Zenzinger Honored for Work to Prepare Colorado Students for Success

Senator named 2022 Policy Leader by Colorado Association of School Executives

BRECKENRIDGE, CO - Colorado State Senator Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, was recently named a 2022 Policy Leader by the Colorado Association of School Executives in recognition of her work to invest in education and support students and families across Colorado.

“Every Colorado student deserves a quality, public education, but our level of state support for schools just wasn’t getting the job done,” Zenzinger said. “I am honored to receive this award for my work tackling this issue. But more importantly I am incredibly proud of the historic and transformative investments we made in Colorado’s K-12 schools that will help us get critical resources to the classrooms that need them most, while making sure every student - regardless of their ability - has the support they need to succeed.”

“Senator Zenzinger is a tireless advocate for public education,” said CASE Executive Director Bret Miles. “Her work to secure significant new funding for special education will have a major positive impact on all school districts in Colorado both this year and years to come, and CASE is so appreciative of her leadership.”

A member of the Senate Education Committee and the Joint Budget Committee, Zenzinger championed several major pieces of legislation to support students and families during the 2022 General Assembly.

Zenzinger sponsored HB22-1390, the 2022 Public School Finance Act, which increases funding for K-12 public schools by nearly $550 per student on average to put more resources directly into classrooms that school districts can use to increase teacher pay and reduce class sizes. She also championed SB22-127 Special Education Funding which dramatically increases funding for more than 100,000 Colorado special education students, from about $220 million per year currently to more than $300 million per year moving forward.

Zenzinger also helped craft the 2022 state budget which increases state support for higher education by investing $129 million to boost financial aid and tuition assistance to save Colorado students and families money on their degrees, as well as SB22-192 Opportunities For Credential Attainment which streamlines educational pathways and better connects students with high-paying, in-demand jobs.

Polis Administration Providing Unprecedented Relief to Wildfire Victims

LOUISVILLE - Governor Polis signed a new landmark bill into law this year sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg and Representative Judy Amabile to provide unprecedented financial relief to wildfire survivors like the Marshall Fire and responsibly investing funds to give Colorado communities and first responders more tools to fight these fires in the immediate future, helping prevent small flames from becoming destructive wildfires. Today, the Polis-Primavera administration in partnership with the legislature announced that funding will soon be available to wildfire victims and the criteria to apply. 

“We are stepping in to provide much-needed support to help Coloradans rebuild stronger and more resiliently. As we face the reality of a year-round fire season, we are taking action to prepare for and prevent wildfires, and making sure that Coloradans know that they are never alone when facing the challenge of rebuilding after a fire,” said Gov Polis. “This important support, which includes grants for low and middle income residents and low-interest loans for higher income residents, helps to fill the gap left by underinsurance, letting Coloradans know that you can count on our state to help as we continue to build our robust toolkit of resources to prepare for, prevent, and respond to wildfires in our state.”

“Our climate is changing whether we like it or not, and we’re seeing more frequent and more destructive natural disasters such as wildfires as a result,” said President Fenberg. “That’s why we’re working to prepare for and mitigate future climate-induced disasters and to improve our response to the destruction left in their wake. The new support we’re offering this year will make the rebuilding and insurance processes less burdensome and help folks who have been hit by natural disasters get back on their feet. These new programs, alongside the new Office of Climate Preparedness, will help us better coordinate our response and ensure we’re as prepared as possible when the next disaster strikes.”

"Coloradans displaced by the Marshall Fire, East Troublesome Fire and other wildfire disasters are not alone, the state is stepping up to help Coloradans rebuild and protect our communities from destructive wildfires," said Representative Judy Amabile. “These resources, along with the insurance reforms we passed this year, will help Coloradans impacted by recent fires rebuild their lives and protect homeowners from unanticipated gaps in their insurance coverage. This significant investment will boost our state's emergency response efforts, mitigate damage caused by natural disasters, prepare Colorado for our changing climate and a year-round fire season, and connect Coloradans to the services and relief they need after a destructive fire."

“With debris removal making significant progress, our residents are now focusing on rebuilding and having these funding opportunities from SB-206 will be a significant help in bridging the underinsurance gap.  We sincerely appreciate Governor Polis and the entire team at the state for supporting the rebuilding efforts of our communities,” said Clint Folsom, Mayor of Superior.

“Underinsurance has left so many families in our community without the necessary resources to get back home.  This program is critical to closing the gap,” said Ashley Stolzmann, Mayor of Louisville. 

“Colorado’s elected officials have shown extraordinary leadership in response to the Marshall Fire and in ensuring our state is better prepared for similar future events. We are grateful for the support and in the state’s work to make the long road ahead easier for our community by aligning available funds through Recovery Navigation,” said Tatiana Hernandez, CEO Community Foundation Boulder County.

The Disaster Resilience Rebuilding Program (DRR) aims to help close gaps from other funds offered for the rebuilding of owner-occupied homes affected by natural disasters across the state. Applicants may apply for grants and loans up to $50,000 depending on different qualifying factors. DRR hopes to support rebuilding safer, energy efficient structures that can better withstand any future natural disasters. The program will provide funds for fire resistant building materials to better protect communities in the future. Please visit the Boulder County Recovery Navigators site and the Disaster Resilience Rebuilding site to find all of the details regarding qualifications, determining factors, applicable fund uses, and required information. Further questions may be submitted here.

Boulder County will host a town hall today at 6:00pm MT to further support residents navigating the rebuilding process, and residents can attend in-person or online. 

This April when the landmark SB22-206 was introduced, Gov. Polis convened local, federal and state officials to discuss this effort and ongoing and new efforts to prepare for and respond to wildfires.

