SIGNED! Bipartisan Bill to Increase Use of Agrivoltaics

SB23-092 expands renewable energy and reduces carbon emissions on Colorado farmland

LONGMONT, CO – Today, Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Representative Karen McCormick’s, D-Longmont, bipartisan bill to support the use of agrivoltaics through grants from the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) was signed by Governor Jared Polis.

SB23-092, cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Representative Matt Soper, R-Delta, expands access to agrivoltaics, a cutting edge method to generate energy using solar panels over agricultural land without sacrificing significant agricultural production. The bill also directs the CDA to study greenhouse gas reduction and carbon sequestration opportunities in agriculture. 

“Agrivoltaics are an effective way to increase the productivity of our farmland,” said Hansen. “With some crops, shade from solar panels can actually improve growing conditions, save water and increase output. We are helping to expand renewable energy options and carbon capture techniques that can benefit our farming community and help us reach our climate goals.”

"Cleaning up our air takes a multi-pronged approach, and agrivoltaics prioritize clean, renewable energy sources over fossil fuels across Colorado's farmland," said McCormick. "This law expands the use of this cutting edge method to generate energy using solar panels along farmland and saves water in the process. Agrivoltaics provide economic opportunity for agricultural landowners, making it easier for farmland to be kept in the hands of farmers for generations to come. Agriculture is one of the largest industries in the state, and these innovative techniques bring us closer to reaching our climate goals and reducing our carbon footprint." 

32 million acres of land are used for agriculture in Colorado, nearly half of the state’s surface area. Methods for carbon reduction on farmland studied by the bill include dry digesters, greenhouse gas credits, and sequestration efforts. Additionally, the bill establishes a tax exemption for certain qualifying machinery or equipment from property tax if the agricultural equipment is part of a solar energy generating system that is used for agrivoltaics or aquavoltaics. 

SIGNED! Cutter’s Bill to Set Composting Standards, Reduce Waste Becomes Law

Legislation would prohibit false marketing, “greenwashing” of inorganic products

BOULDER, CO – Governor Polis today signed into law Senator Lisa Cutter’s, D-Jefferson County, bill to standardize compostable products in Colorado.

SB23-253 creates standards for products that are marketed or represented as being compostable. In order to market products as compostable, the new law requires third-party validation and labeling distinction, like green or beige labels or symbols. Unless the product is compostable-certified, the bill makes using a composting label or implying such a deceptive trade practice violation. 

"Many Coloradans are working to improve our environment by composting,” said Cutter. “Unfortunately, some companies are 'greenwashing’ their products, which leads to contamination at compost sites, depriving compost businesses of the opportunity to process and sell this valuable organic material. This new law will set standards that make it easier for consumers to understand what is truly compostable, help compost businesses, divert materials from landfills and improve soil health."

SB23-253 is in response to the continued contamination of Colorado’s composting efforts. This is in part due to companies falsely-advertising items like disposable plates and silverware as compostable when those claims don’t hold up in industrial facilities, also known as “greenwashing.” The legislation creates clear standards for products and clarification for customers.

According to Colorado’s largest commercial composting company, 10 percent of organic material coming to their facilities is contaminated due to non-compostable items like dog toys, plastic food containers and bottles.

Signed! Bipartisan Bill to Encourage Water Efficient Landscaping

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

BOULDER, CO – Today Governor Polis signed into law Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, and Representatives Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, and Mandy Lindsay’s, D-Aurora, bipartisan bill to reduce barriers for Colorado homeowners in homeowners associations (HOAs) who wish to replace their lawns with water-wise landscaping.

Also sponsored by Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, SB23-178 promotes water-wise landscaping, emphasizing native plants that better sustain Colorado’s local ecosystems while requiring little or no irrigation. Many homeowners in HOAs want to replace their lawn and save water, but are deterred by obscure HOA approval processes. The bill streamlines this by requiring HOAs to select and pre-approve water-wise landscape designs for homeowners to choose from, as an alternative to getting HOA permission for their own design.

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

“As Colorado combats historic drought conditions, water-wise landscaping is a great place to cut back our freshwater usage,” said McCormick. “This law allows almost 3 million Coloradans living in HOAs to have drought-tolerant landscaping options for their lawns, which saves them money and conserves our most precious resource. Beautiful yards don’t have to be water-intensive lawns, and this law reduces barriers to having landscaping that’s eco-conscious, sustainable and biodiverse.” 

