JOINT RELEASE: School Finance Committee Advances Critical Proposals to Increase Colorado Special Education Funding By More Than $90 Million, Better Support At-Risk Students

Legislation will help ensure every Colorado student has the resources and support they need to thrive

DENVER, CO – The Colorado General Assembly Interim Committee on School Finance today voted to move forward three major proposals to revamp education funding allocations in Colorado and ensure that every student has an opportunity to succeed.

The draft legislation includes increasing funding for special education students by more than $93 million per year, and updating the formula that better identifies at-risk students to help make sure critical school resources go where they’re needed most. 

The bills will now move to consideration before the full legislature.

“Every Colorado student deserves a quality, public education, but the current level of state support for schools just isn’t getting the job done.” said Sen. Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, Chair of the Senate Education Committee. “We’ve been working to fix that, and this legislation will help us get critical resources to the classrooms that need them most while making sure every student, regardless of ability, has what they need to succeed.”

“I’m thrilled we’ve reached bipartisan consensus on important changes to school funding that will prepare our students for success and ensure they have the resources in the classroom they need to thrive,” said Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, Chair of the Interim Committee on School Finance and the JBC. “These reforms will increase funding to districts with higher numbers of at-risk and special education students to ensure every child has access to high quality public education. We’re making important progress to significantly reduce the budget stabilization factor, reform our school finance formula, and deliver on promises years in the making.”

“Colorado schools and students deserve nothing but the best, but right now they aren’t getting that from the state,” said Sen. James Coleman, D-Denver. “We are making record investments in our schools this year, and I am proud that we were able to find a bipartisan path forward to improve the way we fund our schools, better deliver critical support and resources, and set more Colorado students up for success.” 

“Over the last several months, we’ve engaged stakeholders across the education community to craft a more equitable school finance formula and increase funding for K-12 education to prepare our students for success,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “Every child in our state, no matter where they live, must have access to a high quality public education and the tools they need to thrive. I’m excited for the session ahead and the historic opportunity we have to make record investments in public education and ensure at-risk students and our most vulnerable youth have the resources they need in their schools.”

Bill 1 will change how students who are at-risk of falling behind their peers due to socioeconomic factors are counted by expanding the definition to include students who are enrolled in programs like Medicaid. The new formula will create a more accurate picture of how many students are at-risk and where they attend school, which will allow the state to better direct resources where they are needed most.

Bill 2 will dramatically increase funding for more than 100,000 Colorado special education students, from about $220 million per year currently to more than $313 million per year. This increase will bring down student-teacher ratios, decrease class sizes, and help schools provide the tailored assistance and support special education students need to learn and receive the quality education they deserve. 

The Committee also advanced legislation that seeks to reprioritize how revenue from school trust lands are deposited in the Public School Fund.

JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Democrats, Colorado Workers Advocate for Legislation for Safer and Healthier Workplaces

Bill to give Colorado workers the ability to raise concerns about workplace health and safety practices without fear of retaliation

DENVER, CO – Senators Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood) and Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver) and Representatives Leslie Herod (D-Denver) and Tom Sullivan (D-Centennial) today joined Colorado workers, the Communication Workers of America, Towards Justice, American Federation of Teachers, the Plaintiff Employment Lawyers Association, and other worker advocates at a virtual press conference in support of a soon-to-be-introduced bill, which provides permanent whistleblower protections for workers who speak out about health or safety concerns at their workplace. 

The legislature passed legislation in 2020 establishing these protections during a public health emergency, while this new bill will make the protections permanent.

“With the passage of HB 20-1415 we gave workers the protection to speak out about health and safety concerns without fear of retaliation only during public health emergencies,” Sen. Pettersen said. “Essential workers will still be essential after the pandemic. We need to extend these protections permanently to keep workers and the public safe.”  

“Workplace health and safety concerns existed before the pandemic and will exist after it is over,” Rep. Herod said. “We need to make the existing protections permanent to keep workers and the public safe."

“The pandemic highlighted that these protections weren’t in place,” Sen. Rodriquez said. “No worker should have to be worried about losing their job, or having their hours cut because they speak out about working conditions that threaten them and their colleagues. As a state we owe it to workers to give them these protections because it keeps all of us safe.” 

“Colorado workers should be able to make their voices heard without fear of losing their jobs. We need to make permanent the whistleblower protections we passed in 2020 so workplaces continue prioritizing the health and safety of their workers,” Rep. Tom Sullivan said. 

The soon-to-be-introduced bill protects workers in the public and private sectors by ensuring that all workers have the same protections, including the ability to raise concerns about workplace health and safety practices or hazards to their employer, other workers, the public, or government agencies.

The legislation also protects workers from retaliation, discrimination, or adverse action, allows workers to wear personal protective equipment while at work without fear of discrimination, and requires employers to notify employees of their rights.

When employees do raise concerns, various remedy options are included under the bill including filing a claim with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) or bringing an action in court. The legislation also gives CDLE the authority to enforce and investigate claims.

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, Governor’s Office Proposal for $17 Million in Reduced Business Filing Fees Introduced in the Colorado State Assembly

DENVER, CO – Representatives Lisa Cutter and Tom Sullivan, and Senators Brittany Pettersen and Chris Kolker introduced HB22-1001 the “Colorado Business Fee Relief Act” to the Colorado State Assembly. The bill, which is a collaboration between Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, the Governor’s office, and legislative leadership, looks to save Colorado businesses and entrepreneurs nearly $17 million in business fees for filing documents with the Colorado Secretary of State’s office during the fiscal year beginning on July 1, 2022.