Eligible applicants for the first phase of funding include persons who owned a disaster-damaged home as their primary residence at the time of the state-declared disaster (see list below). Those nine state-declared disasters include:

• 2018 Spring Creek Fire San Juan and La Plata Counties

• 2018 Chateau Fire Teller County

• 2018 Lake Christine Fire Eagle County

• 2019 Avalanche Debris and Flooding Risk Hinsdale County

• 2020 Cameron Peak Fire Larimer County

• 2020 East Troublesome Fire Grand County

• 2020 Calwood Fire Boulder County

• 2021 Muddy Slide Fire Routt County

• 2022 Marshall Fire and Straight-Line Winds Boulder County

The application and list will be available in August or early September. Program staff are developing a single application and a single, comprehensive list of background documents necessary to apply for Disaster Resilience Rebuilding funds as well as other funds that may be available to those impacted by the state-declared disasters. To get started Coloradans may begin compiling the following:

• Government issued identification, proof of ownership of the property current and back to the date of the state declared disaster (e.g., title and/or property tax record)

• Proof of residency in the property on the date of the state declared disaster (e.g., utility bills). Proof of income for adults in the home (e.g., pay stubs, bank statements showing pay deposits, social security/disability/retirement fund statements, or self-owned business account statements)

• Home/hazard Insurance claim/disbursement letter/check (If a federally declared disaster) FEMA award/denial letter and disbursement statement

• (If a federally declared disaster, and applicable) SBA award/denial letter and disbursement statement

• Documentation of any other loans/grants/gifts received as financial assistance for rebuilding of the home

• Documentation of rebuilding or repair cost estimates received from contractors

This new law also establishes the Office of Climate Preparedness, dedicating focused attention and coordination across state government, on the state’s climate adaptation and disaster recovery needs. The office will add needed capacity to support recovery efforts from natural disasters and will lead the development of a statewide comprehensive climate preparedness roadmap.  It would also implement the recommendation of the Colorado Fire Commission to coordinate year-round resource mobilization and dispatching. 

In the aftermath of the Marshall Fire, Gov. Polis convened philanthropic groups in support of Colorado families and individuals impacted by the devastating Marshall Fire and hosted a virtual benefit concert in partnership with AEG and Community Foundation of Boulder County to support disaster survivors of wildfire.

Gonzales Applauds Polis Administration Efforts to Bolster and Protect Access to Reproductive Health Care in Colorado

DENVER, CO - Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, is applauding Governor Jared Polis’ executive actions to bolster and protect access to reproductive health in Colorado.

A staunch advocate for abortion rights, Gonzales championed the landmark Reproductive Health Equity Act which updates Colorado’s laws to protect reproductive rights and establishes a fundamental right to choose to continue a pregnancy and give birth, or to have an abortion.

“Abortion is health care, and I’m proud that Democrats protected every Coloradan’s ability to make their own reproductive health care decisions free from government interference by passing the landmark Reproductive Health Equity Act this past legislative session. I appreciate Governor Polis’ executive order to protect patients and providers, because with abortion access now in jeopardy, or outright banned, in too many Republican-controlled states across the country, this is a crucial time in which we all must do everything that we can to defend these fundamental rights. I’ll continue working alongside providers, advocates, patients, and my colleagues to ensure that every Coloradan, and everyone who travels to Colorado for care, can access the care they need, no matter what.”

New Laws to Bolster Colorado’s Behavioral Health Care Workforce, Help Streamline Vital Services Go into Effect

Laws aim to help address the behavioral health crisis, help more Coloradans with mental health conditions and substance use disorders access treatment

DENVER, CO - Today, two laws signed by Governor Jared Polis to help transform Colorado’s behavioral health system officially went into effect.

HB22-1278, sponsored by Senator Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs, and Representative Mary Young, D-Greeley, will help increase and streamline access to behavioral health services through the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) for individuals with mental health conditions and substance use disorders

“Our law uplifts Colorado’s new Behavioral Health Administration, to make mental health care and substance use disorder treatment less expensive and easier to access,” said Young. “The pandemic has only exacerbated the long-standing challenges Coloradans' have faced when trying to find the behavioral health care they need. The BHA works to streamline behavioral health care so Coloradans seeking care can find and receive high-quality treatment."

“Coloradans deserve easy access to the behavioral health care they need to maintain their health and well-being, but far too many folks are left with limited or no options for help,” said Lee. “Accessing our behavioral health system can be complex and difficult. The Behavioral Health Administration will help streamline services for people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. With this law, we will be able to ensure accessible, equitable and high quality care for all.”

HB22-1278 establishes a comprehensive, accountable behavioral health safety net system available in every region of Colorado. This includes over 15 different critical behavioral health services including substance use treatment, crisis services, criminal justice diversion, trauma informed care, youth services, and more.

Another new law, championed by Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, and Representative Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, also went into effect today. SB22-181 directs the BHA to invest $72 million to bolster and stabilize the state’s behavioral health care workforce, which will help more Coloradans access the critical care they need to thrive.

“If we want to achieve our goal of transforming Colorado’s behavioral health system, then we need a robust workforce to help us do it,” said Bridges. “This new law is a significant investment that will expand our behavioral health workforce and allow us to address our workforce shortage, better meet the needs of patients, and improve patient outcomes.”

“This year, we worked to address the most pressing issues in our community. In Colorado, too many people are struggling to access or pay for the behavioral health care they need to thrive,” said Cutter. “This law is part of the total $450 million investment of federal funds to help us meet this challenge by boosting our health care workforce and recruiting and retaining the providers Colorado needs. It will also create new pathways for people entering mental health professions and save providers money as they pursue their education and go through the credentialing process.”

The BHA’s workforce plan must include efforts to diversify the behavioral health workforce, expand the peer support professional workforce, reduce the administrative burden on providers, and support the existing workforce. The law also provides funding to the community college system to build a robust career pathway for the behavioral health field.

SB22-181 was developed based on recommendations from the state’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force.

Hinrichsen Bills to Cut Fees, Save People Money Go Into Effect

Senator fought to support working Pueblo families, provide relief from pandemic-induced inflation

PUEBLO, CO - A package of bills to reduce fees and save working Pueblo families money championed by Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, went into effect today.

