Governor Polis, Legislative Leadership Discuss Shared Priorities Ahead of 2022 Legislative Session

Polis administration and legislative leadership have a plan to move Colorado forward, saving Coloradans money so people don’t just get by, but thrive

DENVER, CO -  Today, Governor Jared Polis, Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera, and legislative leadership from the General Assembly joined together on the west steps of the state capitol to discuss their shared efforts to move Colorado forward in the 2022 legislative session by saving people money, making communities safer and healthier, and preparing our students for success. 

“We are saving Coloradans money on health care, investing in early childhood education, delivering real relief for Coloradans and small businesses, passing historic bipartisan transportation investments, and taking nation-leading climate action,” said Governor Polis. “We are going bigger and bolder with the urgency of saving people money, ensuring Colorado remains affordable, making historic investments in improving our schools and reducing crime. This is how we continue moving Colorado forward, together.”

“Over the last year, Coloradans again persevered and demonstrated tremendous strength as one unprecedented challenge collided with another”, said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera. “The Polis-Primavera administration and our colleagues in the legislature are ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners around the state, address our struggles, and build on the successes of the last three years. People are what make Colorado special - our plans will propel the state forward into a future where everyone can thrive.”

“Every Colorado family deserves to feel safe and secure in their home and their community,” said Senate President Garcia, D-Pueblo. “We’ve worked hard the past few years to make sure our criminal justice system is more fair and equitable, and we’re going to keep building on that success this session to make Colorado even safer by addressing the underlying causes of crime through bipartisan, evidence-based solutions that will keep our communities safe and secure while ensuring justice and equity for all Coloradans.”

“This session, we will redouble our efforts to save Coloradans money, prepare our students for success, and make smart investments to improve public safety and health,” said Speaker Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “Coloradans are concerned with the high cost of living in our state. We hear these concerns. We have a plan to save you money and make it easier, not just to get by, but to thrive. We’ll be working hard to cut costs where we can and make our state more affordable so that Coloradans can keep more of their hard-earned money in their wallets.” 

“A healthy community is a strong community, and we’ve made great strides in recent years to ensure every Colorado family has the opportunity to stay healthy,” said Majority Leader Fenberg, D-Boulder. “However, we are increasingly faced with challenges that threaten both our health, and our Colorado way of life. That’s why this year we’ll work hard to address emergencies like extreme wildfires and poor air quality by making smart investments in mitigation and prevention strategies while continuing our work to increase access to quality, affordable health care so we can ensure Colorado remains on track to being the healthiest state it can be.”

“We have a tremendous opportunity to make transformational change this year,” said House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “This session we’re going to meet this moment and make the largest investment in K-12 education in the state’s history. Democrats are going to ensure students have the resources they need in their classroom and that every Coloradan has the opportunity to learn new skills to take good paying jobs and thrive.”

State lawmakers will convene to kick off the Second Regular Session of the 73rd General Assembly on  Wednesday, January 12, 2022, and Governor Polis will deliver the state of the state address on Thursday, January 13, 2022. 

Watch today’s press conference. 

Colorado Senate President Garcia, Majority Leader Fenberg Thank President and First Lady Biden for Touring Marshall Fire

BOULDER, CO - Colorado Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo) and Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) today released the following statements thanking President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden for coming to Colorado to tour the devastation from the Marshall Fire and meet with impacted families:

“The Marshall Fire was devastating for the Boulder County community. I am incredibly thankful that President and First Lady Biden took time to come inspect the damage, and give hope to survivors who tragically lost so much in this disaster,” President Garcia said. “This fire took so much from so many, and as we begin the long process of rebuilding we are deeply grateful to everyone who has stepped up to help as we recover. As the President and First Lady saw firsthand today, Coloradans are tough, and I know we will bounce back from this tragedy stronger and more resilient than before.”

“The outpouring of support we have seen for those impacted by this historic fire has been inspiring. However, with a tragedy of this size and scope, and with a recovery that will stretch on through the coming months and even years, Boulder County must also lean on our partners at the federal level,” Majority Leader Fenberg said. “The federal disaster declaration President Biden approved earlier this week has freed up critical aid allowing families to begin the difficult process of rebuilding their lives from the ground up. I am deeply grateful to President Biden and the First Lady for today’s visit to Boulder County, and for their commitment to supporting our community as we continue to recover and rebuild.”

JOINT RELEASE: Affordable Housing Transformational Task Force Statement on Vote to Finalize Draft Report

DENVER, CO - Affordable Housing Transformational Task Force Chair Rep. Dylan Roberts (D-Avon) and Vice Chair Sen. Julie Gonzales (D-Denver) today released a statement following the Task Force’s vote to finalize its draft report on recommendations for utilizing $400 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to address Colorado’s housing crisis:

“For months, our Affordable Housing Transformational Task Force has been working hard to understand the factors driving the affordable housing crisis in different parts of our state so that we make the best use of this opportunity to make transformational changes that will save people money and improve access to housing across our state. We’re proud to have achieved broad and bipartisan support on our recommendations to address this crisis, and we are committed to ensuring that no housing priority in Colorado falls through the cracks. We are excited about the opportunity to make transformational changes to housing in Colorado, and when we return to the Capitol for our legislative session next week we will work to implement these recommendations so that every Colorado family has a stable, affordable place to call home.”

