many bills that were passed that will positively impact the lives of Coloradans. This session was one of the most productive in the last decade – with more than 500 bills passing both chambers, 94 percent of which had bipartisan support.

See the following excerpt:

In the midst of a global pandemic and a challenging year that has severely impacted the lives of Coloradans, Democrats came together to deliver urgent relief to struggling Coloradans and build our state back stronger. The legislature was able to deliver on promises that were years in the making – passing transformational legislation that will pave the way for a Colorado where everyone can thrive. By putting people over politics and working across the aisle to accomplish great things, 94% of our passed legislation received bipartisan support.

In order to recover faster and build back stronger, lawmakers developed a bipartisan state stimulus package to foster the Colorado Comeback, make monumental investments to strengthen small businesses, support Colorado families, invest in rural Colorado, and develop our workforce...

...In addition to passing state stimulus policies, state leaders worked collaboratively to enact Colorado’s roadmap to Building Back Stronger – embarking on a statewide listening tour to gather input on how to allocate nearly $4 billion in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. The resulting legislation immediately deployed hundreds of millions of dollars to make housing more affordable, provide emergency behavioral health services and help workers complete degree or skills-training programs. The roadmap also dedicated $1.3 billion in federal funds to protect critical state services in future years and set aside nearly $1.8 billion for future transformational investments in housing, behavioral health, education and workforce development, and economic stimulus and recovery that will be crafted through bipartisan interim processes.

Beyond tackling urgent needs and enacting once-in-a-generation stimulative plans, lawmakers prioritized addressing longstanding issues that have burdened Colorado for decades. One such issue is the inaccessibility and unaffordability of health care...

...Another long-standing issue that has held Colorado’s economy back for decades is transportation. After booming population growth yet insufficient funding, Colorado’s infrastructure is in desperate need of repair and modernization. That’s why we passed a historic transportation plan to support a dynamic economy, improve air quality, create jobs, and position Colorado to compete with other states....

...Sadly, the legislature was also confronted with the all-too-familiar issue of gun violence during the legislative session. After 10 people lost their lives in the Boulder King Soopers shooting, Democratic lawmakers crafted and passed three measures designed to save lives by expanding background checks, creating a resource office for gun violence prevention, and giving local governments the tools they need to craft community-based solutions...

...In 2021, General Assembly Democrats rose to the occasion and championed policies that will not only support people in the aftermath of the pandemic but pave a hopeful path forward by creating a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous Colorado for all.

To read the End of Session Report in its entirety, click here.

Stimulus Bill Aimed at Revitalizing Communities & Investing in Small Businesses Becomes Law!

SB21-252 will significantly jump-start rural businesses and urban centers across the state by revitalizing communities and transforming shared downtown spaces

DENVER, CO - Today, Governor Polis signed into law a stimulus bill from Colorado’s recovery package, which will invest in struggling local economies and accelerate the Colorado Comeback.

SB21-252, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg and Minority Leader Chris Holbert, creates the Community Revitalization Grant Program to issue grants intended to support creative projects in commercial centers that would combine revitalized or newly constructed commercial spaces with public or community spaces. Projects could include flexible live-work or vendor spaces for entrepreneurs, performance spaces, child care centers, meeting spaces for community events, and other projects that renovate vacant property for creative industries, economic development, or historic preservation purposes.

“Colorado’s unique main streets represent the very best of our diverse state. That’s why part of our recovery includes making investments everywhere from Denver to Walsenburg, from Boulder to Montrose,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “Creative community spaces are the lifeblood of our cities and towns, and deserve our attention and support. I’m thrilled to see what communities Coloradans will build with the help of this funding.”

As Colorado emerges from the pandemic, there is significant opportunity to reinvigorate downtowns that have faced COVID-19-related closures, to transform rural main streets where real estate has been left unused for years, and to provide community and living space that will improve residents’ quality of life for decades to come. 

Communities across Colorado have shovel-ready projects aimed at doing just that, many of which have already obtained some degree of outside funding but lack the amount necessary to break ground or finalize an existing project. With one-time funding from the State, the Program can kickstart these projects and help maintain the vibrant diversity and longevity of Colorado’s city and town centers.

To read the bill and find more details about the legislation, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-252.

Bills to Save Coloradans Money on Health Care, Rx Drugs Signed into Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation into law that will reduce the cost of health care and prescription drugs in Colorado. The Colorado Option will save consumers on the individual and small group markets 15 percent on their health insurance and offer a new option with lower out-of-pocket costs that covers what consumers need.

“This is a momentous day for our state because finally, lower health care costs and new options are coming soon to every Colorado county! Starting in 2023, Coloradans who purchase insurance on the individual or small group markets will have a new option that’s going to cost less and be high quality,” said Rep. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon. “The high cost of health care leads too many people to have to choose between going to the doctor or paying for necessities. With the Colorado Option, we’re going to save individuals and small businesses thousands per year on their health insurance and increase access to affordable and quality health care for families, small businesses and people across our state.”

“Today is a great day for Colorado. After a years-long process where the health care industry, advocacy groups, and legislators came together – refusing to accept the status quo – we have accomplished what once seemed impossible,” said Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail. “Rather than stand idly by as folks were forced to choose between paying rent and paying their insurance bill, we moved forward with the knowledge that accessible, affordable, high-quality care can be a reality. I am incredibly proud of what we have been able to accomplish on behalf of every Coloradan. Because whether you’re a raft guide in Steamboat, a small business owner in Denver, or a ranching family in Bennett, this bill will make a real difference in your quality of life.”

“Neither the color of your skin, your zip code, your residency status, your income nor a company’s profit margins should dictate whether you have access to health care,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “For too long, Coloradans have been paying too much and getting too little in return. This is a big win in our ongoing fight to increase options and value while making health care more affordable and equitable.”

The Colorado Option will lower health care costs for individuals, families, and small businesses across the state. HB21-1232 creates a new health insurance option, a standardized plan for consumers on the individual and small group markets, and the law requires health insurance carriers to bring premiums down by 15 percent over three years. The standardized health plan will cover the services consumers need at a lower cost, address historical health inequities, and lower out-of-pocket costs for consumers.

“No one should have to choose between buying food or the prescriptions they need,” said Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Boulder County. “If we truly want to make health care more affordable and accessible for all, then we need to find ways to lower the cost of prescription drugs. This affordability board will set an affordability standard for high-cost drugs so that more Colorado patients can access the medications they need at a price they can afford.”

“With nearly one in three Coloradans unable to afford the cost of their life saving prescription drugs, it’s clear we couldn’t wait any longer to drive down costs and save people money,” said Rep. Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “For seniors who can’t afford their prescriptions and for parents of young kids with expensive medications, relief is on the way. The bill the governor signed today is going to rein in out-of-control drug costs and bring badly needed relief to the Coloradans struggling to pay for the medicine they need.”

“As a physician, I never want to have that conversation with a patient where we try to figure out what drug they should take based on what they can afford, but doctors have these conversations all the time because prescription drug costs are just unaffordable for too many families,” said Rep. Yadira Caraveo, D-Thornton, a pediatrician. “This new law creates guardrails to help Coloradans afford life-saving drugs and will help us get to the bottom of spikes in the cost of these drugs. Colorado is going to lead the way once again on reducing the cost of health care and prescription drugs.”