“These fee reductions will keep money in the pockets of Colorado’s small business owners, many of whom have faced adversity and uncertainty over the last few years,” said Secretary Griswold. “Thank you to Representatives Cutter and Sullivan, and Senators Pettersen and Kolker for introducing this bill. I look forward to working together to push forward this important proposal which would provide support to the small businesses that keep our communities thriving.”

“Our top priority this session is saving Coloradans money, and that’s what this bill will do by significantly cutting fees to start a business,” said Rep. Lisa Cutter, D-Littleton. “HB22-1001 will reduce a number of filing fees with the Colorado Department of State, keeping more money in the pockets of Colorado's entrepreneurs and small businesses who are the backbone of our economy.”

“Our efforts to save Coloradans money continues,” said Rep. Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial. “The legislation we’ve introduced will greatly reduce fees to start your own business and other costs associated with business filings. We know small businesses have faced adversity and uncertainty throughout the pandemic, and I’m excited to take this step to make it easier to start your own business in Colorado.”

"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we must do everything we can to support them in the face of continued uncertainty due to the pandemic," said Sen. Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood. "I am proud to be pushing the Colorado Business Fee Relief Act, which will slash fees for small businesses, make doing business in Colorado easier, and help business owners and entrepreneurs across the state to hold onto more of their hard-earned money."

“As a small business owner myself, I know how challenging and unpredictable the last few years have been for businesses which is why we’re focused on saving them money,” said Sen. Chris Kolker, D-Centennial. “We know that the business community is essential to a strong economy, and by making it cheaper and easier for folks to start a business, we will not only be able to help our small businesses thrive but drive our economic recovery as we work to move Colorado forward.”

While businesses across sectors have struggled in these uncertain times, these reductions will keep money in the pockets of just about every small business across the state. The business fee relief package will drastically reduce filing fees for five of the most common business filings that the vast majority of small businesses in Colorado pay to stay in good standing with the state:

• New business registrations

• Annual business renewals

• Registrations of new business trade names

• Statements of change for registered agent information and address

• Renewals of trade names

The bill will reduce these common filing fees down to just $1. The Department will retain a $1 fee to continue the credit card transaction processes that are essential to confirming identities and reducing fraud within the business registry.

The $17 million in business fees that the Secretary of State seeks to reduce in Fiscal Year 2022-23 is part of a cross-government fee reduction effort with the Governor’s office and the Majority leadership in the legislature. In the proposed fee relief package, the Secretary of State’s office would utilize general fund dollars to offset the foregone revenue from the fee reductions. The reduction in filing fees under this fee relief program would remain in place during Fiscal Year 2022-23 until the amount of the general fund transfer is exhausted.

The full text of the bill can be found HERE.

Governor Polis Discusses Plan to Save Colorado Drivers Money Through Driver License Fee Relief

Governor Polis highlighted the driver license fee relief program with Department of Revenue Executive Director Mark Ferrandino in Southern Colorado 

COLORADO SPRINGS — Today, Governor Jared Polis discussed plans to reduce driver license fees as a part of the Polis administration’s commitment to saving people money. In a visit to the Colorado Springs Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, Governor Polis highlighted the Governor’s Fee Reduction Package, which froze driver license fees at around $30, relative to the national average cost of a driver license at about $40. 

Governor Polis, in partnership with the state legislature, doubled down on commitments to prevent increases in driver’s license fees, saving Coloradans money when they renew their licenses. 

“We are looking forward to reducing car registration fees and going bigger and bolder by saving people money. I am proud that the driver license fee relief program will collectively save Coloradans $2.2 million this year,” said Gov. Polis. “Driver license fee relief is an important step in delivering on our promise to use every single tool at our disposal to save hardworking Coloradans money.”

During his visit to the Colorado Springs DMV, Governor Polis highlighted the DMV2GO pop-up driver license office, which was deployed in the aftermath of the Marshall Fire to help survivors replace licenses and IDs lost in the fire. Over 153 credentials were replaced through a mobile unit in Lafayette.

“The DMV is an essential service for Coloradans and we are dedicated to meeting our customers where they are and saving them time,” said Mark Ferrandino, executive director of the Department of Revenue. “We’re implementing new services with a focus on end-to-end user experience so that Coloradans can really DMV from anywhere - whether it’s online, in-office, or on the go.” 

“As we work to make our state more affordable for everyone, we’re determined to continue advocating for policies to save people money and deliver relief to Coloradans,” said Sen. Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora. “I’m glad we are able to do just that with this bill, which will ease the financial burden on drivers and keep more money in people’s wallets. This is just one of many ways we are working with Governor Polis to cut costs and improve affordability for Coloradans this year, and I am excited to continue our work to save people money.”

“This year, as part of our work to make Colorado a more affordable state to live in, we are freezing drivers’ license renewal fees for the following year,” said Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial. “As we grapple with rising prices in many sectors of our economy, we want to ensure Coloradans are saving money when they go to take care of necessary tasks like license renewals. I am proud to join in my colleagues’ efforts to make sure every Coloradan is able to get by in the state we all love.”

