Signed! Landmark Legislation to Improve Accountability & Transparency for Utilities, Save People Money on Energy Bills Becomes Law

BOULDER, CO – Today, Governor Polis signed into law landmark legislation to save Coloradans money on their energy bills and improve pricing stability to prevent unpredictable rate spikes.

SB23-291, sponsored by Democratic members of the Joint Select Committee on Rising Utility Rates Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Reps. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, and Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, presents a package of reforms to lower utility bills now and in the future.

The bill rebalances the kind of expenses paid by utility shareholders versus ratepayers, aligns incentives on fuel purchasing, and levels the playing field at Public Utilities Commission (PUC) proceedings, where costly infrastructure plans are proposed and approved.

SB23-291 limits utility expenses that can be paid by ratepayers, such as lobbying and advertising, which are more appropriately paid by company shareholders. It also creates a cost-sharing mechanism to incentivize utilities to save their customers money on fuel costs, and allows the PUC to set a maximum monthly fuel cost to smooth out monthly bills and avoid sudden sharp increases.

“Colorado families were hit hard this winter by unexpected and severe price shocks, which is why we convened the Joint Select Committee on Rising Utility Rates to investigate the causes and find solutions,” Joint Select Committee Chair Fenberg said. “The legislation signed by Governor Polis today improves transparency and holds utilities more accountable to the ratepayers they serve while better aligning utility companies’ and Coloradans’ interests and expectations about their energy service. I’m excited to see many months of work result in policy that will help save Coloradans money on their energy bills and make much needed improvements to the way utilities are regulated in Colorado.”

“Coloradans are counting on us to address rising and erratic utility costs, and we’re proud to move forward with this solution,” said Joint Select Committee Vice Chair deGruy Kennedy. “This important law sets in motion both short and long-term, cost-saving solutions that increase transparency and accountability to protect Coloradans from rate spikes that leave them choosing between heating their home and putting food on the table while utilities rake in record profits. It also rebalances the relationship between ratepayers and utility companies so Coloradans aren’t subsidizing lobbying, advertising and other expenses that utilities pass on to consumers.”

“The Joint Select Committee on Rising Utility Rates was hard at work this session searching for answers and working to save people money on their energy bills,” said Cutter. “One thing quickly became clear, Coloradans are bearing the brunt of volatile rate increases while utility companies are empowered to set their own rules. This important legislation will help level the playing field at the PUC and create fairer processes in utility rate setting that will impact Coloradans today and for generations to come.”

“With this law, Colorado’s ratepayers are now front and center as we implement new ways to improve utility company transparency and accountability,” said Martinez. “For months, we’ve listened to consumer advocates, policy experts, utility companies and everyday Coloradans as we worked to find solutions to high, unpredictable utility bills that left many families struggling to heat their homes. I am proud to say this important law provides cost-saving solutions and protects Colordans from future drastic price hikes.” 

Additionally, the bill requires utilities to report more detailed justification for their plans when they request a rate increase, which will help regulators and consumer advocates evaluate whether proposed investments are truly in the public interest. In addition, the bill empowers the PUC to reduce utilities’ ability to charge their consumers for expensive consultants and lawyers that argue on behalf of rate increases.

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

Signed! Legislation to Reduce Insurance Premiums, Costs of Prescription Drugs

AURORA, CO - Today, Governor Jared Polis signed into law two pieces of legislation to reduce insurance premiums and the cost of prescription drugs.

HB23-1224, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, and Reps. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, and Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, lowers insurance premiums and makes it easier for consumers to shop for high value standardized health plans that work for them and their families.

The bill strengthens the Department of Insurance’s (DOI) ability to hold carriers accountable for the premium rate reduction requirements on Colorado Option Standardized Plans by granting the DOI the authority to:

• Limit factors such as as excessive profit and administrative expenses;

• Structure the public hearing process efficiently while ensuring all parties have the opportunity to participate;

• Help consumers easily find and compare plans that could lower their out-of-pocket costs.

“Too many Coloradans are forced to choose between preventative health care services and paying the bills,” Jodeh said. “By reducing premium rates for Colorado Option plans and strengthening cost-saving requirements over Pharmacy Benefit Managers, our new laws will protect Colorado patients, pharmacies, and businesses from unfair practices while saving them money on health care.”

“Every Coloradan, no matter where they live, deserves to have access to the life-saving health care they need,” said Roberts. “Colorado has led the way in lowering costs of health care by creating the Colorado Option. This bill builds on the first year of success of that plan and makes changes that will ensure that next year and in the years to come, even more Coloradans, particularly in the rural communities like those I represent, will be able to access more affordable and higher quality insurance options.”

“The Colorado Option has been very successful, creating $14 million in savings for Colorado patients on health care plans, in its first year in the market,” Brown said. “With this new law, we’re making improvements to the Colorado Option to save Coloradans even more money on health care. I’m proud of the work that we’ve done to cut down on health care costs and pass savings down to Colorado consumers.”

The second bill, HB23-1227, ensures that Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) follow through on critical cost savings reforms that the legislature has passed in recent years to save consumers money. Sponsored by Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, and Perry Will, R-New Castle, and Reps. David Ortiz, D-Littleton, and Jodeh, the bill provides the DOI with more direct oversight over PBMs by requiring them to register and specifying that the DOI has the ability to enforce those reforms.

“As a pharmacist I know firsthand how critical it is for Coloradans to be able to afford their prescription drugs, but too many of our families are still getting squeezed by high costs of medication,” said Jaquez Lewis. “HB1227 is part of a multi-year effort to keep Colorado prescription drug prices affordable. I’m thrilled to see this critical bill to save families even more money on life-saving medications signed into law.”

“Addressing the cost of prescription drugs is a critical part of creating an equitable and accessible health care system,” Ortiz said. “This new law will give us the tools to hold Pharmacy Benefit Managers to the cost-saving measures that Colorado Democrats have passed to improve access to affordable, quality health care for all.”

The bipartisan bill grants the Insurance Commissioner the power to investigate and impose penalties on PBMs for failing to comply with consumer protections such as charging pharmacies fees to adjudicate claims, clawing back money from pharmacies inappropriately, and discriminating against independent pharmacies versus PBM-affiliated pharmacies.

Signed! Legislation to Improve the Prescription Drug Affordability Board, Bring Down Costs for Medication & Vaccines

AURORA, CO - Today, legislation to improve the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) and improve access to publicly funded vaccines was signed into law by Governor Polis.