The new laws cut fees on everything from license plate renewal to professional licensing fees for nurses and will save working Coloradans millions of dollars over the next two years.

“Pandemic-induced inflation is putting folks in a pinch, which is why we fought to pass this slate of fee relief bills that will help save people money,” Hinrichsen said. “From helping local restaurants hold onto thousands of dollars on their sales taxes, to slashing fees at the DMV, to reducing professional licenses for health care providers, we’re helping families and businesses deal with rising costs and putting money directly back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans.”

Hinrichsen’s bills to save people money include:

HB22-1406: Qualified Retailer Retain Sales Tax

Small restaurants and businesses are the backbone of our communities, and they need support as the economy continues to recover. This law will save nearly 9,000 restaurants and retailers up to $40 million this summer. Businesses will be allowed to deduct up to $70,000 from their net taxable sales, saving them about $2,000 in sales tax collections in July, August and September of this year.

HB22-1298: Fee Relief for Nurses, Nurse Aides, and Technicians

Our health care heroes have faced immeasurable challenges over the last two years, but regardless of these challenges, they have stepped up to the plate every day to care for Coloradans. This bill will help alleviate the pressure essential workers have faced by providing licensure and certification fee relief for nurses, nurse aides, and psychiatric technicians. $11.7 million will be used to fund the State Board of Nursing expenses to regulate nurses, nurse aides, and psychiatric technicians starting in FY22-23 until the funds have been fully expended. 

HB22-1351: Temporarily Reduce Road User Charges

In a state like Colorado, easy and affordable transportation is critical, but pandemic-induced inflation and the rising cost of living caused by global economic forces have sent transit costs soaring. This bill will save Coloradans $45 million at the gas pump and nearly $34 million in vehicle registration costs while still funding needed road repairs and infrastructure work across the state.

This urgently-needed relief will help working families afford everyday necessities and make life more affordable in Colorado. Read more about Colorado Democrats’ work to save people money HERE.

New Laws Passed by Democrats to Save People Money Go Into Effect

DENVER, CO –  New laws passed by Democrats in the General Assembly to save people and businesses more than $150 million go into effect today.

“With inflation and rising costs squeezing families across the state, we did everything we could to save Coloradans and businesses money this year,” said Rep. David Ortiz, D-Littleton. “The legislation going into effect today will save Coloradans and businesses nearly $150 million. From cutting property taxes by $275 on average and creating free universal preschool, to sending every Coloradan an early rebate check of $750 and boosting the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit, we’re putting hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars back into Coloradans’ pockets.”

“Pandemic-induced inflation is putting folks in a pinch, which is why we fought to pass this slate of fee relief bills that will help save people money,” said Sen. Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo. “From helping local restaurants hold onto thousands of dollars on their sales taxes, to slashing fees at the DMV, to reducing professional licenses for health care providers, we’re helping families and businesses deal with rising costs and putting money directly back into the pockets of hard-working Coloradans.”

“The legislation going into effect today will save drivers money as gas prices rise across the globe and put money back into the pockets of health care professionals and small businesses,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “Nurses and mental health professionals served on the frontlines during the pandemic, and small businesses have faced the brunt of the pandemic’s economic disruptions. I’m so proud of the legislation we passed to save families and businesses money and help  Coloradans hold on to more of their hard earned money.”

“We know that working Colorado families need all the help they can get right now, and we delivered with a package of new laws going into effect today that will reduce fees and help folks across the state save money,” said Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial. “These measures will help alleviate the financial pressure families and businesses have felt over the last two years, giving them some breathing room and helping them make ends meet when they need it most.”

Saving Restaurants and Small Businesses Money: HB22-1406, sponsored by Representatives Dylan Roberts and Leslie Herod and Senators Nick Hinrichsen and James Coleman, will save restaurants $40 million by allowing them to retain the sales tax they collect and would otherwise remit to the state. HB22-1001, sponsored by Representatives Lisa Cutter and Tom Sullivan and Senators Brittany Pettersen and Chris Kolker, will save businesses over $8 million by making it nearly free to start your own business in Colorado.

Putting Money Back Into Driver’s Pockets: HB22-1004, sponsored by Representatives David Ortiz and Mary Young and Senators Chris Kolker and Rhonda Fields, will save drivers nearly $4 million in DMV fees, and HB22-1351, sponsored by Representatives Dylan Roberts and Barbara McLachlan and Senators Brittany Pettersen and Nick Hinrichsen, will save drivers over $78 million by reducing the cost of registering a vehicle and delaying the road usage fee

Saving Nurses and Mental Health Professionals Money on Their Professional Licenses: Nurses, who served bravely on the frontlines during the pandemic, will save $11.7 million this year when they go to renew their licenses because of HB22-1298, legislation sponsored by Representative Kyle Mullica and Senators Nick Hinrichsen and Sonya Jaquez Lewis. Mental health professionals will save $3.7 million when they go to renew their licenses from HB22-1299, legislation sponsored by Representative Mary Young and Senators Chris Kolker and Rhonda Fields.

Sen. Winter Statement on SCOTUS Decision Limiting EPA's Ability to Combat Climate Change

Senator: “I am bitterly disappointed by today’s shameful Supreme Court decision that guts the EPA’s ability to regulate emissions and sets back our efforts to mitigate the worst effects of climate change.”

WESTMINSTER, CO - Colorado State Senator Faith Winter today released a statement following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision limiting the EPA’s ability to regulate power plant emissions:

“I am bitterly disappointed by today’s shameful Supreme Court decision that guts the EPA’s ability to regulate emissions and sets back our efforts to mitigate the worst effects of climate change. We must be taking proactive steps to reduce emissions, but today’s decision will instead make this crisis worse, and it’s the most vulnerable among us who will be hit hardest. But here in Colorado, we are still leading the way, and this ruling will not deter our efforts to lower our emissions and tackle climate change head-on, before it’s too late. Whether it’s on climate change or abortion access, Colorado will stand strong and we will continue fighting to ensure a cleaner, safer, and healthier future for us all.”

