Gonzales & Rodriguez Bill To Make Prison Phone Calls Free Passes Senate

HB23-1133 would help incarcerated people stay connected to family and friends without incurring undue financial burden

DENVER, CO – Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Robert Rodriguez’s, D-Denver, bill to make prison phone calls free and keep families connected passed the Senate today.

Over several years, HB23-1133 would phase in cost reductions to phone calls made to and from incarcerated people in Department of Corrections (DOC) facilities until they are completely free. The bill requires the DOC to cover 25 percent of the cost of phone calls in their facilities starting on September 1, 2023; 35 percent of the cost starting on July 1, 2024; and to cover the full cost of phone calls starting July 1, 2025.

“Maintaining meaningful connections with friends and family helps incarcerated people envision a full life outside of the carceral system,” Gonzales said. “Eliminating the costs of prison phone calls for incarcerated people and their loved ones will help restore hope for those in our corrections system. I am proud to champion this legislation, a low cost effort to reduce the likelihood of recidivism and help people maintain dignity while incarcerated.”

“No cost prison phone calls will help incarcerated Coloradans stay connected to resources that can help them succeed outside of prison,” said Rodriguez. “Data shows that people who are able to maintain connections with their support system are more likely to succeed and less likely to return to the prison system. Making prison phone calls free is the right thing to do for incarcerated Coloradans and their families and friends.”

The DOC currently charges eight cents per minute for phone calls, adding up to an annual cost of $438 for an incarcerated individual who makes a daily 15 minute phone call. If HB23-1133 is enacted, Colorado would join California and Connecticut as the third state to cover the cost of all state prison phone calls.

Finally, the bill would require the Division of Youth Services (DYS) in the Department of Human Services to provide free phone calls for youth detained in a juvenile detention facility and dictates that DYS may not receive any revenue, including commissions or fees.

HB23-1133 now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Strengthen Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence

DENVER, CO – The Senate passed legislation to strengthen victim protections in domestic violence cases with bipartisan support.

HB23-1222, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, would require municipalities that criminalize domestic violence to establish protections and rights for victims consistent with the Victims Rights Act (VRA). These requirements include that: 

• Victims, victims’ families, and witnesses of a domestic violence violation will receive protections and rights under the VRA;

• Sentencing, probation, and release on bond for a violation must be consistent with state law;

• Guidelines and standards are consistent with those adopted by the Domestic Violence Offender Management Board; and

• The prosecuting attorney that originally meets with the victim should make an effort to stay on the case throughout the proceeding.

“I’m proud to be a part of multiple pieces of transformative legislation to strengthen autonomy and control for survivors of intimate violence,” said Winter. “No survivor should ever have to pay a bill for their forensic exam, or feel unsafe during their court proceedings. This bill signals our commitment to furthering support for survivors of domestic violence in Colorado.”

“Since the pandemic, domestic violence cases have surged across the United States, including here in Colorado,” Roberts said. “Under current law, county and municipal courts aren’t held to the same procedural standards for domestic violence cases, which allows perpetrators and survivors to fall through the cracks. This bill will improve the way municipal courts handle domestic violence cases – ensuring survivors are given the protections they deserve while creating a safer state for all Coloradans.”

The Colorado Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board reported that there were 91 fatalities due to domestic violence in 2021 – the highest the state has seen since the board was founded in 2017.

HB23-1222 now heads to the Governor’s desk. Follow its progress HERE.

Gonzales Bill to Prohibit Most Growth Caps Clears Committee

HB23-1255 would prohibit most growth caps to build more housing faster

DENVER, CO – Senator Julie Gonzales’, D-Denver, bill to prohibit local governments from enacting and enforcing growth caps in order to build more housing faster cleared the Senate Local Government and Housing Committee today.

HB23-1255 would prevent local governments from enacting and enforcing housing growth restrictions that limit housing development to a certain number of building permits or approvals without a transparent process and fair consideration of a proposal’s merits. Under the bill, local governments would not be required to approve specific developments or projects, but they would not be able to reject a proposal simply due to an arbitrary growth cap.

"Colorado needs more housing," Gonzales said. "Eliminating arbitrary growth caps will increase supply and allow more Coloradans to remain in the communities they currently live and work in. I’m proud to champion policy that will help communities keep up with ongoing growth, ease displacement, and help us meet our housing needs."

The bill includes exceptions in cases of a declared disaster emergency, for developing or amending residential land use laws, or to acquire or expand public infrastructure like wastewater treatment.

HB23-1255 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Roberts’ Bill to Increase Local Oversight over Short Term Rentals Clears Committee

HB23-1287 would increase local oversight over Airbnb and other online listings of short term rentals, clarify procedures for compliance

DENVER, CO – Senator Dylan Roberts’, D-Avon, bipartisan bill to enhance existing procedures and increase transparency for short term rental regulations cleared the Senate Local Government and Housing committee today. 