“Prescription drug costs have risen astronomically, forcing patients to ration their medications or forego them all together,” said Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “This dangerous trend must end. Every Coloradan should be able to maintain their health without breaking the bank. With this new law, we can lower the ever-increasing costs of pharmaceuticals as well as address ongoing health disparities – bringing our state one step closer toward a healthcare system that prioritizes patients over profit.”

Nearly one-in-three Coloradans struggle to afford the cost of prescription drugs. With passage of SB21-175, the Prescription Drug Affordability Board will convene a panel of experts to investigate prescription drug cost increases, and set guardrails on purchase prices 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. 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, highly qualified health care experts who are free from conflicts of interest.

Stimulus Bills Making Historic Investments in Colorado Agriculture Signed by the Governor

These new laws will provide much needed financial support to agricultural resiliency and efficiency programs throughout the state

DENVER, CO - Today, Governor Polis signed into law two bills that are a part of Colorado’s recovery package, setting aside historic levels of funding for agricultural resiliency and efficiency programs.

SB21-234, sponsored by Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis & Jerry Sonnenberg, allocates $3 million to the Department of Agriculture to increase the state’s ability to anticipate, mitigate, or respond to droughts. In 2020, each of the 64 Colorado counties were experiencing a drought. This drought exacerbated many of the financial impacts on the agriculture sector, and as climate change worsens, drought could cost Colorado an additional $511 million dollars in expected annual damages to agriculture. This bill will help the state plan for and mitigate future droughts and climate disturbances.

“Climate change has caused the worst drought for farmers in their planting season in 20 years,” said Senator Jaquez-Lewis (D-Boulder County). “This legislation will provide funding for drought mitigation and wildfire prevention techniques. As a San Luis rancher's granddaughter, I am proud to support our agricultural families across the state.”

SB21-235, also sponsored by Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, allocates another $5 million to voluntary soil health programs and to the ACRE3 program, Colorado’s premier state-level program for agricultural energy management. ACRE3 provides financial aid, technical assistance, and education to help the agriculture industry cut energy costs and develop their own energy resources. To further increase the sustainability of the ag industry, producers can invest in nutrient cycling, and erosion prevention strategies which will increase yields and resilience to extreme weather events.

“Agricultural businesses and working families depend on keeping costs low,” said Senator Jaquez-Lewis (D-Boulder County). “This legislation funds energy-efficient techniques like improving soil health and Agrivoltaics, which combines solar energy creation over croplands. Farmers and Ranchers will have another way to improve their crop production."

To read the bills and find more details about the legislation, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Governor Signs Trio of Climate Action & Clean Energy Stimulus Bills

Stimulus bills will provide resources to renewable energy projects, clean energy sector workforce development, and energy efficiency projects

DENVER, CO - Today, Governor Polis signed into law three bills that are a part of Colorado’s recovery package, all targeting investments in the clean energy sector and energy efficiency projects.

HB21-1253, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senators Faith Winter & Bob Rankin, invests $5 million into local government grants for shovel-ready, job-creating projects in the renewable energy sector. Market forces, consumer choices, and environmental consciousness have moved Colorado’s economy toward a sustainable clean energy future, and this bill will help support and accelerate that transition.

“We have the power to create jobs, promote sustainability and put Colorado on a pathway toward a cleaner future by funding more renewable energy projects throughout our state,” said Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster). “These resources will be used to enable renewable energy infrastructure projects where they are needed most, stimulating our economy and creating tremendous opportunities for our workforce.” 

SB21-230, sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen & Faith Winter, allocates $40 million to the Colorado Energy Office for several clean energy finance initiatives. The majority of these funds will be directed to the Colorado Clean Energy Fund, which acts as Colorado’s “Green Bank” with the purpose of financing clean energy projects and bridging gaps between clean energy projects and private capital providers. The remaining funds will be spent between programs that support clean energy retrofits, energy efficient new construction, clean energy lending and funding for the installation of EV charging stations at facilities across the state.

“As we work to rapidly reduce carbon emissions and meet our climate goals, we need additional funding to support our efforts,” said Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “These vital resources will help us preserve our environment and utilize our abundant clean energy resources while creating good-paying green jobs, putting us on a successful pathway toward a sustainable future for generations to come.” 

SB21-231, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senators Tammy Story & Dennis Hisey, will provide $3 million to fund grants in the Weatherization Assistance Program, which provides funding to low-income residents across the state to fund weatherization upgrades in their homes. On average, low-income households pay over four times as much of their household income on energy costs and are sometimes forced to cut back on healthcare, childcare, groceries, and other expenses just to keep the bills paid. Weatherization can significantly alleviate these costs, as well as improve the lives and well-being of residents.

“We must ensure that every Coloradan, no matter where they live or the amount of money in their pocket, is safe and comfortable in their home,” said Senator Tammy Story (D-Evergreen). “This funding will help low-income residents afford weatherization upgrades to their homes while simultaneously saving them money and enhancing energy efficiency.” 

To read the bills and find more details about the legislation, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Colorado Comeback Bills Supporting Creative Industries & Local Businesses SIGNED!

DENVER, CO – Today, the Governor signed three Colorado Comeback bills into law. These new laws focus on revitalizing our economy by boldly investing in local events, tourism, and small businesses. 

HB21-1263, sponsored by Senators Robert Rodriguez and Dennis Hisey, creates a program to provide organizations and businesses up to 10% rebates for holding an event in the state. The program also offers rebates of up to 25% for hard costs of complying with COVID-19 associated public health orders for the event. This is aimed at attracting people back to Colorado for the weddings, vacations, conferences, and festivals that have halted since COVID. 

“Colorado’s events and tourism industry is critical to the health of our economy, but the pandemic has severely impacted the sector – costing not only jobs and businesses but local vibrancy as well,” said Senator Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver). “This new law will not only bring visitors back to our state but  power the Colorado Comeback by making our beautiful home a premier tourist destination once again.” 

HB21-1285, sponsored by Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis & Janet Buckner, provides $10 million to support artists and cultural organizations in Colorado that have been impacted by COVID-19. This includes funding for the performance-based film incentive, cultural facilities, and the CO Creative Industries grant program set up during the 2020 special session. 

“Colorado is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, attracting tourists from all over the world. The art community was the first to stop during COVID and has been the last to recover. For every $1 we spend on the arts, we receive back $30 in economic stimulus,” said Senator Jaquez Lewis (D-Boulder County). "Every County in the state has an arts group or center that can now apply for this new funding, to fully recover and build back better."

“This pandemic has taken a huge toll on our creative industries – forcing them to navigate both an economic recession and shifting capacity restrictions for more than a year,” said Senator Buckner (D-Aurora). “Not only will this bill provide relief for the industry as a whole, but it will target direct assistance to cultural facilities that focus on programming for historically marginalized and under-resourced communities to ensure our recovery is equitable.”