The Affordable Housing Transformational Task Force is charged with making recommendations on policies that will make housing in Colorado more affordable, expand opportunities to build wealth through homeownership, and address homelessness by utilizing $400 million in ARPA funding.

JOINT RELEASE: Law to Protect Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse, Hold Abusers Accountable Goes into Effect

DENVER, CO – Marking the conclusion of a yearslong effort to protect survivors of child sexual abuse and hold institutions that cover up abuse accountable, the Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act goes into effect tomorrow, January 1, 2022.

The law - sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson (D-Wheat Ridge) and Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) and Representatives Dafna Michaelson Jenet (D-Commerce City) and Matt Soper (R-Delta) - allows survivors of child sexual abuse to sue schools, government entities, or private institutions that cover up sexual abuse, as well as the perpetrators, and seeks to prevent future instances of sexual abuse. 

“No child should ever have to suffer sexual abuse, but for far too long our laws have failed to protect the youngest victims of these unspeakable crimes, and today we say no more,” said Sen. Danielson. “This law ensures that actions taken by abusers and institutions to harm our little ones can no longer be swept under the rug, and will hold those bad actors accountable for their vile behavior. I am proud to stand with survivors. I will keep fighting to make sure they finally get the justice they deserve, and can begin to heal.”

“It’s been a long road to get here, but now, survivors of childhood sexual assault can finally pursue justice,” said Rep. Jenet. “Getting this law passed would not have happened without the tireless advocacy and heartbreaking testimony of so many people who told their stories. This law will help hold abusers and the institutions that cover up their crimes accountable. Healing takes time, and now victims of abuse can seek justice that has long been denied.”

“We must protect survivors of sexual abuse at all costs, especially our children, but for decades our laws have benefited abusers over survivors,” said Sen. Fields. “We’re turning the tide on this egregious reality by ensuring that we provide adequate time for survivors to come forward and disclose their abuse. We recognize that the healing process is long and hard, and this historic law will make it easier to stop predators from causing further harm and empower survivors to seek out closure when they are ready.” 

The Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act allows survivors of child sexual abuse to file civil suits through an entirely new and freestanding cause of action, specifically tailored to address coverups that have persisted for decades. The law creates a new right of relief for any person sexually abused in Colorado, including those abused while participating in a youth program as a child. 

Delayed disclosure of child sexual abuse has impacted the path to healing for survivors and often, by the time victims are able to come forward about their experience, Colorado’s extraordinarily short window of opportunity to file civil legal claims has closed.

This has historically prevented 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 cleared the Senate and House by a wide, bipartisan majority, and Gov. Jared Polis signed the bill into law last July.

2021 Colorado Senate Democrats Accomplishments

Overview

As 2021 comes to a close, the Colorado Senate Democrats are looking back at a year filled with accomplishments on behalf of the Centennial State. 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. 

From cutting costs for hardworking families and increasing access to safe, affordable housing to combating the pandemic and spurring economic recovery, to directing an unprecedented amount of federal government spending towards transformational change across our state, Colorado Senate Democrats have been laser focused on addressing the growing needs and complex challenges facing the Centennial State. 

Below is a recap of the progress Colorado Senate Democrats made in 2021 to move Colorado forward.

By The Numbers

$5.4 billion - Colorado set aside $5.4 billion over the next ten years to fix our crumbling and outdated transportation system by improving Colorado roads and bridges, investing in the future of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and expanding transit options to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and get folks where they need to go.

$3.8 billion - COVID has continued to challenge our state. Thanks to the American Rescue Plan, Colorado Democrats are working with experts and local leaders to spend $3.8 billion to address fallout from the pandemic and make transformational change in affordable housing, behavioral health, economic recovery, and workforce development.

300,000+ Coloradans - The estimated number of Coloradans newly affected by the tax fairness plan that increases the earned income tax credit and funds the state’s child tax credit.

508 bills  - Total number of bills passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Polis in 2021.

94 percent - Coloradans expect their leaders to work together, and 94 percent of bills passed by the Colorado Senate received bipartisan support. 

15 percent - Increasing access to quality, affordable health care is one of our top priorities, and health insurance premiums will decrease by 15 percent over the next three years thanks to the Colorado Option.

Key Legislative Accomplishments

Colorado Senate Democrats passed multiple landmark pieces of legislation in 2021 aimed at creating jobs and growing the economy, tackling traffic and reducing air pollution, increasing access to affordable health care, improving public safety, getting more qualified teachers into schools, supporting Colorado farmers and ranchers, and much more:

Saving Coloradans Money and Growing Our Economy

2021 Colorado Comeback Stimulus Plan

In order to recover faster and build back stronger, lawmakers developed a bipartisan state stimulus package to foster the Colorado Comeback by making monumental investments to strengthen small businesses, supporting Colorado families, investing in rural Colorado, and developing our workforce.

