Roberts’ Bipartisan Bill to Create the Rural Opportunity Office Passes Senate

The Rural Opportunity Office is charged with boosting economic development in rural communities across the state

DENVER, CO – Senator Dylan Roberts’, D-Avon, bipartisan bill to foster economic development in rural communities passed the Senate today.

SB23-006, cosponsored by Senator Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction, formally creates the Rural Opportunity Office (ROO) within the Office of Economic Development and International Trade. ROO is charged with serving as the central coordinator of rural economic development, supporting communities transitioning away from coal-based economies, and making recommendations to help inform economic development policy impacting rural communities. 

“Rural communities like those I represent are crucial to Colorado’s economy and character. To ensure we’re building a Colorado where everyone can thrive, we must be proactive in our work to support rural economic development,” Roberts said. “By creating a ‘one-stop shop’ for our small towns in the Rural Opportunity Office, we will be able to provide the expertise to meet our rural economies’ unique needs and help communities take advantage of state, federal, and nonprofit opportunities to promote, diversify, and expand economic opportunity. From Craig to Granby, Sterling to Cortez, and everywhere in between, the Rural Opportunity Office will be a vital resource for rural Colorado.” 

“I am very proud to be a sponsor of this bill,” Rich said. “Since 2019, the Rural Opportunity Office has serviced thousands of rural businesses and stakeholders, and with this bill, it will continue to act as a vital resource in developing economic opportunities for rural Coloradans for years to come.” 

The Rural Opportunity Office began its work to boost rural economies through supportive development strategies in 2019. In the years since, the Office has expanded services to assist tribal nations in their economic development through grant writing support, education campaigns, and technical assistance.

SB23-006 now heads to the House for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Gonzales’ Bill to Reduce Nonviolent Sentences, Encourage Incarcerated Coloradans to Pursue College Credits Passes Senate

HB23-1037 allows nonviolent inmates to have time deducted from their sentence for receiving higher education

DENVER, CO – Senator Julie Gonzales’, D-Denver, bill to encourage individuals incarcerated for nonviolent felonies to pursue higher education to earn time off their sentence passed the Senate today.

HB23-1037 would allow incarcerated individuals sentenced for a nonviolent felony offense to reduce their sentence by completing an accredited degree or other credential awarded by an accredited higher education institution while incarcerated in the Department of Corrections. Specifically, inmates could receive one year of earned time for a bachelor's or associate's degree, 6 months for an earned credential or certificate of 30 credit hours worth, 18 months of earned time for a master’s degree, and two years for a doctoral degree.

“Too often, formerly incarcerated individuals rejoin the workforce with limited education on top of already being at a significant disadvantage relative to their peers due to their criminal history," said Gonzales. “This bill will help reduce recidivism rates and better prepare Coloradans to find good-paying careers once they’ve left prison. I am happy to see this life-changing bill earn bipartisan support and I look forward to getting it signed into law.” 

While 48 percent of Americans have a postsecondary education, less than 13 percent of inmates have attained the same level of education. Increasing incarcerated individuals’ access to postsecondary education has been shown to decrease recidivism rates. The bill also requires funds saved by reduced sentences to be reallocated toward enhancing educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals. 

HB23-1037 will now head back to the House for concurrence of amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Colorado Faces Tight Budget Conditions as Economy Continues to Grow

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 March economic forecasts.

“Colorado’s economic outlook remains strong, despite the mixed signals and persistent challenges that are confronting us,” said JBC Chair Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “We’ve fought hard in recent years to make critical investments in housing, health care, and education, and we must work to defend those gains while fulfilling our funding obligations. Despite the unpredictability, we are committed to passing a responsible budget that keeps Colorado on a sound and sensible economic path so our state can continue to thrive for generations to come.”

“The economic forecast shows that Colorado continues to lead the nation with unemployment rates well below the national average and more job openings than unemployed workers,” said JBC Vice-Chair Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “We have put our state on the path to success by governing responsibly, investing in the most pressing needs in our community, and supporting small businesses. This year, we face constraints from Colorado’s unique fiscal situation and will need to make thoughtful decisions on how we allocate resources. We are committed to passing a balanced budget that continues historic investments in public education, increases funding to improve public safety and grows our economy.”

“Today’s budget forecast tells us a cautiously optimistic story of a strong economy for Colorado, one with falling unemployment rates and rising wages,” said JBC Member Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village. “I’m incredibly proud of the many hours of work my colleagues and I have spent working on this year’s state budget. With this final forecast before the budget is introduced in the Senate, the JBC can finalize its deliberative work of crafting a budget that is thoughtful, responsible, bipartisan, and that will meet the many needs of Coloradans in every corner of the state.”