SB21-241, sponsored by Senators Fields and Bridges, creates the Small Business Accelerated Growth Program to provide small businesses with tools and resources that foster the growth of existing companies that have moved from the start-up stage into the second-stage or are on the verge of rapid growth. This program will ensure that these businesses, post-pandemic, will be able to build back stronger.

“COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on small businesses, particularly those owned by women and racial minorities,” said Senator Fields (D-Aurora). “We need to reinvest in these critical community pillars by making resources available that will foster their growth and set them up for success. Because the essence of economic ingenuity and creativity resides in the entrepreneurial minds of our small business owners, who dare to think out of the box and pave their own path.” 

“Innovative, growth-oriented small businesses are critical to our Colorado comeback,” said Senator Bridges (D-Greenwood Village). “Through their perseverance and innovation, small businesses are the economic engine of our economy. This bill makes sure they have the expertise and support they need to thrive here in Colorado, creating jobs and opportunities throughout our state.” 

Governor Signs Pair of Zenzinger Bills Making Historic Investments in Colorado Schools

DENVER, CO - This afternoon, Governor Polis signed into law two landmark education bills, both sponsored by long-standing education advocate, Senator Rachel Zenzinger.

“I’ve spent my entire legislative career prioritizing school funding – working to ensure that our educators have the resources they deserve and our students have the tools they need to succeed,” said Senator Zenzinger (D-Arvada). “So after an incredibly difficult year – marred by disruptions and uncertainty – I am honored and thrilled to see these transformational bills become law. This session, we were able to come together and make drastic improvements to facilitate long-term success of our public school system – strengthening our kids’ futures for generations to come.”

SB21-268 is the annual School Finance Act, which sets the funding formula for all public K-12 Colorado schools. 

Specifically, this year’s School Finance Act restored cuts to programs made in 2020, such as the K-5 Social Emotional Health Pilot Program, School Leadership Pilot Program, Behavioral Health Care Professionals Grant Program. Additionally, the bill makes permanent changes to the school funding formula to prioritize more funding for low-income students, at-risk students, and English-language learners, and increases per pupil funding by $141.67 to $7,225.28 for the next fiscal year. Lastly, the bill sets aside historic investments to decrease the budget stabilization factor--which represents the amount of funding deducted from the total program--by $481.4 million, bringing it back down to pre-pandemic levels.

HB21-1164, works to resolve the structural inequity in Colorado’s property tax system that must be fixed to ensure our schools have the funding they desperately need. 

In 1988, the School Finance Act set a uniform school district mill levy -- a property tax applied based on the assessed value of the property -- so that theoretically, each resident would contribute the same proportion of local property taxes to school funding. 

However, the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights imposes a cap on school district tax revenue. So between 1994 and 2002, voters in 174 of 178 school districts in Colorado chose to permanently waive TABOR’s revenue limitations (“De-Bruce”) in order to fill in the gaps caused by its arbitrary restrictions on public school funding. Despite those votes, the Colorado Dept. of Education continued to require school districts to reduce their tax rates (total program mill levy) to remain under TABOR’s revenue limits – even though they were legally no longer subject to those limits. There is strong reason to believe that these forced reductions were illegitimate and the source of serious structural inequity.

Due to this error, some property owners pay tax rates that are 16 times higher than that of taxpayers in neighboring school districts on properties of the same value, which forces the state to send disproportionately high state funding to our wealthiest districts, subtracting from what would otherwise be distributed to all districts.

HB21-1164, authorized by the recent ruling from the Colorado State Supreme Court, will allow districts to recoup tens of millions of dollars for school funding at a critical time in our state’s recovery.

Senate Democrats Take Strong Action on Climate

Approve Landmark Legislation to Protect Environment & Support Disproportionately Impacted Communities

DENVER, CO - Today, Senate Democrats passed a bill on third reading and final passage that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance environmental justice in disadvantaged communities, and set Colorado on a pathway to meeting the climate targets established in HB19-1261. 

The bill, HB21-1266, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter & Janet Buckner, was strengthened with amendments to direct more resources to communities in transition away from fossil fuels, increase the focus on disproportionately impacted populations, set firm enforcement mechanisms for the electricity, oil & gas, and industrial & manufacturing sectors, and advance environmental justice in executive branch rulemakings.

“Although this bill has been on a long journey, our aim from the beginning was to put the pollution reduction targets from the Governor’s Climate Roadmap into law,” said Senator Winter (D-Westminster). “This bill takes vitally important steps to hold  our state accountable to our climate targets, creating meaningful and lasting measures to support those most affected by the impacts of global warming.”

“Today is a historic day for Colorado, as we pass landmark legislation to tackle the climate crisis, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect the most vulnerable and marginalized Coloradans,” said Senator Buckner (D-Aurora). “With this important bill, we can build a sustainable future that supports the health and well-being of our residents, regardless of zip code, as well as the longevity of our environment and precious natural resources. Our efforts to act on climate do not stop here, but this is a major step in the right direction.”

Specifically, the bill advances environmental justice by eliminating the polluter pay loophole that exempts greenhouse gas emissions from pollution fees, creating an independent ombudsperson that reports directly to the Department of Public Health & Environment, allowing pollution penalties to be invested back into disproportionately impacted communities. 

In addition, the bill establishes the Environmental Justice Action Task Force – consisting of members from local communities, tribal governments, government agencies, and organizations – to determine how Colorado will embed equity in all environmental decision-making, including rulemakings, policy development, and facility permitting.

In order to reduce greenhouse gas pollution, the bill establishes clear enforcement mechanisms for the reduction of greenhouse gases in the electricity sector – requiring the oil and gas sector to reduce emissions 48% by 2025 and 60% by 2030, and mandating the industrial and manufacturing sector to reduce emissions at least 20% by 2030.

To support the just transition of fossil fuel communities, the bill requires an audit of best value employment metrics used by the Public Utilities Commission to better understand if this important policy is actually ensuring that clean energy jobs are good jobs and requires the Office of Just Transition to develop a long-term budget based on federal, state, and other funding sources, outlining the resource needs of the office.

Lastly, the bill requires, for the first time, that polluters pay for their climate pollution – closing a loophole that has existed for decades and adding a new provision that requires the social cost of carbon to be included in economic impact analyses at the Air Quality Control Commission. 

HB21-1266 now heads back to the House for final action. To read the bill and find updates regarding its status, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb21-1266.

Historic Legislative Session Concludes

DENVER, CO – House and Senate leadership tonight released the following statements after the gavels fell on the historic First Session of the 73rd General Assembly.

“This was an ambitious and historic session,” said Speaker Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “From the very beginning, we were clear about what we set out to do, and we delivered on our promises. Democrats demonstrated that we have earned the trust Coloradans put in us to govern responsibly. Sometimes, history makes us. This year, we made history.”

“There is no doubt that this last year was marked by tragedy, but it was also marked by triumph,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo. “Rather than succumb to the weight of a pandemic and economic recession, we used all of our resources to not only persevere but build back stronger than we were before. From transformational infrastructure investments to landmark stimulus policies, we used this session as an opportunity to take on the big challenges and make generational change. I am incredibly proud of what we were able to accomplish and I can’t wait to see our work in action.”