American Rescue Plan Act Funding

During the 2021 legislative session, lawmakers worked collaboratively with Governor Polis to develop and advance the Colorado Comeback Roadmap to Building Back Stronger, which will invest billions in American Rescue Plan Act funds to make housing more affordable, spur economic growth, improve Colorado’s behavioral health system, and develop our workforce. 

Tax Fairness for Coloradans

Colorado’s hardworking families and small businesses are struggling to climb the economic ladder, put food on their tables, pay for housing, and 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 small businesses and working families, while 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.

Preparing Students and Families for Success

Universal Early Childhood Education

Quality education is a key to success, and the earlier kids start learning, the better they'll do down the road. This bill expands access to high-quality, affordable early childhood educational opportunities by implementing universal pre-k, supporting parents in accessing programs and services, and coordinating the availability of those services.

Supporting Educator Workforce In Colorado

This bill seeks to address the teacher shortage in Colorado by elevating the teaching profession, empowering local leaders to recruit subject matter experts into the educator workforce, developing a workforce that more closely reflects the diversity of students, and expanding pathways into teaching.

Addressing the Climate Crisis

Environmental Justice For Disproportionately Impacted Communities

This critical legislation aims to 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 by directing resources to communities transitioning away from fossil fuels, increasing the focus on disproportionately impacted populations, setting firm enforcement mechanisms for the electricity, oil and gas, and industrial and manufacturing sectors, and advancing environmental justice in executive branch rulemaking.

Sustainability Of The Transportation System

Historic legislation that created a 21st century transportation system that will drive Colorado’s economic comeback, establish a sustainable funding source to improve Colorado roads, invest in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and expand multi-modal and transit options to reduce congestion and improve air quality.

Improving Access to Quality, Affordable Health Care

Colorado Public Option

This landmark bill will significantly lower health insurance premiums on the individual and small group markets and create a new option for consumers that will save Coloradans money and increase access to health care.

Prescription Drug Affordability Review Board

As prescription drug costs continue to skyrocket nationwide, this bill establishes the Prescription Drug Affordability Review Board, which convenes a panel of experts to investigate prescription drug cost increases, and sets guardrails on cost increases for the most expensive prescription drugs in the state.

Health Care Access In Cases Of Rape Or Incest

Current law only allows public funding to be used to pay for reproductive care in certain health care facilities – generally hospitals – and requires that abortion services only be performed by a physician despite the fact that safe abortion care is offered in several out-patient care facilities across the state. This bill expands coverage to Medicaid recipients across the state, and allows survivors of sexual violence to seek the care they need closer to home.

Expand Canadian Rx Import Program

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 percent 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 law builds on that progress by extending the program to nations other than just Canada, so that every Coloradan has access to affordable life-saving prescription drugs.

Improving Public Safety

Promoting Responsible Gun Ownership

Sadly, the legislature also confronted the all-too-familiar issue of gun violence during the 2021 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.

Standing Up for Rural Colorado

Loan Program For Colorado Agriculture

Agriculture creates thousands of jobs and contributes millions of dollars to our economy, but the pandemic has dramatically reduced this growth. As part of the Colorado Comeback state stimulus package, SB21-248 allocates $30 million to create and implement the Colorado Agricultural Future Loan Program which will provide low-interest loans to beginning farmers and ranchers as well as farm-to-market infrastructure loans for businesses, putting Colorado’s agriculture industry on a pathway toward a sustainable and prosperous future.

Getting Veterans the Benefits They’ve Earned

Restoration Of Honor Act

Anyone who serves our country should get the support and resources they need to improve and enhance their lives after service when they get home. However, due to a legal flaw, LGBT+ veterans may not have been discharged honorably from the military due their sexual orientation or gender identity, and thus have not had access to the same benefits as their peers. This is unacceptable. This law establishes the status of “discharged LGBT veteran” for the purposes of Colorado law, which will ensure that no veteran is denied benefits unjustly.

More information about key legislation is available HERE.

Momentum Heading into 2022

After a successful 2021, Colorado Senate Democrats are geared up and ready to head into next year’s General Assembly with the wind at their backs. 

There is still much more work to be done to move Colorado forward, and Senate Democrats have a plan to save people money, increase access to safe, affordable housing, improve public safety, set students up for success, and make sure every Coloradan has the support and resources they need to thrive. 

Colorado Senate Boulder County Delegation Statement on Marshall Fire

BOULDER, CO –The Colorado Senate Boulder County delegation - Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder), Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis (D-Boulder County), and Senator Tammy Story (D-Conifer) - today released a joint statement following the devastating Marshall Fire in Boulder County:

“Yesterday was a devastating scene right out of a nightmare played out in our own backyards, and our hearts go out to every member of the Boulder County community who has suffered through this disaster and lost so much. We are deeply grateful to the incredibly brave first responders who have fought heroically to save homes, businesses, and lives, and to everyone who has stepped up to help their neighbors and offer support in the face of this tragedy. Coloradans are resilient, and especially in times of crisis, we take care of one another. To everyone who has lost something in this blaze, know this: we will be standing beside you every step of the way as our community works to rebuild.”