Earlier in the day, Governor Polis visited the Pueblo Baseball Mill and the Sangre De Cristo Arts Center and was joined by Senate President Leroy Garcia to highlight plans to save people money in Pueblo and Southern Colorado.  

“I was grateful to welcome Governor Polis back to Southern Colorado today, and I share his commitment to saving Coloradans money and making our state more affordable,” President Garcia said. “This legislation will help folks save money at the DMV and get by a little bit easier, and I look forward to working together to find even more ways to keep more of Coloradans' hard-earned money in their wallets.”

“I’m proud we’re using every tool we have to save people money, including saving Coloradans money when they head to the DMV to renew their license,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “We know Coloradans are feeling the pressures of the pandemic. The fee relief we’re looking at this year will help keep more money in the pockets of hardworking Coloradans all across the state.”

“By freezing DMV driver’s license fees, Coloradans are going to save money when they go to renew their license,” said Rep. David Ortiz, D-Littleton. “This bill is a great example of how we’re working together to save people money and move Colorado forward.”

The driver license fee relief program is part of the Polis administration’s and the legislature’s broader commitment to save Coloradans money. 

In addition to saving people money, the Polis administration has prioritized saving Coloradans time at the DMV. With online scheduling and appointment services, the majority of transactions at the DMV take fewer than 30 minutes. 

During the Governor’s State of the State address, Gov. Polis proposed additional measures to reduce fees and save people money in Colorado, including waiving licensing fees for nurses and mental health workers, reducing the unemployment insurance premium, waiving dairy inspection fees to help farmers. 

DMV services are available on a variety of platforms including myDMV.Colorado.gov; the myColorado™ app, available on Android and iOS devices; MV Express Kiosks, conveniently located throughout Colorado as well as over 35 driver license offices throughout the Centennial State.

ICYMI: Sen. Ginal Introduces Bill to Prevent Catalytic Converter Thefts

Legislation would help reduce rising crime rates and protect consumers

DENVER, CO — Last week, Senator Joann Ginal (D-Fort Collins) introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at cracking down on stolen catalytic converters in Colorado.

The bill, SB22-009, seeks to cut down on the spiking number of catalytic converter thefts across Colorado by making it illegal to install, sell, or advertise a used, recycled, or salvaged catalytic converter without first meeting certain requirements.

“Catalytic converter theft has become a serious problem in Colorado and throughout our nation, and we must take steps to address it,” said Sen. Ginal. “This sharp increase in thefts harms hard working Coloradans and makes their cars inoperable, which means they can’t carry out everyday tasks like getting to work or school because of the high cost of replacement or availability. This bill seeks to alleviate this problem while reducing crime rates in our communities.”

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, catalytic converter thefts nationwide have more than quadrupled recently, from 3,389 in 2019 to 14,433 in 2020.

In response to the surge in catalytic converter thefts, state regulators would get more oversight of aftermarket sales of this profitable auto part – and it could become easier to prosecute “chop shops” for selling stolen ones.

Senate President Garcia Welcomes Governor Polis Back to Southern Colorado to Discuss Workforce Development, Saving People Money

Garcia: “Governor Polis has been a tremendous asset to Southern Colorado, and I am grateful he took the time today to see for himself the great things that are happening right here in Pueblo.”

DENVER, CO – Colorado Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo) today welcomed Governor Jared Polis back to Southern Colorado, where the two discussed their work to improve Colorado’s workforce and behavioral health systems, as well as their shared commitment to saving Coloradans money.

Garcia and Polis toured and met students and staff at Pueblo Community College and visited the Colorado Mental Health Institute at Pueblo (CMHIP) before highlighting plans to save Coloradans money by reducing fees at the DMV.

“Governor Polis has been a tremendous asset to Southern Colorado, and I am grateful he took the time today to see for himself the great things that are happening right here in Pueblo,” Garcia said. “We met with the exceptional folks at Pueblo Community College who are enhancing our workforce and preparing students for good-paying jobs in our state, and we were grateful to see firsthand all the important work the folks at CMHIP do to get Coloradans with mental health conditions the help they need. Southern Colorado is lucky to have such a great ally in Governor Polis, and I look forward to continuing our work together to save people money, create healthier and safer communities, and move Colorado forward.” 

Last week, Senate Democrats unveiled their 2022 legislative agenda to move Colorado forward and put more money back into people’s wallets by making housing and health care more affordable and reducing fees, better preparing communities to defend against catastrophic wildfires, and improving public safety by tackling the root causes of crime to prevent it from happening in the first place.

More information on the Senate’s First 10 Bills is available HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Urges Congress to Protect Voting Rights

Democrats call on Congress to protect the cornerstone of our democracy while reasserting the validity of the 2020 election results

DENVER, CO – The Colorado House and Senate today passed measures calling on Congress to defend democracy and pass critical voting rights protections. The measures, HR22-1004 and SM22-001, reassert the validity of the 2020 election results and highlight Colorado’s Gold Standard elections system to the nation as a model for holding free, safe, and secure elections.

Democratic legislators condemned attempts across the country to restrict voting rights, lauded the safeguards in place in our state, and urged action to protect voting rights across the country. Republicans in the House offered and largely voted in favor of amendments calling into question the election of Joe Biden as president, encouraging states to conduct sham Arizona-style election “audits,” and thanking Representative Ron Hanks and the insurrectionists who attempted to stop the US Congress from certifying the 2020 election certification on January 6.