“As we work to complete the budget, we are focused on making responsible investments that set up every Coloradan to thrive,” said JBC Member Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “In recent years, we’ve made important progress to boost access to early childhood education, save people money on health care and improve our public schools. Although the economic forecast looks promising, Colorado’s budget still faces unique fiscal constraints while contending with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the worldwide impacts of inflation. With this forecast, JBC can finalize a balanced budget that uplifts Coloradans and helps build a more equitable economy for all.”

Colorado’s economy continues to grow, with more than two job openings for every unemployed worker and an unemployment rate of 2.8 percent, which is lower than before the pandemic and below the national average of 3.4 percent. The majority of sectors have recovered all the jobs lost during the pandemic, and wages growth continues, outpacing inflation and the national average. While inflation remains high, mostly driven by the cost of housing, service, and food costs, it is decreasing and is projected to further decline next year with construction and energy costs trending downward. Revenue continues to increase, but fiscal constraints and higher costs from inflation limit the amount of funding available for new legislation and new ongoing obligations.

The Legislative Council staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.16 billion in FY 2022-2023 and $17.74 billion in FY 2023-2024 – a $296 million increase for FY 2022-2023 and a $391 million increase for FY 2023-2024 as compared with the earlier December revenue forecast. The forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $18.44 billion for FY 2024-2025.

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17 billion for FY 2022-2023, which OSPB revised upward by $128.1 million relative to its December estimate. For FY 2023-2024, OSPB projects General Fund revenue will be $16.7 billion, which OSPB revised upward by $201.7 million relative to its December estimate. For FY 2024-2025, OSPB estimates that General Fund revenue will be $18 billion. LCS anticipates that budget writers will only have $1.79 billion to address caseload increases, inflationary pressures and spend or save this year.

The forecast anticipates continued growth as Colorado stands well positioned to fare better in the case of a downturn. Risks that could improve the forecast include slowing inflation in the services industry, stronger wage growth, and reduced housing costs. Risks that could negatively impact the forecast include financial contagion tied to recent bank failures and elevated inflation causing additional Federal Reserve policies to restrict consumer spending.

Committee Approves Sullivan, Hansen Bill to Require Three Day Waiting Period for Firearm Purchases

Commonsense policy will help save lives, create a safer Colorado

DENVER, CO – A bill sponsored by Senators Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial, and Chris Hansen, D-Denver, that would establish waiting periods for firearm purchases cleared the State, Veterans, & Military Affairs committee today.

HB23-1219 would create a minimum three day waiting period, delaying immediate access to a firearm and saving Colorado lives from gun violence.

“Right now, if you want to get your hands on a gun, you can do so with near immediacy,” said Sullivan. “Whether you intend to harm yourself or others, waiting periods on firearm purchases delay immediate access to weapons and cut down on impulsive acts of violence. I’m proud to champion this legislation that will save lives and create safer communities for all Coloradans.”

“A cooling off period could be the difference between life and death for a person in the midst of a mental health crisis,” Hansen said. “This legislation is backed by research and will reduce gun deaths by suicide and homicide. I’m incredibly proud of Colorado’s leadership on this issue and am eager to continue to take meaningful steps forward, like implementing a three day waiting period, to reduce the epidemic of gun violence.”

Current law mandates that a background check is completed before a firearm can be transferred, which often takes less than three days. HB23-1219 would require a gun seller to wait for an approved background check or three days from the initiation of the background check, whichever is later, to deliver a firearm. Creating a waiting period delays immediate access to firearms and can help prevent impulsive acts of violence, including suicides, homicides and assaults. Mandatory waiting periods are supported by 72 percent of gun owners.

Research shows that creating a waiting period for purchasing a firearm has led to a 7 to 11 percent reduction in suicides by firearm and a 17 percent reduction in firearm-related homicides. In 2020, Colorado had the seventh highest suicide rate in the US, and in 2021, there were 740 suicides by firearm in Colorado, accounting for more than half of all suicides in the state. 

Transferring a firearm prior to the expiration of the waiting period would be a civil infraction punishable by a $500 fine for the first offense, and a $500 to $5,000 fine for a second or any subsequent offenses.

The bill would not apply to antique firearms. It also exempts the transfer of a firearm between an active duty military servicemember who is set to deploy overseas and their family.

HB23-1219 will now be considered before the full Senate. More information is available HERE.

Committee Approves Cutter, Exum Sr. Bill to Better Protect Communities from Wildfires, Establish Wildfire Resiliency Code Board

SB23-166 will protect new construction from wildfires, help local governments keep wildland-urban interface safe 

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Tony Exum Sr., D-Colorado Springs, that would better protect communities from wildfires earned approval before the Senate Local Government & Housing Committee today.

SB23-166 would help communities and Coloradans living in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) defend homes and property from catastrophic wildfires by establishing a statewide wildfire resiliency code board charged with establishing proven building codes that will better protect new structures against wildfires. Local governments in the new WUI area would be required to adopt the model code or a code of their own that meets those minimum standards.

“The risk of wildfires in our state is growing, and we must act now to protect our homes and businesses and create more resilient communities,” Cutter said. “Fires don’t recognize boundaries, and the impacts of a fire in any part of our state affect all of us, so creating minimum building standards just makes sense. We ask firefighters to put their lives at risk to battle these fires, which is why we must use every tool possible to protect them and our communities. According to FEMA, adopting and carrying out building codes is the single best way we can defend against wildfires, which is why I’m so proud to sponsor this bill.”

“Wildfires do not respect boundaries, and when it comes to growth in the wildland-urban interface we need a statewide policy that reflects that,” Exum Sr. said. “Our legislation will give Colorado communities the tools they need to defend themselves, and will set smart standards that protect families, homes, and businesses against increasingly dangerous wildfires. I am proud to champion this important legislation that will defend our people and our property.”

Cutter and Exum Sr.’s bill would create a Wildfire Resiliency Code board made up of 21 voting members and three non-voting members from local governments, utilities, and other relevant disciplines such as firefighters and building professionals that would work to define and establish minimum standards that better defend areas in the WUI from dangerous wildfires.

The bill also requires the Board to adopt minimum codes and standards that would protect homes, businesses and communities from wildfires, and to support local governments struggling with the cost of wildfire mitigation, suppression, and recovery.

Wildfires have grown increasingly destructive in recent years. The Marshall Fire in 2021 burned more than 1,000 homes and over 30 commercial structures, and caused more than $2 billion in damage, while 2020’s East Troublesome Fire destroyed 366 houses, causing $543 million in damage.

SB23-166 will now move to the Senate Appropriations Committee. More information about the bill is available HERE.

Senate Approves Bipartisan Hinrichsen and Marchman Bill to Establish Agricultural Right to Repair

HB23-1011 would give Colorado farmers the freedom to fix their equipment when it breaks down

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland that would establish a ‘right to repair’ in Colorado and allow farmers and ranchers the freedom to fix their farm equipment when it breaks down cleared the Senate today. 

Right now, farmers must utilize mechanics “authorized” by the manufacturer in order to repair critical farm equipment like tractors and combines. HB23-1011 would require a manufacturer to provide parts, software, tools, and diagnostic & maintenance manuals to independent repair providers and equipment owners, saving producers time and money when their equipment breaks down.

“Colorado’s farmers play a critical role in our economy. But right now, when a farmer’s tractor breaks down, they are forced to go to an authorized mechanic to get it fixed, which costs them both extra time and money,” Hinrichsen said. “If you can’t repair something that’s yours, do you really own it? I would argue no, which is why this legislation is so important. Our bill will give Colorado farmers the freedom to repair their equipment themselves or have an independent mechanic do the work, which will give Colorado farmers a leg up and save them time and money so they can focus on their important job of feeding the world.”

“Family farmers and ranchers like the ones I represent need all the help they can get, and this bill is a great first step,” Marchman said. “A broken tractor or combine during harvest season can be devastating, and makes an already difficult job that much harder. Farmers should be able to apply know-how and elbow grease to fix their own equipment instead of being forced to use an authorized dealer. I am thrilled that our bill to keep operations running smoothly and save Colorado ag producers critical time and money is moving forward.”

The bill folds agricultural equipment into Colorado’s existing consumer right-to-repair statutes, and would not require manufacturers to divulge any trade secrets to independent repair shops or owners.

SB23-1011 now moves to the Governor’s desk. You can track the bill’s progress HERE.

Legislation to Crack Down on Deceptive Practices by Anti-Abortion Centers Earns Committee Approval

Bill will prohibit deceptive advertising by anti-abortion centers

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee passed legislation sponsored by Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, to protect Coloradans seeking reproductive health care by prohibiting the use of deceptive advertising by anti-abortion centers (AACs).

SB23-190 makes it a deceptive trade practice to share information or advertise providing abortion care, emergency contraceptives or for referrals of either of these services when the service is not actually provided. This bill also clarifies it is a deceptive practice to advertise providing a “medication abortion reversal”. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists describes “medication abortion reversal” as “unproven and unethical,” and says that “claims regarding abortion ‘reversal’ treatment are not based on science and do not meet clinical standards'' of care.

“We’ve made tremendous progress in Colorado to protect reproductive rights, but marginalized communities like people of color, low-income folks, young people, LGBTQIA+ communities, and immigrants still struggle to obtain the care they need - and AACs only make matters worse,” said Winter. “AACs use deceptive advertising practices to lure folks in and steer people away from abortions and other time-sensitive care by not providing them with the full, medically accurate spectrum of options. I’m proud of this legislation to crack down on AACs’ deceptive practices and make reproductive health care more attainable and equitable for all Coloradans.”

“Anti-abortion centers present themselves as legitimate family planning reproductive health care clinics, but these fake clinics use deceptive advertising to draw in vulnerable people seeking care to harass them with biased and inaccurate information about abortions and contraceptives,” Marchman said. “People who go to these clinics looking for help report being shamed and lied to – the exact opposite of the safe and accurate care we are beholden to protect as elected officials. The Safe Access to Reproductive Health Care Package is a proactive step we can take towards a future where Coloradans’s freedom to access essential and affirming reproductive health care is truly protected.”

In Colorado, AACs outnumber abortion-providing clinics 51 to 20. Further, AACs particularly target locations that may lack a comprehensive clinic, often posting Spanish-language billboards in neighborhoods with large immigrant populations and offering free services to low-income communities.

Anti-abortion centers are the on-the-ground presence of the national anti-abortion movement. Also known as crisis pregnancy centers, anti-abortion counseling centers, or fake clinics, AACs pose as comprehensive reproductive health care clinics to intercept patients seeking abortion care, provide false information, and prevent people from seeking abortions.

SB23-190 will now head to the Senate floor. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Gonzales, Jaquez Lewis Bill to Protect Reproductive Health Care Patients and Providers, Ensure Access to Critical Care Clears Committee

Legislation will shield legally-protected health care providers, patients and helpers

DENVER, CO – The Senate Judiciary Committee today signed off on Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, bill to establish that criminal prosecutions for receiving, providing, or assisting with legally-protected health care – including abortion and gender-affirming care – will not be recognized by the state of Colorado.

SB23-188 also prevents Colorado from recognizing or enforcing civil lawsuits concerning protected health care that are penal in nature or without jurisdiction, and prevents Colorado state employees from participating in or assisting with interstate investigations or divulging information concerning protected health care.

“The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade unleashed a wave of anti-abortion legislation across the country, and it’s putting Coloradans' ability to access critical reproductive and gender-affirming care in jeopardy,” Gonzales said. “Any barrier to health care in our state is unacceptable and puts lives at risk. This bill will protect the people who both seek and provide that care in our state, and will ensure that Coloradans can continue to access the life-saving care they need to thrive.”

"We must do everything we can to protect vital health care professionals in Colorado,” said Jaquez Lewis. “As a pharmacist, if I dispense certain drugs that are considered abortion care medication in repressive states, I could be extradited, charged with homicide and fined hundreds of thousands of dollars. I am very concerned that without the protections in this bill, health care experts will not feel safe making medically necessary decisions."

SB23-188 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Moreno, Cutter Bill to Increase Access to Reproductive Health Care, Close Access Gaps Clears Committee

Bill will make reproductive health care more accessible and affordable for all

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, and Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, that would improve access to reproductive health care, including abortion, and make reproductive health care more equitable cleared the Senate Health & Human Services Committee today. 

SB23-189 is part of the Safe Access to Protected Health Care package of legislation, and works in several ways to close gaps in accessing reproductive health care, including abortion.

“Every Coloradan deserves to be able to access the critical care they need, but for too many of our neighbors, barriers still exist that prevent them from accessing that care,” Moreno said. “Our legislation will break down those barriers, especially for vulnerable communities, and help ensure all our neighbors are able to get the life-saving care they need to thrive.”

“Investing in all aspects of sexual and reproductive health care is the right thing to do, both socially and economically,” said Cutter. “It is in our best interest as a society to help prevent unintended pregnancies, improve maternal health and prevent and treat sexually transmitted infections. I am thrilled to be part of legislation that will help build a healthier Colorado for everyone."

SB23-189 would limit surprise medical billing and remove patient cost sharing for reproductive health care services and treatment, including but not limited to sterilization, sexually transmitted infections (STI) and abortion care. 

This bill expands access to contraception and related information for all Coloradans by modernizing a 1971 law and aligning it with Colorado’s Public Health code. SB23-189 also makes it possible for patients to utilize Medicaid’s non-emergent medical transportation service (IntelliRide) to get to and from their abortion services, further breaking down accessibility barriers faced by many Colorado Medicaid patients. 

In order to protect patients’ privacy and confidentiality on shared insurance coverage, this bill further creates a state fund that providers can bill directly for their patient’s reproductive health care services. Lastly, SB23-189 prioritizes access to life-saving HIV medication by cutting red tape to allow any authorized provider, not only pharmacists, to offer the treatment.

SB23-189 will now move to the Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bipartisan Marchman Bill to Get More Teachers Into Classrooms Clears Senate

Legislation would create apprenticeship programs to help address Colorado’s teacher shortage

DENVER, CO – The Senate today advanced Senator Janice Marchman’s, D-Loveland, bipartisan legislation, SB23-087, which aims to get more teachers into classrooms by creating a teacher apprenticeship program.

Cosponsored by Sen. Mark Baisley, R-Woodland Park, the bill would allow the Department of Education (DOE) to create an apprenticeship program that builds on elements of existing alternative teacher licensure programs and would include a bachelor's degree requirement, training programs approved by DOE, and structured on-the-job training.

“As a middle school math teacher, I know how critical a quality education is for our kids – but right now there aren’t enough teachers to meet demand, and students and families are suffering as a result,” Marchman said. “This bill will help address those shortages and will provide hard-working Colorado school staff the hands-on training and experience they need to step into teaching jobs and provide our kids with the quality public education they deserve.”

According to the Colorado Education Association, teacher and staff shortages remain a huge problem in Colorado’s schools, with 85 percent of educators saying that the teacher shortage is significantly or somewhat worse than previous school years.

SB23-087 now moves to the House for further consideration. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Exum’s Bill to Bolster Tax Credit Outreach Passes Senate

HB23-1006 would require employers to share information about federal and state earned income tax credits with employees

DENVER, CO – The Senate today advanced Senator Tony Exum Sr.’s, D-Colorado Springs, bill to bolster tax credit outreach for Colorado’s working families.

HB23-1006 would require employers to provide information about federal and state earned income tax credits and child tax credits to their employees. The notice must be provided at least once a year in English or any other language necessary to communicate with the employee.

“Colorado working families’ budgets are stretched thin, and they deserve a helping hand – but too many folks aren’t taking full advantage of the benefits they’ve earned,” Exum said. “Requiring clear, consistent information on how to access tax credits means Coloradans will be able to keep more of their hard earned money in their pockets. I will always fight for Colorado’s working families and I’m proud to see this important bill advance.”

The bill builds on legislation from recent years to make Colorado more affordable for working-class families. Colorado Democrats passed HB20-1420 and HB21-1311, which doubled the state's Earned Income Tax Credit and funded the Child Tax Credit, saving hundreds of thousands of Colorado families money.

HB23-1006 now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: Exum’s Bill to Limit Medical Debt from Hurting Coloradans’ Credit Scores Clears Committee

Legislation would add medical debt to the list of information that consumer reporting agencies are not allowed to include in a credit report

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, Senator Tony Exum Sr.’s, D-Colorado Springs, bill to limit medical debt impacts on Coloradans’ credit reports or credit scores cleared the Senate Business, Labor, and Technology Committee.

HB23-1126 adds medical debt to the list of information that consumer reporting agencies are not allowed to include in a credit report, updates exemptions to expand consumer privacy protections, and requires collectors and collecting agencies to notify Coloradans that medical debt will no longer be included in credit reports.

“Medical debt, which is often unexpected and accrues rapidly, can have impacts on credit scores and reports even if the debt has been settled with creditors,” Exum said. “This creates barriers for folks trying to access necessities like housing, utilities, and loans, and it needs to change. With this bill, we’re putting in place new consumer protections that will help ensure Coloradans’ financial futures are not unduly impacted by their medical debt.”

Currently, when someone can’t afford a medical expense, the bill is sent to collections, and that information is shared with consumer reporting agencies that generate consumer reports and credit scores used by banks, landlords, employers, and insurance and utility companies.

The bill comes in addition to SB23-093, Sens. Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, bill to provide Coloradans with additional consumer protections from high interest rates for medical debt and confusing debt collection practices that lead to long-lasting debt and financial instability.

HB23-1126 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: Gonzales’ Bill to Reduce Nonviolent Sentences, Encourage Incarcerated Coloradans to Pursue College Credits Clears Committee

HB23-1037 allows nonviolent inmates to have time deducted from their sentence for receiving higher education

DENVER, CO – Senator Julie Gonzales’, D-Denver, bill to encourage individuals incarcerated for nonviolent felonies to pursue higher education to earn time off their sentence passed the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday.

HB23-1037 would allow incarcerated individuals sentenced for a nonviolent felony offense to reduce their sentence by completing an accredited degree or other credential awarded by an accredited higher education institution while incarcerated in the Department of Corrections.

Specifically, inmates could receive one year of earned time for a bachelor's or associate's degree, 6 months for an earned credential or certificate of 30 credit hours worth, 18 months of earned time for a master’s degree, and two years for a doctoral degree.

“Too often, formerly incarcerated individuals rejoin the workforce with limited education on top of already being at a significant disadvantage relative to their peers due to their criminal history," said Gonzales. “This bill will help reduce recidivism rates and better prepare Coloradans to find good-paying careers once they’ve left prison. I am happy to see this life-changing bill earn bipartisan support and I look forward to getting it across the finish line.” 

While 48 percent of Americans have a postsecondary education, less than 13 percent of inmates have attained the same level of education. The bill also requires funds saved by reduced sentences to be reallocated toward enhancing inmate education and outreach. 

HB23-1037 will now move to the Senate floor. To follow the bill’s progress, click HERE.

At Second Meeting, Joint Select Committee on Rising Utility Rates Seeks Answers from Colorado Utilities

DENVER, CO – Members of the Joint Select Committee on Rising Utility Rates today heard testimony and pressed Colorado utilities on how their decisions, investments, and business practices impact Coloradans’ energy bills.

“Coloradans have been feeling the pain on their energy bills, and today we took another step towards not only understanding why, but to identifying what we can do about it,” said Joint Select Committee Chair Sen. Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “It’s clear that the interests of utilities and the interests of the public could be better aligned. We’re going to keep pressing for answers and searching for solutions that will address the glaring disconnect between record high energy bills and record profits for utility companies while ensuring energy remains affordable and reliable for Colorado families.”

"Coloradans are paying record energy bills and they're counting on us to address skyrocketing prices," said Joint Select Committee Vice Chair Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood. "Today's hearing confirmed what we’ve been hearing for months. Hardworking families are trying their best to make ends meet as utility companies steadily report record-breaking profits, raising serious questions about our current system. This hearing was an important step to help us understand the root causes of high energy costs and prioritize everyday Coloradans."

"As a joint select committee, we've been diving deeper into what's causing rising energy costs that hurt hardworking families who are just trying to get by," said Joint Select Committee member Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista. "It is clear that we need a better understanding of the costs, profits and investments of public utility companies to be able to get to the bottom of what is causing Coloradans’ high energy bills. This committee will continue asking the tough questions, pushing for answers and advocating for families."

“Nobody should be forced to choose between paying their energy bill and putting food on the table - but too many of our neighbors are finding themselves in that position, which is why we’re working to protect them,” JSC member Sen. Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, said. “These are important conversations that are helping us get our heads around the problem and pointing the way to answers. I am excited to continue this important work, and look forward to finding solutions that will stabilize energy prices for hardworking Colorado families.”

The Committee heard testimony from the following Colorado utilities:

• Xcel Energy | Robert Kenney, President, Public Services Company & Hollie Velasquez Horvath, RVP, State Affairs and Community Relations

• Black Hills Energy | Nick Wagner, Vice President of Colorado Regulatory Affairs and Policy & Kellie Ashcraft, Vice President of Colorado Operations

• Colorado Rural Electric Association | Kent Singer, Executive Director

• Holy Cross Energy | Bryan Hannegan, President and CEO

• CORE Electric Cooperative | Jeff Baudier, CEO

• Colorado Association of Municipal Utilities | Daniel Hodges, Government Affairs Liaison

• Atmos Energy | Kenny Malter, Director, Gas Supply and Services & Joe Christian, Director, Rates and Regulatory Affairs

Convened by President Fenberg and House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon in response to recent spikes in energy prices, the Joint Select Committee on Rising Utility Rates is working to better understand issues such as the impact of volatility in natural gas markets, the frequency and justification for rate increases sought by utilities, and other relevant factors.

The Committee’s next meeting will take place on Monday, March 20 at 2:00 p.m. Learn more about the Committee’s work HERE.

Zenzinger’s Bill to Save Educators Money, Address Teacher Shortage Passes Committee

HB23-1001 aims to save teachers money and expand the educator workforce

DENVER, CO – The Senate Education Committee today passed Senator Rachel Zenzinger’s, D-Arvada, legislation to save teachers money by expanding the pool of student educators who qualify for loan forgiveness and stipend programs.

HB23-1001 builds upon last year’s work to save student educators money by expanding eligibility for financial assistance and offering loan forgiveness to a larger pool of educators who qualify for these state programs.

“Too many teachers have to get a second or third job to make ends meet. By breaking down financial barriers to becoming a teacher, we can get more teachers into classrooms,” said Zenzinger. “This bill will address our educator shortage by saving teachers money through loan forgiveness and stipend programs. I’m proud of our work to invest in our teachers, improve our schools, and better prepare our students for success.” 

The legislation includes more than $52 million in federal pandemic relief funds for the student educator stipend program, the educator test stipend program, and the temporary educator loan forgiveness program made possible through HB22-1220.

HB23-1001 now heads to the Senate floor. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Sullivan and Hinrichsen’s Bill to Support Veterans Passes Senate

SB23-154 extends the one-stop center that provides vital resources and assistance for veterans

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed Senators Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial, and Nick Hinrichsen’s, D-Pueblo, legislation to extend the veterans one-stop center, known as the Western Region One Source.

SB23-154 continues the veterans one-stop center in Grand Junction, which serves as a place for service members, veterans, and their families in the western half of the state to access resources and assistance. The bill also sets a deadline of December 31, 2023 for the Division of Veterans Affairs and the center’s advisory board to develop procedures for evaluating the effectiveness of the center.

“By housing a host of veterans services under one roof, the one-stop center saves veterans time and frustration when seeking out services,” said Sullivan. “This bill would continue to ensure that veterans can easily obtain the resources they deserve. I’m proud of our work to support veterans, service members, and their families as we work to build a better Colorado for all.” 

“Anyone who serves our country should be able to return home and easily access all the resources our state has to offer,” Hinrichsen said. “As an Army veteran, I know how time-consuming and confusing navigating assistance can be. The veterans one-stop center streamlines this process, so folks can get the services they need headache-free.” 

Opened in the spring of 2020, the Western Region One Source supports 40,000 veterans living in 24 counties across Colorado’s Western Slope, and provides a range of services to veterans, including benefits, counseling, housing assistance, family support, and health and wellness services.

Sullivan, the son of two veterans, entered the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam conflict and served as a crew chief on KC-135's. Hinrichsen is an Army veteran who fought in the Iraq War, and served with NATO peacekeeping operations in Kosovo and the Colorado National Guard. Both have fought tirelessly for veterans throughout their time in the legislature, including passing bipartisan legislation to protect veterans from housing discrimination and improve veterans’ education. 

SB23-154 now heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Zenzinger’s Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Auto Theft, Improve Public Safety in Colorado Clears Senate

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, that will cut down on auto thefts and improve public safety across Colorado cleared the Senate today.

Cosponsored by Sen. Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, SB23-097 will reduce auto thefts in Colorado by eliminating the provision in state law that ties the value of a stolen vehicle to the severity of the penalty, which will improve equity and make most motor theft a felony regardless of the vehicle’s value. 

The bill also aims to deter repeat offenders by elevating the felony level if the offender has two prior convictions for auto theft, or if the suspect possesses the stolen car for over 24 hours, alters its plates, leaves the state, causes $1,000 or more in damage, causes an injury to another, or uses the vehicle in another crime.

“Auto theft on any level is a serious crime, and it warrants serious consequences, regardless of the direct monetary impact; so I am pleased with today’s vote that moves the bill forward,” Zenzinger said. “I am grateful to the municipal leaders, district attorneys, members of law enforcement, victims, and others who stepped forward to speak up about the importance of implementing this law.”

The policy received support without objection from the Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice (CCJJ) last month. According to the CCJJ, Colorado leads the nation in auto thefts with an 86 percent statewide increase in stolen vehicles from 2019 to 2021. 

SB23-097 will now move to consideration before the House. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Advances Bill to Raise Minimum Age to Purchase a Firearm to 21

Legislation will help prevent young people from committing gun violence, save lives in Colorado

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, that would raise the minimum age to purchase a firearm in Colorado to 21, cleared the Senate today.

Under current federal law individuals must be 21 years old to purchase a handgun, but only 18 years old to purchase long guns. SB23-169 would raise the age limit to purchase any firearm to 21 with limited exceptions.

“Gun deaths in Colorado climb higher every year, and a disproportionate number of them are committed by younger Coloradans,” Mullica said. “As an ER nurse I’ve seen firsthand the devastating ways gun violence impacts our communities, which is why I am proud to champion this bill that will reduce gun violence and save lives all across our state.”

“Young people aged 12-24 make up one-fifth of the population, but commit just under half of all gun murders,” Danielson said. “There is an urgent need to do more to prevent gun violence in Colorado, and I am proud to champion this legislation that will do just that. Raising the age to purchase a firearm will keep more deadly weapons away from our youth, reduce youth suicide rates, and make our communities safer.”

“We’re here today to send a clear message to our lawmakers — it’s time to strengthen our gun laws so that kids can be kids,” said Charlotte Goldstein, a volunteer with the Denver East chapter of Students Demand Action. “Students like me are tired of living with the constant fear of gun violence. This bill will save lives in our communities, and we will continue to work hand-in-hand with our allies in the statehouse to get them across the finish line. The time to act is now.”

According to Everytown for Gun Safety, firearms are the leading cause of death for young people in the U.S. ages 18 to 20, and the firearm suicide rate among this group has increased a staggering 61 percent in the last decade. 

18 to 20-year-olds commit gun murders at triple the rate of adults 21 years and older, and peer-reviewed research shows that adolescent and post-adolescents have less capacity for mature judgment and self-control, which often leads to risky behavior and aggressive impulses.