“Today is December 31st, and we just suffered the most devastating wildfire in Colorado history. Since June, the area that burned near Boulder has received just 1.5 inches of precipitation. This is what living in a climate crisis looks like, and it’s time we all 
all take impactful steps to stop it.”

Sen. Kolker Statement on Up To $2.4 Million in ARPA Funding to Help Colorado Implement 9-8-8 Line, Address Ongoing Mental Health Crisis

Colorado will receive up to $2.4 million in federal funds to help implement updated National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

DENVER, CO – Senator Chris Kolker (D-Centennial) today released the following statement following news that Colorado will receive up to $2.4 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to help implement the updated 9-8-8 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:

“Too many folks in Colorado struggle with their mental health, and the pandemic has only made this crisis worse,” Kolker said. “As someone who has experienced a mental health crisis myself, I know firsthand how important it is to ensure that every Coloradan in crisis can access critical support when they need it most. I am proud to have championed Colorado’s 9-8-8 legislation because I wanted to ensure that every Coloradan has someone to turn to for support, and I am grateful to everyone who worked to secure these critical funds that will save lives and ensure that folks in crisis can get help before it’s too late. Together, we can end the stigma surrounding mental health, expand access to care, and save more lives.”

In 2020, Congress passed legislation to designate "9-8-8" as the national suicide prevention lifeline. SB21-154, signed into law this June, aligns Colorado with the nationally designated three-digit response number, and serves as a model for sustainable 9-8-8 funding and infrastructure. Starting in July of 2022, Coloradans in crisis will be able to dial 9-8-8 to be connected to intervention and crisis services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Senator Kolker has also worked to expand access to mental health resources as a member of Colorado’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force, which was established through the Behavioral Health Recovery Act and signed into law this June. The new law allocated $550 million in ARPA funds to help address substance use disorders and other behavioral health prevention and treatment needs throughout the state.

During the 2021 legislative session, the legislature allocated $100 million in ARPA funding to address emergency behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment needs exacerbated by the pandemic over the coming fiscal year, and priorities for the remaining $450 million are being developed by the Task Force along with behavioral health experts from across the state ahead of next year's legislative session.

Senator Julie Gonzales Awarded for Enacting Policy to Support Colorado’s Youth

Denver Young Democrats recognize Senator Julie Gonzales as Legislator of the Year for her work to increase access to affordable housing and reform Colorado’s criminal justice system

DENVER, CO — Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver) received the Denver Young Democrats’ Legislator of the Year Award for her work during the 2021 General Assembly to improve access to affordable housing and implement criminal justice reform, two major priorities for young Coloradans.

Senator Gonzales currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Affordable Housing Transformational Task Force charged with allocating $450 million in federal funding to increase access to affordable housing in Colorado. This year, Sen. Gonzales sponsored HB21-1329, which invests millions of dollars in housing solutions to combat Colorado’s affordable housing shortage. Gonzales also sponsored HB21-1315, legislation to save families money by significantly reducing fees levied on families in the juvenile justice system.

“I’m proud to hold a position where I can elevate the issues that Denver’s youth are most passionate about and I’m grateful to be recognized by these young leaders,” Gonzales said. “It’s inspiring to be a part of the hard work that the Denver Young Democrats do each year. Working towards justice alongside the Denver Young Democrats is one of the great honors of my job at the Capitol and I look forward to continuing our partnership in the upcoming legislative session.”

In addition to her work on affordable housing and justice reform, Senator Gonzales championed SB21-057, legislation that provides new protections for students who take out private loans for their postsecondary education.

Sen. Hansen Honored for Efforts to Prevent Impaired Driving and Keep Coloradans Safe

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Colorado recognizes Hansen’s work to reduce drunk and drugged driving across the state

DENVER, CO – Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver) this week received the 2021 Community Champion Award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Colorado for his work to prevent drunk driving and support victims across the state.

“Drunk driving is the number one cause of death on our roadways, and we need to do more to keep drunk drivers off the road and protect Coloradans from harm,” said Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “No Colorado family should have to bury a loved one due to a drunk driver, and I’m proud to be recognized for my work to cut down on impaired driving and ensure that victims have all the support they need, especially as a father of two young boys. I am going to keep fighting to prevent drunk and drugged driving so we can keep all Coloradans safe when they take the wheel.”

Senator Hansen was nominated by MADD for leading the effort in the legislature during the 2021 session to secure funding in the FY21-22 state budget to cover the high visibility of DUI enforcement, which was included in HB21-1317 and signed into law this June. The law transfers $2 million from the Marijuana Tax Cash Fund to the First Time Drunk Driving Offender Account in the Highway Users Tax Fund to support the enforcement of driving under the influence of drugs.

According to MADD Colorado, there are over 300,000 incidents of drinking and driving per day and roughly 290,000 impaired driving-related injuries per year. Moreover, there are over 10,000 deaths each year related to impaired driving, which is equivalent to 28 deaths every day and one death every 51 minutes.