General Assembly Democrats 2022 Accomplishments on Saving Colorado Families Money

MEMO                                                         

TO: Colorado Press Corps
RE: 2022 Accomplishments on Saving Colorado Families Money
FROM: House and Senate Democrats

Overview

Inflation and the rising cost of living caused by global economic forces and continued disruptions from the pandemic have caused economic uncertainty across the globe. This has hit Coloradans squarely in their pocketbooks, and folks are feeling the pain as the cost of living has risen, often hitting Black and Brown Coloradans and other disadvantaged communities the hardest. We recognize the financial stress families are feeling, which is why we worked hard to save Coloradans and businesses money and ease the burden for working Colorado families who are feeling the pinch.

That’s why Democrats this year passed legislation to save homeowners hundreds of dollars on their property taxes, expedite critical tax relief in the form of refund checks to every Colorado resident, and replenish the unemployment insurance trust fund to save businesses money and improve unemployment insurance for Colorado workers. We also worked to lower gas prices, save families money on groceries, and slash fees on everything from starting a business to getting a driver's license.

This urgent relief will help working families afford everyday necessities like gas and groceries, and will help make life more affordable in Colorado.

Saving People Money

Tax Relief and Cashback for Individuals and Families: Democrats passed legislation to save the average homeowner $274 on their property taxes (SB22-238); provide advanced tax refunds of $750 ($1,500 for joint filers) this summer to every Colorado resident (SB22-233); help tax filers take advantage of tax reforms that will save families and workers $180 million this year through the expanded earned income tax credit and child tax credit (SB22-182); and save homeowners money on wildfire mitigation (HB22-1007).

Tax Relief for Businesses: Democrats are providing $700 million in property tax relief over the next two years for homeowners and businesses (SB22-238); eliminating fees to start your business (HB22-1001); allowing restaurants to keep $40 million of the sales tax they collect (HB22-1406), making sales tax filing easier (SB22-006); and replenishing the unemployment trust fund to avoid cost increases on businesses (SB22-234).

Saving People Money on Housing: Democrats are saving Coloradans money on housing by investing $428 million to preserve and construct new affordable housing. This funding will go toward loans to leverage private and local dollars to construct affordable homes; direct grants to nonprofits and local governments to build affordable homes; investments in middle-income housing; and innovative housing solutions such as modular homes. (HB22-1304, SB22-159, SB22-160, SB22-146, HB22-1282). Additionally, Democrats extended the Colorado Affordable Housing Tax Credit for an additional 7 years, providing $420 million in additional tax credits over the next decade (HB22-1051), fostered economic mobility among mobile home park residents (HB22-1287), and protected veterans and active military members from housing discrimination (HB22-1102).

Increasing Behavioral Health Care Access: Democrats passed legislation to expand access to behavioral health care and save people money on the treatment they need to support their health and well-being. This $450 million package expands access to critical services for adults, youth, and families; increases access to substance use disorder treatment; bolsters the behavioral health workforce; and adds more residential treatment beds. (HB22-1281, SB22-196, HB22-1302, SB22-147, SB22-148, HB22-1283, HB22-1303, SB22-181, SB22-177, HB22-1278).

Child Care and Free Universal Preschool: Democrats passed legislation this session to help child care providers save money and stay open (HB22-1006, SB22-213) and create free universal preschool for every Colorado family that will help parents get back to work and save families thousands of dollars (HB22-1295).

Democrats saved people money everywhere we could including on:

• gas and car registrations (HB22-1351, HB22-1254), 

• groceries (HB22-1380), 

• hygiene products and diapers (HB22-1055), 

• drivers license renewals (HB22-1004), 

• professional fees and licensure renewals (HB22-1298, HB22-1299, HB22-1005),

• college tuition and apprenticeships (HB22-1350, HB22-1155, SB22-192, SB22-226, SB22-003)

• student loan forgiveness for educators and behavioral health care professionals (SB22-181, HB22-1220)

Colorado Senate Majority Caucus Joint Statement on Supreme Court Ruling Overturning Roe

COLORADO - The Colorado Senate majority caucus today released the following joint statement upon the U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade:

“We strongly condemn the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, a decision that has federally protected the right to abortion under the U.S. Constitution for the last 49 years. Today’s decision undermines the integrity of the U.S. Supreme Court, and undercuts decades of legal precedent. By overturning Roe v. Wade, millions of pregnant Americans will lose the ability to access a safe abortion.

We believe that every single American should have the freedom to decide when they want to start a family, and the liberty to seek out critical, often life-saving medical care, without interference from politicians. To be clear: today’s decision will not stop abortions from happening. It will stop safe abortions from happening, and put the lives of millions of Americans at risk while doing so. 

In Colorado, Democrats passed the Reproductive Health Equity Act because we anticipated that this day would come. Now and always, we will fight to ensure that every pregnant American’s decision regarding abortion and reproductive health care is respected and honored. Today serves as a stark reminder that the freedoms we enjoy cannot be taken for granted. It is also an opportunity for us to unite as Americans and demand change. We call on every single member of Congress to put politics aside and immediately pass the Women’s Health Protection Act, a federal measure that will codify abortion rights in law, once and for all. Abortion is a fundamental right, and we will fight for that right – for as long as it takes.”

JOINT RELEASE: Lawmakers Celebrate Important Step Forward to Fund Colorado Option

COLORADO - Colorado Democratic lawmakers today are celebrating news that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved Colorado’s Section 1332 Innovation Waiver Request for the Colorado Option, a landmark bill signed into law last year that will save Coloradans money and improve access to health care across the state.