“This session will be remembered for decades as one of the most ambitious and productive in recent memory,” said House Majority Leader, D-Pueblo. “We made investments and reforms that will create a more prosperous Colorado for working families for decades to come. As I go home to Pueblo to welcome the newest member of my family, I’ll go home knowing that the work we did this session will make life better for my future child, and for Coloradans of every background across the state.”

“After an unprecedented year in Colorado, we returned to the Capitol with an ambitious to-do list. I’m so proud to celebrate each and every accomplishment coming out of this session – and they are many,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “From immediate small business relief and housing assistance, to landmark transportation legislation and gun violence prevention measures, we were truly responsive to both today’s needs and tomorrow’s prosperity. The hard work from Democrats over the past few months has resulted in one of the most productive and consequential legislative sessions in recent memory.”

Revitalizing Our Economy, Delivering Urgent Relief, Forging a More Prosperous Future for Coloradans

In the midst of a global pandemic and challenging year that has severely impacted the lives of Coloradans, Democrats came together to not only deliver urgent relief to struggling Coloradans but build our state back stronger. By focusing on revitalizing our economy, delivering urgent relief, and forging a more prosperous future for all Coloradans, the legislature was able to deliver on promises that were years in the making – passing transformational legislation that will pave the way for a Colorado where everyone can thrive. This was accomplished by putting people over politics and working across the aisle to accomplish great things, resulting in 91% of our passed legislation receiving bipartisan support.

In order to recover faster and build back stronger, lawmakers prioritized addressing our most pressing challenges head-on. This meant developing a bipartisan state stimulus package to foster the Colorado Comeback, making monumental investments to strengthen small businesses, supporting Colorado families, investing in rural Colorado, and developing our workforce.

Specifically, lawmakers passed bills to create a $30 million startup loan fund for businesses across the state, provide $15 million in grants to small businesses, and invested $22 million to support artists and arts and culture organizations. We also championed legislation that will provide more than $100 million to increase child care capacity and affordability, create a $30 million loan and grant program for Colorado’s agricultural sector, add $5 million to the Rural Economic Development Initiative, and allocate $25 million in funding for upskilling and reskilling our state’s workforce.

In addition to passing state stimulus policies, state leaders worked collaboratively to enact Colorado’s roadmap to Building Back Stronger – embarking on a statewide listening tour to gather input on how to allocate nearly $4 billion in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. The resulting legislation immediately deployed hundreds of millions of dollars to make housing more affordable, provide emergency behavioral health services and help workers complete degree or skills-training programs. The roadmap also dedicated $1.3 billion in federal funds to protect critical state services in future years and set aside nearly $1.8 billion for future transformational investments in housing, behavioral health, and workforce development that will be crafted through bipartisan interim processes.

Beyond tackling urgent needs and enacting once-in-a-generation stimulative plans, lawmakers prioritized addressing longstanding issues that have burdened Colorado for decades. One such issue is the inaccessibility and unaffordability of health care. With skyrocketing health care costs and limited options, lawmakers crafted legislation to implement the Colorado Option, a policy that is set to save Coloradans 15 percent on their insurance premiums and create a guaranteed plan for consumers. Lawmakers also passed the Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Board, which will reduce the cost of prescription drugs and ensure that no Coloradan is forced to forgo life-saving medication.

Another long-standing issue that has held Colorado’s economy back for decades is transportation. After booming population growth yet stagnant funding, Colorado’s infrastructure is in desperate need of significant repair and modernization. That’s why the 73rd General Assembly prioritized passing a groundbreaking transportation plan – finally ending the deadlock that has plagued our state for years. Supported by a large, bipartisan coalition, this historic legislation will help connect people and goods from all corners of the state, ensure our economy can compete on the national stage, and allow Coloradans to get where they’re going faster and more safely.

Sadly, the legislature was also confronted with the all-too-familiar issue of gun violence during the legislative session. After 10 people lost their lives in the Boulder King Sooper shooting, Democratic lawmakers crafted and passed three measures designed to curb the gun violence epidemic in our state. These policies together will save lives by expanding background checks, closing loopholes, and giving local governments the tools they need to craft community-based solutions to gun violence. The three bills passed in addition to three other measures that address firearm safety including safe storage, lost and stolen reporting, and protecting domestic violence survivors from gun violence.

In 2021 General Assembly Democrats rose to the occasion and championed policies that will not only support people in the aftermath of the pandemic but pave a hopeful path forward by creating a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous Colorado for all.

Revitalizing our economy:
Thanks to the swift and bold action of our federal delegation, Colorado was afforded a once-in-a-generation opportunity to jumpstart our struggling economy and strengthen our recovery. From rebuilding our workforce by giving Coloradans the tools they need to fill good-paying jobs, to investing in up-and-coming businesses and revitalizing mainstreets we have delivered on our promise to help Colorado recover faster and build back stronger.

Strengthening small businesses and community centers:
HB21-1288— Colorado Startup Loan Program**
SB21-241— Small Business Accelerated Growth Program**
HB21-1302–– Continue COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program**
HB21-1265— Qualified Retailer Retain Sales Tax For Assistance**
HB21-1312— Increase to Business Personal Property Tax Exemption**
SB21-252— Community Revitalization Grant Program**
HB21-1263— Meeting And Events Incentive Program**
SB21-110— Fund Safe Revitalization Of Main Streets**

Investing in rural Colorado and agriculture:
SB21-203— Funding For Colorado Proud**
SB21-204— Rural Economic Development Initiative Grant Program Funding**
SB21-229— Rural Jump-start Zone Grant Program**
SB21-248— Loan Program For Colorado Agriculture**
SB21-234— General Fund Transfer Agriculture And Drought Resiliency**
SB21-235— Stimulus Funding Department Of Agriculture Efficiency Programs**
HB21-1290— Additional Funding For Just Transition**

Developing our workforce:
HB21-1264— Funds Workforce Development Increase Worker Skills**
HB21-1270— SNAP workforce**
HB21-1330— Higher Education Student Success**
SB21-232— Displaced Workers Grant**
HB21-1149— Energy Sector Career Pathway In Higher Education**
HB21-1007— State Apprenticeship Agency
HB21-1215–– Business Training for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals**

Stock Show, State Fair, Agriculture Fairs and Events, Arts and Creative Industries:
HB21-1262— Money Support Agricultural Events Organization**
HB21-1285— Funding To Support Creative Arts Industries**

Delivering urgent relief:
With sky-high unemployment, social isolation, and prolonged uncertainty, too many Coloradans were being crushed under the weight of the pandemic. That’s why we prioritized providing direct relief to struggling families – allocating funds for housing, childcare, and food assistance efforts; and bolstering mental and behavioral healthcare services.

K-12 and Higher Education:
2021 School Finance Act: The 2021 school finance act increases total program funding by $750.8 million. Per pupil funding for the 2021-2022 school year will be $8,991, an increase of $868 (10.7 percent) over the current school year.

This year’s School Finance Act restores the Budget Stabilization Factor to where it was before the devastation of the pandemic. By reducing the Budget Stabilization Factor, each school district in Colorado will see a fair and equal, per-pupil increase to the state share of total program funding they receive.