HB23-1287 gives counties the legal backing to require a property owner or agent to include a rental license or permit in any online listing for a short term property. Additionally, the bill would allow counties to require that online platforms like Airbnb and VRBO remove listings if the owner of a unit has had their license or permit suspended, revoked, or if local rules do not permit the property to be listed as a short term rental.

“Short term rentals are an important part of our tourism economies but local residents also deserve protection from their unintended consequences,” said Roberts. “This bill enhances counties’ authority to enforce existing licensing rules, so that local governments can protect communities from bad actors in the short term rental market.”

County governments are currently authorized to regulate short term rental units; HB23-1287 would clarify the definition of a short term rental and outline county authority to assure compliance on digital platforms. Currently, over 40 percent of homes in Summit County are used as either short term rentals or secondary residences, and resort communities across the state have seen a surge in short term rental conversion since the onset of the pandemic.

HB23-1287 is cosponsored by Sen. Perry Will, R-New Castle, and Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and will now move to the Senate floor for consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Finance Committee Approves Bill To Support Universal Preschool Program

Legislation would refer a measure to the November 2023 ballot to retain excess revenue collected from Proposition EE

DENVER, CO – Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, and Senator Rhonda Fields’, D-Aurora, bill to support and maintain Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program (UPK) cleared the Senate Finance Committee today.

HB23-1290 would refer a measure to the November 2023 ballot asking voters to allow the state to keep the excess revenue collected on tobacco and other tobacco products to fund UPK in Colorado. If approved by voters, the measure would allow the state to direct the nearly $24 million in excess revenue to support Colorado’s early childhood learners, instead of refunding that amount to the tobacco industry.

"Preschool programs play a vital role in Colorado's communities by laying a strong foundation for children and providing essential child care services for working parents," Moreno said. "This bill presents an opportunity for voters to redirect much-needed funds towards Colorado's early education system, instead of returning them to tobacco distributors and wholesalers. With the potential to infuse nearly $24 million into preschool programs, HB23-1290 represents a wise investment in the future of our children and our state."

“In 2020, voters overwhelmingly supported taxing tobacco and nicotine products to fund Colorado’s transformational Universal Preschool Program and boost learning opportunities for our youngest Coloradans,” said Fields. “This bill gives voters the chance to build on that progress and utilize existing funding to support even more families seeking preschool programs.”

In 2020 Colorado voters approved Proposition EE, which created new excise taxes on cigarettes, tobacco and nicotine products to fund a number of priorities, including UPK. The new tax rates are designed to phase in over the next few fiscal years through 2027. When originally approved by voters, it was estimated that this measure would raise $186.5 million in new tax revenue in its first year. Actual revenues from the new tobacco taxes exceeded that predicted amount by nearly $24 million.

HB23-1290 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Judiciary Committee Advances Pair of Bills to Strengthen Support for Survivors of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence

DENVER, CO – The Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously passed legislation to strengthen victim protections in domestic violence cases and improve sexual assault survivors’ access to information.

HB23-1222, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, would require municipalities that criminalize domestic violence to establish protections and rights for victims consistent with the Victims Rights Act (VRA). These requirements include that: 

• Victims, victims’ families, and witnesses of a domestic violence violation will receive protections and rights under the VRA;

• Sentencing, probation, and release on bond for a violation must be consistent with state law;

• Guidelines and standards are consistent with those adopted by the Domestic Violence Offender Management Board; and

• The prosecuting attorney that originally meets with the victim should make an effort to stay on the case throughout the proceeding.

“Since the pandemic, domestic violence cases have surged across the United States, including here in Colorado,” Roberts said. “Under current law, county and municipal courts aren’t held to the same procedural standards for domestic violence cases, which allows perpetrators and survivors to fall through the cracks. This bill will improve the way municipal courts handle domestic violence cases – ensuring survivors are given the protections they deserve while creating a safer state for all Coloradans.”

The Colorado Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board reported that there were 91 fatalities due to domestic violence in 2021 – the highest the state has seen since the board was founded in 2017.

Yesterday the Senate Judiciary Committee passed HB23-1199, also sponsored by Winter. The bill would require the Department of Public Safety to create a statewide system for sexual assault survivors to monitor the status of evidence obtained during their forensic medical examinations. 

“I’m proud to be a part of multiple pieces of transformative legislation to strengthen autonomy and control for survivors of intimate violence,” said Winter. “No survivor should ever have to pay a bill for their forensic exam, or feel unsafe during their court proceedings. These bills signal our commitment to furthering support for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence in Colorado.”

The bipartisan bill aims to bolster the SAVE program, established under HB13-1163, with critical funding to ensure sexual assault survivors aren’t discouraged from getting a rape kit nor billed for a forensic exam.

HB23-1199 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee, while HB23-1222 heads to the Senate floor. Their progress can be found HERE and HERE, respectively.

Senate Advances Pair of Bills to Save Money on Prescription Drugs, Improve Hospital Transparency

DENVER, CO – The Senate today advanced a pair of bills that will save Colorado families money on prescription drugs and improve transparency for hospitals.