The mission of MADD is to end drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support the victims of these violent crimes, and prevent underage drinking.

Economy is Recovering Strongly

JBC Dems to prioritize saving people money and making Colorado more affordable

DENVER, CO – Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after the Legislative Council staff and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered the December economic forecasts, which project strong General Fund revenue, but warn of continued budget challenges in years to come and uncertainty as the economy rebuilds from the pandemic.

“Today’s forecast shows that Colorado’s recovery is well underway and that many of our efforts to boost the economy have been successful,” said JBC Chair Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “While we’re all heartened to hear that many of our most treasured industries have come roaring back, we are also keenly aware of the rising cost of living in Colorado and are determined to craft a budget that saves people and businesses money and leaves more money in their pocket at the end of the month.”

“This forecast shows that our focus on getting Colorado’s economy back on track is working,” said JBC Vice Chair Sen. Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “But while this continued progress is welcome news, we know that this recovery is still leaving too many of our neighbors behind. We must keep working to close those equity gaps and ensure that Colorado's comeback lifts up all communities.”

“As we head into a new year, it’s encouraging to see our economy continue to pick up steam,” said JBC Member Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “I’m excited to see the job gains in our state, however, there are still income and regional gaps in our recovery. As we begin our legislative session in January and continue the JBC’s work to design a budget that supports the recovery of everyone in our state, making Colorado a more affordable and prosperous state for all will be our top priority.”

“We continue to make strong progress in our recovery, but there are many gaps that need attention to ensure an equitable economic recovery for all,” said JBC Member Chris Hansen D-Denver. “As we have seen, many Coloradans have bounced back from the economic consequences of the last year and a half, but many – especially our low-income neighbors – have not. Uplifting low-income groups, investing in education and supporting jobs must be a priority as we head into the new year and continue our fight to create opportunities for every Coloradan to succeed and prosper.”

The Legislative Council staff (LCS) Forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $15.9 billion in FY 2021-22 and $16.4 billion in FY 2022-2023 – a $791.4 million increase for FY 2021-22 and a $528.4 million increase for FY 2022-2023 as compared with the earlier September revenue forecast. These continued improvements in the state’s economic outlook are due in large part to consumer spending, strengthening household finances and wage growth. However, waning federal stimulus and the ongoing uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic pose downside risks.

The unemployment rate continues to fall in Colorado and is projected to decrease further to 4.1 percent in 2022. Colorado, however, is still seeing inequitable recovery trends driven by differing rates of recovery by region and sector, with employment growth recovering more slowly in areas in Northern Colorado and with several in-person industries, such as leisure and hospitality, including remaining heavily impacted by health concerns and uncertainty..

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $16 billion for FY 2021-22, which OSPB revised upward by $704.5 million relative to its September estimate. For FY 2022-23, OSPB projects General Fund revenue will be close to $16.3 billion, which OSPB revised upward by $600 million relative to its September estimate.

The state will exceed its TABOR limit due to higher than anticipated income tax collections, and both OSPB and LCS anticipate the state exceeding the TABOR limit in the upcoming fiscal years, as well. In addition, LCS and OSPB identified the uncertainty of the pandemic, evolving fiscal policy, inflation, and supply chain disruptions as risks to the forecast.

Majority Leader Fenberg, Sen. Winter Applaud Colorado Transportation Commission’s Vote to Adopt New Rule

New rule requires CDOT to consider the climate impact of future projects and invest in cleaner transportation alternatives

DENVER, CO – Colorado Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) and Senator Faith Winter (D-Broomfield) today released the following statements after the Colorado Transportation Commission's vote to adopt a new rule that improves long standing inequalities in transportation infrastructure and air quality and meet the goals set forth in SB21-260.

“Today marks a major step forward in modernizing our transportation system and reducing its emissions. The new rule puts us on the right track to meet our climate goals and build a transportation system that works for everyone, all while improving and elevating planned infrastructure projects,” said Majority Leader Fenberg. “I applaud the hard work of the commission, CDOT, and all those who provided testimony and pushed to improve and perfect this rule. I look forward to seeing how this rule will transform our transportation system, economy, and the Colorado way of life in the coming decades.”

"Addressing the climate crisis and creating environmental justice and equity is one of my top priorities at the legislature, and this rule is a good start that sets a national precedent while showing that it’s possible to work together to improve our transportation infrastructure and address the climate emergency at the same time,” said Winter, Chair of the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee. “The Transportation Commission and CDOT have done a tremendous job taking feedback from Coloradans and incorporating it into a plan that includes clear, measurable and enforceable goals that will upgrade our transit system and improve our economy while cutting emissions. But our work is not yet done, and I look forward to continuing working closely with the Commission to further advance environmental justice and equity, and to ensure that all Coloradans can quickly and safely get where they need to go.”

Majority Leader Fenberg and Sen. Winter sponsored SB21-260, historic legislation that created a 21st century transportation system that will drive Colorado’s economic comeback, establish a sustainable funding source to improve Colorado roads, invest in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and expand multi-modal and transit options to reduce congestion and improve air quality.