“There are many homeowners who are interested in replacing their water-intensive lawns with drought-tolerant landscaping, but until now it didn’t align with their HOA regulations,” said Lindsay. “Under our new law, homeowners living in HOAs can install and enjoy water-wise yards that require less maintenance than traditional turf lawns and utilize native plants to contribute to our state’s beauty. As we face drought head on, cutting back on our freshwater usage is good for the planet and our wallets.” 

The bill also prevents an HOA from requiring hardscape on more than 20 percent of a landscape area, and prevents an HOA from prohibiting vegetable gardens in a homeowner’s yard.

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

Polis Signs Bills to Save Students Money on Post-Secondary Degrees and Certificate Programs

New laws will create free pathways to in-demand careers and offer graduating students scholarships for community college programs

SALIDA/ALAMOSA, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bipartisan bills into law that will support Colorado’s workforce by expanding the successful zero-cost credentials program and offering $1,500 scholarships to graduating high school students to help fill jobs in growing industries.

HB23-1246, sponsored by Speaker McCluskie and Representative Pugliese and Senators Buckner and Will, saves Coloradans money and helps meet our state’s workforce needs by breaking down financial barriers for aspiring professionals to enter new, high-demand careers. This law invests $45 million over the span of two years and paves the way for Coloradans to receive zero-cost training toward associate degrees and industry certificates in critical fields like early childhood and elementary education, firefighting, law enforcement, nursing and construction.

“Colorado’s zero-cost credentials and degree program has already offered thousands of Coloradans a free pathway to degrees in critical fields such as nursing and emergency response,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “With the law Gov. Polis just signed, aspiring teachers, child care workers, nurses, firefighters, law enforcement officers and construction workers will soon have a completely free pathway to the career of their dreams. This law will boost our economy, address Colorado’s workforce shortages, and help fill critical jobs – especially in rural communities.”

“Colorado continues to struggle with workforce shortages in careers ranging from early childhood education to nursing and firefighting,” said Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora. “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.”

SB23-205, sponsored by Senator Bridges and Minority Leader Lundeen and Representatives Martinez and Wilson, creates a new scholarship program to help graduating high school students earn credit toward degrees in growing industries.

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

“By creating this scholarship program, nearly 15,000 graduating students will save up to $1,500 toward the next step in their education, training and career development,” said Rep. Matt Martinez, D-Monte Vista. “With more job openings than workers in Colorado, we’re looking to provide the next generation of students with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive. Addressing our workforce shortage will create jobs, support small businesses across our state, and grow our economy.”

The shortage of trained workers in Colorado leaves thousands of job openings across the state unfilled. SB23-205 provides 15,000 graduating students with a scholarship up to $1,500 for any approved training provider in Colorado, including apprenticeships and on-the-job training, trade school, community colleges, colleges and universities.

SIGNED! Bipartisan Bills to Make Record Investment in K-12 Public Schools, Improve Math Scores & Support Special Education Become Law

2023 School Finance Act increases average per pupil K-12 public school funding by a record 10.6 percent

THORNTON, CO – Three bills to invest in public schools and set students up for success were signed into law by Governor Polis today.

SB23-287, the bipartisan School Finance Act sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, and Reps. Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango, and Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, raises the statewide average of per pupil funding to $10,614 and reduces the Budget Stabilization Factor by $180 million, while committing lawmakers to fully eliminating the Budget Stabilization Factor for the 2024-2025 school year.

“Every Colorado student deserves a quality education that meets their individual needs and prepares them for success,” said Zenzinger, sponsor of SB23-287 and SB23-099. “Education is my number one priority at the legislature, which is why I am so proud of the major step forward we’re taking today on the path to fully funding public education in Colorado. We have more work ahead of us, but this year’s School Finance Act contains the largest commitment to public education in Colorado history, something our schools desperately need and deserve.”

“As a former teacher, I know firsthand how crucial it is to properly invest in our students and schools to provide the necessary resources to allow them to thrive,” said McLachlan, sponsor of SB23-287 and HB23-1231. “These new laws increase per pupil funding, commit to buying down the Budget Stabilization Factor over the next two years, and provide after-school math lesson opportunities. Addressing the Budget Stabilization Factor was one of the main reasons I ran for office, and I’m proud that the School Finance Act makes significant progress to properly fund our schools. Colorado students deserve a quality education, and these new laws will boost math performance and allow our students to better succeed in school through increased funding.”

“Today, Colorado is taking a critical step in providing robust funding for our schools to help students learn and thrive,” said Kipp, sponsor of SB23-099 and SB23-287. “Our new laws will fund special education services within our schools and invest $665 million more annually in Colorado’s K-12 public schools to reduce classroom sizes, increase teacher pay and ensure schools have the resources they need to provide every student the high quality education they deserve. These laws will create a better learning environment for all of our students while better supporting schools and educators.”