HB23-1225, sponsored by Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, and Reps. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, and Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial,  increases the effectiveness of PDAB to help lower out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Coloradans.

The bill allows PDAB to increase the limit on setting Upper Payment Limits (UPLs) to 18 per year if the board reaches the current annual cap of 12 UPLs and demonstrates a need for additional UPLs. Additionally, the bill improves the criteria for selecting drugs for an affordability review.

“Over the past few years we have worked hard to save Coloradans money on life-saving prescription drugs,” said Jaquez Lewis. “Still, too many families’ budgets are squeezed by high costs of medication. The Prescription Drug Affordability Board is an essential tool to keep Colorado prescription drug prices affordable, and these changes will make the Board even more effective at saving families money on their life-saving medications.”

“The Prescription Drug Affordability Board was created in 2021 to review prescription drug costs and set upper price limits to prevent price gouging of essential medication,” said deGruy Kennedy. “This year, we’re increasing the number of prescription drugs that the PDAB can create upper price limits for so more Coloradans can benefit from the cost saving measures we’ve enacted.”

“House Bill 1225 makes important changes that will increase the impact of the Prescription Drug Affordability Board,” Buckner said. “Too many Colorado families are forced to choose between putting food on the table or paying for life-saving medication, and that has to change. I’m proud to be a part of the effort to continue saving Coloradans money on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs.”

“The legislature created the Prescription Drug Affordability Board to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs, but current law restricts the Board's ability to function,” Dickson said. “This new law extends the Board's lifespan and expands the number of prescriptions it can review, so Coloradans can better access affordable, quality health care.”

Governor Polis also signed into law SB23-260, sponsored by Senators Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Rep. Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora. The bill allows practitioners to ask individuals who seek to receive a publicly funded vaccine to provide proof of health insurance or a government-issued identification card, but does not limit an individual from receiving a publicly funded vaccine if they don’t have those items.

The bill clarifies that independent pharmacies may charge vaccine administration fees and not provide publicly funded vaccines to individuals who are unable to pay. However, those pharmacies must provide individuals who are unable to pay with a list of practitioners who will provide the publicly funded vaccine regardless of payment ability.

SIGNED! Bipartisan Health Care Savings Legislation Become Law

DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed two bipartisan bills that would expand access to community health services through Medicaid reimbursement and save patients and business owners money on prescription drugs.

“As an emergency room nurse, I work hard each session to make life easier for Coloradans seeking affordable, quality medical care,” said Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton. “This year’s efforts will keep more money in the pockets of hardworking families and help Coloradans afford the life-saving medication and care they need. I’m proud to see these critical bipartisan bills signed into law, and I look forward to seeing their impact for years to come.”

“Rural communities like mine often rely on affordable health care services provided by community health workers to receive preventative, primary, and mental health care, but the current funding mechanism makes it more difficult for communities to offer these services,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “This bipartisan legislation Governor Polis signed into law today will allow for Medicaid reimbursement for community health services, connecting Coloradans to necessary affordable health care while also boosting our health care workforce.”

SB23-002, also sponsored by Republican Senator Cleave Simpson and Republican Representative Mary Bradfield, would save money on health care by providing a lower cost option for preventative health care and seeks Medicaid reimbursement for community health workers that would incentivize growth in the workforce. The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) would be authorized to seek federal authorization from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to provide Medicaid reimbursement for community health worker services, which would secure long-term funding to make urgently-needed care both easier to access and more affordable for the Coloradans who depend on it.

Services provided by community health workers include preventative services, screening, assessments, behavioral or dental health-related services, 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.

“For every $100 spent at a pharmacy, $82 is evenly split between manufacturer profits and middlemen like Pharmacy Benefit Managers,” said Rep. Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. “Pharmacy Benefit Managers are charging employers one price for prescription drugs while reimbursing pharmacies much less and pocketing the difference. I’m proud that this legislation is becoming law today, so we can save business owners money on the prescription drug coverage they provide to their employees by prohibiting the pharmacy benefits industry from price gouging.”

HB23-1201 is also sponsored by Republican Senator Jim Smallwood and Republican Representative Matt Soper. Currently PBMs can charge employers one price, but reimburse pharmacies less and keep the difference, a practice known as spread pricing. This bill makes it an unfair business practice for PBMs to charge employers more for a drug than what they pay pharmacies for and increase transparency for employers into how PBM and carrier behavior impacts their costs.

SIGNED! Bills to Increase Health Care Transparency, Improve Community Health Services Become Law

DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed two bills that would increase transparency of health care services and bolster community-based health care services across the state.

“It’s essential that health care providers are transparent about the services they can provide to patients,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. "Receiving health care usually requires people to take time off work, secure child care, and find reliable transportation. With this bill becoming law today, everyday Coloradans can have peace of mind that their chosen provider fits their health care needs, saving them time and money.”

“Every Coloradan deserves quality care that meets their needs and allows them to thrive,” Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, 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.”

“Too many times, LGBTQ+ Coloradans have shown up to a doctor's appointment only to be told that the provider would not provide the care they needed,” said Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada. “From abortion to gender-affirming care, Coloradans deserve transparency of the services their health care provider can offer. I’m proud that this bill is being signed into law today so Coloradans can compare services across providers and receive the care that they need.”

HB23-1218 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 CDPHE will 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. The forms will be updated biannually and shared on a public facing website 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

By February 1, 2024, the CDPHE must publish the forms on their website so consumers can easily compare services across health care facilities.

“Community-based health programs can greatly uplift the health and safety of Colorado communities, but to have maximum efficacy, we must include the voices of vulnerable communities that benefit from these programs,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Now, non-profit hospitals will be required to incorporate community feedback and will be held accountable for how they allocate funding to improve public health.”

“Non-profit hospitals have the opportunity to provide much needed benefits back to their community,” Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, said. “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.”

HB23-1243 centers 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, present priority areas that were identified through the hospital’s community needs assessment, and execute a community benefit plan that addresses the needs of the community as discussed in the annual meeting to better understand the impact that hospital spending has on the health of Coloradans.

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 and meaningfully engaged in the 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, a summary of the reporting hospital’s investments that have been effective in improving community health outcomes, 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 enhances existing public meeting requirements and ensures representation from the tribal council and Urban Indian Organization who have hospitals within their communities. Institutions of higher learning will also be represented to help bring meaningful input into discussions on spending.