Pettersen Teams Up With CO Attorney General, Law Enforcement Officials to Combat Overdose Crisis in Colorado

DENVER, CO — Colorado Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood) today joined Colorado Attorney General Phillip Weiser, Senator Kevin Priola (R-Brighton), and local law enforcement officials from across the state to discuss the growing crisis of overdose deaths in Colorado and to detail their plans to address it.

At a joint press conference, Pettersen - who chairs the state’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force - discussed her ongoing work to combat overdose deaths in Colorado, and previewed bipartisan legislation she intends to introduce alongside Sen. Priola in the upcoming General Assembly to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, reduce the skyrocketing amount of it on the streets, and prevent tragic deaths.

“We are in the worst overdose crisis in the history of our country and it requires urgent action and dedicated resources in order to save Coloradans,” Pettersen said. “I am proud to partner with Attorney General Weiser and my colleagues from across the aisle to provide badly-needed resources to disrupt the supply of fentanyl by investigating and prosecuting the drug cartels who are exploiting people for profit. These grant dollars will allow local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to work together to share critical information and resources to combat this crisis, and will also help raise public awareness about the dangers of fentanyl. But we must do more, which is why we are also working to increase access to lifesaving treatment that is desperately needed for those who are struggling with substance use disorders to help prevent these tragedies before they occur.”

Pettersen, Priola, and AG Weiser were joined by Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock, Colorado District Attorneys Brian Mason, Michael Dougherty, and Dan Rubinstein, and Ray Bridges & Tami Gottsegen, the parents of Braden Burks, who tragically died of fentanyl poisoning in 2019.

Colorado is set to break the record for overdose deaths in a single year in 2021, with fentanyl - a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine - playing a leading role in many of those deaths.

A record 1,477 Coloradans died of an overdose in 2020, and preliminary data shows 2021 is on pace to be even worse, with at least 1,340 Coloradans overdosing already this year.

Pettersen Statement on Colorado's Record-breaking Overdose Death Toll

Colorado is on track to surpass its record-breaking overdose death toll from 2020, with fentanyl continuing to play a larger role in the overdose crisis

DENVER, CO — Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood), Chair of the state’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force, today released a statement following news that Colorado is on track to surpass its record-breaking death toll from 2020, according to state data:

“One overdose death in our state is too many, but we are seeing nearly five Coloradans die from this disease every single day. As the daughter of someone with a substance use disorder, I know the pain and anguish families feel when a loved one is struggling with this condition and are unable to get them the help they need.

"I’m proud of the work we have done to increase access to the life-saving treatment people desperately need, but our work is far from over. My colleagues and I have been serving on the state’s Behavioral Health Task Force to improve access to behavioral health services and ensure that mental health and substance use disorder care is available to everyone who is ready to get help, and to families who are fighting to save their loved one.

“We have a long road ahead of us, but I remain committed as ever to ending the stigma surrounding substance use disorders, and will continue fighting to create an accessible and equitable behavioral health care system that allows all Coloradans to get the vital care they need and deserve.”

Senator Pettersen has played a leading role in the legislature to expand access to mental health resources as chair of the Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force, which was established through the Behavioral Health Recovery Act and signed into law in June. The new law allocated $550 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal stimulus funds to help address substance use disorders and other behavioral health prevention and treatment needs throughout the state.

During the 2021 legislative session, the legislature allocated $100 million of the funds to address emergency behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment needs exacerbated by the pandemic over the coming fiscal year, and priorities for the remaining $450 million are being developed by the Task Force along with behavioral health experts from across the state ahead of next year's legislative session.

JOINT RELEASE: Colorado Lawmakers Praise CDOT Effort to Improve Transit Infrastructure, Address Climate Change, and Increase Equity in Transportation

SB 260 Sponsors: “By providing safe and accessible alternatives to driving, we can provide a wider range of sustainable options for Coloradans to get where they need to go, which is paramount to long-term congestion reduction and to achieving our state climate goals.”

DENVER, CO – Colorado lawmakers today applauded efforts by the Colorado Transportation Commission to improve long standing inequalities in transportation infrastructure and air quality and meet the goals set forth in SB21-260.

In a letter to the Commission,​​ Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder), Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster), House Speaker Alec Garnett (D-Denver) and Representative Matt Gray (D-Broomfield) – prime sponsors of SB21-260 – wrote that “by providing safe and accessible alternatives to driving, we can provide a wider range of sustainable options for Coloradans to get where they need to go, which is paramount to long-term congestion reduction and to achieving our state climate goals.”

“A solid transit system is key to a functioning economy, but Colorado has neglected our transit infrastructure for far too long,” said Sen. Faith Winter. “The Transportation Commission and CDOT have worked overtime to gather public input and create a draft rule that meets our growing transit needs while also addressing the climate emergency. I look forward to a final rule that will make significant improvements to our transportation system, cut down on traffic and pollution, and make it easier for all Coloradans to get where they need to go.”