HB23-1201, sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, would lower prescription drug costs by cracking down on pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) who charge employers one price for prescription drugs and reimburse pharmacies for less, and pocket the difference in a practice known as spread pricing.

“Prescription drugs in Colorado are sometimes too expensive for working families to afford, and that’s unacceptable,” Mullica said. “Prohibiting pharmacy benefit managers from skimming profits off the top of prescription drug prices will keep more money in the pockets of hardworking Colorado families and help more folks afford the lifesaving medication they need to survive.”

The Senate also advanced HB23-1218, sponsored by Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, which requires certain health care facilities to share details with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) of the health care services they provide. 

The bill requires CDPHE to create forms to compile a list of services that a health care facility may deny for non-medical reasons, like abortion and gender-affirming care. 

“Every Coloradan deserves quality care that meets their needs and allows them to thrive,” Jaquez Lewis said. “Shining a light on which health care services Colorado hospitals provide - and which services they deny - will help Coloradans make more informed choices about where they receive their health care.”

The forms will be shared with the public biannually so they have a better understanding of facilities that meet their specific health care needs. Providers must also make their forms available to their patients to disclose the care they offer due to the informed consent process.

HB23-1201 and HB23-1218 will both move back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track HB23-1201’s progress HERE, and HB23-1218’s progress HERE.

Fenberg’s Bill To Expand Clean Energy & Save Coloradans Money Earns Full Senate Approval

HB23-1272 includes approximately $65 million in annual tax credits and incentives for businesses and consumers for decarbonization investments

DENVER, CO – Senate President Steve Fenberg’s, D-Boulder, bill to implement tax incentives to reduce the costs of adopting clean energy technologies for Colorado residents and businesses passed the Senate today.

HB23-1272 is part of a package of legislation to incentivize the adoption of clean energy technologies and build upon federal initiatives to save Coloradans money, create good-paying jobs, and help the state meet its climate goals. 

The bill includes incentives to advance and adopt clean transportation methods, high-efficiency heat pumps, geothermal electricity development, and measures to reduce industrial emissions. Tax incentives in the bill are expected to average around $65 million each year with individual elements ramping up or down over time depending on available technologies and economic conditions. 

“Colorado has become a national leader in promoting clean energy technologies, but there’s much more we can do,” said Fenberg. “In order to further our commitment to our climate goals, we must do more to make adopting clean energy technology a feasible and attractive option for Coloradans – no matter their zip code or income level. The tax credits we’re working to pass this year will save Colorado residents and businesses money, help us meet our climate goals, and improve Colorado’s air quality.”

HB23-1272 would:

• Extend and expand electric vehicle tax credits and create an additional $2,500 credit for electric vehicles under $35,000.

• Continue the innovative truck tax credit for electric and plug-in hybrid electric trucks, with the credit ranging between $5,000 and $12,000 depending on the truck’s weight starting in 2024.

• Create an $500 refundable income tax credit for bicycle retailers for the sale of qualifying e-bikes so that retailers can offer immediate price reductions to purchasers.

• Design a refundable income tax credit for the installation of heat pump technology in residential and nonresidential buildings. The credits would vary based on the type and use of the heat pump.

• Extend incentives for industrial and manufacturing facilities in Colorado to reduce air pollution through various qualifying efficiency, onsite energy generation, carbon capture, electrification, and other eligible measures.

• Create the refundable sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production facility tax credit worth up to $1-3 million annually for the costs of constructing a SAF production facility.

The bill compliments and builds on incentives included in the Federal Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and to help residents and businesses maximize their ability to bring federal dollars to Colorado. 

HB23-1272 now heads to the House for consideration of Senate amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Gonzales & Rodriguez Bill To Make Prison Phone Calls Free Clears Committee

HB23-1133 would help incarcerated people stay connected to family and friends without incurring undue financial burden

DENVER, CO – Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Robert Rodriguez’s, D-Denver, bill to make prison phone calls free and keep families connected cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee today.

Over several years, HB23-1133 would phase in cost reductions to phone calls made to and from incarcerated people in Department of Corrections (DOC) facilities until they are completely free. The bill requires the DOC to cover 25 percent of the cost of phone calls in their facilities starting on September 1, 2023; 35 percent of the cost starting on July 1, 2024; and to cover the full cost of phone calls starting July 1, 2025.

“Maintaining meaningful connections with friends and family helps incarcerated people envision a full life outside of the carceral system,” Gonzales said. “Eliminating the costs of prison phone calls for incarcerated people and their loved ones will help restore hope for those in our corrections system. I am proud to champion this legislation, a low cost effort to reduce the likelihood of recidivism and help people maintain dignity while incarcerated.”

“No cost prison phone calls will help incarcerated Coloradans stay connected to resources that can help them succeed outside of prison,” said Rodriguez. “Data shows that people who are able to maintain connections with their support system are more likely to succeed and less likely to return to the prison system. Making prison phone calls free is the right thing to do for incarcerated Coloradans and their families and friends, and I look forward to seeing this bill across the finish line.”