Sponsored by Reps. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, and Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, and Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail, the Colorado Option will lower health care costs for individuals, families, and small businesses across the state by creating a new standardized health insurance plan for consumers on the individual and small group markets, and by requiring health insurance carriers to bring premiums down by 15 percent over three years.

“The Colorado Option will be an affordable and quality insurance plan in every county of the state. Coloradans – especially in rural and mountain communities like mine – have faced soaring health care costs for too long and that is why we worked so hard to make this plan a reality,” Roberts said. “This waiver means we can move forward with the Colorado Option and make quality, affordable health insurance plans for individuals and small businesses in every part of the state a reality.”

“I want to thank CMS for their partnership in making the Colorado Option a reality. This groundbreaking idea will cut the cost of health care and increase access for all Coloradans and small businesses – relief we need in Colorado’s high country and across the state,” Donovan said.

“I am proud that the Colorado Option will bring more affordable and quality health care to rural communities, people of color and small businesses across our state,” Jodeh said. “We have been working toward this day for a long time, and CMS’ approval of Colorado's waiver is an important step toward full implementation of the Colorado Option and achieving meaningful cost savings for Coloradans.”

Section 1332 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) permits a state to apply for a State Innovation Waiver (also referred to as a Section 1332 waiver) to pursue innovative strategies for providing residents with access to high quality, affordable health insurance while retaining the basic protections of the ACA.

CMS’ waiver approval is a critical step that will allow Colorado to use up to $135 million in federal funding to provide a new, affordable health insurance option that will save consumers money and help more Coloradans access and afford the critical health care they need to thrive.

JOINT RELEASE: Colorado Gains Jobs, Strong Economy Means More Money Will be Returned to Coloradans Through Cashback Plan

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 June economic forecasts.

“Today’s forecast shows that our economy is making a bold recovery with unemployment rates falling to pre-pandemic levels, nearly all sectors thriving, and Colorado’s employment gains outpacing the nation,” said JBC Chair Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “I’m proud of the fiscally responsible decisions we made to power the Colorado comeback and position our state to compete. We know that even with our strong recovery, families are struggling with high gas prices and the rising cost of living. Our Colorado Cashback Plan will send every Coloradan a refund check in September to help with everyday necessities, which thanks to our economic growth, will now be at least $750 for single filers and $1,500 for joint filers. From cutting property taxes to creating free universal preschool, we passed dozens of laws this year to help Coloradans and small businesses hold on to more of their hard-earned money.”

“Thanks to smart, responsible budgeting, Colorado’s economic recovery is leading the way, which is good news for families that are dealing with surging prices,” said JBC Vice Chair Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “Even better, Democrats have worked hard to ensure Colorado remains on a sound fiscal path, and today’s forecast means families will get even more money back - at least $750 for single filers and $1,500 for joint filers - when they receive their taxpayer relief checks this fall. I’m proud of the work we’ve done to invest in our communities, support Colorado’s economy, and move our state forward.”

“Despite a geopolitical crisis, supply chain challenges and pandemic-induced inflation leading to higher prices across the globe, Colorado is gaining jobs and beginning to close the gaps in our recovery that disproportionately impact people of color and lower-income communities,” said JBC Member Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “Our recovery has led to a strong budget surplus that we used to save people money on gas, groceries, property taxes, fees, hygiene products, car registrations, sales taxes, child care and so much more. By investing in vibrant communities, increasing access to behavioral health, boosting small businesses, and making housing more affordable, we worked to address the most pressing needs in our communities and protect the Colorado way of life.”

“Today’s data makes clear that Colorado’s economy continues to outpace other states when it comes to economic recovery and growth,” said JBC Member Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “We crafted a budget that delivers for Colorado families by making investments in K-12 education, reducing fees for businesses and professionals to save people money, and investing in health care for children and pregnant women, and it’s paying off for our families and our communities.”

The unemployment rate continued to fall in Colorado to 3.5 percent in May, led mostly by gains in the food and accommodations sectors. The state exceeds pre-pandemic jobs by 35,000 and continues to outpace the rest of the country. Inflationary pressures, however, will impact near term budget priorities and state departments. Geopolitical disruption and monetary policy decisions at the federal level in response to inflation were also presented as risks to the forecast. Extraordinary state and federal action to help Coloradans weather the disruption of the pandemic ensured a stronger and faster recovery than previous recessions.

During the 2022 legislative session, Democrats passed the Colorado Cashback Plan to send rebate checks to Coloradans in September to help people with rising costs. Under the new law, the state will refund approximately 85 percent of FY 2021-2022 surplus TABOR revenue through the Colorado Cashback Plan in checks of equal amounts for single filers and double that amount for joint filers. Due to Colorado’s strong recovery, the forecasts now estimate that the checks will be $750 for single filers and $1,500 for joint filers.

The Legislative Council staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.43 billion in FY 2021-2022 and $17.42 billion in FY 2022-2023 – a $1.37 billion increase for FY 2021-2022 and a $1.05 billion increase for FY 2022-2023 as compared with the earlier March revenue forecast. The forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.40 billion for FY 2023-2034.

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.2 billion for FY 2021-22, which OSPB revised upward by $1 billion relative to its March estimate. For FY 2022-23, OSPB projects General Fund revenue will be close to $16.6 billion, which OSPB revised upward by $91.1 million relative to its March estimate. For FY 2023-2024, OSPB estimates that General Fund revenue will be $17.3 billion.

Senate Applauds Signing of Danielson Bill to Prevent Crime, Create State-Level Response to Missing & Murdered Indigenous Relatives

SB22-150 will improve coordination and raise awareness of MMIR cases

DENVER, CO – The Colorado State Senate is celebrating the signing of a bill sponsored by Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, that will improve Colorado’s response to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives to help prevent crime and improve public safety.

The bill, SB22-150, will create an Office of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) to improve coordination, response, communication, and awareness of MMIR cases.