“The transportation law we passed is moving Colorado forward, saving people money on their registration fees and helping our state make progress on our climate and clean air goals,” said Rep. Matt Gray. “I’m excited that Coloradans will soon have more transportation options, safer roads, and will spend less time in traffic and less money on vehicle repairs. I look forward to a rule that forges a more equitable transportation system, lowers pollution, and helps our economy grow.”

The letter highlights the importance of advancing equity in Colorado’s transportation system with the new rule and in future transit planning. “We appreciate changes to the rule that enhance its focus on equity and look forward to ensuring full implementation of the requirement in SB260 that CDOT establish a new branch focused on equity,” the bill sponsors wrote. “As soon as its leadership is hired, this office should immediately begin developing an equity framework to complement this rulemaking.”

SB21-260, signed into law last June, is a historic, bipartisan investment in Colorado’s infrastructure to comprehensively address Colorado’s crumbling and outdated transportation system by establishing a sustainable funding source to improve Colorado’s roads, invest in the future of EV charging infrastructure, and expand multi-modal transit options to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.

The landmark law provides $5.365 billion in transportation funding to create jobs, fix Colorado’s roads and bridges, increase transit options, meet Colorado’s climate goals, and future-proof the state’s transportation system. The funding comes from a balanced and responsible mix of state, federal, and fee revenue that reflects all the users and uses of our transportation system.

Full text of the letter is available HERE.

Senator Rhonda Fields Awarded for Efforts to Address Health Disparities, Improve Public Health in Colorado

Salud Family Health Centers recognizes Senator Fields’ work to improve Coloradans’ health, address inequities in health care

DENVER, CO — Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) last week received the Salud Family Health Centers’ Community Health Champion Award for her work during the 2021 legislative session to improve the health of Coloradans.

Senator Fields championed SB21-181, legislation that establishes the Health Disparities and Community Grant Program to help address systemic public health inequities and the conditions influencing health outcomes, reducing the risk of future disease and health conditions in underrepresented populations.

“Making sure all Coloradans have the support they need to get healthy is one of my top priorities, and I’m honored to have been selected as a recipient of the 2021 Community Health Champion Award,” said Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora), chair of the Health and Human Services Committee. “Health care shouldn’t vary based on someone’s zip code or their income, and I am proud that the Health Disparities and Community Grant Program will help address long standing health inequities that remain far too prevalent in marginalized communities across our state. I remain committed to fighting for equitable access to quality, affordable health care, and I look forward to building on our progress in the coming legislative session to ensure every Coloradan can access the health care they deserve, no matter where they live.”

In addition to her work on SB21-181, Senator Fields championed HB21-1097, which created the Behavioral Health Administration to increase access to affordable behavioral health services throughout the state, ensuring every Coloradan that needs behavioral health support has access to services in their community.

Mental Health America Honors Senator Kolker for Championing Mental Health in Colorado

DENVER, CO – Senator Chris Kolker (D-Centennial) was recognized as a 2021 Legislative Champion by Mental Health America (MHA) this week for his work championing mental health policy in Colorado. Kolker was one of six state legislators honored at MHA’s winter Regional Policy Council (RPC) meeting, “Crisis Equals Opportunity,” in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

During the 2021 session, Senator Kolker was a prime sponsor of SB21-154, which establishes the 988 hotline – an essential resource that will help connect Coloradans facing a mental health crisis with critical mental health services. The new law has become a national model for sustainable 988 funding and infrastructure.

“Every Coloradan deserves access to mental health care, and I am incredibly proud of the work we did last session fighting for increased mental health access for all Coloradans,” said Senator Chris Kolker (D-Centennial). “As far back as I can remember, I have struggled with my mental health, and I know that I am not alone. I fought to establish the 988 program because I know that when someone is in a mental health crisis, they often don’t know where to turn, and I look forward to continuing our work to reduce the stigma around mental health, get countless Coloradans the care they need, and save lives in the process.”

In 2020, Congress passed legislation to designate "988" as the national suicide prevention lifeline. SB21-154, signed into law this June, aligns Colorado with the nationally designated three-digit response number. Starting in July of 2022, Coloradans in crisis will be able to dial 9-8-8 to be connected to intervention and crisis services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Implementation of 988 will be driven by the 988 Crisis Hotline Enterprise. The Enterprise aims to improve quality and access to behavioral health crisis services – especially for underserved populations – as well as reduce stigma surrounding suicide, mental health, and substance use conditions.

Senator Kolker has also worked to expand access to mental health resources as a member of Colorado’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force, which was established through the Behavioral Health Recovery Act and signed into law this June. The new law allocated $550 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal stimulus funds to help address substance use disorders and other behavioral health prevention and treatment needs throughout the state.

During the 2021 legislative session, the legislature allocated $100 million of the funds to address emergency behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment needs exacerbated by the pandemic over the coming fiscal year, and priorities for the remaining $450 million are being developed by the Task Force along with behavioral health experts from across the state ahead of next year's legislative session.

More information on the MHA RPC can be found here.

Sen. Gonzales & Sen. Winter Joint Statement on SCOTUS Hearing on Mississippi Abortion Case

DENVER, CO – Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver) and Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster) today released the following joint statement on the U.S. Supreme Court hearing regarding the Mississippi law seeking to overturn Roe v. Wade:

“Coloradans believe abortion should be safe and legal. The Mississippi law is an outright attack on Roe v. Wade and a dangerous attempt to deny thousands of women access to critical health care. Roe v. Wade provides vital protections that ensure women have full control over their bodies and can make decisions about their own health care, their own lives, and their own futures. This fundamental right is now on the line. Let’s be clear: restrictive policies or outright bans do not stop people from seeking an abortion. Instead, individuals are forced to seek out unsafe abortions or carry a pregnancy to term. Colorado has successfully defeated four anti-abortion ballot measures by wide margins and numerous anti-abortion bills in the legislature, and we will continue to defend access to reproductive health care to ensure that we remain a safe haven for abortion care.”

JOINT RELEASE: Aurora Delegation Statement on Shooting at Hinkley High School

DENVER, CO – Members of the Aurora delegation in the Colorado state legislature, including Senators Rhonda Fields and Janet Buckner as well as Representatives Mike Weissman, Dominique Jackson, Naquetta Ricks, Iman Jodeh, and Dafna Michaelson Jenet, today released the following joint statement on the shooting at Hinkley High School in Aurora:

“We are devastated. Three times this week, young people have been shot in their own communities and around their own schools. As we await further details from today’s act of violence at Hinkley High School, our hearts are with the victims, their families, and all the students in Aurora schools. Our community is in pain and our kids are scared.

“Too many of our children have experienced gun violence. Too many parents have had to pick up their kids early, and too many teachers have had to put their classrooms into lockdown. We cannot become numb to this tragic reality. So far in 2021, there have been at least 138 incidents of gunfire on school grounds across the country. We need to treat gun violence like the epidemic it is.”

Senate Leadership Touts Build Back Better Act Passed by US House

DENVER, CO – Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo) and Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) today released the subsequent statements following today’s passage of the Build Back Better Act by the U.S. House of Representatives: 

“From the very beginning of the pandemic, we have been laser-focused on building back a stronger, more just Colorado for all, and the Build Back Better Act passed by the House today represents an enormous step forward in realizing that goal,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “With support from our partners on the federal-level, we have an incredible opportunity to uplift every Coloradan, create more jobs, tackle climate change, and progress into the future. I applaud President Biden and the House for their efforts, and am hopeful that the Senate will follow suit.”

“The vote to advance the Build Back Better Act marks major progress towards realizing President Biden’s vision for recovery. This once-in-a-generation spending plan puts us on the road to building an economy that uplifts America from the bottom up,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “In addition to investments in social safety programs that will ease financial burdens for hard-working families, the plan includes unprecedented investments to curb fossil fuel emissions and combat the climate crisis. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to our Congressional Democrats who worked hard to put forward a plan that will support every single Coloradan.”

Senator Hansen Wins National Ideas Challenge

STATE AND LOCAL LEADERS RECOGNIZED FOR BEST IDEAS TO EXPAND OPPORTUNITY AND MAKE GOVERNMENT WORK BETTER

WASHINGTON, DC – At the organization’s eleventh annual Leaders Conference today, NewDEAL (Developing Exceptional American Leaders) released the winners of its 2021 Ideas Challenge – a competition among rising and innovative state and local policymakers to propose the most effective solutions on an array of issues. Among the winners was Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver), whose Secure Tokens for State Financial Offerings won in the “Rebuilding Jobs and the Economy” category.

“I’m honored to have been named a winner of NewDEAL’s 2021 Ideas Challenge,” said Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “Building back stronger from the pandemic means we’re not leaving anyone behind, and by creating a digital process of capital financing, we can reduce costs to the state, lower barriers of entry to investing and provide equal opportunities for all to invest in Colorado. This new process would not only be a win for businesses and organizations, but a win for Colorado’s economy. I look forward to further exploring how this approach can help advance equitable investment opportunities in Colorado.”

The “Rebuilding Jobs and the Economy” category included ideas that help communities rebound from the lows of the pandemic, get Americans working for pay that allows for a better quality of life, and address inequities. Senator Hansen’s idea revolves around finding a new way for people to partake in capital financing by digitizing the origination process and building a transparent system that allows for a broader range of investors.

The traditional method of securing state debts limits the number of businesses and organizations that can invest in the state and assist in financing capital projects. Hansen’s plan would reduce dependence on commercial banks, institutional investors, mutual funds, and pension funds. Certificates of Participation (COPs) could be funded by millions of individual investors through the use of secure tokens. The introduction of a policy that sets up a plan for secure tokens to be used to finance COPs would greatly expand the number of potential investors and decrease the interest rate that the state would owe on its principal loan as a result of direct purchases by retail investors.

Policy experts voted for the proposals that would best improve Americans’ economic well-being and overall quality of life as well as make government work more effectively to meet communities’ needs. Of more than fifty solutions submitted, an esteemed and diverse panel of judges selected five winners in their respective categories. A full list of finalists and their ideas can be found here.