SB23-287 also includes a $30 million one-time appropriation for rural schools, and brings total K-12 funding for the 2023-24 budget year to more than $9.1 billion. This funding can be used to reduce class sizes, increase teacher pay, and provide individualized support to help students learn.

The bill will also create a task force charged with examining Colorado's public school financing system and making recommendations that would make the school finance formula more transparent, equitable, and student-centered.

Polis also signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by McLachlan and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, to improve Colorado students' math performances from pre-K to 12th grade.

Also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Lundeen and Rep. Rose Pugliese, R-Colorado Springs, HB23-1231 provides robust support for students, families, and teachers through evidence-informed tools and programs to expand time-on-task math engagement for students and training for educators and parents. The new law 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 see this bill signed into law. 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 (CDE) 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 new law will 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.

It 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.

Finally, Polis signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Zenzinger and Kipp that will boost funding and improve special education in Colorado.

Also sponsored by Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, and Rep. Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, SB23-099 will increase the required annual appropriation to CDE by an additional $40 million, and will help bring down student-teacher ratios, decrease class sizes, and help schools provide tailored assistance for students within special education to support their learning needs and ensure they receive the quality education they deserve. 

SB23-099 builds off the success of last year’s SB22-127, which dramatically increased funding for more than 100,000 Colorado special education students, from about $220 million per year to more than $300 million per year moving forward.

New Bipartisan Law Expands School Access to Life-Saving Stop the Bleed Kits

EVANS, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed a bill to train educators in “Stop the Bleed” for emergency, life-saving situations to make our schools safer.

“The more teachers and staff we can prepare for emergency situations, the more likely we are to save a life,” said School Psychologist Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “Time is precious in any emergency. This bipartisan law ensures teachers, staff and older students have the proper “Stop the Bleed” training and materials they need to respond effectively and efficiently to save lives.”

“As a father and a nurse, I know the seconds matter when somebody is bleeding,” said Sen. Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton. “Stop the Bleed is an important program to save lives in our schools and raise awareness about this easy to learn, life-saving technique.”

HB23-1213, sponsored by Representatives Mary Young and Mary Bradfield and Senator Kyle Mullica requires the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to distribute “Stop the Bleed” kits and training materials to K-12 schools that opt into the program. Bleed control kits and training resources contain first-aid materials for treating blood loss in traumatic injuries. This law aims to better prepare educators and staff for emergency situations by providing life-saving materials accompanied by training to help keep people alive.

“Stop the Bleed” is a straightforward, standardized set of training materials and recommendations for everyday people caring for someone experiencing excessive bleeding through applying pressure to the wound and tying tourniquets for those trained to act quickly in emergency situations.

Signed! Bipartisan Legislation to Get More Teachers Into Classrooms

Legislation creates apprenticeship programs to help address Colorado’s teacher shortage

LOVELAND, CO - Today Governor Jared Polis signed into law Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Rep. Cathy Kipp’s, D-Fort Collins, bipartisan legislation to get more teachers into classrooms by creating a teacher apprenticeship program.

Cosponsored by Sen. Mark Baisley, R-Woodland Park, and Rep. Don Wilson, R-Monument, SB23-087 allows the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) to create an apprenticeship program that builds on elements of existing alternative teacher licensure programs and would include a bachelor's degree requirement, training programs approved by CDE, and structured on-the-job training.

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

“Getting more qualified teachers in classrooms is one of our top priorities, and I’m proud to say we’re knocking down barriers to entering this important career field,” Kipp said. “Our bipartisan law works to address Colorado’s teacher shortage by providing people with paid hands-on training and experience they need to step into teaching roles and provide our students with the high-quality learning opportunities they deserve. Dedicated educators prepare our students for success, and this law creates a pathway for future teachers to begin the career of their dreams.”

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

Polis Signs Laws to Help Victims of Wildfire Rebuild

New laws improve access to insurance plans, address underinsurance, reduce the costs of rebuilding and protect tenants in properties damaged by wildfire

BOULDER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed four bills into law that will protect homeowners’ access to insurance plans, address underinsurance issues that leave property owners without the coverage they need, lower the cost of rebuilding, and ensure tenants aren’t forced to return to unsafe rental properties.  

HB23-1174, sponsored by Representatives Kyle Brown and Judy Amabile and Senators Dylan Roberts and Mark Baisley, addresses homeowner underinsurance for damaged homes or structures. It requires home insurance companies to offer a variety of options to cover the costs of repair or replacement for a damaged or destroyed structure.

