Winter & Hinrichsen Bill to Strengthen Renter Rights Approved by Senate

Bill would strengthen renters rights by prohibiting provisions in rental agreements that waive important rights

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate approved Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Nick Hinrichsen’s, D-Pueblo, bill to bolster tenant rights in rental agreements.

HB23-1095 prohibits most rental agreements from including certain provisions that waive important rights.

“Whether it’s Steamboat Springs or Sedalia, housing is a top concern for Coloradans,” Winter said. “This year we’re taking bold action to tackle Colorado’s housing crisis from all angles. By preserving the affordable housing stock we already have and strengthening renters rights, Coloradans will be better positioned to find housing options that fit their budget, and sign rental agreements that preserve their comfort and safety.”

“Too often, Colorado renters unknowingly sign rental agreements that waive important rights, contain legal traps, and tack on hidden fees,” said Hinrichsen. “HB23-1095 prohibits landlords from sneaking inflated charges or unfair provisions into rental agreements, ensuring Colorado renters aren’t taken advantage of or exploited.”

Prohibited provisions include:

• Any waiver of the right to quiet enjoyment of the property, which protects renters from landlords entering the property without notice and their right to have peace and quiet in their home;

• Any waiver of the right to a jury trial, unless all parties agree to waive a jury trial in a hearing to determine occupancy;

• Any waiver of the right to participate in a class action lawsuit;

• Penalties or charges if a renter does not provide notice of non-renewal unless the landlord incurred actual losses as a result; or

• Provisions to charge renters for both third party services that is in excess of 2 percent of the actual charge or a monthly administrative fee of $10, to cover these services.

Landlords often profit from renters by including inflated third party charges like pest control and valet trash services in administrative fees. Under HB23-1095, landlords would not be allowed to charge renters more than 2 percent of the actual charge to the landlord or $10, but not both.

Large rental companies often use a class action waiver to protect themselves from lawsuits by preventing renters from collectively pursuing legal action. Individual renters usually can’t afford a legal fight against a large rental company, which allows rental companies to get away with violations.

HB23-1095 now heads back to the House for concurrence of amendments. You can track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Gonzales’ Bipartisan Bill to Open Doors to Law Enforcement Opportunities for Immigrants

HB23-1143 would authorize law enforcement agencies to allow DACA recipients to carry firearms as peace officers

DENVER, CO – Today, the Colorado Senate approved Senator Julie Gonzales’, D-Denver, bipartisan bill to open up job opportunities for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients within law enforcement.

Currently, DACA recipients are unable to possess or carry a firearm. For DACA recipients who want a career in law enforcement, this drastically hinders their ability to get hired. Cosponsored by Senator Barb Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, HB23-1143 would allow law enforcement agencies to amend their policies, in compliance with federal law, to allow DACA recipients to carry firearms in order to work in law enforcement.

“We’ve heard time and time again that police departments and local law enforcement agencies are hurting for staffing all while DACA recipients are asking to protect and serve their community,” Gonzales said. “In my district and throughout the state, qualified individuals with bilingual skills and an understanding of their community and culture currently have no pathway to serve as law enforcement officials. This bill will help open the door for immigrants to serve their communities in new ways.”

If enacted, eligible immigrants, including DACA recipients and individuals who have applied for asylum, would be allowed to attend peace officer training academies. The bill would also require law enforcement agencies to notify the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board that the DACA recipients are in compliance with firearm policies while attending an academy.

HB23-1143 now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Fenberg’s Bipartisan Bill to Invest in Essential Wildfire Fighting Aircraft

Legislation would approve funding for the state to purchase a second Firehawk helicopter to better support wildfire fighting efforts across Colorado

DENVER, CO – Senate President Steve Fenberg’s, D-Boulder, bipartisan bill to require the State Treasurer to finance the purchase of a Firehawk helicopter for wildfire fighting efforts cleared the Senate today.

Cosponsored by Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, SB23-161 would allow Colorado to purchase a second Firehawk helicopter, ensuring the Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) has at least one Firehawk available for rapid response at all times.

“We no longer have wildfire seasons, we have wildfire years, which is why we must proactively invest in advanced wildfire fighting equipment like the Firehawk to keep our communities safe,” said Fenberg. “Firehawk helicopters are state-of-the-art and built for longevity, making this a smart investment for Colorado’s future. This will help ensure we are able to aggressively respond to and mitigate wildfires with greater speed and increased capacity, and will help us better protect homes, people, and property against increasingly dangerous wildfires.” 