“Indigenous people are at particularly high risk for violent crime,” Danielson said. “We must stop looking the other way and address the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives with a comprehensive and strong response. This new law will do just that."

More than 4 out of 5 Indigenous people in the United States experience violent crime during their lifetime, a rate disproportionately higher than any other segment of the population.

SB22-150 will improve responses to MMIR cases, provide better support for Indigenous communities, and better serve families of MMIR. It will establish an MMIR alert system and improve data tracking regarding MMIR cases while ensuring interagency coordination, allowing for a more effective and robust response.

It also will require MMIR training for first responders, and implement a public education campaign to raise awareness around MMIR issues.

Approximately half of Indigenous women in the United States have experienced sexual violence, physical violence by an intimate partner, and stalking. Among Indigenous men, 27 percent have experienced sexual violence, 43 percent experienced physical violence by an intimate partner, and 19 percent experienced stalking.

The murder rate of Indigenous women is almost three times higher than that of non-Hispanic white women and is the third leading cause of death for Indigenous women and girls between the ages of 15-24.

Danielson, Jaquez Lewis Applaud Signing of Bill to Combat Wage Theft, Empower Colorado Workers

New law will ensure workers are able to recover legally earned wages

DENVER, CO – Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Boulder, celebrated the signing of SB22-161 by Governor Jared Polis that will modernize Colorado's wage enforcement procedures and ensure Colorado workers are able to recover legally earned wages. 

“Wage theft is far too prevalent in Colorado, and it often hits working families the hardest,” said Danielson. “It’s essential that we support the folks who work hard to keep Colorado’s economy running. This law will ensure workers receive the full wages they have earned.”

“Right now, many workers are victims of wage theft without even realizing it,” Jaquez Lewis said. “With this law, we’re empowering the Attorney General and the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment to collaborate and combat cases of wage theft. We must make sure workers receive the wages they are rightfully owed, and that violators are held accountable.”

The law empowers the Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) to facilitate the recovery of unpaid wages in wage theft cases by expanding investigatory authority to locate violators and streamlining enforcement of CDLE determinations in court. It also authorizes the Attorney General to partner with CDLE to investigate cases of wage theft and worker misclassification.

JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Colorado’s Behavioral Health Care Workforce

Legislation invests $72 million to help more Coloradans access critical care they need

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed into law a bipartisan bill that will help bolster Colorado’s critical behavioral health care workforce. 

SB22-181, championed by Senators Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, and Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Representatives Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Tonya Van Beber, R-Weld County, directs the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) to develop and implement a workforce plan to invest $72 million to bolster, diversify, and stabilize the state’s behavioral health care workforce. 

“If we want to achieve our goal of transforming Colorado’s behavioral health system, then we need a robust workforce to help us do it,” said Bridges. “This new law is a significant investment that will expand our behavioral health workforce and allow us to address our workforce shortage, better meet the needs of patients, and improve patient outcomes.”

“This year, we worked to address the most pressing issues in our community. In Colorado, too many people are struggling to access or pay for the behavioral health care they need to thrive,” said Cutter. “The legislation Governor Polis signed today is part of the total $450 million investment of federal funds to help us meet this challenge by boosting our health care workforce and recruiting and retaining the providers Colorado needs. The law will save providers money as they pursue their education and go through the credentialing process and create new pathways for people entering mental health professions.”

JOINT RELEASE: Governor Signs Bill to Save Seniors $100 Million on Housing

140,000 Colorado seniors can now claim new refundable tax credit for housing

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed HB22-1205, which will save seniors money on housing by creating a temporary new income tax credit.

“Coloradans are feeling the pressures of rising costs from pandemic-induced inflation, supply chain challenges and rising gas prices, so we made saving people money our top priority this session,” said Rep. Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “We reduced property taxes, made record investments to bring down the cost of housing, and passed legislation to put more money into people’s pockets. With this law, 140,000 low-income Colorado seniors save $100 million on housing. This will cut taxes and directly boost the incomes of older Coloradans who rent their homes or haven’t owned them long enough to qualify for the senior homestead exemption.”

“This year we took important steps to alleviate the pressure many families are facing due to pandemic-induced inflation and the rising cost of living, and this new law is a key component of that progress,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “This measure will save older Coloradans millions of dollars on housing, make Colorado a more affordable place to live, and ensure seniors can remain in the communities they have called home for years.”

“This new law will put $100 million back into seniors’ pockets, save seniors money on housing, and help vulnerable Coloradans afford the rising cost of living in our state,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “With so many Coloradans facing rent increases, higher property taxes, or an unaffordable home market, we passed a package of bills this session to save people money on housing. In addition to the new tax credit signed into law today, Governor Polis has signed bills into law to reduce property taxes by $274 on average and direct $428 million in federal funds to build more affordable homes, develop middle-income housing, and construct innovative and modular homes.”

“Rising housing costs are putting folks all across Colorado in a bind, and it’s hitting those on fixed incomes, like many seniors, especially hard,” said Senator James Coleman, D-Denver. “This new law will give those folks immediate relief by creating a new tax break that will save thousands of Colorado money on housing and help them stay in their homes and their communities.”

HB22-1205, sponsored by Representatives Chris Kennedy and Mike Weissman and Senators Chris Hansen and James Coleman, will save Colorado seniors over $100 million on their housing costs by creating a new refundable income tax credit. Seniors with incomes under $75,000 who have not claimed the senior homestead exemption will be eligible for the tax credit through their 2022 income tax returns. The credit starts at $1,000 for taxpayers with incomes below $25,000 and phases out slowly by $10 for every $500 of income above $25,000. Because the credit is refundable, taxpayers will receive the benefit even if the credit exceeds their tax liability. According to the bill's fiscal note prepared by nonpartisan staff, nearly 60,000 Coloradans will receive the full $1,000 credit, and up to 77,000 additional Coloradans will see tax relief under the law.