SB23-169 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Legislation to Remove Overly Broad Gun Industry Immunity in Colorado

Legislation will allow survivors of gun violence to better pursue justice and accountability through the courts

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved landmark legislation sponsored by Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, and Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, on third and final reading. The bill is aimed at holding the gun industry accountable and improving gun violence survivors’ access to justice.

Right now gun sellers and manufacturers enjoy broad protections under federal law from most types of civil lawsuits - and Colorado law goes even further by including a punitive provision that makes victims of gun violence who sue the gun industry pay the company’s legal fees in dismissed cases. SB23-168 would remove Colorado’s overly-broad immunity protections for gun sellers and manufacturers and allow legitimate lawsuits against the gun industry to move forward.

“Colorado is home to one of the most punitive laws against gun violence survivors in the country. Colorado law gives a set of protections to the firearms industry that few other businesses have. These laws shield them from accountability and must be changed,” Jaquez Lewis said. “This legislation will level the playing field by removing those extra protections and allowing legitimate lawsuits to move forward, ensuring the gun industry is no longer given special treatment and improving gun violence survivors’ ability to seek the justice they deserve.”

“Currently, Colorado gun sellers and manufacturers are provided legal protections far beyond those for most other businesses in the state and that bar victims of gun violence from seeking justice,” Kolker said. “Removing Colorado’s overly broad gun industry immunity law will provide another avenue for survivors to pursue justice if they are harmed by irresponsible business practices.”

“Today we applaud the Colorado State Senate for moving forward with legislation addressing gun violence and protecting survivors,” said Sandy and Lonnie Phillips. “When we lost our daughter, Jessi, in the tragic shooting in Aurora in July 2012, we didn't anticipate being retraumatized by Colorado's extreme protections of the gun industry. The Gun Violence Victims' Access to Justice bill allows the families of victims to seek justice. This legislation honors Coloradans whose lives ended too soon and protects future survivors who wish to hold the gun industry accountable and we thank Senate President Fenberg, Senator Jaquez Lewis, and Senator Kolker for bringing this legislation forward.”

Civil liability plays an important role in promoting community and consumer safety, and lawsuits can help incentivize industries to take reasonable steps to prevent their products or business practices from causing foreseeable risks to human life and wellbeing. 

After their daughter was killed in the Aurora theater shooting, Sandy and Lonnie Phillips sued four online retailers that irresponsibly sold magazines, thousands of rounds of ammunition and body armor to the murderer. Under Colorado’s immunity law, they were forced to pay about $200,000 in legal fees to bulk ammunition sellers. They ended up selling their house and declaring bankruptcy.

Removing Colorado’s gun industry shield will allow survivors like the Phillips’ and countless others to seek appropriate justice and fair remedies via civil actions, and will give survivors and the public the opportunity to hold gun sellers and manufacturers accountable for their actions.

SB23-168 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Signs Off on Bill to Expand and Improve Colorado’s Red Flag Law

Bolstered ERPO policy will help de-escalate emergency situations and save lives

DENVER, CO – The Senate today signed off on legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial that will expand and strengthen Colorado’s “Red Flag” law.

SB23-170 will expand who is eligible to file for an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO), which will allow more qualified individuals to intervene before gun violence has a chance to occur.

“Red Flag laws are one of the most effective tools we have to prevent gun violence, but unfortunately Colorado’s Red Flag law is tragically underutilized,” Fenberg said. “This bill will strengthen our state’s Red Flag law and increase the number of individuals who can file for an extreme risk protection order, which will create more opportunities for community members to recognize when something is wrong and intervene in a way that will prevent further gun violence and save countless lives across our state.”

“Our Red Flag law has already saved lives in Colorado, but we can strengthen it so that it can be even more effective,” Sullivan said. “These common sense updates will expand and improve our Red Flag law and create more opportunities for qualified individuals to assess the danger and act appropriately to prevent further violence and ultimately save more lives.”

Originally passed by the legislature and signed into law by Governor Polis in 2019, the Zackari Parrish III Violence Prevention Act is a tool used to temporarily remove firearms from a person who a judge determines is a threat to themselves or others. Currently a petition for removal can only be filed by a family member or a law enforcement officer. SB23-170 will expand the list of individuals eligible to file an ERPO to include DAs and other law enforcement officials, licensed health care providers, mental health professionals, and educators. 

According to the Associated Press, Colorado has one of the lowest use rates of its Red Flag law. Colorado issued only 3.3 protection orders per 100,000 adult residents through 2021, ranking the sixth lowest among 19 states that have Red Flag laws. In comparison, Florida issues 33.6 protection orders per 100,000 adult residents. Researchers have found that for every 10 to 20 protection orders, one suicide might be averted.

SB23-170 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.