In 2021, Fenberg championed legislation to purchase Colorado’s first Firehawk helicopter, which will join Colorado’s fleet of firefighting aircraft later this year. Firehawk helicopters are considered the most technologically advanced firefighting aircraft available.

SB23-161 now heads to the House for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Mullica’s Bipartisan Bill to Increase Access to Community Health Care Services

Legislation would support community health care workers through Medicaid reimbursements

DENVER, CO – Senator Kyle Mullica’s, D-Thornton, bipartisan bill to expand access to community health services through Medicaid reimbursement passed the Senate today. 

Cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, SB23-002 would authorize the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to seek federal authorization from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to provide Medicaid reimbursement for community health worker services, which would make urgently-needed care both easier to access and more affordable for the Coloradans who depend on it.

“As an emergency room nurse, I know community health workers can enhance the level of care experienced by a patient by monitoring their symptoms, educating the patient and their family, and so much more,” Mullica said. "Colorado is now one step closer to joining the 15 other states that have made it easier to obtain this essential service.”

Services provided by community health workers include preventative services, screening, assessments, health coaching, and advocacy. The bill requires HCPF to seek federal approval by July 1, 2024, and to begin implementing coverage once approval is received.

SB23-002 now heads to the House for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Zenzinger & Roberts’ Bill to Accelerate Affordable Workforce Housing Projects Clears Senate

Senate Bill 1 supports innovative, affordable housing projects through public-private partnerships

DENVER, CO – Senators Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, and Rachel Zenzinger’s, D-Arvada, bill to encourage innovative, affordable workforce housing projects through public-private partnerships cleared the Senate today.

SB23-001 would provide $13 million in funding to the Public-Private Collaboration Unit to help develop affordable workforce housing on state-owned land so that Colorado workers like teachers, nurses, and everyone in between, can find housing that fits their budget.

“Across Colorado, local communities are exploring innovative projects to ensure everyone can have access to an affordable place to call home near where they work,” Roberts said. “This bill will help catalyze many projects across the state by eliminating one of the biggest barriers to affordable housing development: the cost of land. By allowing public-private partnerships access to underused state land, we can expect hundreds of new affordable housing units across the state in the coming years, including 80 units in my home of Eagle County. I am thrilled this bill is moving forward with bipartisan support.”

“The housing crisis is a top concern for the people of Colorado and the legislature alike,” said Zenzinger. “Constructing workforce housing is a key part of this year’s comprehensive work to address housing availability and affordability. Teachers, nurses, and everyone who helps keep our state running deserve to have an affordable place they can call home. Senate Bill 1 will be incredibly helpful in our efforts to ensure Coloradans can afford to live where they work.”

SB23-001 builds on work from previous sessions, HB21-1274 and SB22-130, regarding the inventory of underutilized properties and state-owned land. 

The bill would transfer $5 million from the General Fund and $8 million from the Housing Development Grant Fund to the Unused State-Owned Real Property Fund.

SB23-001 now heads to the House for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Danielson and Jaquez Lewis Bill to Allow Native American Regalia at Graduation Ceremonies Passes Senate

SB23-202 aims to reverse the systemic effects of residential Native American boarding schools and protect Indigenous students from discrimination

DENVER, CO – Today, Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, bill to allow Native American students to wear traditional regalia at graduation ceremonies passed the Senate.

SB23-202 would require schools, school districts, public colleges, and universities to allow qualifying students, including those who are members of a tribe, eligible to be members of a tribe, or are of Native American descent, to wear traditional Native American regalia at graduation ceremonies. The bill aims to protect Indigenous students from discrimination and reverse the systemic effects of the Indian Civilization Act of 1819.

“This bill ensures that schools cannot infringe on the right of Native American graduates to wear traditional regalia to celebrate their accomplishments,” Danielson said. “It honors their culture and history, and most importantly, supports the students in the way the State of Colorado must.”

“No Native American student should have to choose between participating in their graduation with their classmates or following their religious and cultural traditions,” said Jaquez Lewis. “Our country has a long and tragic history of suppressing Native American culture and forcing people to assimilate. It’s time for Colorado to enshrine these protections for Native American students once and for all.”