The School Finance Act also restores funding to grant programs that were cut last year. These grant programs offer a number of critical services such as dropout prevention, literacy attainment, access to advanced placement courses, special education, bullying prevention and behavioral health support.

2021-2022 State Budget: The Long Appropriations bill resumes state support for institutions of higher education, increasing funding by $494 million over last year’s budget.

The budget invests $160 Million in School Infrastructure (BEST) to construct, renovate, or maintain school facilities and structures and directs an additional $100 Million for the State Education Fund (SEF), which funds teacher recruitment, full-day kindergarten, early literacy programs, and helps finance public school systems across Colorado.

Supporting Colorado families and youth:
SB21-236— Increase Capacity Early Childhood Care & Education**
SB21-027— Emergency Supplies For Colorado Babies And Families**
SB21-202–– Funding Public School Air Quality Projects**
HB21-1311— Boosting Colorado Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit HB21-1161— Suspend Statewide Assessments For Select Grades
HB21-1259–– Extended Learning Opportunities
SB21-013–– Reversing COVID-related Learning Loss
HB21-1234–– Supplemental Education High-impact Tutoring Programs**
SB21-053— Adjustments To School Funding Fiscal Year 2020-21
SB21-292— Federal COVID Funding For Victim's Services**

Helping Coloradans avoid eviction and making housing more affordable:
HB21-1271— Department Of Local Affairs Innovative Affordable Housing Strategies** HB21-1329— American Rescue Plan Act Money To Invest Affordable Housing**
HB21-1117–– Local Government Authority Promote Affordable Housing Units
HB21-1054–– Housing Public Benefit Verification Requirement
SB21-173— Rights In Residential Lease Agreements
SB21-242— Housing Development Grants Hotels Tenancy Support Program**
HB21-1121— Residential Tenancy Procedures
HB21-1274— Unused State-owned Real Property Beneficial Use

Increasing access to mental health care:
HB21-1258— Rapid Mental Health Response For Colorado Youth**
SB21-137— Behavioral Health Recovery Act**
SB21-239— 2-1-1 Statewide Human Services Referral System**
HB21-1119— Suicide Prevention, Intervention, & Postvention
HB21-1068— Insurance Coverage Mental Health Wellness Exam
HB21-1281— Community Behavioral Health Disaster Program

Protecting communities from wildfire
SB21-258— Wildfire Risk Mitigation**
SB21-240— Watershed Restoration Grant Program Stimulus**
HB21-1260–– Funding for the State Water Plan**
HB21-1208— Natural Disaster Mitigation Enterprise**
SB21-054— Transfers For Wildfire Mitigation And Response
SB21-113— Firefighting Aircraft Wildfire Mgmt And Response**
HB21-1008— Forest Health Project Financing

Supporting Colorado’s Veterans
HB21-1065— Veterans' Hiring Preference
SB21-129— Veteran Suicide Prevention Pilot Program
SB21-032— Mobile Veterans-support Unit Grant Program

Forging a more prosperous future for Coloradans:
This pandemic has taken a serious toll on our lives and our livelihoods, but Coloradans are resilient and we used this as an opportunity to not only recover, but build back stronger. That’s why we passed transformational policies increasing access to affordable healthcare, investing in the sustainability of our transportation system, reforming our justice system, and protecting our environment for generations to come. The legislature set aside over $1 billion to fortify the state’s budget and created a responsible process to hear from experts on the most effective way to allocate nearly $1 billion in funding toward mental health, housing, workforce development, and the long-term resilience of Colorado’s economy.

Improving Colorado’s transportation and infrastructure:
SB21-260— Sustainability Of The Transportation System
SB21-238— Create Front Range Passenger Rail District
HB21-1186— Regional Transportation District Operation
HB21-1289— Funding For Broadband Deployment

Reducing the cost of health care and prescription drugs, improving access to care and addressing health disparities:
HB21-1232— Standardized Health Benefit Plan Colorado Option;
SB21-175— Prescription Drug Affordability Review Board
HB21-1097— Establish Behavioral Health Administration;
SB21-123–– Expand Canadian Rx Import Program
SB21-009–– Reproductive Health Care Program
SB21-194— Maternal Health Providers
SB21-193— Protection Of Pregnant People In Perinatal Period
SB21-016–– Protecting Preventive Health Care Coverage

Providing a high quality education to all students:
HB21-1325— Funding Public Schools Formula
HB21-1304— Early Childhood System
SB21-185— Supporting Educator Workforce In Colorado
HB21-1173— Prohibiting Legacy Preferences In Higher Ed Insts
HB21-1067— College Admission Use Of National Test Score

Advancing Justice in Colorado Communities:
HB21-1315— Costs Assessed To Juveniles In The Criminal Justice System
HB21-1314— Department Of Revenue Action Against Certain Documents
HB21-1280— Pre-trial Detention Reform
SB21-271— Misdemeanor Reform
HB21-1214— Record Sealing Collateral Consequences Reduction
HB21-1250— Measures to Address Law Enforcement Accountability
HB21-1251— Appropriate Use Of Chemical Restraints On A Person
HB21-1122— First Responder Interactions Persons With Disabilities
SB21-087–– Agricultural Workers' Rights

Protecting Communities
SB21-073— Civil Action Statute Of Limitations Sexual Assault
HB21-1298— Expand Firearm Transfer Background Check Requirements
HB21-1299— Office Of Gun Violence Prevention
SB21-256— Local Regulation Of Firearms
SB21-078— Lost Or Stolen Firearms (Isabella Joy Thallas Act)
HB21-1106— Safe Storage Of Firearms
HB21-1255— Protection Order Issued Against Domestic Abuser
HB21-1165— Assistance For Victims Of Strangulation
HB21-1143— Protect Survivors' Rights To Rape Kit Evidence
HB21-1107— Protections For Public Health Department Workers
HB21-1110— Colorado Laws For Persons With Disabilities

Protecting our clean air and water, and addressing climate change:
SB21-264— Adopt Programs Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions Utilities
SB21-230–– Financing Clean Energy Projects
SB21-231–– Funding for Weatherization Assistance
HB21-1266— Environmental Justice Disproportionate Impacted Community
HB21-1238— Public Utilities Commission Modernize Gas Utility
HB21-1286— Energy Performance For Buildings
HB21-1253— Renewable And Clean Energy Project Grants**
HB21-1189— Regulate Air Toxics

Responsibly Allocating Federal Stimulus Funds
SB21-288— American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 Cash Fund
SB21-289— Revenue Loss Restoration Cash Fund
SB21-291— Economic Recovery And Relief Cash Fund

Improving Colorado’s Elections
HB21-1011— Multilingual Ballot Access For Voters
HB21-1071— Ranked Choice Voting In Nonpartisan Elections
SB21-250— Elections And Voting

** = Bill is part of the Colorado Comeback State Stimulus plan or federal stimulus roadmap.

Senate Gives Final Approval to Remaining Stimulus Bills, Rounding Out the 2021 Colorado Comeback Package

Stimulus bills providing financial support to outdoor recreation and affordable housing receive approval from the Senate

DENVER, CO - Today, the State Senate gave approval to the final two stimulus bills that are all a part of Colorado’s recovery package, both with unanimous support.