Republicans also supported amendments offering support for Mesa County Clerk and Recorder Tina Peters, who is currently under federal and state investigations for election security breaches.

“We will not be silent while states across our country use lies and conspiracies to attack voting rights and make it harder for people of color to exercise their constitutional right to vote,” said Rep. Tony Exum, Sr, D-Colorado Springs. “Silence about the lies and conspiracies that were spread about the 2020 election is what led to the violent insurrection on January 6th. Protecting the right to vote, something that Black Americans fought and died for and the most fundamental of right in our democracy, should not divide us. As Dr. King’s family has said, we cannot truly honor his legacy and all those who fought tirelessly for voting rights unless we urgently add our voice to those calling on Congress to protect our democracy.”

“The right to vote is sacred, but right now across the country that right is in jeopardy as states across the country are dead set on making it harder for communities of color and for young folks to exercise their fundamental right to vote,” said Senator James Coleman, D-Denver. “These unacceptable attacks on the right to vote are damaging to our democracy, and we must stand together as one and condemn them - as well as those pushing the lies and misinformation spurring their actions in the first place. If we truly want to honor the memory of Dr. King, Congress must quickly pass critical voting rights legislation that will stop these escalating attacks on voters, and to take steps to ensure that every eligible voter can make their voice heard at the ballot box.”

“Before the Voting Rights Act of 1965, election officials routinely ‘ran out’ of voter registration cards when Latinos asked for them, refused assistance to American citizens who could not read English and regularly beat and intimidated Latinos who were simply trying to exercise their right to vote,” said Rep. Kerry Tipper, D-Lakewood. “We will not stand by while states pass laws to suppress the vote and take us back to when people of color were denied their fundamental constitutional rights. I’m proud the General Assembly took the important step today to reassert the validity of the 2020 election results and condemn the lies and falsehoods that led to the violent insurrection on January 6th and the renewed efforts in state legislatures across the country to suppress the vote.”

“The threat to our democracy posed by continuing efforts across the country to suppress marginalized communities is unacceptable, and it’s far past time we put a stop to it,” said Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “When the right to vote is under attack anywhere, it’s under attack everywhere, and we need to do everything we can to defend our democracy and ensure equal access to the ballot box. Colorado has proven that you can have safe, secure elections without making it harder for folks to vote, and we urge Congress to ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to exercise their fundamental right to vote.”

The resolution passed the House by a vote of 40-23 and the Senate by a bipartisan vote of 20-13.

The full text of the resolution is below:

WHEREAS, Every January we honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and his heroic efforts to advance voting rights and we aspire to follow in his footsteps; and

WHEREAS, No one did more to promote the right to vote for Disenfranchised Americans than the civil rights leaders of the 1960s, including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Congressman John Lewis, Fannie Lou Hamer, and Ella Baker; and

WHEREAS, Until the United States Congress passed the federal "Voting Rights Act of 1965", people of color in the United States were frequently subject to poll taxes, literacy tests, and fraud and intimidation, preventing them from exercising their right to cast a ballot; and

WHEREAS, The United States Senate is considering critical federal elections reform and long overdue updates to the federal "Voting Rights Act of 1965" to preserve voting rights for generations to come, in honor of the legacy of the late Congressman John Lewis; and

WHEREAS, Colorado's electoral system serves as an example to the rest of the nation, and in fact the world, of how to expand voter access while protecting electoral integrity through safeguards including risk-limiting audits and signature verification; and

WHEREAS, In the 2020 election, Colorado had the second highest voter turnout of any state in the nation, and Colorado's largest voting bloc young people ages 18 to 34 -- turned out in record numbers; and

WHEREAS, Efforts to suppress the vote and disenfranchise Americans who historically have had the least access to the ballot have been on the rise across the country in recent years; and

WHEREAS, Last year, more than 440 bills with provisions that restrict voting access were introduced in 49 states, including here in Colorado, where legislation was introduced to restrict voters' access to Colorado's vote by mail system, a national model of excellence for election access, security, and integrity; and

WHEREAS, Last year, 19 states passed 34 laws restricting access to voting, including Georgia's Senate Bill 202 and Texas' Senate Bill No.1, both of which made it more difficult for voters to exercise their fundamental right to vote enshrined in the United States Constitution and the federal "Voting Rights Act of 1965"; and

WHEREAS, Falsehoods and conspiracies regarding the integrity of the 2020 election have run rampant in our media and public discourse; and

WHEREAS, The months-long, coordinated attempt to interfere with the democratic process following the November 2020 election and prevent the peaceful transfer of power by overturning the legitimate results of the presidential election, which culminated at the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021, serves as a violent reminder of the fragility of our democracy; now, therefore,

Be It Resolved by the House of Representatives of the Seventy-third 32 General Assembly of the State of Colorado:

That we, the members of the Colorado House of Representatives: -2- HR22-1004

(1) Reassert the validity of the 2020 presidential election results as legitimate and verified;

(2) Offer Colorado's premier electoral system as a model for state across the country to adopt in order to increase voter participation while ensuring electoral integrity; and

(3) Call on the United States Congress, and specifically members of the United States Senate, to pass comprehensive voting rights legislation to protect the fundamental right to vote, which has been the cornerstone of our democracy since the founding of our republic.