HB23-1288, sponsored by Speaker Julie McCluskie, Representative Amabile, and Senator Roberts creates a nonprofit public entity to guarantee Coloradans with homes and commercial properties located in wildfire zones can receive homeowners or commercial insurance if insurance companies do not offer them coverage. This law ensures Coloradans will be able to insure their homes and commercial spaces as wildfires grow in frequency and destruction.

“The rising frequency of wildfire disasters is making it harder for property owners to find insurance plans while many homeowners that do have insurance have found their plans won’t cover all their rebuilding costs,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB23-1174 and HB23-1288. “We’re looking ahead to stabilize the insurance industry by creating a plan of last resort in the event a property owner can’t find an insurance company that will offer them coverage. With the laws Governor Polis just signed, property owners will have additional coverage options to ensure their homes are protected when disaster strikes.”

“Wildfires are becoming increasingly frequent and destructive, and that is making it difficult or sometimes impossible for folks who live in rural communities like mine to purchase homeowners insurance that meets their needs,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, sponsor of HB23-1174 and HB23-1288. “The bolstered protections offered by HB 1174 and the FAIR Insurance Plan will help protect vulnerable Coloradans and allow people to insure their homes, businesses, and property against potential disasters.”

“I’m proud that Governor Polis has signed my bill into law to offer Coloradans additional insurance options that will protect them from the devastating costs of rebuilding after a wildfire,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, sponsor of HB23-1174. “After the Marshall Fire, thousands of homeowners faced unanticipated rebuilding costs because their insurance plans didn’t offer enough coverage. Now, Coloradans will be able to purchase coverage that meets their needs and protects them from the increasing risk of more destructive fires.”

“Wildfires are becoming more frequent and destructive in Colorado, and we need to ensure our neighbors and communities are protected,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, sponsor of HB23-1288. “Through this legislation, we’re creating a FAIR insurance plan especially for Coloradans living in wildfire prone areas to insure their homes, businesses and livelihood. Property owners are already struggling to find insurance, and we are hearing from constituents that some may not be able to purchase insurance at all. We’re committed to doing everything we can to help property owners insure their structures as climate change continues to drive increasingly destructive natural disasters.”

HB23-1240, sponsored by Representatives Kyle Brown and Judy Amabile and Senator Fenberg, creates a state sales and use tax exemption for construction and building materials for homeowners looking to rebuild or repair their home that was damaged in a declared wildfire disaster. The exemption for qualified purchases is administered through a refund process, which must be claimed by June 30, 2028, and allows homeowners that have already made purchases to retroactively claim a refund.

“Folks recovering from the Marshall Fire have enough to deal with, and shouldn’t be taxed on rebuilding their homes,” said Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “This law will make it easier for survivors to put their lives back together and move forward from this disaster.”

“The sales tax exemption Governor Polis signed today will save victims of the Marshall fire money as they rebuild their homes,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB23-1240. “There’s no reason the government should be bringing in tax revenue that comes as a result of rebuilding from a natural disaster. This law will make it easier for victims of recent fires to get back on their feet and rebuild their lives.”

“With global inflation increasing the cost of rebuilding homes, it’s been challenging for many families to move back into their residences after the Marshall Fire,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville sponsor of HB23-1240 and HB23-1254. “The bills Governor Polis just signed create new protections for renters so they aren’t forced to live in properties that are uninhabitable, and save Coloradans money as they rebuild their homes.”

HB23-1254, sponsored by Representatives Brown and Javier Mabrey and Senator Lisa Cutter, bolsters renter protections in the state’s warranty of habitability by adding lack of compliance with certain standards following an environmental public health event to the list of conditions that make a property uninhabitable. It also adds additional protections for members of a vulnerable population, including allowing such a tenant to terminate their lease if certain conditions are met.

“As our climate becomes more unpredictable and weather becomes increasingly severe, the number of homes impacted will continue to grow,” Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, said. “This new law will bolster critical protections for Colorado renters and ensures folks won’t be forced into unsafe living situations if disaster strikes.”

“The Marshall Fire displaced many Coloradans and when they were unable to find anything available that was in their budget, many felt pressured to return to the damaged rental property just to have a roof over their head,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, sponsor of HB23-1254. “No one should feel cornered into living in housing that can cause negative short or long-term health effects, which is why we brought this legislation to give both landlords and renters the tools to repair their property to a safe living condition. With this law, we’re streamlining and clarifying the Warranty of Habitability statute to protect renters and help landlords know where the goal post is when it comes to remediating their property.”