The DOC currently charges eight cents per minute for phone calls, adding up to an annual cost of $438 for an incarcerated individual who makes a daily 15 minute phone call. If HB23-1133 is enacted, Colorado would join California and Connecticut as the third state to cover the cost of all state prison phone calls.

Finally, the bill would require the Division of Youth Services (DYS) in the Department of Human Services to provide free phone calls for youth detained in a juvenile detention facility and dictates that DYS may not receive any revenue, including commissions or fees.

HB23-1133 now heads to the Appropriation Committee for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Transportation & Energy Committee Advanced Pair of Bills To Invest in Clean Energy

Legislation would provide increased opportunities to adopt carbon management technologies and thermal energy as a clean heat resource

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee advanced a pair of bills to invest in clean energy technologies.

HB23-1210, sponsored by Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, would direct the Colorado Energy Office (CEO) to develop a carbon management roadmap and help Colorado companies successfully undertake carbon management projects such as carbon removal, storage, and utilization. It creates a new funding avenue for these projects by expanding the eligibility criteria of CEO’s Industrial and Manufacturing Operations Clean Air Grants Program.

“Achieving Colorado’s bold climate goals requires innovation,” Hansen said. “Carbon removal is emerging as an innovative, successful technology to be used in the pursuit of a net-zero economy. I’m proud to help Colorado become a leader in carbon management and I look forward to all we’re able to accomplish when this legislation is passed.”

The Transportation and Energy Committee also advanced Senator Tony Exum Sr.’s, D-Colorado Springs, bill to continue Colorado’s work to reduce emissions from gas utilities by providing a pathway for wider adoption of thermal energy as a clean heat resource. HB23-1252 aims to assist in the transition away from expensive fuel commodities like natural gas and lower utility costs for Coloradans.

“Adopting new clean energy technologies like thermal energy will help create jobs while lowering overall emissions,” said Exum. “Natural gas is driving up utility costs and putting the squeeze on Coloradans' budgets. We have an opportunity this year to continue moving away from polluting energy sources and instead adopt cleaner technology to move Colorado’s economy and climate goals forward.”

Thermal energy systems heat and cool buildings by circulating non-combustible fluids through a pipe network. Defining thermal energy as a clean heat resource allows the state to expand its usage, which will create new job opportunities, decrease greenhouse gas emissions and save Coloradans money on their utility bills.

HB23-1210 now heads to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration while HB23-1252 heads to the Senate floor. You can follow the bills’ progress HERE and HERE, respectively.

Zenzinger’s Bill to Save Coloradans Money on Health Care Earns Senate Approval

HB23-1300 would continue and expand access to existing health care coverage programs for certain vulnerable groups

DENVER, CO – Today, Senator Rachel Zenzinger’s, D-Arvada, bill to extend current programs to improve health care access for select vulnerable groups, regardless of their income, passed the Senate with bipartisan support.

HB23-1300, cosponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, would extend continuous Medicaid and Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) coverage for children 3 years old and younger for 24 months, and for individuals who recently completed their incarceration term for 12 months. The bill would also commission a study on how Colorado can extend Medicaid coverage to reduce the cost of health care for other groups in the state.

“This bill will ensure that some of Colorado’s most vulnerable populations can continue to access quality health care coverage,” said Zenzinger. “By extending the programs covered by this measure, we are improving public health and building equity in our health care system so that more Coloradans can access the care they need to thrive.”

Young children are among Colorado’s most at-risk populations for losing health care coverage at a critical stage of their development. The study established by HB23-1300 would consider the costs and benefits of implementing a similar program for all children under six, unhoused individuals, those on probation, and more.

HB23-1300 will now be sent to the Governor’s desk for signature. To follow the bill’s progress, click HERE.

Cutter’s Bill to Offer Youth Mental Health Screenings Approved by Senate

HB23-1003 would allow school districts to offer mental health screenings in schools, continue I Matter program

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate approved Senator Lisa Cutter’s, D-Jefferson County, bill to support the mental well-being of Colorado’s students.

HB23-1003 would allow school districts to offer mental health screenings in schools to help determine the mental well-being of students and continue the successful I Matter program. The bill would permit public schools to participate in a voluntary mental health screening program for sixth through twelfth graders.

The school would be required to notify parents of the date and time that the mental health screening is scheduled, the purpose, and information about the mental health screener. Parents would have the option to opt their child out of participating, although students over 12 years old could still decide themselves to participate, due to existing Colorado law.

“I'm proud that Colorado is a leader when it comes to providing accessible, affordable mental health care for our youth. But our kids are in crisis and we must do more,” Cutter said. “This bill will help identify issues early on so kids and families can get the support they need. I’m thrilled to champion additional mental health supports for Colorado’s youth."