Legislature Adjourns with Dems Delivering Real Results on the Issues that Matter Most for Coloradans

2023 legislation will prevent gun violence, protect reproductive rights, provide record public school funding, improve air quality and reduce the cost of housing, health care and prescription drugs

Legislature Adjourns with Dems Delivering Real Results on the Issues that Matter Most for Coloradans

2023 legislation will prevent gun violence, protect reproductive rights, provide record public school funding, improve air quality and reduce the cost of housing, health care and prescription drugs

DENVER, CO – The First Session of the 74th General Assembly adjourned today. Democratic lawmakers passed legislation that focused on the issues that matter for Coloradans: addressing the cost of living, protecting reproductive rights, reducing gun violence and improving public schools.

“From improving public education with a record investment in our schools, teachers and students, to reducing the cost of health care and prescription drugs, this session delivered real results on the issues that matter most to Coloradans,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “The legislation we passed will protect access to abortion, support our workforce and save people money on housing. I’m proud of our work to boost rural economies, protect our water future, and pass bipartisan legislation that will uplift people all across our state and help everyone reach their Colorado dream.”

“Coloradans demanded bold action on the issues that matter most to them, and this session we delivered,” Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, said. “From passing landmark gun violence prevention laws and working to lower your energy bills, to improving our gold standard elections and taking action to lower property tax bills for families and businesses, we fought tirelessly this session to make a real difference in our communities and for the people who make this state great.”

“This session, we worked to address the most pressing needs in Colorado and did what we told voters we’d do when they elected the largest Democratic majority since the 1930s,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “Democrats passed a landmark package of commonsense gun violence prevention laws, increased funding for crime victim services, and worked across the aisle to protect our freedoms, support working families, and improve public safety. We rejected the GOP’s extreme abortion bans, bills that would upend our gold standard election system, and anti-science climate denialism that threatens our future and our Colorado way of life.”
 
“Democrats delivered real results for Coloradans this session that meet the needs of our growing state and position us well for the future,” Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, said. “We remained laser-focused on the issues that matter most to Colorado families: making Colorado a more affordable place to live, building safer, healthier communities, and setting students, teachers, and our workforce up for success. I’m proud of the progress we made this year, and I look forward to building a better Colorado for generations to come.”

This year, the General Assembly passed packages of legislation to make housing more affordable, reduce health care costs, advance affordable clean energy, cut property taxes, prevent gun violence, increase access to protected health care, improve public education, and boost Colorado’s workforce.

Reducing Housing Costs

Building Homes for Every Colorado Budget: Lawmakers encouraged affordable housing development by making it possible to build housing on state-owned property through public-private partnerships (SB23-001). Democrats also passed legislation to eliminate arbitrary local caps on new housing that restrict supply and drive up costs for families, thereby increasing our housing supply, saving people money on housing, improving our environment, and allowing people to live where they work (HB23-1255). Lawmakers also passed first in the nation legislation that will give local governments a right of first refusal r on a multifamily or mixed-use rental property, if they commit to maintaining the property as affordable housing for at least 100 years (HB23-1190).

Proposition HH, which will appear on the ballot in November, would reduce property taxes, help seniors and veterans on fixed incomes stay in their homes, and boost TABOR refunds for everyone making under $100,000 to help renters, lower and middle income Coloradans, and put more money back into the pockets of the people who need it the most (SB23-303; HB23-1311).

Creating New Renter Protections and Saving Renters Money: Democrats passed landmark laws to protect renters. New legislation will limit security deposit amounts, cap income requirements, and reduce barriers to housing eligibility (SB23-184). Lawmakers saved Coloradans money on rental applications by allowing potential renters to reuse a rental application for up to 30 days without paying additional fees (HB23-1099). Democrats also strengthened residential lease agreements to protect renters against leases with hidden language that negate legal protections for excessive fees and legal rights (HB23-1095).

Lawmakers protected lower-income Coloradans and Coloradans living with disabilities who rely on critical safety net programs from unjust evictions by providing for mandatory mediation prior to an eviction being filed (HB23-1120). Lawmakers also passed a bill to allow Coloradans to participate in eviction proceedings remotely, so renters can avoid a default judgment from not being able to attend in person (HB23-1186).

Saving People Money on Health Care

Saving People Money on Prescription Drugs: Democrats strengthened the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) to lower out-of-pocket prescription drug costs (HB23-1225), held pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) accountable for cost saving requirements (HB23-1227), and made it an unfair business practice for PBMs to charge employers more for a drug than what they pay pharmacies for the same drug (HB23-1201). With the cost of critical drugs skyrocketing, lawmakers also tackled the high price of EpiPens so that Colorado residents can better afford this life-saving medication (HB23-1002).

Lowering Premiums, Reducing Costs and Increasing Transparency: Democrats passed laws to lower insurance premiums and make it easier for consumers to shop for high value health plans that work for them and their families (HB23-1224), expanded access to affordable community health service workers in health-care settings (SB23-002), ensured hospitals are reinvesting in their communities in ways that align with community needs (HB23-1243), and improved hospital transparency requirements to identify ways to reduce costs for patients (HB23-1226).

Enhancing Medical Consumer Protections: Democrats created additional consumer protections from high interest rates for medical debt and confusing debt collection practices that lead to long-lasting financial instability (SB23-093; HB23-1126) and protected patients, doctors, and hospitals from exorbitant costs in the case that a health insurance company becomes insolvent (HB23-1303).

Improving Access to Behavioral Health for Colorado Youth: Lawmakers passed bills to support the mental well-being of Colorado’s students by offering mental health screenings in schools (HB23-1003) and by streamlining the hiring process for licensed mental health professionals and expanding access to mental health resources and support in schools (SB23-004). New legislation will require insurance to cover multiple types of therapy and treatment planning services for Medicaid members who are under the age of 21 (SB23-174).

Investing in Education and Workforce

Providing Record K-12 Public Schools Funding, Boosting Math Achievement, Increasing Special Education Resources: Democrats put more money into classrooms to increase teacher pay, reduce class sizes and set up students to thrive by increasing public school funding by $660 million next year– increasing per pupil funding to $10,614 per student on average. Lawmakers provided $30 million to rural schools and committed to fully eliminating the Budget Stabilization Factor for the 2024-2025 school year (SB23-287). Bipartisan legislation will ensure students get the support they need to improve their math skills by increasing access to affordable programs inside and outside of the classroom (HB23-1231). The General Assembly also significantly increased funding for special education programs (SB23-099).

Boosting Colorado’s Workforce: Democrats invested $45 million over two years for aspiring professionals in high-demand fields to receive free training toward certificates and  degrees in fields such as elementary and early childhood education, firefighting, law enforcement, forest management, nursing, and construction trades (HB23-1246). Bipartisan legislation will provide qualifying students with a scholarship up to $1,500 for an apprenticeship or on-the-job training at a trade school, community college, or college and university (SB23-205).

To help working families, the legislature increased the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit by over $170 million, putting hundreds of dollars directly into the pockets of hundreds of thousands of Coloradans (HB23-1112).

Addressing the Teacher Shortage: Lawmakers passed legislation to get more teachers into classrooms through the creation of an apprenticeship program as an alternative route to teacher licensure (SB23-087), and created new pathways for qualified out-of-state teachers to more quickly gain professional licensure in Colorado and start teaching in our schools (HB23-1064). A new law will save educators money by expanding the pool of student educators who qualify for stipend programs (HB23-1001).

Preventing Gun Violence

Expanding the ‘Red Flag’ Law: Democrats expanded who can file an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) to now include district attorneys and other law enforcement officials, health care providers, mental health professionals, and educators (SB23-170).

Creating a Three Day Waiting Period: A new law will require a gun seller to wait for an approved background check or three days from the initiation of the background check - whichever is later - to deliver a firearm. Creating a waiting period delays immediate access to firearms and can help prevent suicides and impulsive acts of violence (HB23-1219).

Raising the Minimum Age to Purchase a Firearm to 21: Under current federal law, individuals must be 21 years old to purchase a handgun but only need to be 18 years old to purchase long guns. To reduce youth access to firearms and prevent gun violence, this law raises the age limit to purchase any firearm to 21, with limited exceptions (SB23-169).

Cracking Down on Ghost Guns: This bill prohibits the possession, sale, or transfer of an unserialized firearm, frame or receiver. It also prohibits manufacturing a frame or receiver, including via a 3D printer, unless done by a federally licensed firearm manufacturer (SB23-279).

Improving Gun Violence Survivors’ Access to Justice: Previously, gun sellers and manufacturers enjoyed broad protections under the federal PLCAA law from most types of civil lawsuits - and Colorado law had a punitive provision that forced survivors of gun violence to pay legal fees in dismissed cases. This law removes Colorado’s overly-broad immunity protections to allow for legitimate lawsuits to move forward to hold bad actors in the firearm industry accountable (SB23-168).

Taking Bold Climate Action and Wildfire Mitigation

Lowering the Cost of Clean Energy, Electric Vehicles and E-Bikes: This legislation will save Coloradans money and help meet our climate goals with approximately $60 million in annual tax incentives to businesses and consumers for electric vehicles, e-bikes, and investments in clean energy and industrial emissions reductions (HB23-1272). Other laws will reduce the cost of energy bills by aligning utility company incentives with consumer interests (SB23-291) and making electric vehicles more accessible (HB23-1233).

Reducing Emissions From Energy Sources: Democrats passed legislation to reduce the time and cost of residential solar installation and permitting to save Coloradans money on their energy bills (HB23-1234), and lower Colorado’s greenhouse gas emissions through new reduction targets, electrification incentives, and climate-aware investments (SB23-016).

Conserving and Protecting Water Resources: Conserves fresh water by requiring oil and gas operators to reduce, reuse and recycle water in their drilling operations (HB23-1242) and allows all homeowners in HOAs to pursue water-wise landscaping (SB23-178). Invests $12.6 million towards the implementation of the state Water Plan to support the Colorado River, outdoor recreation and agriculture (SB23-237).

Protecting Against Wildfires: Supports local governments to better investigate and prevent the causes of wildfires (SB23-013), and invests in Colorado’s forestry and wildfire mitigation workforce and tree nursery to more effectively mitigate and recover from wildfire destruction (SB23-005, HB23-1060). Helps restore natural stream systems and freshwater resources to mitigate floods and wildfires (SB23-270), and secures a second Firehawk helicopter, the most technologically advanced firefighting aircraft available (SB23-161).  

Protecting Our Freedoms and Access to Reproductive Health Care

Protecting Reproductive Health Care Patients and Providers: Establishes a shield law to protect those receiving, providing, or assisting with legally-protected health care – including abortion and gender-affirming care – from criminal prosecutions. Prevents Colorado state employees from assisting with interstate investigations in order to protect patients traveling to Colorado from other states to access protected health care (SB23-188).

Increasing Access to Reproductive Health Care: Limits surprise medical billing and removes patient cost sharing for reproductive health care services and treatment, including but not limited to sterilization, sexually transmitted infections (STI) and abortion care. Modernizes a 1971 law to expand access to contraception for all Coloradans, increases family-planning related services, and prioritizes access to life-saving HIV medication (SB23-189).

Cracking Down on Deceptive Practices by Anti-Abortion Centers: Protects Coloradans seeking reproductive health care by making it a deceptive trade practice to advertise providing abortion care, emergency contraceptives or referrals of either of these services when the service is not actually provided. Clarifies that it is unprofessional for health care providers to administer or prescribe a “medication abortion reversal” (SB23-190).

Expanding Access to Contraceptive Care: Improves access to the single dispensing of 12 months of contraception and ensures health insurance plans and PBMs are providing coverage in compliance with current law (SB23-284).

Defeating Dangerous Bills to Criminalize Abortion: Democrats in the House defeated dangerous Republican bills that would have criminalized abortion in Colorado and spread harmful disinformation about so-called “medication abortion reversals”. The efforts would have eliminated access to safe, legal reproductive health care in Colorado (HB23-1150; HB23-1119; HB23-1097).

Senate Approves Bill to Provide Flat TABOR Rebates

HB23-1311 is part of legislative package to reduce property taxes; would send $661 TABOR rebates for single filers or $1,322 for joint filers if Prop HH is approved by voters in November

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved one part of a legislative package to reduce property taxes and create a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will increase refunds for more than two-thirds of Coloradans, including all those making under $100,000.

If Colorado voters adopt Prop HH in November, HB23-1311 would require the TABOR surplus for FY 2022-2023 to be refunded equally to qualifying taxpayers. Colorado taxpayers could expect to receive a refund of $661 for single filers, and $1,322 for joint filers.

“We’ve worked hard to provide Coloradans immediate property tax relief through Prop HH that will save families across our state more than a billion dollars each year - but not everyone owns property, which is why we’re working to get them relief, too,” Hansen said. “This proposal will make TABOR refunds more equitable and directly benefit Coloradans by getting them bigger refunds when they’re needed most.”

“TABOR refunds should be equitable,” Hinrichsen said. “Flat TABOR refunds will ensure that hardworking Coloradans from all walks of life are supported fairly. We’re taking care of property owners through Prop HH, and this proposal will help give folks more financial freedom to fill up their tank, put food on the table, buy school supplies, and pay their bills.”

HB23-1311 is contingent upon the passage of Proposition HH, the measure referred to the voters by SB23-303. This legislative package lowers property taxes for homeowners and businesses, increases TABOR refunds for those making under $100,000, and protects funding for critical community services. Under the package, even after accounting for the portion of refunds that will backfill property tax reductions, Coloradans who make less than $100,000 can expect to see an increase in their TABOR refund if Prop HH passes.

Without this legislation, the FY 2022-2023 TABOR refund would be refunded by the six-tier sales tax refund mechanism, giving lower earners smaller refunds than higher earners. If voters do not approve of Prop HH in the November 2023 election, the six-tier mechanism will be applied to TABOR refunds; single filers that make under $50,000 per year would receive a TABOR refund of $454, while single filers that make over $270,000 would receive a TABOR refund of $1,434.

SB23-303 creates a long-term solution to prevent rapidly growing home values from causing sharp rises in property taxes, and creates limits that protect homeowners and businesses from steep unexpected increases in their property taxes.

Coloradans will vote on this package in November, and if approved, the proposal will provide major long-term reductions to property tax rates while delivering immediate savings on property taxes this year. Combined with property tax reductions the legislature previously enacted via SB22-238, this proposal 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. 

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

• Reducing the residential assessment rate from 7.15 percent to 6.7 percent in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences.

• Incrementally reducing the business property assessment rate from 29 percent to at least 26.9 percent by 2032.

• 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 backfilling 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.

HB23-1311 now moves to the Governor’s desk for approval. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Winter, Gonzales Bill to Protect Communities from Pollution Clears Senate

HB23-1294 seeks solutions for ozone air pollution, strengthens pathways for victims to seek justice for illegal pollution

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Faith Winter D-Westminster, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, bill to protect Coloradans from pollution cleared the Senate today.

HB23-1294 proposes short and long-term solutions to Front Range air pollution. It strengthens procedures for community members to report illegal polluting, requiring that citizen evidence of pollution be admissible in investigations, and making regulators keep people up to date on the status of ensuing investigations. It directs regulators to consider cumulative impacts of pollution when issuing new oil and gas permits. Lastly, the bill creates an interim committee of 12 legislators to meet this summer and develop additional long-term solutions to our air quality problems.

“Colorado experiences some of the worst air quality in the nation, especially for ozone air pollution,” Winter said. “I am excited to see what policy recommendations the interim committee makes so that we can improve public health and reduce air pollution in communities throughout the state.”

“Poor air quality disproportionately affects marginalized communities across the Front Range,” said Gonzales. “While we still have a long way to go in reducing environmental discrimination, this bill will help those communities to seek justice for illegal polluting.”

The American Lung Association named Denver and Fort Collins among the cities in the United States with the most polluted air, and the Environmental Protection Agency downgraded Denver’s air quality ranking last fall, highlighting the need for further action. Common sources of ozone pollution include fossil fuel power plants, oil refineries, lawn equipment, and transportation.

HB23-1294 will now move back to the House for consideration of amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: Senate Passes Winter & Jaquez Lewis Bill to Increase and Retain Affordable Housing Stock

HB23-1190 would create opportunities for local governments to increase and preserve affordable housing stock

DENVER, CO – Yesterday the Senate passed Senators Faith Winter’s, D-Westminster, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, bill to increase and retain affordable housing stock.

HB23-1190 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 under the bill, properties must be 30 years or older and consist of fifteen or more residential units in urban counties and five or more residential units in rural or rural resort counties.

“Whether it’s Broomfield or Berthoud, 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 giving cities and towns an additional tool to preserve the affordable housing stock we already have and create new stock, Coloradans will be better positioned to find housing options that fit their budget.”

“Colorado is in the midst of a housing crisis. We must do everything we can to help renters and homeowners,” said Jaquez Lewis. “By opening up opportunities for local governments to acquire properties they can use for affordable housing, we’re ensuring more Coloradans – especially lower income families – have a place they can call home.”

The bill requires sellers to notify their municipality or county of their intent to sell or a potential sale. The local government would then have seven calendar days to retain their right to first refusal, 30 calendar days to make an offer, and 90 calendar days to close on the property.

Colorado has 168,752 extremely low-income renter households with only 43,763 rental homes affordable and available for extremely low-income renters.

HB23-1190 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments. You can track its progress HERE.

Senate Committee Advances Bill to Provide Flat TABOR Rebates

HB23-1311 is part of legislative package to reduce property taxes; would send $661 TABOR rebates for single filers or $1,322 for joint filers if Prop HH is approved by voters in November

DENVER, CO – The Senate Appropriations Committee today advanced one part of a legislative package to reduce property taxes and create a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will increase refunds for Coloradans making under $100,000.

If Colorado voters adopt Prop HH in November, HB23-1311 would require the TABOR surplus for FY 2022-2023 to be refunded equally to qualifying taxpayers. Colorado taxpayers could expect to receive a refund of $661 for single filers, and $1,322 for joint filers.

“We’ve worked hard to provide Coloradans immediate property tax relief through Prop HH that will save families across our state more than a billion dollars each year - but not everyone owns property, which is why we’re working to get them relief, too,” Hansen said. “This proposal will make TABOR refunds more equitable and directly benefit Coloradans by getting them bigger refunds when they’re needed most.”

“TABOR refunds should be equitable,” Hinrichsen said. “Flat TABOR refunds will ensure that hardworking Coloradans from all walks of life are supported fairly. We’re taking care of property owners through Prop HH, and this proposal will help give folks more financial freedom to fill up their tank, put food on the table, buy school supplies, and pay their bills.”

HB23-1311 is contingent upon the passage of Proposition HH, the measure referred to the voters by SB23-303. This legislative package lowers property taxes for homeowners and businesses, increases TABOR refunds for those making under $100,000, and protects funding for critical community services. Under the package, after accounting for the portion of refunds that will backfill property tax reductions, Coloradans who make less than $100,000 can expect to see an increase in their TABOR refund if Prop HH passes.

Without this legislation, the FY 2022-2023 TABOR refund would be refunded by the six-tier sales tax refund mechanism, giving lower earners smaller refunds than higher earners. If voters do not approve of Prop HH in the November 2023 election, the six-tier mechanism will be applied to TABOR refunds; single filers that make under $50,000 per year would receive a TABOR refund of $454, while single filers that make over $270,000 would receive a TABOR refund of $1,434.

SB23-303 creates a long-term solution to prevent rapidly growing home values from causing sharp rises in property taxes, and creates limits that protect homeowners and businesses from steep unexpected increases in their property taxes.

Coloradans will vote on this package in November, and if approved, the proposal will provide major long-term reductions to property tax rates while delivering immediate savings on property taxes this year. Combined with property tax reductions the legislature previously enacted via SB22-238, this proposal 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. 

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

• Reducing the residential assessment rate from 7.15 percent to 6.7 percent in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences.

• Incrementally reducing the business property assessment rate from 29 percent to at least 26.9 percent by 2032.

• 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 backfilling 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.

HB23-1311 will now move to consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill's progressHERE.

Property Tax Reduction Package Will Include Flat TABOR Rebates

If Prop HH passes, Coloradans will receive a $661 TABOR rebate for single filers or $1,322 for joint filers, an increase for everyone making under $100,000

The House Appropriations Committee today passed a legislative package to lower property taxes for homeowners and businesses and create a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will increase refunds for Coloradans making under $100,000, while simultaneously protecting funding for critical community services.

The package is sponsored by Representatives Chris deGruy Kennedy and Mike Weissman and Senators Stephen Fenberg, Chris Hansen, and Nick Hinrichsen.

“Everyone deserves to benefit from lower property taxes. If Prop HH passes, Coloradans will all receive the same TABOR refund, putting more money back into the pockets of everyone making under $100,000 while saving homeowners over $1,000 on average on their property taxes,” said Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, sponsor of SB23-303 and HB23-1311. “While Colorado has some of the lowest residential property tax rates in the country, increases in home values will deeply impact homeowners and renters alike. With Prop HH, we’re proposing over $1 billion in savings for homeowners over the next two years and making TABOR refunds more equitable so middle and lower income Coloradans will see a larger refund.”

“We’ve worked hard to provide Coloradans immediate property tax relief through Prop HH that will save families across our state more than a billion dollar each year - but not everyone owns property, which is why we’re working to get them relief, too,” Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, said. “This proposal will make TABOR refunds more equitable and directly benefit Coloradans by getting them bigger refunds when they’re needed most.”

“Property taxes fund vital community services, from K-12 schools and fire departments to water districts and child welfare,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of SB23-303 and HB23-1311. “Our property tax proposal will reduce taxes on homeowners, with the bulk of the savings going to people who own homes valued under $600,000, seniors on fixed incomes and veterans. As part of this proposal, Coloradans will receive the same flat TABOR refund they did last year, offering help to Coloradans who don’t own a home and who are facing significant rent increases.”

“TABOR refunds should be equitable,” Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, said. “Flat TABOR refunds will ensure that hardworking Coloradans from all walks of life are supported fairly. We’re taking care of property owners through Prop HH, and this proposal will help give folks more financial freedom to fill up their tank, put food on the table, buy school supplies, and pay their bills.”

SB23-303 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.

Coloradans will vote on this package in November, and if approved these measures will provide sustainable, long-term reductions to property tax rates while delivering immediate savings on property taxes this year. Combined with property tax reductions the legislature previously enacted via SB22-238, this proposal 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 reductions for homeowners and businesses in Colorado.

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

• Reducing the residential assessment rate from 7.15 percent to 6.7 percent in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences.

• Incrementally reducing the business property assessment rate from 29 percent to at least 26.9 percent by 2032.

• Reducing the taxable value of residences by $40,000 in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences 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 backfilling 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 them.

• 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.

If Colorado voters adopt Prop HH, HB23-1311 would require the TABOR surplus for FY 2022-2023 to be refunded equally to qualifying taxpayers. Without this legislation, the FY 2022-2023 TABOR refund would be refunded by the six-tier sales tax refund mechanism, giving lower earners smaller refunds than higher earners. If voters do not approve of Prop HH in the November 2023 election, the six-tier mechanism will be applied to TABOR refunds; single filers that make under $50,000 per year would receive a TABOR refund of $454, while single filers that make over $270,000 would receive a TABOR refund of $1,434.

Under HB23-1311, Colorado taxpayers could expect to receive a refund of $661 for single filers, and $1,322 for joint filers. This will return more money to everyone making under $100,000 than under the current six tier refund mechanism. Final refund amounts will be determined based on updated revenue statistics. Further, after accounting for the portion of refunds that will backfill property tax reductions, Coloradans who make less than $100,000 can expect to see an increase in their TABOR refund if Prop HH passes.

This legislation creates a more equitable TABOR refund mechanism for FY 2022-2023 and supports hardworking Coloradans better afford everyday necessities.

SB23-303 passed House Appropriations by a vote of 7 to 4. HB23-1311 passed House Appropriations by a vote of 6 to 4.

Legislation to Bolster Tax Credits, Better Support Colorado Families Clears Senate

HB23-1112 would increase the Earned Income and Child Tax Credit by nearly $75 million

Legislation sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, that would bolster critical credits for working families cleared the Senate today.

HB23-1112 would expand the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC), returning nearly $75 million to hardworking families. 

“Colorado’s working families deserve a break,” Hansen said. “These critical tax credits will put more money in their pockets, and make it easier to pay for necessities like groceries and rent. I’m proud to champion this legislation that will lift folks out of poverty and will make life easier for Colorado families.”