Be It Further Resolved, That copies of this Resolution be sent to the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the Majority Leader of the United States House of Representatives, the Minority Leader of the United States House of Representatives, the President of the United States Senate, the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, the Minority Leader of the United States Senate, and all members of the Colorado Congressional delegation.

Colorado Senate President Garcia, Majority Leader Fenberg React to Governor’s Address

Senate President Garcia: “I look forward to working hand-in-hand with Governor Polis this session to keep more money in people’s wallets, take historic steps to improve public safety, and create a safer and healthier Colorado so that every family can thrive.”

DENVER, CO – Colorado Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo) and Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) released the following statements today after Governor Jared Polis delivered his State of the State Address:

“Governor Polis laid out a bold vision to move Colorado forward today, one that aligns closely with our priorities here in the Senate,” Garcia said. “We are lucky to have a partner in Governor Polis who understands the challenges facing folks across this state, and who knows what it takes to deliver real, lasting change. I look forward to working hand-in-hand with Governor Polis this session to keep more money in people’s wallets, take historic steps to improve public safety, and create a safer and healthier Colorado so that every family can thrive.”

“Today’s State of the State outlined a future that will not only help Coloradans get by, but one that will allow them to thrive,” Fenberg said. “As we get to work to create a more affordable Colorado and build safer, healthier communities across the state, I am encouraged to know that we have a partner in Governor Polis. I’m optimistic about the work ahead and all that we will be able to accomplish for the people of Colorado in partnership with the Governor’s office.”

Colorado Senate Democrats Roll Out 2022 Agenda to Save Coloradans Money, Create a Safer and Healthier Colorado, and Set Students Up for Success

Landmark “Moving Colorado Forward” agenda includes making housing and health care more affordable, investing in behavioral health and workforce development

DENVER, CO – As the 2022 Colorado General Assembly kicks off, Colorado Senate Democrats today unveiled their sweeping legislative agenda to save Coloradans money, create safer and healthier communities across the state, and set students up for success.

The caucus aims to pass key legislation that will put more money back into people’s wallets by making housing and health care more affordable and reducing fees, better prepare communities to defend against catastrophic wildfires, and improve public safety by tackling the root causes of crime to prevent it from happening in the first place.

“Between the pandemic, historic wildfires, and nationwide inflation, the last two years have been tough,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “We know how tough it has been, which is why we are focused on moving Colorado forward and delivering real, transformational change to address the challenges folks are seeing in their everyday lives. We’re going to cut costs across the board and help put more money in people’s wallets, make record investments in our public schools, take historic steps to improve public safety, and create a safer and healthier Colorado so that every family can thrive.”

SAVING PEOPLE MONEY

Colorado Senate Democrats are determined to save people money and make Colorado a more affordable place to live. This year, we are committed to making housing, education and health care more affordable to ensure Coloradans can keep more of their hard-earned paychecks in their wallets. We’re also planning to reduce cut fees for small businesses as well as driver's licenses, vehicle registration, professional licenses for nurses and teachers, and other items. 

CREATING SAFER AND HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES

Every Coloradan deserves to feel secure in their community, which is why we are working to implement smart, evidence-based solutions to make Colorado communities safer. This session, Colorado Senate Democrats will introduce legislation aimed at increasing support for local law enforcement through officer recruitment and retention programs, cracking down on catalytic converter thefts, and improving public safety design features to create safer streets and neighborhoods.

Thanks to the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Colorado Democrats are also set to invest more than $1 billion this session to tackle the root causes of crime and reduce recidivism. This includes investing $400 million in ARPA funding to get more folks into safe, affordable housing, and more than $450 million to increase access to care and treatment for Coloradans with mental health or substance use disorder conditions. 

SETTING STUDENTS UP FOR SUCCESS

The past two years have been challenging for Colorado students and teachers, which is why we’re going to make historic investments in K-12 education funding to ensure that every student in every classroom has the resources and support they need to thrive and reach their full potential. 

Colorado Democrats’ increased investment in per-pupil funding will help get more teachers into classrooms and ensure students get more individualized attention, resulting in better outcomes for all. We are also continuing our work to lay the foundation for implementing the voter-backed and voluntary universal preschool program that will save families thousands of dollars and help set students on the path to success.

“Colorado Senate Democrats have a plan to help folks not just get by, but do better,” Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) said. “We are committed to making sure every Colorado family can afford to live in this beautiful state, and I am excited to roll up our sleeves and get to work fighting to make real, lasting improvements for all Coloradans.”

Colorado Senate Democrats Announce First 10 Bills of 2022 Legislative Session

DENVER, CO – The Colorado Senate Democrats unveiled their first 10 bills for the second session of the 73rd General Assembly today.

The bills – five of which have bipartisan support from Republican co-sponsors – are aimed at making Colorado more affordable, mitigating risks from catastrophic wildfires, increasing access to affordable health care, improving public safety, and setting Colorado students up for success.

“Between the pandemic, historic wildfires, and nationwide inflation, the last two years have been tough,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “We know how challenging it has been for Coloradans, which is why we are delivering legislation that will move Colorado forward and deliver real, transformational change to address the challenges folks are seeing in their everyday lives. These bills will help keep more money in people’s wallets, take historic steps to improve public safety, and create a safer and healthier Colorado so that every family can thrive.”