The I Matter Program was created with the passage of HB21-1258 and expanded by HB22-1243. The program provides a mental health screening followed by six free therapy sessions to youth across the state and is available virtually and in-person. Students use a screening tool through the program’s website to match them with licensed mental health professionals that best fit their needs, including bilingual services.

HB23-1003 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Moreno’s Bill to Bolster Community Benefit Health Services

Moreno: “House Bill 1243 works to ensure the public’s concerns are heard when hospitals are determining what benefits to provide to their community”

DENVER, CO – Majority Leader Dominick Moreno’s, D-Commerce City, bill to bolster community benefit health services across Colorado cleared the Senate today.

HB23-1243 would center hospitals’ community benefit spending around local under-privileged communities by incorporating community feedback into the community benefit implementation plan and restricting the amount of out-of-state spending that can be counted as “community benefit” spending.

The bill would also require each reporting hospital to seek feedback from their community during its annual proposed community benefit implementation plan, submit a detailed report about any discussions or decisions at the annual meeting, make the report public, and execute a community benefit plan that addresses the needs of the community as discussed in the annual meeting to better understand the impact community benefit spending has on the health of Coloradans.

“Non-profit hospitals have the opportunity to provide much needed benefits back to their community,” said Moreno. “House Bill 1243 works to ensure the public’s concerns are heard when hospitals are determining what benefits to provide to their community. This bill requires greater transparency from hospitals about what benefits are being funded and how community feedback is being implemented, ensuring Coloradans have access to the unique services they need.”

Under the bill, the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) would be required to hold stakeholder meetings to ensure low-income residents, people of color, people with disabilities, people with serious mental illness, and others experiencing disproportionate health outcomes are fairly represented in a hospital’s community benefit spending plan. 

HCPF would also create an annual report that summarizes the estimated federal and state tax exemptions of each reporting hospital, establish a minimum annual community investment requirement, and sets compliance requirements for hospitals. HCPF would be able to apply corrective action or fines for reporting hospitals that do not abide by the guidelines set by this bill. 

Additionally, the bill would enhance existing public meeting requirements and ensure representation from the tribal councils and Urban Indian Organizations who have hospitals within their communities.

HB23-1243 now returns to the House for concurrence of amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Passes Bipartisan Bill to Boost Math Performance

HB23-1231 would use data-driven tactics to improve students’ math skills

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed Senator Janice Marchman’s, D-Loveland, bipartisan bill to improve Colorado students' math performances from pre-K to 12th grade.

HB23-1231, cosponsored by Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, provides robust support for students, families, and teachers through evidence-informed tools to expand time-on-task math engagement for students and training for educators and parents. The bill makes it easier for students to get the support they need to improve their math skills both in and out of school.

“Colorado kids deserve the best possible education, but right now too many of our students are failing to earn a passing grade when it comes to their math skills,” said Marchman. “As a math teacher I know firsthand how crucial these skills are, which is why I am proud to champion this bill. Resources like after-school programs and specialized training will give parents and educators the tools they need to get our kids caught up, and will help ensure that students of all ages are getting the high-quality education they need to thrive.”

HB23-1231 permits the Colorado Department of Education to provide free math training and technical assistance for teachers to incorporate math education tools in the classrooms and identify areas of improvement for students. The bill would enable schools to send notifications to parents and caregivers if their students are underperforming or struggling in math, and incorporates a train-the-parent model to increase understanding of math concepts at home.

This bill also creates a new state-based grant program focused on after-school math and STEM improvement. In addition, HB23-1231 integrates early numeracy into universal preschool quality standards and establishes a Ninth Grade Success Grant Program to help students tackle math concepts at a critical point in their education.

HB23-1231 now heads back to the House for concurrence of amendments. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Roberts Bill to Expand Property Tax Exemptions for Affordable Housing Clears Senate

HB23-1184 will help boost Colorado’s supply of affordable homes

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, that would expand property tax exemptions for nonprofit housing developers cleared the Senate today.

HB23-1184 expands property tax exemptions to include more nonprofit organizations like community land trusts that build and sell affordable housing, and increases the Area Median Income (AMI) to qualify for this housing from 80 percent to 100 percent.

“The cost of land is often the biggest barrier that keeps affordable housing projects from getting done, especially for nonprofit homebuilders who build housing for our state's workforce,” Roberts said. “This bill would be a huge step forward for nonprofit homebuilders and will make it easier for nonprofit developers to do what they do best: build more housing for working Coloradans so that families can afford to live in the communities they call home.”

HB23-1184 also extends the exemption period from five years to 10 years to better reflect the development timeline for larger affordable housing projects. The bill would create a new property tax exemption for land owned by community land trusts and other affordable housing nonprofits that develop permanently affordable for-sale homes. This exemption only applies to the land, and not to the home.

HB23-1184 will now move to Governor Polis’ desk. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Ginal’s Bipartisan Bill to Implement Automated Pharmacy Dispensing Systems Signed into Law

HB23-1195 will improve access to prescriptions in areas with pharmaceutical staffing shortages

DENVER, CO – Today, the Governor signed Senator Joann Ginal’s, D-Fort Collins, bipartisan bill to make it easier for Coloradans to access essential prescription drugs.

HB23-1195, cosponsored by Senator Barb Kirkmeyer, R-Brighton, will allow pharmacies to operate automated prescription dispensing machines so patients can access their medication outside of regular pharmacy business hours.

“Coloradans who depend on prescription medications can’t always make it to a pharmacy to pick up their drugs during business hours,” said Ginal. “This new law will make it easier for Coloradans to get medications they need by removing unnecessary roadblocks and will help more people access their prescriptions without compromising important pharmaceutical safeguards.”

The machines will contain medications commonly prescribed in the pharmacy’s geographic area, and customers will have to confirm their identity with a pharmacist via a live video. They will also help alleviate staffing shortages by enabling pharmacists to serve patients in multiple localities simultaneously.

Colorado is the fourth state to allow automated pharmacy dispensing systems, after California, Illinois, and Arizona.

SIGNED! Polis Signs Transformative State Budget Into Law

Budget includes resources to improve community safety, shore up public health, among other priorities

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed the transformative FY 2023-2024 Long Bill into law.

The $38.5 billion budget is a $1.2 billion increase over last year’s budget. Two-thirds of that increase is attributable to the end of enhanced federal Medicaid match rates, which are expiring as the declared COVID public health emergency winds down and the state is stepping up to meet the ongoing need in the absence of these additional federal Medicaid funds. 

“Balancing the state’s budget in a responsible and thoughtful manner is one of our most urgent priorities as a legislature, and I am pleased to say that this year’s budget hits the mark,” said JBC Chair Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “We’re delivering for Colorado families by making record investments in K-12 education, supporting our health care workers, and creating safer communities - all while keeping our state on solid financial footing. We’ve worked hard to create a balanced, thoughtful budget that funds the infrastructure we need to meet our obligations to our families and communities while helping ensure every Coloradan has what they need to thrive.”

“I’m pleased that Governor Polis has signed our bipartisan budget that responsibly invests in Colorado’s future and supports the services our constituents expect,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “The Joint Budget Committee worked together to fund Colorado’s Universal Preschool program, increase resources for community-based behavioral health care, and to draw down federal funds to upgrade critical infrastructure around our state. I’m proud to deliver a budget that will boost our communities, support small businesses and invest in our schools.”

“This budget reflects our core Colorado values of opportunity, independence, and responsibility,” said JBC member Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village. “The investments we’re making today will prepare our students for success, increase our housing supply, respond to workforce needs, and lower the cost of health care for our Colorado families. All in a balanced budget that puts Colorado on a sound and sustainable fiscal path into the future.”

“The budget Governor Polis signed today prioritizes Colorado families and promotes a thriving economy,” said JBC member Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “I’m proud of the investments we’re making to support K-12 public schools, improve access to healthcare, and strengthen workforce programs and nutrition assistance for Colorado kids and families. We’re delivering on the needs of Coloradans throughout the state to protect critical services that help our communities thrive.”

The budget sets aside a total of $469 million in General Fund for one-time uses, including:

• $103 million for workforce-related legislation including free credentials, math, scholarships, adult education, and concurrent enrollment

• $221 million for housing related legislation, including property tax relief, land use, public-private partnerships, implementation of Prop 123

• $16 million for other priorities such as the Rural Opportunity Office, line of duty loss fund, wildfire resources, & Prop 122 implementation

The budget maintains a 15 percent ($2.3 billion) General Fund reserve to prepare for the next economic downturn, and designates $543 million in cash assets for the constitutionally required State Emergency Reserve to pay for emergencies like wildfires or floods.

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS

Ensuring Colorado students receive the support they need is a key goal of the legislature, and this budget provides a record investment in our students. In this budget, total state and local funding for public schools will increase by $485 million, including a record increase in per-pupil funding by $900 per student with record investment to buy down the budget stabilization factor in the School Finance Act. 

The bill provides additional funding to help implement the Office of Early Childhood and Colorado’s landmark Universal Pre-K program.

Democrats are also addressing higher education needs through a 10 percent year-over-year increase in higher education funding, totaling $137 million alongside a 5 percent cap on tuition increases.

Finally, this budget provides $18 million for facility schools and expansions of services for students with extremely severe and specialized needs, and $1 million for the School Transformation Grant Program, which trains and supports school leaders working to turn around academic performance in the state’s lowest performing schools.

CREATING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES

Every Coloradan deserves to live a happy and healthy life. This budget includes a 3 percent provider rate increase, to help providers facing cost increases due to inflation and other factors and increased investment in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) so Coloradans can access and purchase health foods. Further support for workers includes the new 5 percent across-the-board increase for state employees, ensuring a $15 minimum wage for every state employee.

The budget also includes funding to implement the Office of Behavioral Health, and $3.8 million to bolster staffing and operating expenses to implement a statewide media campaign to increase routine immunization rates through the use of a mobile clinic program.

WILDFIRE MITIGATION & WATER CONSERVATION

Wildfire season lasts year-round in Colorado, and this budget provides badly-needed support to help our state better address and investigate wildfires. The budget provides $26 million to fund the acquisition of a second Firehawk helicopter which will improve the state’s ability to respond to catastrophic wildfires. 

In order to better understand the origins of wildfires in our state, the budget also includes $3.2 million to increase resources for fire investigation and data collection as well as funding for forest restoration.

The budget also includes a $12.6 million investment toward the state Water Plan and funding to secure the state’s negotiation position and implementation of our interstate commitments related to the Colorado River.

IMPROVING PUBLIC SAFETY

Democrats are committed to creating safer communities across our state. The budget provides $5 million for the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Program, $2 million to create a new Office of School Safety, and $6 million for the School Security Disbursement Program.

The budget also increases pay for Criminal Investigators and State Patrol Troopers.

Additional priorities funded in the budget include:

• $75,000 to the Department of Public Health and Environment for suicide prevention by providing mental health first aid training for students

• $4 million in funding for the Community Crime Victims Grant Program in the Department of Public Health and Environment

• $500,000 for family planning

• $8 million for the Colorado Crime Victim Services Fund

• $500,000 for the Colorado Wildlife Safe Passages Fund within the Department of Transportation

• $1 million Department of Human Services for outreach related to SNAP

• $500,000 for the Tony Grampsas Program

• $1 million to supplement funding for Denver Health, and another $1 million for Colorado’s rural hospitals

• $2 million to fund a co-responder program within the Behavioral Health Administration

• $500,000 in funding for the Veterans Assistance Grant Program in the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

• $100,000 for the Wildfire Capacity Mitigation Development Fund

• $10 million Reinsurance Program Cash Fund in the Department of Regulatory Agencies

• $18.2 million in funding for additional capital projects across the state

Senate Advances Bipartisan Roberts Bill to Create Colorado River Drought Task Force

Task force will develop policy recommendations, promote water conservation

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, that would create the Colorado River Drought Task Force to develop water policy recommendations for the 2024 legislative session cleared the Senate today.

The task force created by SB23-295, cosponsored by Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, will develop recommendations to provide additional tools for the Colorado Water Conservation Board to collaborate with the Colorado River Water Conservation District, the Southwestern Water Conservation District, and other relevant stakeholders to address the Colorado River drought and promote water conservation.

“All of us on the Western Slope depend on a clean and reliable supply to power our economy and promote our way of life, but worsening drought conditions, exacerbated by climate change, are putting our water supply in jeopardy,” Roberts said. “I am proud to sponsor this important legislation, which will bring us one step closer to addressing one of the most pressing issues our state has ever faced - the endangered Colorado River - and ensure every Colorado community has access to the water resources they need now and into the future.” 

The Colorado River Drought Task Force can meet up to 12 times and must deliver recommendations to the Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee by December 15, 2023.

SB23-295 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Gov. Polis, Legislative Leaders Announce Plan to Cut Property Taxes, Saving Coloradans Money

Building on over $1 billion in historic property tax relief for Coloradans, Polis administration in partnership with the legislature continues to provide real relief for hardworking Coloradans

DENVER -  Today, Governor Polis, Senate President Fenberg of Boulder, Senator Hansen of Denver, Representative deGruy Kennedy of Lakewood, and Representative Weissman of Aurora announced a proposal to provide historic property tax savings for homeowners and businesses while ensuring funding for schools and other local governments is protected. In addition to immediate relief, the proposal creates a long-term solution to prevent growing home values from raising property taxes and creates limits that protect homeowners and businesses from steep unexpected increases in their property taxes. This proposal, along with previous legislation, will save Colorado taxpayers $1 billion annually in property taxes, ensuring Colorado’s property taxes remain among the lowest in the nation.

“It is no secret that Colorado is a great place to live and work, and as our state grows, we must take action to ensure people can thrive in the community they love. This proposal will cut the average homeowners' tax increase in half and deliver long-term relief to protect people, especially seniors on a fixed income,  from being priced out of their homes,” said Governor Polis. “I appreciate the legislature's partnership to provide real relief on property taxes and save Coloradans money.” 

Coloradans will vote on this package in November, and should they choose to enact this proposal, it will provide major long-term reductions to property tax rates and deliver immediate savings on property taxes this year. This proposal, combined with reductions previously passed, will cut the average homeowner’s tax increase in half, saving $1,264 on average over the next two years. In total, this package would provide between $900 million and $1.6 billion annually in property tax relief for homeowners and businesses in Colorado.  

"Coloradans are about to get hit with painful property tax spikes, which is why we're taking action now to meet the moment and provide real relief for Colorado families," President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, said. "This transformative proposal delivers long-term reductions in property tax rates while providing immediate savings on this year’s property taxes, so we can better support our schools and our communities and build a Colorado everyone can afford to love." 