HB21-1326, sponsored by Senator Tammy Story, will invest $25 million in federal funds to improve Colorado state parks. Specifically, the bill invests $750,000 to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center to support backcountry avalanche safety programs; $3.5 million to the Division of Parks and Wildlife to implement its statewide wildlife action plan and the conservation of native species; $2.25 million to the search and rescue fund for use by the Department of Local Affairs in consultation with the division to support backcountry search and rescue efforts; $1 million to the outdoor equity fund for use by the division to implement the outdoor equity grant program; and $17.5 million for state park staffing and maintenance and infrastructure and development projects.

“Colorado’s state parks and great outdoors are the pride and joy of this state. However, with the stay-at-home orders and social distancing over the last year, our parks have seen a major increase in visitation and have not had adequate resources to handle the influx of visitors,” said Senator Story (D-Evergreen). “This $25 million investment will help address the backlog of upgrades and maintenance needs in our state parks and ensure Coloradans can continue to enjoy our natural environment for years to come.”

HB21-1329, sponsored by Senator Gonzales & Minority Leader Holbert, channels $550 million in federal stimulus funds toward affordable housing efforts. It immediately invests $100 million of that funding to help Coloradans who have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic obtain affordable housing. The bill requires a broad and diverse stakeholder process during the interim that will develop and make recommendations to the General Assembly for how to allocate the remaining $450 million. The funds will be used on programs or services that address housing insecurity, a lack of affordable housing or homelessness, including the construction of new affordable housing units, housing and rental assistance programs, and supportive housing programs.

“This session, I’ve made it my focus to ensure housing is a right, not a privilege,” said Senator Gonzales (D-Denver). “I’ve worked to address homelessness, tenants’ rights, and affordable housing, and I could not be more proud to channel this historic amount of funding to address both our immediate and long-term housing needs.”

Both bills now head to the House for final action. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Sen. Lee Expresses Disappointment & Frustration Following Defeat Of Landmark Criminal Justice & Policing Bill

SB21-273 aimed to end practices that criminalize poverty and undermine trust in law enforcement

DENVER, CO — Following the defeat of SB21-273: Pretrial Reform in House Finance, bill sponsor Senator Pete Lee released the subsequent statement:

"I am shocked, disappointed, and saddened by the defeat of SB21-273. This bill was the result of countless hours of thoughtful deliberation and careful negotiation, and that was not reflected by the abrupt decision to defeat this measure. 

The purpose of this bill was to heal and reset the relationship between law enforcement and the community – ending the dangerous practices that have both criminalized poverty and taken innocent lives.

I grieve for the community that has time and again been impacted by police violence. I grieve for the difference this would have made in vulnerable Coloradans’ lives. And I grieve for the advocates who have given their hearts and souls to this effort, demonstrating unwavering passion for transformational change. 

But this is not the end, we will continue fighting for justice. While a certainly demoralizing set-back, my commitment remains unbroken. I will continue to advocate and bring forth policies to build a more just criminal-legal system, one that respects a person’s innocence until proven guilty, one that gives equal freedom and protection under the law, one that is more restorative and healing for victims, and one that is truly blind to both race and status." 

Senate Unanimously Approves Bill to Improve Law Enforcement Accountability, Enhance Public Safety

Legislation builds on progress from 2020’s landmark police reform bill 

DENVER, CO - Today, the Senate unanimously passed a bill that seeks to reform law enforcement practices in Colorado, building on the progress the legislature made last session to reduce police violence and address systemic racism. 

HB21-1250, sponsored by Senator Rhonda Fields, updates requirements related to the instances when body-worn cameras must be operating to include welfare checks. It also directs the Division of Criminal Justice to streamline the reporting requirements for peace officers, which will now include detailing whether an ambulance was called to the scene of an incident, whether there was a forcible entry into a residence, and the number of officer-involved civilian deaths. These changes will provide a more holistic approach to data collection and transparency regarding law enforcement interactions.

“The way law enforcement interacts with our communities must fundamentally change. Too many innocent lives have been taken, too many families grieved by senseless violence – we must continue the work of holding bad actors accountable by mandating transparency practices and reining in the use of force,” said Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora). “Last year we passed one of the most sweeping police reform policies in the country and this bill aims to build upon the progress by strengthening and clarifying the law to ensure its proper and complete adoption.” 

In 2020, Senate Democrats championed one of the most progressive police reform bills in the nation, passing SB20-217 with overwhelming support, which was a historic step toward ensuring transparency, integrity and accountability for law enforcement in Colorado. Since its passage, conversations around the state have continued regarding the law’s implementation, presenting opportunities to bolster adoption and clarify expectations.

The legislation will now return to the House for final action before heading to the Governor’s desk. Track the progress of the bill here.

Senate Approves Bipartisan Legislation to Reduce Property Taxes, Provide Relief to Coloradans

Legislation would save taxpayers nearly $200 million collectively

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved a bill with bipartisan support to lower property tax rates for single-family and multifamily housing units, renewable-energy property, and agricultural land over the next two years. 

“Property values are rising across Colorado, and it’s imperative that we act this session to mitigate the impact for hardworking families,” said Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “This bill will reduce certain property tax rates over the next two years, allowing us to address the rapidly changing property market in our state and provide substantial relief to the people who need it most.” 

SB21-293 would lower the current 7.15% tax assessment rate on residential properties to 6.95% for single-family homes and 6.8% for multifamily properties over the next two years. In addition, it would lower the 29% assessment rate to 26.4% for agricultural property and for property used to produce renewable energy. The bill would also allow property owners to delay payment of up to $10,000 of the growth in their property tax bills until they sell their homes.

Lower tax assessment rates only for property tax years 2022 and 2023 would give the state time to study the effect of the reductions to determine if they should be adjusted or extended. The bill would also expand the optional tax deferral system – currently only available to seniors and active-duty military members – to anyone whose property-tax liability grows by more than 4% from the average amount owed over the previous two years.

SB21-293 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.

Colorado Comeback Bills to Address Homelessness, Support Creative Industries Pass Senate!

Legislation would promote affordable housing development & uplift artists & cultural organizations impacted by the pandemic

DENVER, CO – Today, two Colorado Comeback bills seeking to address homelessness and support creative industries, passed with bipartisan support.  

HB21-1271, sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, will establish grant programs to encourage local governments to utilize affordable housing strategies and will direct money to local governments for the acquisition or restoration of underutilized properties to house people experiencing homelessness. 

“We have a serious housing problem here in Colorado, and we need to think outside the box in order to develop more affordable housing to ensure that every Coloradan has a safe and affordable place to live,” said Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver). “This bill will provide much-needed resources to help innovative solutions to the housing crisis, which will help lift up some of the most vulnerable members of our community.” 

Specifically, HB21-1271 creates three different programs in the Department of Local Affairs to promote innovative solutions for the development of affordable housing across the state. Together, the programs provide for $13 million in state stimulus funds to jump-start development in the next three years.