SB 22-001 – Crime Prevention Through Safer Streets

Sen. Janet Buckner (D-Aurora) and Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo); 
Rep. Naquetta Ricks (D-Aurora) and Rep. Kerry Tipper (D-Lakewood)

This legislation aims to improve public safety by creating a grant program to help local governments make upgrades like lighting improvements to neighborhoods where crime is more prevalent to help reduce crime and create safer communities.

SB 22-002 – Resources For Volunteer Firefighters

Sen. Joann Ginal (D-Fort Collins) and Sen. Tammy Story (D-Conifer); 
Rep. Lisa Cutter (D-Littleton) and Rep. Perry Will (R-New Castle)

Following the devastating Marshall Fire, Colorado Democrats are pushing legislation that will help recruit and retain more volunteer and seasonal firefighters while arming them with training and resources - including mental health care - so they are better equipped to stay healthy and safe while responding to emergencies. 

SB 22-003 – Community College Nursing Bachelor Degree Eligibility

Sen. Janet Buckner (D-Aurora) and Sen. Kerry Donovan (D-Vail); 
Rep. Kyle Mullica (D-Federal Heights) and Rep. Tony Exum (D-Colorado Springs)

In order to address Colorado’s worsening health care provider shortage and create more high-paying jobs, this bill will allow community colleges to offer full bachelor’s degrees to certain nursing students. 
 

SB 22-004 – Evidence-based Training In Science Of Reading

Sen. Jeff Bridges (D-Greenwood Village) and Sen. Bob Rankin (R-Carbondale);
Rep. Julie McCluskie (D-Dillon)

This bipartisan legislation will help better prepare Colorado students for 21st century jobs by improving their reading comprehension and giving Colorado teachers the tools they need to ensure every Colorado student is reading at grade level.
 

SB 22-005 – Law Enforcement Agency Peace Officer Services

Sen. Jeff Bridges (D-Greenwood Village) and Sen. John Cooke (R-Greeley)

To help improve public safety, this legislation allocates $5 million to create a pilot grant program that will help local law enforcement officials recruit, train, and retain police officers from diverse backgrounds, and improve diversity in policing. The bill also allocates an additional $5 million to the Peace Officers Behavioral Health Support and Community Partnership Fund, which can be used for mental health support for law enforcement as well as alternative community response and co-responder models. 
 

SB 22-006 – Sales Tax Assistance For Small Businesses

Sen. Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver) and Sen. Chris Kolker (D-Centennial);
Rep. Barbara McLachlan (D-Durango) and Rep. Marc Snyder (D-Manitou Springs)

This legislation will help small businesses’ bottom line by allowing them to retain more of the sales tax revenue they collect.
 

SB 22-007 – Increase Wildfire Risk Mitigation Outreach Efforts

Sen. Tammy Story (D-Conifer) and Sen. Pete Lee (D-CO Springs);
Rep. Lisa Cutter (D-Littleton) and Rep. Marc Snyder (D-Manitou Springs)

In order to better prepare Colorado communities for future wildfires, this bill will help folks living in fire-prone areas take steps to mitigate the risks of catastrophic wildfires and improve wildfire danger awareness.
 

SB 22-008 – Higher Education Support For Foster Youth

Sen. Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada) and Sen. Kevin Priola (R-Henderson); 
Rep. Barbara McLachlan (D-Durango) and Rep. Hugh McKean (R-Loveland)

This bill will help college-bound students who have been in foster care afford the cost of attending college by requiring all higher education institutions to waive their undergraduate fees and tuition. 
 

SB 22-009 – Recertification And Theft Of Catalytic Converters

Sen. Joann Ginal (D-Fort Collins) and Sen. Dennis Hisey (R-Fountain); 
Rep. Adrienne Benavidez (D-Denver) and Rep. Shannon Bird (D-Westminster)

This legislation aims to cut down on the spiking number of catalytic converter thefts across Colorado by making it illegal to install, sell, or advertise a used, recycled, or salvaged catalytic converter without first meeting certain requirements. 
 

SB 22-010 – Pretrial Diversion For Persons With Behavioral Health

Sen. Pete Lee (D-CO Springs) and Sen. Cleave Simpson (R-Alamosa);
Rep. Adrienne Benavidez (D-Denver) and Rep. Judy Amabile (D-Boulder)

In order to reduce recidivism and prevent criminal behavior, this legislation empowers District Attorneys to divert folks with behavioral health conditions away from the criminal justice system and into appropriate community treatment programs so they can get the care they need.

Senate President Leroy Garcia Delivers Opening Day Remarks

DENVER, CO – Colorado Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo) today delivered his Opening Day Remarks to kick off the 2022 legislative session – his last as Senate President. Below is a transcript of Garcia’s remarks as prepared for delivery:

"Madam President Pro Tempore, Mr. Majority Leader, Mr. Minority Leader – friends, loved ones, and honored guests.

Good morning, and welcome to the Colorado Senate.

It is an honor to be with you all today as we find ourselves on day one of what promises to be a challenging, yet rewarding 120 days.

For those who have not heard the great news, the good Senator from Wheat Ridge gave birth to a healthy baby boy named Callum just a few weeks ago. Please join me in congratulating Senator Jessie Danielson, her husband Andy and their daughter Isabella on their new addition to the family!