“We recognize that property tax reductions cannot be considered without also accounting for the impacts these cuts will have on local governments,” said Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “This bill makes responsible reductions, unlike those proposed in recent ballot measures, and includes provisions to ensure we’re protecting school districts, fire districts, and county child welfare offices while we pass this important measure to help Colorado families keep up with the cost of living in our beautiful state.”

“The cost of housing in Colorado is incredibly high, and if we don't act, Coloradans will suffer record increases on their property taxes. This would be especially difficult for working families, and would hit folks on fixed incomes incredibly hard," said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver. "That's why we’re working to provide immediate property tax relief that will save families across our state more than a billion dollars and keep people in their homes. This proposal will also give voters an opportunity to protect sustainable funding for our schools and local services like hospitals and firefighters while addressing the urgent property tax situation. I'm proud to champion this legislation that will provide immediate relief and protect the critical services Coloradans depend on to thrive."'

“The cost of housing in Colorado is incredibly high, and if we don't act, Coloradans will suffer record increases on their property taxes. This would be especially difficult for working families, and would hit folks on fixed incomes incredibly hard," said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver. "That's why we’re working to provide immediate property tax relief that will save families across our state millions of dollars and keep people in their homes. This proposal will also give voters an opportunity to protect sustainable funding for our schools and local services like hospitals and firefighters while addressing the urgent property tax situation. I'm proud to champion this legislation that will provide immediate relief and protect the critical services Coloradans depend on to thrive."'

“I’m proud to partner with Governor Polis to help significantly reduce property tax increases,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “Property tax increases are driving up costs on families, and lower, and middle income Colorado families can least afford this.  This proposal will help Coloradans stay in their homes and communities and targets savings to homeowners who need it the most.” 

Other property tax relief and protections proposed in this plan include: 

• Reducing the residential assessment rate from 7.15% to 6.7% in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences (not second homes or investment properties) in future years.

• Reducing the taxable value of residences by $40,000 in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences (not second homes or investment properties) in future years.

• Capping the growth in district property tax collections excluding school districts at inflation and allowing local governments to override the cap after giving notice to property owners.

• Protecting funding for public education and backfill revenue to fire districts, water districts, ambulance and hospital districts in areas of the state that aren’t growing as fast by dedicating a portion of the state TABOR surplus to backfill.

• Providing seniors who currently receive the Homestead Exemption a larger reduction of $140,000 and allowing them to continue to receive this reduction if they move.

Governor Polis has called for immediate and long-term plans to reduce property taxes and save Coloradans money, and in partnership with the legislature, has delivered more than $1 billion in savings so far. Last year, the governor and the legislature passed a property tax relief package that provided $700 million to lower Coloradans' property tax rates and reduced rate increases over two years. In 2021, the Property Tax Deferral Program was created which allows Coloradans to defer a portion of their property tax if they increase over 4%. This deferral opportunity was expanded from previously only being offered to seniors and veterans to now be available to all Coloradans. For more information on the Property Tax Deferral Program and other savings opportunities, visit the Colorado Treasury website. 

Senate Passes Buckner’s Bipartisan Bill to Expand Zero-Cost Credentials

HB23-1246 would break down barriers for Coloradans looking to enter the workforce

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, that would break down financial barriers for aspiring professionals looking to enter new, high-demand careers through a zero-cost credentials program cleared the Senate today.

Cosponsored by Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, HB23-1246 would invest $45 million over two years and pave the way for aspiring professionals in high-demand fields to receive free training toward associate degrees and industry certificates in eligible industries. Eligible industries include elementary and early childhood education, fire fighting, law enforcement, forest management, short-term nursing programs, and construction trades.

“Colorado continues to struggle with workforce shortages in careers ranging from early childhood education to nursing and firefighting,” Buckner said. “Since 2022, the Care Forward Colorado program has made great progress in connecting students with high demand career pathways, but there is much more we can do. With this important bill, we’re further expanding opportunities for Coloradans to land jobs in critical career fields and lowering the barriers to entry for training and education programs.”

For programs that are already zero-cost to students, such as Registered Apprenticeship Programs, funding will be provided to cover the costs associated with the training, such as instructor time and instructional materials. The funding to assist Registered Apprenticeship Programs in HB23-1246 is projected to train more than 3,000 students in the construction trades.

HB23-1246 builds off the successful Care Forward Colorado that Democrats launched in 2022, by covering the costs associated with reskilling and upskilling, such as tuition, books, and additional instructional training, and expands the number of eligible career fields to include six foundational areas of the workforce. 

Since its launch in 2022, Care Forward Colorado has successfully trained approximately 1,500 students as certified nursing assistants, emergency services professionals and other high-demand health care careers.

Buckner recently discussed the success of Care Forward Colorado and her new legislation with First Lady Jill Biden.

HB23-1246 will now move back to the House for concurrence of amendments. Track the bill’s progress HERE.