HB21-1285, sponsored by Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis & Janet Buckner, provides $10 million to support artists and cultural organizations in Colorado that have been impacted by COVID-19. This includes funding for the performance-based film incentive, cultural facilities, and the CO Creative Industries grant program set up during the 2020 special session. 

“Venues, artists, media, and other creative industries are the heart of Colorado’s economy, and they have faced immeasurable challenges over the last year,” said Senator Jaquez Lewis (D-Boulder County). “As we work to build back stronger, we need to ensure that we uplift the vibrant arts and cultural facilities that make our state so unique.  This funding will help these indispensable organizations get back on their feet and ensure their longevity as Coloradans start returning to our beloved concert halls, museums, and movie theaters.” 

“This pandemic has taken a huge toll on our creative industries – forcing them to navigate both an economic recession and shifting capacity restrictions for more than a year,” said Senator Buckner (D-Aurora). “Not only will this bill provide relief for the industry as a whole, but it will target direct assistance to cultural facilities that focus on programming for historically marginalized and under-resourced communities to ensure our recovery is equitable.”

Both bills now move back to the House for final action before heading to the Governor’s desk. Track the progress of the legislation by visiting leg.colorado.gov.

Senate Passes Five Colorado Comeback Bills UNANIMOUSLY as Session Nears the Finish Line

Stimulus bills providing financial support for the State Water Plan, tourism, small businesses, broadband, & workforce development, receive final approval from the Senate

DENVER, CO - Today, the State Senate gave final approval to five stimulus bills that are a part of Colorado’s recovery package, all with unanimous support.

HB21-1260, sponsored by Senators Kerry Donovan & Cleave Simpson, provides $20 million to the Colorado Water Conservation Board to implement the Colorado Water Plan, which will help fund a wide array of projects across the state. Ensuring that Colorado can meet its future water needs is critical in maintaining our state as a competitive place to work, play, and live. 

“Colorado’s water challenges demand united focus and innovation,” said Senator Donovan (D-Vail). “This $20 million investment is an important step in Colorado’s work to address looming issues such as drought, climate change, and population growth. But to truly solve these challenges facing Colorado’s water, we must continue to work with farmers and ranchers, conservationists, and water providers to find the necessary funding solutions that Colorado currently lacks.”

HB21-1263, sponsored by Senators Robert Rodriguez and Dennis Hisey, creates a program to provide organizations and businesses up to 10% rebates for holding an event in the state. The program also offers rebates of up to 25% for hard costs of complying with COVID-19 associated public health orders for the event. This will help bring people back for the weddings, vacations, conferences, and festivals that have halted since COVID. 

“Colorado typically has a booming events and tourism industry. From weddings to conferences to concerts, we attract people from all around the country and the world to our beautiful state. But COVID has decimated this industry and put thousands of people out of work.” said Senator Rodriguez (D-Denver). “We need to attract business back to Colorado, that’s why this bill is so critical. By giving organizations and businesses a 10% rebate for holding events in Colorado, we will be powering the comeback and stimulating local economies."

HB21-1302, sponsored by Senator Faith Winter, provides $15 million to the successful Energize Gap Fund. Colorado established the fund to support as many Colorado businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic as possible, but it specifically prioritized rural businesses and those that are majority-owned by veterans, women, and minorities. HB21-1302 makes modifications to the program to also prioritize businesses that missed out on the initial cycle of funding, businesses in economically distressed areas, and for-profit sole proprietorships. 

“After receiving CARES Act funds from the federal government last year, one of our top priorities was keeping small businesses afloat throughout the pandemic, and the Energize Gap Fund has been a proven and effective vehicle for getting those dollars out the door,” said Senator Winter (D-Westminster). “To bolster the continuation of this program, this bill will ensure that the new round of federal funding is targeted towards those who need it most.”

HB21-1289, sponsored by Senators Jeff Bridges and Kevin Priola, provides $75M to increase internet access across Colorado to support services that have become a necessity during the pandemic, like telehealth. It specifically includes $20M for the Ute Mountain and Southern Ute Tribes. Colorado has an opportunity to help bridge the digital divide exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic by increasing broadband access for our students, communities, and businesses, and this bill takes a big first step. 

“Especially after this last year, more and more of our economy is online, and we have an obligation to make sure every Coloradan can participate in that economy. said Senator Jeff Bridges (D-Greenwood Village). “Connecting unserved and underserved communities to high-speed reliable internet creates more opportunity for everyone, and increases statewide equity and prosperity for all of our families.”

HB21-1264, sponsored by Senators Chris Kolker and Dennis Hisey, invests $25 million to create an initiative within the state Workforce Development Council to reskill, upskill, and “next-skill” workers during periods of substantial unemployment. This will ensure that the state can build back stronger by making sure that Colorado’s workers have the tools they need to thrive. 

“The last year has had a devastating impact on all of us, but especially our workforce. Coloradans were unexpectedly forced out of work during the pandemic, which resulted in financial loss, heightened stress, and decreased productivity,” said Senator Chirs Kolker (D-Centennial). “In order for us to build back stronger, we need to ensure that our workers are fully equipped with this skill set necessary for them to get back to work and do their jobs efficiently. This funding supports training to advance one’s skills with their chosen work and develop new skills for those looking for careers new to the twenty-first century.” 

HB21-1260, HB21-1289, and HB21-1264 now head to the House for final action HB21-1263 and HB21-1302 now head to the Governor’s desk for his signature. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Senate Democrats Stand Up for Patients, Fight for Increased Access & Affordability of Insulin

HB21-1307 will work to ensure that no one with diabetes will have to worry about affording their life-saving prescription

DENVER, CO - Today, Senate Democrats gave final approval to legislation to ensure that all Coloradans who need it have access to affordable insulin – a life-saving policy in response to egregious price hikes perpetrated by big pharma. 

HB21-1307, sponsored by Senators Kerry Donovan and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, increases access to insulin by clarifying that the current $100 cap on a person’s monthly insulin supply applies regardless of the number of prescriptions a person may have. Furthermore, it allows eligible consumers to access one emergency prescription insulin supply for no more than $35 per 12-month period. 

“Over the past ten years, insulin costs for patients in Colorado have skyrocketed,” said Sen. Kerry Donovan (D- Vail). “Those price increases have very real and severe consequences - in 2020 nearly 74,000 Coloradans who rely on insulin for diabetes, reported rationing their medication, or fasting to manage their blood sugar because they couldn’t pay for their prescription. Big pharma is concerned with their profits, while patients for whom insulin is like oxygen, suffer. In Colorado, we are saying no more. This bill means immediate access to insulin for everyone who needs it in every corner of the state.”    

“Insulin is a necessary, life-saving drug that should be accessible to all diabetics regardless of income,” said Senator Jaquez Lewis (D-Boulder County). “As a  Pharmacist, I have seen the pain in people’s eyes when they can’t afford their medications – forced to choose between providing for their family and caring for their own health. It's time that we prioritize people over corporations and ensure that everyone, no matter their socioeconomic status, can access the prescriptions they need.”