The chart below from the bill’s fiscal note shows the tax credit amount as it phases out by income level.

JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Just Transition for Coal-Based Economies

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed a bill to support workers and communities making the transition from coal-based economies.

“No community, no worker should be left behind in Colorado’s transition away from a coal-based economy,” said Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “Our law directs funding to impacted workers to assist with tuition and child care assistance, career planning services, and more. This money will help build vibrant and resilient economies in parts of our state, including Southern Colorado, that are struggling as market forces move our nation away from coal. This law directly impacts Colorado communities and helps build stronger economies.”

“As our energy economy moves forward, it’s critical we make sure that every affected community and worker is supported,” said Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster. “This legislation will make an equitable investment in projects to help diversify our rural economy, support working families, and help make sure no transitioning community is left behind.”

“Our bill that the Governor signed today is a vital step forward for transitioning communities and demonstrates our commitment to giving them the resources needed to support workers and diversify local economies during this time,” said Rep. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon. “With this new $15 million of funding, communities like Oak Creek, Hayden and Craig will be able to invest in new projects that diversify their economies, incentivize new energy jobs, and provide workers with career services and other supports. I am proud to represent and fight for Northwest Colorado, and this funding is a commitment to protecting those communities and the people that make them great.”

“In Colorado, we take care of each other,” said Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail. “This new law aligns with that value and provides resources to some of the best places in the state to envision and build what's next for them."

HB22-1394, sponsored by Majority Leader Daneya Esgar and Representative Dylan Roberts as well as Senators Faith Winter and Kerry Donovan, funds efforts by the Office of Just Transition to boost communities and workers transitioning from coal-based economies. The new law supports coal workers to help them provide for themselves and their families, and access innovative education and training opportunities. It will also provide funding to bolster coal-transition communities and help them create vibrant, resilient and sustainable local economies with good-paying jobs. $5 million will go to support economic development and assistance to local businesses, and $10 million will go directly to workers and their families.

JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Two Bipartisan Bills to Save Coloradans Money on Health Care

Legislation boosts hospital transparency and improves protection from surprise medical bills

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills into law that will increase hospital pricing transparency and save Coloradans money on health care.

HB22-1285 sponsored by Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo, Representative Patrick Neville, R-Castle Rock, Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City and Senator John Cooke, R-Greeley will increase hospital pricing transparency practices and save health care consumers money.

“Our bipartisan laws will save Coloradans money on health care by improving hospital price transparency and protecting patients from surprise billing,” said House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar. “Hospitals are required to be open and honest about what they’re changing patients, and our bills signed into law today by Governor Polis will not only ensure transparency but limit the hospital's ability to collect medical debt if they’re not in compliance. Coloradans deserve to know what they’re getting when it comes to health care, and this legislation protects them against surprise medical bills that are often shockingly expensive.”

"According to federal law, hospitals are required to be transparent about the price of services they provide patients,” said Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno. “By preventing Colorado's hospitals from sending medical debt to collections if they are out of compliance with these requirements, this new law will protect patients and empower Coloradans to make the right health care decisions for themselves and their families."

HB22-1285 saves Coloradans money on their health care costs by increasing hospital transparency and prohibiting hospitals that are out of compliance with federal price transparency laws from referring medical debt to collections. In July 2021, President Biden signed an executive order that directed the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to develop detailed rules to increase hospital billing transparency. Hospitals must now publicly post their “standard charges,” which are the gross charges, discounted cash prizes, payer-specific negotiated charges, and de-identified minimum and maximum negotiated charges so that consumers can make informed decisions when shopping for health care services.

Under the law, hospitals that are not in compliance with federal hospital price transparency laws will be prohibited from referring, assigning or selling medical debt to collectors, and they will be prohibited from using the courts to obtain a judgment for an outstanding medical debt.

Governor Polis also signed HB22-1284, sponsored by Majority Leader Esgar, Representative Marc Catlin, R-Montrose and Senators Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood, and Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, to improve surprise medical billing protections in Colorado.

“We need to do everything we can to protect Coloradans from malicious surprise billing practices, and instead help them access the care they need while saving them money,” said Senator Brittany Pettersen. “This new law will increase protections for patients, lower the cost of health care for Coloradans, and improve patient outcomes as we work to build a healthier Colorado for all.”

HB22-1284 boosts Colorado’s surprise medical billing protections by aligning them with recently passed federal legislation. The law provides clarity to consumers, providers and insurance carriers about how to move forward with surprise billing protections. It adds balance billing protections for post-stabilization services to ensure that patients are protected from surprise bills until they can consent and be safely transferred to an in-network facility.

It mirrors the federal law’s notice and consent requirements to ensure that out-of-network providers and facilities provide notice to a consumer before a scheduled service, including a good-faith estimate of the total charges the consumer will be responsible for. Additionally, it updates Colorado laws to allow for a 90-day period of continued coverage at in-network rates for transitional care.

JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Pair of Bipartisan Bills to Crack Down on Catalytic Converter Thefts, Create a Safer Colorado

Legislation will reduce crime, improve public safety

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed into law a pair of bipartisan bills to crack down on catalytic converter thefts and create a safer Colorado.

SB22-009, sponsored by Senators Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins, and Dennis Hisey, R-Fountain, and Representatives Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, and Adrienne Benavidez, D-Commerce City, will cut down on the spiking number of catalytic converter thefts across Colorado by giving state regulators more oversight of aftermarket sales of catalytic converters and make it easier to prosecute “chop shops” for selling stolen ones.

“Catalytic converter theft has become a huge problem here in Colorado and throughout our nation, and it’s only getting worse,” said Ginal. “Coloradans depend on their cars for everyday things like getting to work and picking up groceries, and an inoperable car can cause real harm and unnecessary costs. This new law will help us crack down on those thefts by allowing the state to go after the market that encourages these crimes, educate folks on how to keep their property secure, and better protect Coloradans property and our communities.”

“This new law will help address the rising number of catalytic converter thefts by cracking down on chop shops and aftermarket sales that are driving demand for stolen parts,” said Bird. “These costly repairs are often unaffordable for families and can significantly disrupt daily life for anyone who relies on their car. I’m proud we are taking action to prevent these thefts and help Coloradans avoid expensive trips to the mechanic.”

Polis also signed HB22-1217, sponsored by Ginal, Benavidez, and Rep. Rod Bockenfeld, R-Aurora, which creates a grant program - funded by penalties accrued under companion legislation, SB22-179 - aimed at increasing public awareness around catalytic converter theft and providing financial assistance to victims of catalytic converter theft.

“The theft of catalytic converters is costing Coloradans money and making life miserable for the victims of these thefts,” said Benavidez. “These new laws will protect vehicle owners, help Coloradans avoid costly repairs, and give law enforcement additional tools to go after the people selling stolen parts.”

Catalytic converters control the exhaust emissions from vehicles and play an important role in reducing harmful pollutants. They have recently become a target for thieves because they contain precious metal alloys that have high resale values.

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.

JOINT RELEASE: Signed! Funding to Protect Religious Centers and Nonprofits

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed HB22-1077 into law. The legislation, sponsored by Representatives Dafna Michaleson Jenet and Iman Jodeh and Senators Chris Hansen and Kevin Priola, creates a grant program to enhance security for nonprofits.

“Today, we’re making Colorado communities safer by providing grant funding to boost security at sacred spaces, including synagogues, churches, temples and mosques,” said Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City. “With violence and threats on the rise, I am worried about the safety of my community. Antisemitic incidents are increasing to new records, and reported incidents in Colorado grew by 53 percent in 2021. This law secures funding to protect our communities from violence now by creating a grant program to improve security and help make Colorado safer for everyone.”

“We worked tirelessly this session to pass legislation to build a safer Colorado for all, and this effort builds on that progress by ensuring the safety and security of marginalized communities,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood, and this new law will help protect Coloradans who experience threats, violence, hate crimes, and other forms of bigotry in their places of worship, community centers, schools, and other spaces.”

“With this law, we’re prioritizing the safety and well-being of Colorado’s minority communities who continue to experience threats and acts of violence at their places of worship,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “We’re not waiting around for the next incident or threat of violence at community centers, places of worship, schools and community spaces. This law provides funding to help the pillars of our communities improve security and keep people safe.”

HB22-1077 creates the Colorado Nonprofit Security Grant Program in the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The program would offer grants to eligible entities to enhance the physical security of Colorado’s nonprofit and charitable organizations.

Currently, the federal government provides grants for this purpose through the Department of Homeland Security, however the increase in threats combined with not enough funding have led to unmet security needs for Colorado-based organizations. The law provides $500,000 for these grants to additional Colorado organizations to complete critical security upgrades for their facilities.

Minority communities are facing a growing threat from violent extremists who are targeting shared spaces such as mosques and synagogues. In Colorado, there has been an increase in violent rhetoric and threats. In 2019, there was an attempted bombing at a synagogue in Pueblo and an individual was recently arrested after threatening congregants with a weapon outside of the Downtown Denver Islamic Center.

JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Applauds Signing of Bipartisan Bill to Save Businesses Money, Improve Unemployment Insurance for Colorado Workers

SB22-234 will invest $600 million to improve and expand unemployment benefits, create a more resilient future economy

DENVER, CO – The Colorado General Assembly today celebrated the signing of a bill by Governor Jared Polis to save businesses money and improve unemployment insurance for Colorado workers.

Sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Bob Rankin, R-Carbondale, as well as Representatives David Ortiz, D-Littleton, and Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, SB22-234 will infuse the state’s unemployment insurance trust fund (UITF) with pandemic relief funds while expanding eligibility and improving benefits to help support Colorado’s working families.

“When the pandemic hit and thousands of Coloradans lost their jobs, the state’s unemployment insurance program was there to help families pay rent and keep food on the table,” Hansen said. “Now we’re doubling down to protect this critical safety net for working families and our economy by investing hundreds of millions into unemployment insurance to protect future solvency while improving and expanding the benefits it offers. This law will better prepare us to weather any future economic downturns, and help make sure unemployment insurance continues to benefit working Colorado families for years to come.”

“I’m proud Governor Polis has signed our bipartisan legislation into law that will save businesses and employees money and improve how Colorado delivers critical unemployment assistance,” Ortiz said. “By replenishing the unemployment trust fund, businesses will avoid cost increases, and it will cost them less to bring on new workers. I’m proud that this legislation also helps Coloradans get back to work by allowing workers to accept part time jobs without being penalized.”

“This bipartisan legislation was one of businesses’ top priorities this session, and I’m proud that we have delivered this critical relief,” Snyder said. “Small businesses and workers are the backbone of our economy, and they deserve an unemployment assistance program that delivers for them. The law Governor Polis signed today will help our economy continue to grow and save businesses money that they can use to increase wages or expand their operations.”

SB22-234 invests $600 million to shore up the solvency of the UITF and protect the Fund against potential future economic downturns. This will save businesses money on premiums and provide certainty to workers who depend on unemployment benefits to continue paying for essentials like food, rent, and transportation while they search for new work.

The new law makes further improvements to ensure the unemployment system works better for Colorado families. It raises the benefit amount part-time workers can receive from 25 percent to 50 percent of the weekly benefit amount, removing disincentives for workers who are laid off to find part-time employment while seeking a full-time job. It also creates a Benefit Recovery Fund to ensure that workers in Colorado who lack work authorization can access the benefits they contribute to and their employers pay premiums into.

The law also eliminates the one-week waiting period to help workers access their benefits as quickly as possible once the Fund reaches a sustainable level, clarifies what constitutes an overpayment, and requires employers to inform their workers of their unemployment benefit eligibility upon separation.