In states where there are no protections for Native American dress, students have been barred from wearing everything from beadwork to sealskin caps because the traditional regalia violates school dress code. If enacted, Colorado would join the handful of states that provide protections for these students. 

Colorado is home to two federally recognized tribes; the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. According to the 2020 US Census, 74,129 Native Americans lived in Colorado, a higher population than the neighboring states of Utah and Idaho.

SB23-202 now heads to the House for further consideration. Follow the bill’s progress HERE. 

RELEASE: Committee Hears Testimony on Moreno’s Landmark Bill to Cut Red Tape, Create More Housing Options Coloradans Can Afford

SB23-213 will implement a comprehensive plan to help create more housing now for every Colorado budget

DENVER, CO – Lawmakers on the Senate Local Government & Housing Committee today heard testimony on Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno’s, D-Commerce City, bill to cut red tape and create more housing options now that Colorado families can afford.

SB23-213 was heard for testimony only, and laid over for further action at a future hearing. Lawmakers listened to more than 250 Coloradans including families, local officials, and housing, climate, and transit advocates who spoke about how the bill - and the improved access to affordable housing it will create - will impact them.

“Every Coloradan deserves a safe and affordable place to live, and this proposal will create a smart, holistic approach to expand the menu of housing options families and communities are able to choose from,” said Moreno. “We heard lots of useful feedback on these ideas today, and I was encouraged to see the level of enthusiasm around this transformative policy. I am committed to addressing concerns stakeholders may have and finding a balance that works across Colorado. But one thing remains clear: working Coloradans are tired of being priced out of where they live, and we’re going to continue fighting to cut red tape and expand our housing supply so that Colorado families have a place to call home.”

SB23-213 is a comprehensive plan that establishes a framework for more housing in municipalities while providing flexibility for local leaders to implement standards that meet their community's needs. The proposal establishes ways for the state and local communities to work together to develop strategies to meet Colorado’s housing goals more broadly and to avoid regional imbalances in housing production.

The proposal also includes opportunities for local communities to implement solutions that address unique circumstances and build on prior local efforts that address housing abundance and affordability. By creating more housing supply, this proposal will lead to increases in home options for every budget so that Coloradans can live in the communities they want, without being priced out. The plan also helps improve air quality, protect open space, conserve water and plan for future growth while helping prevent displacement. 

The plan outlines goals to create more housing now including:

• Legalizing the ability to build more affordable housing types like ADUs, duplexes, triplexes, or townhomes.

• Incentivizing more multifamily housing in or near transit-oriented and walkable communities to lessen the number of cars on the road, improving air quality, reducing pollution, and saving people money on commutes. 

• Cutting red tape and reducing building limitations to decrease building time and cost and giving more options and flexibility for homeowners to build on their land. 

• Assessing statewide housing needs and identifying affordability strategies tailored to local and regional needs. The bill will provide a framework for state, regional, and local agencies to strategically align investments and policies and track progress.

• Constructing more homes and creating jobs by eliminating arbitrary laws that prevent property owners from building the housing units local communities need. 

SB23-213 is supported by Healthier Colorado, Healthy Air and Water Colorado, Centennial State Prosperity, Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, Boulder Progressives, Bedrooms are for People, YIMBY Denver, YIMBY Fort Collins, Rocky Mountain NAACP, Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, the Colorado Education Association, ProgressNow Colorado, Colorado Builds Better, Good Business Colorado, and the Colorado Hospital Association, among others.

Track SB23-213’s progress HERE.

Winter, Gonzales Bill to Address Harassment & Discrimination, Create Safer Workplaces Clears Committee

Protecting Opportunity & Workers’ Rights (POWR) Act will strengthen workplace protections, help keep Colorado workers safe

DENVER, CO – Landmark legislation sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, that would improve safety and equity in the workplace by implementing critical anti-harassment and discrimination policies cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee today.

SB23-172, or the Protecting Opportunity & Workers’ Rights (POWR) Act, would update the definition of harassment and specify that harassment does not need to be “severe or pervasive” to constitute a discriminatory or unfair practice. The bill will also deter future harassment by modernizing language around non-disclosure agreements, expanding protections for people with disabilities, and adding marital status as a protected class.

“No Coloradan should face harassment or discrimination at the workplace, yet our state still lacks adequate policies to protect our workers and hold bad actors accountable,” Winter said. “This bill will take an important step forward in deterring bad behavior and better supporting survivors. By improving accountability measures and enhancing equity in the workplace, we will ensure that every Colorado worker can feel safe and secure on the job.”

“There is an urgent need to do more to protect Colorado workers from discrimination and harassment of all types,” Gonzales said. “It’s long past time we update and modernize Colorado law and put the power and protections on the side of the workers. The POWR Act will support Colorado workers and enhance equity in the workplace so that every Coloradan can earn a fair living free from fear of harassment or discrimination.”

The “severe or pervasive” standard was established by the U.S. Supreme Court more than three decades ago and assumes that some harassment is tolerable as long as it is not “severe” and does not happen frequently. It allows employers to tolerate a level of groping, touching, crude sexual or racist comments, and other offensive behavior despite the harm of such a toxic work environment on the targets of this offensive behavior.

Eliminating the excessive “severe or pervasive” hostile work environment requirements and replacing them with clear standards for “harass” and “harassment” considers the totality of the circumstances, and will allow survivors of discrimination and harassment to better pursue justice.

The POWR Act also removes the language in the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) that permits employers to discriminate against covered individuals or refuse to accommodate them if “the disability has a significant impact on the job”. 

Finally, the bill establishes an affirmative defense for an employer if the employer meets certain requirements, including establishing a harassment prevention program, taking prompt action in response to a complaint, and keeping records of any complaints.  

The POWR Act will now move to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: Exum Sr., Jaquez Lewis’ Bill to Allow Remote Participation in Eviction Proceedings Clears Committee

HB23-1186 would help more renters stay in their homes

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Tony Exum Sr., D-Colorado Springs, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, that would allow renters to participate in eviction proceedings remotely cleared the Senate Finance Committee yesterday.

HB23-1186 would allow individuals in residential eviction cases to participate in court proceedings remotely, making it easier for folks facing eviction to defend themselves and ensuring fewer Coloradans receive a default judgment simply because they cannot attend their eviction hearing in person.

“We’re working hard to make sure more Coloradans can find and stay in homes, and this bill to provide improved protections for folks facing evictions is a big step towards that goal,” Exum, Sr. said. “Breaking down barriers to participation in eviction proceedings will make it easier for Coloradans to defend themselves and avoid being evicted simply for not being able to attend a hearing.”

“Colorado is in the midst of a housing crisis, and it’s critical we do everything we can to alleviate it and keep folks housed,” said Jaquez Lewis. “There are lots of reasons someone may be forced to miss their eviction proceedings, including lack of transportation or child care or a sudden emergency - but that doesn’t mean they should be evicted. Our bill will prevent no-shows, improve accessibility, and keep more Coloradans housed.”

Data collected from courts in other states shows that expanding access to participation in eviction cases reduces “no-show” rates and improves court procedures. HB23-1186 is expected to decrease the number of Coloradans with a no-show, default eviction by over 7,800.

HB23-1186 will now move to further consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Zenzinger’s Bill to Improve Access to Special Education for Students in Foster Care Clears Committee

HB23-1089 removes barriers for foster care recipients who are enrolled in special education

DENVER, CO – Today, Senator Rachel Zenzinger’s, D-Arvada, bill to make it easier for children in the foster care system to continue receiving special education services cleared the Senate Education Committee. 

HB23-1089 modifies current law to direct resources toward the school district a foster child attends, rather than to the district they are geographically located in. The bill also creates a task force to identify and propose solutions to issues facing education for children in the foster care system.

“All Colorado students deserve a great education, and I am pleased to see my bill that reduces disruptions to special education for kids in foster care unanimously move out of committee," said Zenzinger. “Children in foster care face many challenges, and this bill will help us better support these students now and into the future.” 

The bill will remedy funding issues related to special education recipients in foster care. Current law allows foster children to continue attending the same school regardless of placement, and directs special education funds toward the school district where a foster child is located, rather than the district they attend, creating funding shortfalls and diminished services. HB23-1089 better aligns special education funding with school enrollment, allowing schools to better serve these students.

HB23-1089 now moves to the Senate floor for final consideration. To follow the bill’s progress, click HERE.

ICYMI: Exum Sr., Jaquez Lewis’ Bill to Allow Remote Participation in Eviction Proceedings Clears Committee

HB23-1186 would help more renters stay in their homes

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Tony Exum Sr., D-Colorado Springs, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, that would allow renters to participate in eviction proceedings remotely cleared the Senate Finance Committee yesterday.

HB23-1186 would allow individuals in residential eviction cases to participate in court proceedings remotely, making it easier for folks facing eviction to defend themselves and ensuring fewer Coloradans receive a default judgment simply because they cannot attend their eviction hearing in person.

“We’re working hard to make sure more Coloradans can find and stay in homes, and this bill to provide improved protections for folks facing evictions is a big step towards that goal,” Exum, Sr. said. “Breaking down barriers to participation in eviction proceedings will make it easier for Coloradans to defend themselves and avoid being evicted simply for not being able to attend a hearing.”

“Colorado is in the midst of a housing crisis, and it’s critical we do everything we can to alleviate it and keep folks housed,” said Jaquez Lewis. “There are lots of reasons someone may be forced to miss their eviction proceedings, including lack of transportation or child care or a sudden emergency - but that doesn’t mean they should be evicted. Our bill will prevent no-shows, improve accessibility, and keep more Coloradans housed.”

Data collected from courts in other states shows that expanding access to participation in eviction cases reduces “no-show” rates and improves court procedures. HB23-1186 is expected to decrease the number of Coloradans with a no-show, default eviction by over 7,800.

HB23-1186 will now move to further consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Local Government & Housing Committee Advances Trio of Bills to Increase and Retain Affordable Housing Stock, Strengthen Renter Rights

Bills would create opportunities for local governments to increase and preserve affordable housing stock, strengthen renters rights, and improve transparency for buyers and renters

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate Local Government and Housing Committee voted to advance a trio of bills that would increase and retain affordable housing stock, bolster tenant rights in rental agreements, and improve transparency around the presence of radon in residential properties.

“Whether it’s Steamboat Springs or Sedalia, housing is a top concern for Coloradans,” Winter said. “This year we’re taking bold action to tackle Colorado’s housing crisis from all angles. By preserving the affordable housing stock we already have and strengthening renters rights, Coloradans will be better positioned to find housing options that fit their budget, and sign rental agreements that preserve their comfort and safety.”

Sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, the first bill, HB23-1095, prohibits most rental agreements from including certain provisions that waive important rights. 

“Too often, Colorado renters unknowingly sign rental agreements that waive important rights, contain legal traps, and tack on hidden fees,” said Hinrichsen. “HB23-1095 prohibits landlords from sneaking inflated charges or unfair provisions into rental agreements, ensuring Colorado renters aren’t taken advantage of or exploited.”

Prohibited provisions include:

• Any waiver of the right to quiet enjoyment of the property, which protects renters from landlords entering the property without notice and their right to have peace and quiet in their home;

• Any waiver of the right to a jury trial, unless all parties agree to waive a jury trial in a hearing to determine occupancy;

• Any waiver of the right to participate in a class action lawsuit;

• Penalties or charges if a renter does not provide notice of non-renewal unless the landlord incurred actual losses as a result; or

• Provisions to charge renters for both third party services that is in excess of 2 percent of the actual charge or a monthly administrative fee of $10, to cover these services

Landlords often profit from renters by including inflated third party charges like pest control and valet trash services in administrative fees. UnderHB23-1095, landlords would not be allowed to charge renters more than 2 percent of the actual charge to the landlord or $10, but not both.

Large rental companies often use a class action waiver to protect themselves from lawsuits by preventing renters from collectively pursuing legal action. Individual renters usually can’t afford a legal fight against a large rental company, which allows rental companies to get away with violations.

A second billsponsored by Sen. Winter would give local governments the chance to match an offer on a multifamily or mixed-use property, if they commit to maintaining the property as affordable housing for at least 100 years. To qualify underHB23-1190, the property must have been constructed more than 30 years ago and consist of fifteen or more residential units in urban counties and five or more residential units in rural or rural resort counties.

Sellers would be required to notify local governments of the intent to sell or of a potential sale. The local government would have 7 business days to exercise the right to first refusal and another 30 business days to make an offer on the property.

The State Demographersuggeststhat 40,950 new housing units need to be built every year between now and 2030 for the housing market to return to a healthy level, but projects that Colorado will only build around 35,000 per year between 2020 and 2030, demonstrating the need to maintain existing affordable housing options.

SB23-206, also sponsored by Sen. Winter, would require sellers or landlords to provide warnings about the dangers of exposure to radon and to disclose information about radon presence or mitigation at a residential property. If a seller or landlord fails to provide the required information, a buyer or tenant may take a cause of action against a seller or landlord.

All three bills now head to the Senate floor for further consideration.

Fields & Hinrichsen Bill to Improve Healthy Food Access Passes Out of Committee

HB23-1008 creates tax credits for small food businesses and farms to improve access to local, fresh produce

DENVER, CO – Today, a bill sponsored by Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, to modify food related tax credits cleared the Senate Finance Committee. 

HB23-1008 creates a refundable income tax credit for small food businesses and local farms to cover 75 percent of the cost to buy new systems and equipment, and will pay for a majority of the program by closing tax loopholes that allow businesses to deduct meal and drink expenses from their taxable income. 

“Working people in my district and across the state don’t get a tax break on their lunches, and too many of them don’t have enough to eat at all," said Fields. “I am happy to close this tax loophole that only benefits the wealthiest Coloradans, and redirect the funds toward addressing food insecurity so that more Coloradans can afford to put food on the table.” 

“Family owned farms and food retailers need our support more than corporate boardrooms," said Hinrichsen. “This bill will reduce hunger and strengthen local supply chains in urban and rural parts of Colorado, with a minimal impact on state finances.” 

The bill expands on a bipartisan law from last session to improve access to healthy foods in low income and underserved communities. Ending the tax loophole that allows for big businesses to deduct meals from their state taxes will enable the state to transfer $1 million annually to the Healthy Food Incentive Fund, helping local businesses afford critical equipment and removing financial barriers to nutrition.

HB23-1008 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee. To follow the bill’s progress, click HERE.

Senate Approves Jaquez Lewis’ Bipartisan Bill to Encourage Water Efficient Landscaping

Legislation would require HOAs to provide homeowners with a slate of water-wise landscape designs for lawn replacement

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate advanced Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, bipartisan bill to reduce barriers facing Colorado homeowners in homeowners associations (HOAs) who wish to replace their lawns with water-wise landscaping.

Cosponsored by Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, SB23-178 would promote water-wise landscaping, emphasizing native plants that better sustain Colorado’s local ecosystem while requiring little or no irrigation. The bill requires HOAs to select and pre-approve water-wise landscape designs for homeowners to choose from.

“Colorado, like many states in the West, is experiencing prolonged drought. Combined with chronic water overuse, the American West is running out of water,” Jaquez Lewis said. “By making it easier for Colorado homeowners to replace their water-guzzling lawns with water-wise landscapes, we can drastically cut down on our overall water usage while maintaining beautiful, unique yards natural to Colorado's climate.”

The bill would also prevent an HOA from requiring hardscape on more than 20 percent of a landscape area and prevent an HOA from prohibiting vegetable gardening in a homeowner’s front yard.

About half of the water used in single-family homes in Denver goes toward “outdoor use,” according to Denver Water. Last year, the legislature passed legislation to create the Turf Replacement Program, which provides financial incentives for voluntary replacement of irrigated turf with water-wise landscaping. SB23-178 complements that initiative by helping homeowners who may not need financial incentives but are hindered by other barriers.

SB23-178 now heads to the House for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: Judiciary Committee Approves Gonzales’ Bipartisan Bill to Open Doors to Law Enforcement Opportunities for Immigrants

HB23-1143 would authorize law enforcement agencies to allow DACA recipients to carry firearms as peace officers

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, the Judiciary Committee approved Senator Julie Gonzales’, D-Denver, bipartisan bill to open up job opportunities for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients within law enforcement. 

Currently, DACA recipients are unable to possess or carry a firearm. For DACA recipients who want a career in law enforcement, this drastically hinders their ability to get hired. HB23-1143 would allow law enforcement agencies to amend their policies, in compliance with federal law, to allow DACA recipients to carry firearms in order to work in law enforcement.

“We’ve heard time and time again that police departments and local law enforcement agencies are hurting for staffing all while DACA recipients are asking to protect and serve their community,” Gonzales said. “In my district and throughout the state, qualified individuals with bilingual skills and an understanding of their community and culture currently have no pathway to serve as law enforcement officials. This bill will help open the door for immigrants to serve their communities in new ways.”

If enacted, eligible immigrants, including DACA recipients and individuals who’ve applied for asylum, would be allowed to attend peace officer training academies. The bill would also require law enforcement agencies to notify the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board that the DACA recipients are in compliance with firearm policies while attending an academy.

HB23-1143 now heads to the Senate floor. Follow the bill’s progress HERE. 

ICYMI: Danielson and Jaquez Lewis Bill to Allow Native American Regalia at Graduation Ceremonies Clears Committee

SB23-202 aims to reverse the systemic effects of residential Native American boarding schools and protect Indigenous students from discrimination

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, bill to allow Native American students to wear traditional regalia at graduation ceremonies cleared the Senate Education Committee.

SB23-202 would require schools, school districts, public colleges, and universities to allow qualifying students, including those who are members of a Tribe, eligible to be members of a Tribe, or are of Native American descent, to wear traditional Native American regalia at graduation ceremonies. The bill aims to protect students from discrimination and reverse the systemic effects of the Indian Civilization Act of 1819.

“This bill ensures that schools cannot infringe on the right of Native American graduates to wear traditional regalia to celebrate their accomplishments,” Danielson said. “It honors their culture and history, and most importantly, supports the students in the way the State of Colorado must.”

“No Native American student should have to choose between participating in their graduation with their classmates or following their religious and cultural traditions,” said Jaquez Lewis. “Our country has a long and tragic history of suppressing Native American culture and forcing people to assimilate. It’s time for Colorado to enshrine these protections for Native American students once and for all.”

In states where there are no protections for Native American dress, students have been barred from wearing everything from beadwork to sealskin caps because the traditional regalia violates school dress code. If enacted, Colorado would join the handful of states that provide protections for these students. 

Colorado is home to two federally recognized Tribes; Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. According to the 2020 US Census, 74,129 Native Americans lived in Colorado, a higher population than the neighboring states of Utah and Idaho.

SB23-202 now heads to the Senate floor. Follow the bill’s progress HERE. 

Bridges’ Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Career Pathways & Help Coloradans Land Jobs Clears Committee

SB23-205 would create a Universal High School Scholarship Program to help students land jobs in high-demand fields

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, to help students afford the training they need to land jobs in high-paying, in-demand fields cleared the Senate Education Committee today.

Cosponsored by Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, SB23-205 would create a Universal High School Scholarship Program to make it easier and more affordable to access postsecondary education and training opportunities for Colorado students.

“Opportunity is a core Colorado value, and this bill gives high school graduates in our state $1,500 to help them earn a good life,” said Bridges. “There are thousands of job openings in Colorado, but not enough trained workers to fill them. With this bill, we’ll get people the certificates, degrees, and apprenticeships they need, which is good for them, good for employers, and good for our economy.”

The program will provide each student with a $1,500 scholarship to take to any approved training provider in Colorado, from apprenticeship and on-the-job training to trade school, community colleges, and colleges and universities. This transformative financial support has the capacity to serve 15,000 graduating students in the Class of 2024, more than 25% of all high school graduates statewide.

Scholarships are available to Colorado residents who graduated from a Colorado high school or earned a high school equivalency credential in the 2023-2024 academic year.

Bridges and Lundeen highlighted SB23-205 at an event today with First Lady Jill Biden, who praised the innovative legislation that will connect hardworking Coloradans with the skills and training they need to thrive.

SB23-205 will now move to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Judiciary Committee Approves Gonzales’ Bipartisan Bill to Open Doors to Law Enforcement Opportunities for Immigrants

HB23-1143 would authorize law enforcement agencies to allow DACA recipients to carry firearms as peace officers

DENVER, CO – Today, the Judiciary Committee approved Senator Julie Gonzales’, D-Denver, bipartisan bill to open up job opportunities for Deferred Action for Children Arrivals (DACA) recipients within law enforcement. 

Currently, DACA recipients are unable to possess or carry a firearm. For DACA recipients who want a career in law enforcement, this drastically hinders their ability to get hired. HB23-1143 would allow law enforcement agencies to amend their policies, in compliance with federal law, to allow DACA recipients to carry firearms in order to work in law enforcement.

“We’ve heard time and time again that police departments and local law enforcement agencies are hurting for staffing all while DACA recipients are asking to protect and serve their community,” Gonzales said. “In my district and throughout the state, qualified individuals with bilingual skills and an understanding of their community and culture currently have no pathway to serve as law enforcement officials. This bill will help open the door for immigrants to serve their communities in new ways.”

If enacted, eligible immigrants, including DACA recipients and individuals who’ve applied for asylum, would be allowed to attend peace officer training academies. The bill would also require law enforcement agencies to notify the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board that the DACA recipients are in compliance with firearm policies while attending an academy.

HB23-1143 now heads to the Senate floor. Follow the bill’s progress HERE. 
 

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Comité Judicial Aprueba Proyecto de Ley Bipartidista de la Senadora Gonzales para Abrir Puertas a Oportunidades en las Fuerzas del Orden para Inmigrantes

La HB23-1143 autorizaría a los cuerpos policiales permitir que los beneficiarios de DACA porten armas de fuego como agentes del orden público

DENVER, CO – Hoy, el Comité Judicial aprobó el proyecto de ley bipartidista de la Senadora Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, para abrir oportunidades laborales para los beneficiarios de la Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia (DACA) dentro de las fuerzas del orden.

Actualmente, los beneficiarios de DACA no pueden poseer o portar un arma de fuego. Para los beneficiarios de DACA que desean una carrera en las fuerzas del orden, esto dificulta drásticamente su capacidad para ser contratados. La HB23-1143 permitiría a los cuerpos policiales modificar sus políticas, de conformidad con la ley federal, para permitir que los beneficiarios de DACA porten armas de fuego para trabajar en las fuerzas del orden. 

“Hemos escuchado una y otra vez que los departamentos de policía y las agencias policiales locales están sufriendo por la falta de personal, mientras que los beneficiarios de DACA piden proteger y servir a su comunidad”, dijo Gonzales. “En mi distrito y en todo el estado, las personas calificadas con habilidades bilingües y una comprensión de su comunidad y cultura actualmente no tienen camino para servir como agentes del orden público. Este proyecto de ley ayudará a abrir la puerta para que los inmigrantes sirvan a sus comunidades de nuevas maneras”.

Si se aprueba, los inmigrantes elegibles, incluidos los beneficiarios de DACA y las personas que solicitaron asilo, podrían asistir a las academias de capacitación de oficiales del orden público. El proyecto de ley también requeriría que las las fuerzas del orden notifiquen a la Junta de Capacitación y Estándares de Oficiales de Paz que los beneficiarios de DACA cumplen con las políticas de armas de fuego mientras asisten a una academia.

La HB23-1143 ahora se dirige al piso del Senado. Siga el progreso del proyecto de ley AQUÍ.

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Senate Approves Bipartisan Zenzinger Bill to Improve Special Education Funding in Colorado

SB23-099 will boost special education funding by more than $40 million

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, that will boost funding and improve special education in Colorado earned approval before the Senate today.

Cosponsored by Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Brighton, SB23-099 would increase the required annual appropriation to the Department of Education by an additional $40 million, and will help bring down student-teacher ratios, decrease class sizes, and help schools provide the tailored assistance and support special education students need to learn and receive the quality education they deserve.

“Every Colorado student deserves a great public education, but the current level of state support for special education isn’t giving every learner that same opportunity,” Zenzinger said. “We’ve been fighting hard to fix that, and this bill will help us get even more critical resources to the classrooms that need them most while helping ensure that every student - regardless of their ability - is prepared for success.”

Zenzinger’s bill builds off the success of last year’s SB22-127, which dramatically increased funding for more than 100,000 Colorado special education students, from about $220 million per year currently to more than $300 million per year moving forward. 

SB23-099 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Exum’s Bill to Limit Medical Debt from Hurting Coloradans’ Credit Scores

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 – Today the Senate approved Senator Tony Exum Sr.’s, D-Colorado Springs, bill to limit medical debt impacts on Coloradans’ credit reports or credit scores.

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 back to the House for concurrence of amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.