The bill also creates the Insulin Affordability Program in the Division of Insurance to help eligible individuals obtain prescription insulin for $50 a month for 12 months. The findings of an investigation conducted by the Colorado Attorney General’s office released in November 2020, found that over 40% of Coloradans using insulin rationed their medicine due to cost and that over 37% use expired insulin to stretch their supplies due to high costs.

Despite the success of HB19-1216, the landmark 2019 bill that established the $100 price caps on insulin, many diabetics with employer-sponsored plans or those without insurance coverage have fallen through the cracks, especially throughout the pandemic. This bill will help fill in the gaps and ensure that everyone, regardless of insurance coverage, has access to affordable, life-saving insulin.

The bill will now head to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law. To read the bill and find updates regarding its status, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Senate Democrats Pass Tax Fairness Package, Putting More Money in the Pockets of Hardworking Coloradans

Two bills seeking to provide tax relief to working families, seniors, and small businesses near the legislative finish line

DENVER, CO - Today, the Senate passed a pair of bills working to reform our tax code by supporting families and local businesses; investing more in education, public health, and other basic state services; and closing regressive special interest tax loopholes. The bills, both sponsored by Senators Dominick Moreno & Chris Hansen, seek to build on progress made with tax relief legislation last year and aim to ensure Colorado’s economic recovery is efficient, equitable, and sustainable.

“The pandemic has both exposed and deepened existing inequities as well as created new ones,” said Senator Moreno (D-Commerce City). “As we recover, we can either continue business as usual, with decades-old special interest tax loopholes benefitting a handful of entrenched interests, or we can reform our tax code and uplift hardworking families, small businesses, and the most vulnerable Coloradans. The choice is clear.”

“Colorado’s tax code has been deeply unfair for far too long. Between our flat income tax structure, TABOR, and other restrictive fiscal policies, our state is entrenching power and protecting the status quo at the expense of hardworking people,” said Senator Hansen (D-Denver). “These bills will insert equity and integrity into our tax code by expanding working family tax credits like the EITC, as well as limiting loopholes for millionaires and huge corporations.”

Colorado’s hardworking families and small businesses are struggling to climb the economic ladder, put food on their tables, pay for housing, or afford higher education – while high-powered corporate interests protect an outdated tax system that gives handouts to those who’ve already reached the top.

HB21-1311 takes a critical look at the tax code to modify or eliminate provisions that have objectively failed their intended purpose or are broadly disadvantageous to local businesses and families. Instead, the bill prioritizes hardworking Coloradans by expanding tax credits for low and middle-income earners while curbing unjust tax-avoidance practices by big business. This includes prohibiting corporations from hiding their earnings in off-shore tax havens as well as reinstating itemized deduction caps for the wealthiest Coloradans. 

According to a non-partisan legislative analysis, the provisions in this bill will raise approximately $110 million in revenue for the state and will pay out over $450 million to working families, low-income Coloradans, and small businesses over the next 3 years.

Meanwhile, HB21-1312 seeks to adjust other state tax expenditures to prevent exploitation and ensure consistent application of tax laws. Specifically, the bill modifies ineffective tax subsidies for the largest businesses by eliminating property tax loopholes as well as other excessive write-offs. 

These bills provide Colorado with an opportunity to support everyday citizens and small businesses that make up the backbone of our economy – prioritizing those being left behind in our recovery.

Both bills will now head back to the House for final action before being signed into law by the Governor. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Senate Passes Colorado Comeback Legislation With Near Unanimous Support

Stimulus bills providing tutoring for K-12 students, youth mental health services, support for agricultural events, and small business aid clear the full Senate

DENVER, CO - Today, the Senate approved several stimulus bills that are a part of Colorado’s recovery package on third reading and final passage, all with strong bipartisan support.

HB21-1262, sponsored by Senate President Leroy Garcia and Senator Jerry Sonnenberg, provides $3.5 million to the Colorado Stock Show – a staple to the state’s agricultural economy and Denver’s economy – as well as $3.5 million for the State Fair, and $2 million to agricultural events organizations across the state. The bill advanced out of the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee with unanimous support.

“Without direct support to the agriculture industry, Colorado won’t truly recover from the effects of the pandemic,” said Senate President Garcia (D-Pueblo). “My bipartisan bill to send millions of dollars to the Colorado State Fair, the National Western Stock Show, and other agriculture events will provide the support the industry needs to weather this storm.”

HB21-1265, sponsored by Senators Pettersen & Woodward, continues the successful sales tax assistance effort passed during the 2020 special session. It allows restaurants, bars, caterers, and food service contractors (such as airline food service contractors and food concession contractors at sporting events) to deduct up to $70,000 in net taxable sales from their monthly state sales tax return and retain the resulting sales tax revenue during the months of June, July, and August 2021. 

“Our local businesses have shouldered tremendous burdens over the past year. Now it’s our job to lift them up, help them recover, and ensure their longevity moving forward,” said Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood). “This bill will continue critical relief to local bars and eateries that have been struggling to survive – granting them some necessary breathing room while they get back on their feet.” 

HB21-1288, sponsored by Senator James Coleman, establishes the Colorado Startup Loan Program to provide loans and grants for people seeking capital to start, restart, or restructure a business. This program is intended to support businesses in recovering economic losses incurred over the last year and provide easier-to-access capital for entrepreneurs across the state. The bill allocates $30 million to fund and administer the program. 

“With the rapid increase in vaccination rates and the repeal of capacity restrictions, Colorado small businesses are primed for an economic recovery. However, many are still picking up the pieces after the recession of last year,” said Senator Coleman (D-Denver). “This program will help accelerate Colorado’s Comeback by providing small businesses with access to capital, supporting entrepreneurs, and prioritizing financial assistance to disproportionately impacted communities – ensuring our recovery is equitable and lasting.”

HB21-1258 sponsored by Senators Buckner & Woodward, creates a program in the Office of Behavioral Health to reimburse providers for up to three mental health sessions with a young person. The office will also create a website to serve as a portal for youth and providers to be able to navigate the program. Our state’s youth mental health crisis has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and this bill will ensure that Colorado youth can get the help they need and deserve.

“The pandemic has resulted in increased mental health needs for so many Coloradans, but especially for our young people, whose lives and learning have been severely disrupted over the last year,” said Senator Janet Buckner (D-Aurora). “In order to provide relief for our kids, we need to expand access to mental health support. This bill will help break the stigma around mental health by making it easier for kids to seek out care in Colorado.” 

HB21-1234, sponsored by Senators Moreno and Rankin, allocates $5 million to the newly created Colorado high-impact tutoring program to provide grant funding to local education providers, to create high-impact tutoring programs to address student learning loss and unfinished learning resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the learning disruptions of the last year, Colorado 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 will work to fill in those gaps.

“Between school closures, at-home learning, and social isolation, students have faced some of the toughest challenges of this pandemic,” said Senator Moreno (D-Denver). “This bill will invest in our kids’ future by making high-impact tutoring available to address the gaps in student learning – giving them a chance to not only catch up but succeed going forward.”

HB21-1258, HB21-1288, and HB21-1262 now head back to the House for concurrence, and HB21-1234 and HB21-1265 now head to the Governor’s desk. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov.