Senate Approves Legislation to Crack Down on Deceptive Practices by Anti-Abortion Centers

Bill will prohibit deceptive advertising by anti-abortion centers

DENVER, CO – 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) passed the Senate today.

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.”

“In Colorado and across America, maternal outcomes are declining, and anti-abortion centers that use deceptive advertising to draw in vulnerable people seeking care and misleading them with biased and inaccurate information about abortions and contraceptives are only making the problem worse,” Marchman said. “People who go to these centers looking for help are often misled and stigmatized – the exact opposite of the safe and essential care we are beholden to protect as elected officials. Our bill will crack down on deceptive practices used by some of these bad actors, and is a proactive step we can take towards a future where Coloradans’ 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 or anti-abortion counseling centers, 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 House for further consideration. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

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

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 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. 

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 House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

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

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

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, that establishes 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 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Advances Legislation to Crack Down on Deceptive Practices by Anti-Abortion Centers

Bill will prohibit deceptive advertising by anti-abortion centers

DENVER, CO – 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) cleared second reading in the Senate today.

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' 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 or anti-abortion counseling centers, 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 be heard on third reading before moving to the House for further consideration. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Moreno, Cutter Bill to Increase Access to Reproductive Health Care, Close Access Gaps Earns Initial Senate Approval

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, earned initial Senate approval 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. 

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 be heard on third reading before moving to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

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

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

DENVER, CO – The Senate today advanced legislation sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, that establishes 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 will now be heard on third reading before moving to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bipartisan Group of Western Slope Lawmakers Urge Biden Administration Officials to Suspend Oil Train Plan

Lawmakers: “By threatening our water supply and increasing wildfire risk, this project would be truly catastrophic to our constituents, our communities, and our environment.”

DENVER, CO – A bipartisan group of Colorado state lawmakers, led by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, today sent a letter urging Biden Administration officials to suspend the proposed Uinta Basin Railway Project.

In a letter to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, the lawmakers expressed concern over the financing and potential environmental impacts of the project, and called on the Administration to oppose it.

“As legislators who represent the areas of Western Colorado that would be impacted directly by the Uinta Basin Railway Project, we write to share our significant concerns and opposition to this project,” the lawmakers wrote. “We ask that you carefully consider this project’s potential impact, including the devastating damage it could do to public health, our water resources, our environment, and our economy, when making the respective decisions charged to your departments.”

The proposed Uinta Basin Railway Project would involve the shipment of heated, waxy crude oil from Utah through Colorado’s mountain towns and communities, totaling as much as 350,000 barrels on ten, two-mile trains per day. The proposed route would closely track the path of the headwaters of the Colorado River and its tributaries, which irrigates millions of acres of farmland and provides water to more than 40 million people in the Western United States. 

The letter continued: “In light of the recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio and other high-profile train accidents across the country over the years, a spill on this rail line is not only a possibility, it is likely…Given the heated nature of this transport and the widespread drought we are experiencing, this project also further increases the risk of wildfire ignition across the Western Slope. By threatening our water supply and increasing wildfire risk, this project would be truly catastrophic to our constituents, our communities, and our environment.”

Lawmakers further expressed concern over the potential use of public taxpayer dollars through government approved tax-exempt private activity bonds (PABs) to finance the project, and urged the Administration to reject the plan.

“Our concerns with this project are grave and cannot be understated,” they wrote. “While we understand and support the desire to increase domestic energy supply, the potential negative impacts of this project far outweigh any economic benefit. Imperiling the future of our environment and the natural resources we depend on and treasure is not a decision that should be taken lightly.”

The letter was signed by: Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon,  Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, Representative Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, Representative Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango, and Representative Elizbeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs.

The full letter is below:

Dear Secretary Buttigieg and Secretary Vilsack, 

As legislators who represent the areas of Western Colorado that would be impacted directly by the Uinta Basin Railway Project, we write to share our significant concerns and opposition to this project. We ask that you carefully consider this project’s potential impact, including the devastating damage it could do to public health, our water resources, our environment, and our economy, when making the respective decisions charged to your departments. Further, we find the potential use of public taxpayer dollars through government approved tax-exempt private activity bonds (PABs) to finance this project to be highly objectionable, and we would strongly urge this approach to financing be rejected. 

As you are aware, the Uinta Basin Railway Project would involve the shipment of heated waxy crude oil from Utah through Colorado, totaling as much as 350,000 barrels on ten, two-mile trains per day. This is immensely concerning given that the rail line runs right alongside the headwaters of the Colorado River and its tributaries, which provide water to over 40 million people in the Western United States, irrigate millions of acres of agricultural land, and drive our outdoor recreation and tourism industries, which are critical to our region’s and state’s economies.

In light of the recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio and other high-profile train accidents across the country over the years, a spill on this rail line is not only a possibility, it is likely. Such a spill would contaminate the local and regional water supply, as well as likely impact downstream consumers across the West. Given the heated nature of this transport and the widespread drought we are experiencing, this project also further increases the risk of wildfire ignition across the Western Slope. By threatening our water supply and increasing wildfire risk, this project would be truly catastrophic to our constituents, our communities, and our environment.

Our concerns with this project are grave and cannot be understated. We strongly urge you and your partners in the federal government to conduct a more thorough risk analysis in light of recent events and our pressing concerns regarding water supply and wildfire. While we understand and support the desire to increase domestic energy supply, the potential negative impacts of this project far outweigh any economic benefit. Imperiling the future of our environment and the natural resources we depend on and treasure is not a decision that should be taken lightly. Domestic energy development can and should happen through other means than this project.

A vast coalition of constituents that we represent on the Western Slope are opposed to this project, and we stand with them in this call to put a stop to this dangerous project that would jeopardize our long-term public peace, health, and safety. 

Sincerely,

Speaker Julie McCluskie
Senator Dylan Roberts
Senator Perry Will
Representative Meghan Lukens
Representative Barbara McLachlan
Representative Elizbeth Velasco

CC: Bennet, Hickenlooper, Neguse, Boebert, Polis, President Biden

Joint Select Committee on Rising Utility Rates Holds Third Meeting, Seeks Solutions to Save Coloradans Money on Energy Bills

DENVER, CO – Members of the Joint Select Committee on Rising Utility Rates today met to hear testimony from energy policy and utility experts in order to begin identifying potential solutions to save Coloradans money on their energy bills.

“We’ve been investigating the reasons behind Coloradans’ record high energy bills, and now we’re looking to take the next step in order to better understand what exactly we here in the legislature can do about it,” said Joint Select Committee Chair Sen. Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “We heard a lot of good ideas today such as looking at how we evaluate new infrastructure investments that will take decades to repay, and exploring ways we can address volatility so consumers aren’t stuck shouldering the majority of the burden when prices spike. One thing is clear: Coloradans are fed up with bearing the brunt of inflated energy bills. Now, after weeks of information gathering, the committee is ready to turn its attention to providing better protections for consumers, and eventually delivering lower energy bills for Colorado families.”

"The Joint Select Committee has heard from industry experts, consumer advocates, and utility companies to develop a better understanding of what is leading to record utility costs," said Joint Select Committee Vice Chair Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood. "Coloradans are facing higher-than-normal energy bills, and it is our responsibility to make sure utility companies aren’t passing along unnecessary costs onto their ratepayers. This committee has been presented with many innovative ideas to balance risks and rewards as we move closer to identifying long-term, cost-saving solutions." 

"As a Joint Select Committee, we've been asking the tough questions and having important conversations surrounding skyrocketing utility rates," said Joint Select Committee member Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista. "During this process, first-hand accounts from Coloradans as well as testimony from utility company representatives and policy experts have helped us better understand the need to balance out the risks of market volatility so ratepayers aren’t carrying all the burden. I look forward to continuing working with my colleagues on policy that will better protect Coloradans from avoidable utility price hikes." 

“Over the past few weeks, it's been fascinating to take a deep dive into the factors driving Colorado’s rising utility rates, as we've heard from utility company representatives, advocates, and Colorado’s energy specialists,” Joint Select Committee member Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, said. “With that grounding, we've now begun to hear from experts about potential solutions. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the committee to ensure our utilities are better planning for future needs and infrastructure, protect consumers from questionable pass through costs and ultimately save Coloradans money on their energy bills.”

The Committee heard testimony from Meera Fickling of Western Resource Advocates, David Pomerantz of the Energy & Policy Institute, Albert Lin of the Pearl Street Station Finance Lab, Ron Lehr, former Colorado Public Utilities Commissioner, and Michelle Brandt King, a local attorney with Holland and Hart that represents large power users.

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 in the coming weeks. Learn more about the Committee’s work HERE.

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.