“Boosting tax credits for hardworking Colorado families just makes sense,” Kolker said. “This bill eases the burden people across our state face, and will help them build better futures for themselves and their families.”

For the 2024 tax year, the Colorado EITC would increase from 25 percent to 40 percent of the federal EITC. A refundable tax credit available to certain families with children under the age of 6, the Colorado CTC would increase by 10 percent in the 2024 tax year, with the tax credit ranging from 20 to 70 percent of the federal CTC depending on marital status, number of qualifying children, and federal adjusted gross income.

The federal Child Tax Credit has lifted over 57,000 Colorado kids out of poverty and helped over 630,000 families across the state, while the federal Earned Income Tax Credit has helped cut the national poverty rate in half.

HB23-1112 will now move to consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Fields & Winter Bill Securing Eviction Protections

Legislation would require tenant-landlord mediation in certain eviction proceedings

Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Faith Winter’s, D-Westminster, bill to require mediation in eviction proceedings for tenants qualifying for certain financial assistance cleared the Senate today.

HB23-1120 would require tenant-landlord mediation prior to eviction proceedings if a tenant receives supplemental security income, federal social security disability insurance, or financial assistance from the Colorado Works program, at no cost to the tenant. The bill would require lease agreements to contain a notice that qualified individuals are entitled to mediation, and does not allow an agreement to waive mandatory mediation. 

“As rents skyrocket, so do evictions,” Fields said. “Too often, Coloradans are forced to choose between feeding their families and paying rent. When it comes down to it, these difficult choices result in more evictions and more displacement. This important bill will help facilitate honest, productive conversations between tenants and landlords, and ultimately keep more Coloradans housed.”

“Colorado’s eviction rates have recently risen to pre-pandemic levels,” said Winter. “We must do more to keep Coloradans in safe, stable housing. Combined with many other pro-tenant bills I’m sponsoring this year, HB 1120 will help balance the scales between tenants and landlords, ensuring Coloradans are given a fair shake when navigating difficult housing circumstances.”

If mediation fails and a tenant covered under the bill is evicted, the bill requires that law enforcement wait 30 days before executing the eviction, up from 10 days under current law, except in cases of substantial violation or if the landlord has less than five single family rental homes and less than five total rental units. Those landlords are also exempt from the mandatory mediation.

In March, 1,195 tenants faced eviction in court in Denver, a 69 percent increase from 708 in March of 2019.

HB23-1120 now moves back to the House for consideration of amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: Property Tax Reduction Package Will Include Flat TABOR Rebates

If Prop HH passes, Coloradans will receive a $661 TABOR rebate for single filers or $1,322 for joint filers, an increase for everyone making under $100,000

DENVER, CO - The House Appropriations Committee today passed a legislative package to lower property taxes for homeowners and businesses and create a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will increase refunds for Coloradans making under $100,000, while simultaneously protecting funding for critical community services.

The package is sponsored by Representatives Chris deGruy Kennedy and Mike Weissman and Senators Stephen Fenberg, Chris Hansen, and Nick Hinrichsen.

“Everyone deserves to benefit from lower property taxes. If Prop HH passes, Coloradans will all receive the same TABOR refund, putting more money back into the pockets of everyone making under $100,000 while saving homeowners over $1,000 on average on their property taxes,” said Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, sponsor of SB23-303 and HB23-1311. “While Colorado has some of the lowest residential property tax rates in the country, increases in home values will deeply impact homeowners and renters alike. With Prop HH, we’re proposing over $1 billion in savings for homeowners over the next two years and making TABOR refunds more equitable so middle and lower income Coloradans will see a larger refund.”

“We’ve worked hard to provide Coloradans immediate property tax relief through Prop HH that will save families across our state more than a billion dollar each year - but not everyone owns property, which is why we’re working to get them relief, too,” Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, said. “This proposal will make TABOR refunds more equitable and directly benefit Coloradans by getting them bigger refunds when they’re needed most.”

“Property taxes fund vital community services, from K-12 schools and fire departments to water districts and child welfare,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of SB23-303 and HB23-1311. “Our property tax proposal will reduce taxes on homeowners, with the bulk of the savings going to people who own homes valued under $600,000, seniors on fixed incomes and veterans. As part of this proposal, Coloradans will receive the same flat TABOR refund they did last year, offering help to Coloradans who don’t own a home and who are facing significant rent increases.”

“TABOR refunds should be equitable,” Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, said. “Flat TABOR refunds will ensure that hardworking Coloradans from all walks of life are supported fairly. We’re taking care of property owners through Prop HH, and this proposal will help give folks more financial freedom to fill up their tank, put food on the table, buy school supplies, and pay their bills.”

SB23-303 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.

Coloradans will vote on this package in November, and if approved these measures will provide sustainable, long-term reductions to property tax rates while delivering immediate savings on property taxes this year. Combined with property tax reductions the legislature previously enacted via SB22-238, this proposal 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 reductions for homeowners and businesses in Colorado.

Other property tax reductions and protections proposed in this plan include:
·        Reducing the residential assessment rate from 7.15 percent to 6.7 percent in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences.
·        Incrementally reducing the business property assessment rate from 29 percent to at least 26.9 percent by 2032.
·        Reducing the taxable value of residences by $40,000 in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences 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 backfilling 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 them.
·        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.

If Colorado voters adopt Prop HH, HB23-1311 would require the TABOR surplus for FY 2022-2023 to be refunded equally to qualifying taxpayers. Without this legislation, the FY 2022-2023 TABOR refund would be refunded by the six-tier sales tax refund mechanism, giving lower earners smaller refunds than higher earners. If voters do not approve of Prop HH in the November 2023 election, the six-tier mechanism will be applied to TABOR refunds; single filers that make under $50,000 per year would receive a TABOR refund of $454, while single filers that make over $270,000 would receive a TABOR refund of $1,434.

Under HB23-1311, Colorado taxpayers could expect to receive a refund of $661 for single filers, and $1,322 for joint filers. This will return more money to everyone making under $100,000 than under the current six tier refund mechanism. Final refund amounts will be determined based on updated revenue statistics. Further, after accounting for the portion of refunds that will backfill property tax reductions, Coloradans who make less than $100,000 can expect to see an increase in their TABOR refund if Prop HH passes.

This legislation creates a more equitable TABOR refund mechanism for FY 2022-2023 and supports hardworking Coloradans better afford everyday necessities.

SB23-303 passed House Appropriations by a vote of 7 to 4. HB23-1311 passed House Appropriations by a vote of 6 to 4.

ICYMI: Winter, Gonzales Bill to Protect Communities from Pollution Clears Committee

HB23-1294 seeks solutions for ozone air pollution, strengthens pathways for victims to seek justice for illegal pollution

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, Senator Faith Winter D-Westminster, and, Senator Julie Gonzales’, D-Denver, bill to protect Coloradans from pollution cleared the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee.

HB23-1294 proposes short and long-term solutions to Front Range air pollution. It strengthens procedures for community members to report illegal polluting, by requiring that citizen evidence of pollution be admissible as evidence in a court, and making regulators keep people up to date on the status of ensuing investigations. The bill also creates an interim committee of 12 legislators to meet this summer and craft future legislation on pollutants that have been difficult to reduce so far.

“Colorado experiences some of the worst air quality in the nation, especially for ozone air pollution,” Winter said. “I am excited to see what policy recommendations the interim committee makes so that we can improve public health and reduce air pollution in communities throughout the state.”

“Poor air quality disproportionately affects marginalized communities across the Front Range,” said Gonzales. “While we still have a long way to go in reducing environmental discrimination, this bill will help those communities to seek justice for illegal polluting.”

The American Lung Association named Denver and Fort Collins among the cities in the United States with the most polluted air, and the Environmental Protection Agency downgraded Denver’s air quality ranking last fall, highlighting the need for further action. Common sources of ozone pollution include fossil fuel power plants, oil refineries, lawn equipment, and transportation.

HB23-1294 will now move to consideration on the Senate floor. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate 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) passed the Senate 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 Governor’s desk for signature. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Jaquez Lewis’ Bill to Expand Access to Non-Gendered Restrooms in Public Buildings

HB23-1057 would require non-gendered facilities, infant changing stations on most floors of government owned buildings

DENVER, CO – Today, Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, bill to make restroom amenities more accessible in government buildings for people of any gender identity, those who have an infant, and those who require accessible restrooms, was approved by the full Senate.

HB23-1057 would require any new construction or restroom renovation of a qualifying public building to include a non-gendered restroom and baby changing station that is accessible to the general public on each floor that contains restroom facilities.

“Colorado has been a national leader when it comes to advancing equality for LGBTQ+, seniors, and the differently-abled folk,” said Jaquez Lewis. “This is basic human decency and respect to make government buildings more comfortable and safe, no matter who you are. This bill will also make child care easier for new parents.”

The bill would also require non-gendered facilities to have updated signage with non-gendered pictograms. Buildings would also be required to implement signage to direct people toward infant changing tables.

HB23-1057 will now move to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Legislation to Bolster Tax Credits, Better Support Colorado Families Clears Committee

HB23-1112 would increase the Earned Income and Child Tax Credits by nearly $75 million

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, that would bolster critical credits for working families cleared the Senate Finance Committee today.

HB23-1112 would expand the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC), returning nearly $75 million to hardworking families. 

“Colorado’s working families deserve a break,” Hansen said. “These critical tax credits will put more money in their pockets, and make it easier to pay for necessities like groceries and rent. I’m proud to champion this legislation that will lift folks out of poverty and will make life easier for Colorado families.”

“Boosting tax credits for hardworking Colorado families just makes sense,” Kolker said. “This bill eases the burden people across our state face, and will help them build better futures for themselves and their families.”

For the 2024 tax year, the Colorado EITC would increase from 25 percent to 40 percent of the federal EITC. A refundable tax credit available to certain families with children under the age of 6, the Colorado CTC would increase by 10 percent in the 2024 tax year, with the tax credit ranging from 20 to 70 percent of the federal CTC depending on marital status, number of qualifying children, and federal adjusted gross income.

The federal Child Tax Credit has lifted over 57,000 Colorado kids out of poverty and helped over 630,000 families across the state, while the federal Earned Income Tax Credit has helped cut the national poverty rate in half.

HB23-1112 will now move to consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Landmark Plan to Provide Urgent Property Tax Relief

SB23-303 will save taxpayers more than $1 billion on their property taxes

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved landmark legislation that would provide historic property tax relief for homeowners and businesses while ensuring funding for schools and other local governments is protected. 

SB23-303, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, 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. 

"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," Fenberg 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." 

“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 Hansen. "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."

Coloradans will vote on this package in November, and if approved the proposal will provide major long-term reductions to property tax rates while delivering immediate savings on property taxes this year. Combined with property tax reductions the legislature previously enacted via SB22-238, this proposal 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. 

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

• Reducing the residential assessment rate from 7.15 percent to 6.7 percent in 2023 and 2024, and continuing this reduction for primary residences.

• Incrementally reducing the business property assessment rate from 29 percent to at least 26.9 percent by 2032.

• 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 backfilling 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.

SB23-303 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill To Save Coloradans Money on Hospital Costs

HB23-1215 would prohibit hospitals from charging certain hidden facility fees 

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate approved Senators Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Kyle Mullica’s, D-Thornton, bill to prohibit certain facility fees.

HB23-1215 would prohibit certain health care providers from charging hidden facility fees on top of the operating costs for health care services they are already being charged to cover. Providers would also be required to disclose information about facility fees to consumers and post this information in their facilities. The bill would make it a deceptive trade practice to not share facility fee information to patients.

“Medical debt is already a leading cause of bankruptcy in the United States; it is not acceptable that Coloradans are being burdened with unnecessary costs they should not be responsible for,” said Cutter. “Facility fees can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars and are impossible for families to plan for, since they are often unexpected. Further examining and addressing facility fees, and requiring additional transparency, will help save Coloradans money and allow them to better plan and budget for necessary medical care."

“Most Coloradans are unable to afford hundreds or thousands of dollars of surprise hidden fees,” Mullica said. “Surprise fees make it difficult for Coloradans to budget for health care services, deterring people from seeking the care they need altogether. Prohibiting certain facility fees will help protect patients and provide much needed relief for Colorado families.”

HB23-1215 would require the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to produce a report by December 1, 2023 that outlines the impacts of facility fees to better understand what these fees cover and how these fees impact patient cost and patient health. HCPF would also be required to produce an annual report to improve data collection on facility fees and to increase transparency on the effects of these added costs.

HB23-1215 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.