Congratulations Senator Danielson!

This is the fourth time I have had the privilege of standing before you and addressing you on opening day as your Senate President, and I sincerely enjoyed working on this speech because it gave me an opportunity to reflect on all the things we have endured together. Over the last three years, the challenges have been unprecedented, but so have our victories.

We fought to lead Colorado’s Comeback to recover from the pandemic, and made monumental investments in Colorado’s affordability and resilience by cutting taxes for small businesses, improving our schools, expanding access to childcare, investing in rural communities, and developing our state’s workforce.

We worked together to modernize and update our misdemeanor sentencing laws, finding bipartisanship and agreement on a contentious issue where consensus is often hard to find.

We have saved Coloradans thousands of dollars on their healthcare bills, finding innovative ways to cut costs, build transparency, and increase access for all.

In the midst of the worst economic downturn in Colorado’s history, our Joint Budget Committee moved mountains to pave the way for our economic recovery, while still crafting a budget that reflects the values that this state believes in.

We have made crucial strides towards protecting the great outdoors our state is known for, so Coloradans today, tomorrow and for generations to come can continue enjoying them.

I mention this not to take a victory lap, but because we convene today under the shadow of a prolonged period of statewide grief. Over just the last few weeks, Aurora, Denver, Lakewood and beyond have mourned the victims of gun violence. Our neighbors in Boulder County have started to rebuild after fires reduced their homes to ash. The pandemic’s death toll keeps climbing, as does the rate of suicides and overdoses.

It is easy to focus on what divides us, rather than on the shared responsibility each of us has to make sure that these tragedies become more than just headlines – they are calls to action.

When the founders of this country put pen to paper, they predicted that the young nation was destined to exist as perpetual works in progress, the dream of a more perfect union remaining permanently out of reach.

We carry that mantle today, where we find ourselves in a building constructed as a monument to our founder’s belief that the pursuit of progress is both noble and necessary. Our constituents sent us so we could prove those words right, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges and unfathomable loss.

Although our state – like the entire country – feels more divided than ever, Coloradans are united in their vision for their future.

Whether home is a rental apartment in downtown Denver, a family farm nestled on the Western Slope, or a house on Pueblo’s South Side, every Coloradan wants – and deserves – many of the same things.

• A safe, reliable place to lay your head to rest

• A stable income that allows you to provide for yourself and your family

• A life free from violence and discrimination

While we have worked to make these things universal, far too many Coloradans have been left behind and ultimately, we are here to change that – to do our part in making sure every person is able to achieve the life and future they envision for themselves and their families.

It has become somewhat of a tradition for the Senate President to declare on opening day that this upcoming session will be the most consequential in history. That declaration has never felt more appropriate, as we begin the 2022 legislative session with a once in a lifetime gift that puts the wind at our backs as we choose how we shape Colorado’s future.

The American Rescue Plan Act has given us an opportunity that we never would have thought possible before. With hundreds of millions of dollars at our disposal, we have a one-time chance to create transformational change that Coloradans will feel for decades.

Over the last several months, bipartisan groups of legislators met with experts to chart the future of this spending. And thanks to the dedication of our members who served on those task forces, we are going to spend the next 120 days making sure that we make every dollar count.

We’re going to make transformational changes to drastically increase the supply of safe and affordable housing, so Coloradans in every corner of this state can keep a roof over their head.

We are going to stabilize our behavioral health system that has been stretched far too thin for far too long, so our neighbors that struggle with mental health and substance use disorders can get the support they need to stay safe.

We are going to invest in our most important resource: our children, to make sure they have the education, training and support needed for a bright future.

We are going to support small businesses, grow our state’s economy, and make sure that our recovery continues to lift up all Coloradans.

We are going to make sure that the issues discussed around kitchen tables in Pueblo and beyond – like public safety, affordability, student success and more – are the issues that we discuss here at the Capitol.

One of the most important lessons I have learned as a legislator is to make the most of every opportunity, because a second chance is never guaranteed. None of us know if Colorado will have another opportunity like the one we have today, to take Colorado leaps and bounds towards the dream of a brighter future. It is not an opportunity we will let go to waste.

This opening day speech is my fourth – and final – of my tenure as Senate President. It is also the first of what will be a long list of “last times” that I will experience over the next 120 days.

Each of us will eventually walk out of this chamber for a final time, and once we’ve said goodbye to the Senate, our legacy won’t be measured by the titles we collect or the size of our office.

Our legacy will be measured by all the ways that Coloradans will feel the choices we make for years to come, and the ways they experience what we do with this once in a lifetime opportunity.

It is the Colorado family that was able to pull themselves from the brink of homelessness and keep a roof over their heads because we choose to invest in affordable housing.

It is the small business owner who keeps their doors open and their employees on the payroll because we created programs that help them weather tough times.

It is the young Coloradan who starts to put their mental health struggles in the rear view mirror – because we worked together today to ensure that mental and behavioral health care is available to anyone who is ready for it.

It is the combat veteran who comes home from deployment and is able to enjoy the freedoms they fought to protect – because we fought for them in the capitol.

It is the Latino kid, who ensures that the first Latino Senate President – is far from Colorado’s last.

Our legacy will be measured not by whether or not we resolved all our problems in 120 days, but by how we used these 120 days to relentlessly pursue a more perfect Colorado.

This session – especially as the demands of legislating put us to the test, we cannot lose sight of the fact that Colorado’s future gets brighter when we confront our challenges with the relentless optimism that better is possible, only if we choose to make it the only possible outcome.

Let’s make that choice together.

Before we move forward, I want to close by sharing my gratitude.

We would not be here today if it were not for the first responders – the doctors, nurses, law enforcement, EMS professionals, and so many more – who have made it their mission to keep Colorado safe and healthy. We are indebted to them for their service. Please join me in showing our appreciation for their service.

I want to thank my boys – I guess now I should be calling them young men – Jeremiah and Xan, for your love and support.

I also am grateful for my parents, my friends and to Pueblo – thank you for putting your trust in me to represent our community. It has been an honor of a lifetime to serve. Know that I will continue to fight for a better future here in the Capitol, and beyond.

Majority Leader Fenberg and Minority Leader Holbert – thank you for your collaboration, your commitment to service, and your friendship. I am incredibly fortunate to have such great partners in leadership.

And colleagues, I want to share my gratitude for each and every one of you. This partnership had a little bit of a rocky start, as you might recall.

However, three years later, this chamber has set an example for the rest of the country by leaving the partisan antics to Washington DC so we can focus on making the lives of Coloradans better.

Members, with you, let’s get to work."

Early Childhood Leadership Commission Unanimously Approves Recommendations for Universal Preschool Program That Will Save Coloradans Money, Build World-Class Care and Education System

Early Childhood Report Recommends Establishing Local Leads to Help Build National Model for High-Quality Preschool to Help Ensure Every Child is Ready for School 

DENVER — Today, the Early Childhood Leadership Commission (ECLC) unanimously approved a final report outlining key recommendations for the voter-backed, voluntary, universal preschool program that is now available, marking a significant milestone in Colorado’s effort to save families money and build a world-class care and education system. 

“Colorado voters supported building a world-class universal preschool program that prepares our kids for success and will save hardworking Colorado families on average $4,300 each year,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Today’s report is a step toward making high-quality early education and child care more affordable, accessible, and easier for families to navigate.”

The universal preschool program, which will be overseen by the new Department of Early Childhood, will give all Colorado families the opportunity to access 10 hours of high-quality early care and education per week, per child, in the year prior to the child entering kindergarten. It is set to launch in 2023.

“Colorado’s kids, parents, educators, and early childhood advocates got a win today,” said Speaker Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “This report is the next step in ensuring that all Colorado families can save money and access quality preschool education and early learning. Investing in our kids means moving Colorado forward, planting the seeds for a better, more prosperous future.” 

The final report was approved following an extensive planning and engagement process. The report was informed by stakeholders statewide; the Transition Advisory Group, a group of 56 community leaders appointed by the ECLC; and the Transition Working Group, a group of key leaders from the Governor’s Office, ECLC, the Department of Education, the Department of Higher Education, the Department of Human Services, and the Department of Public Health & Environment. 

Among the key recommendations outlined in the plan, the new Department of Early Childhood is advised to build an early childhood infrastructure that establishes designated local leads to ensure the program is properly implemented in every community. 

“Early childhood is a critical period in child development that dramatically shapes a child’s subsequent education and life experiences,” said Sen. Janet Buckner, D-Aurora. “We have an incredible opportunity to implement universal preschool across our state while improving education outcomes and supporting our families, and this report brings us one step closer to that reality here in Colorado. I’m very proud to have played a key role in this effort, which will have life-changing effects on our youth for generations to come.”

Local leads are best positioned to know what a community needs and to create innovative solutions that meet the state’s vision in a way that is suited for the local context. These local leads would be selected by the Department of Early Childhood and charged with solving local challenges, fostering partnerships, creating alignment among all local entities, and allocating funding equitably in their communities. 

“This report represents a massive step forward toward saving parents money and creating a more cohesive early childhood education and care system,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “As a former early learning professional, I know how important it is to support our children in the critical early learning years, setting them up to thrive.”

The recommendations also call for the creation of a single, unified application for families to complete to access all publicly funded early childhood services. The single application would streamline the enrollment and eligibility process for both families and providers.

“Access to child care not only supports critical early development and future educational outcomes, but also the very well-being and success of families across our state,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “With the final report from the Early Childhood Leadership Commission, we are one major step closer to seeing our vision for universal preschool become reality. I’m grateful for the hard work of the commission, whose efforts are going to make a world of difference in the lives of Colorado’s parents and kids.”

Speaker Garnett, Senator Buckner, Rep. Sirota and Majority Leader Fenberg were sponsors of the bipartisan HB21-1304, which established a unified early childhood system in Colorado, created the department of early childhood and was signed into law by Governor Polis. 

The report has been submitted to the Governor and the General Assembly. It follows a report approved in November 2021 to guide the new Department of Early Childhood.

Moving forward, the Governor’s early childhood transition team will lead the implementation of these recommendations, along with the approved recommendations for the new Department of Early Childhood. The team will continue to seek guidance and support from agency leadership, experts in the field, and a diverse range of stakeholders across the state. All information about this process, including opportunities for stakeholder engagement, will soon be made available.

Read the Executive Summary. 

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.