Signed! Fenberg & McCluskie Bipartisan Bill to Invest in Essential Wildfire Fighting Aircraft

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

CENTENNIAL, CO – Today Governor Jared Polis signed Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Speaker of the House Julie McCluskie’s, D-Dillon, bipartisan bill to require the State Treasurer to finance the purchase of a Firehawk helicopter for wildfire fighting efforts.

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

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

“When combatting a wildfire, every minute counts for our first responders and our communities,” said McCluskie. “We’re continually working to improve the state’s wildfire response time by investing in the latest technology to protect our homes, businesses and neighborhoods. By providing the funding to purchase a second Firehawk helicopter, we are helping ensure that  our firefighters can combat and contain wildfires in difficult terrain and keep our communities safe.”

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

Signed! New Laws to Protect Colorado Communities from Wildfires

MORRISON, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law three bills to help Colorado communities prepare for and mitigate wildfires.

SB23-166, sponsored by Senators Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Tony Exum Sr., D-Colorado Springs, and Reps. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, and Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, will help communities and Coloradans living in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) defend homes and property from catastrophic wildfires by establishing a statewide wildfire resiliency code board charged with establishing proven building codes to better protect structures against increasingly common wildfires. 

Local governments in the new WUI area will be required to adopt the model code or a code of their own that meets or exceeds minimum standards.

“An increasing number of wildfires that burn hotter and move faster are our new reality, so we must act now to protect our homes and businesses and create more resilient communities,” said Cutter, sponsor of SB23-166, SB23-013, and SB23-005. “Fires anywhere in Colorado affect all of us -- our water, air, economy and recreation. Creating minimum building standards and working to better understand the origins of fires just makes sense. These new laws will help us provide the tools and workforce necessary to better defend our communities against wildfires, and I'm thrilled to see them signed into law.”

“We’re building smart to protect Coloradans who live in the wildland-urban interface from catastrophic wildfires,” said Froelich. “Wildfires do not recognize local boundaries, which is why our law will develop evidence-based minimum building standards to protect our homes and businesses. Smart and flexible building standards will fortify our neighborhoods and reduce wildfire destruction."

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

“With destructive wildfires repeatedly devastating Western Slope communities, it’s important that we build strong, resilient structures to safeguard our neighborhoods and livelihoods,” said Velasco. “This law establishes a plan to implement wildfire-resilient building codes across local governments to ensure we’re reducing the risk of wildfire displacement and destruction. We’re taking an important step forward protecting our communities now against the threat of wildfire.” 

SB23-166 creates the Wildfire Resiliency Code board made up of 21 voting members and three non-voting members representing local governments, utilities, insurers, and other relevant disciplines such as fire and building professionals that would work to define the WUI and establish minimum standards that better defend those areas from dangerous wildfires.

The bill also requires the Division of Fire Prevention and Control to support local governments in conducting inspections and enforcing their local code if they don’t have rules and regulations in place to enforce their code and request the assistance.

SB23-013, sponsored by Senators Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins, and Cutter, and Rep. Tammy Story, D-Conifer, creates a fire investigation fund and provides nearly $3 million to help investigate the causes and origins of fires, including wildfires. The new law also requires the Director of the Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) to report on fire investigations to the Wildfire Matters Review Committee.

“Fire season is no longer confined to a few months,” Ginal said. “It’s essential that we act now to prepare for and mitigate future wildfire disasters. By creating a new reporting protocol and a wildfire investigation fund, we are providing local fire departments with the tools they need to better understand the origins of fires, which will better protect our communities and enhance public safety across Colorado.”

“Colorado has a devastating history of wildfires that have wiped out entire neighborhoods,” said Story. “Currently, Colorado’s Division of Fire Prevention and Control only has the resources to staff one full-time fire investigator to dig into the cause and origin of fires across the state, making it difficult to mitigate future wildfires. This law creates a wildfire investigation fund to better understand how fires are started so we can better prevent them and respond to them in the future.”

The Director of DFPC will report annually to the Wildfire Matters Review Committee regarding the current magnitude of the state’s wildfire situation, including the number of wildfire investigations and their statuses, the status of prescribed burns, available resources, and more. Additionally, the fire investigation fund will provide support to local fire departments investigating the cause and origin of fires.

SB23-005, sponsored by Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, and Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and House Minority Leader Mike Lynch, R-Wellington, and Rep. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, will improve Colorado’s forestry workforce by directing the Colorado State Forest Service to develop educational materials on career opportunities in the industry and create a workforce development program in the State Forest Service.

“Over the past few years wildfire season has evolved into a year-round threat, but right now we don’t have the workforce needed to keep us safe,” Jaquez Lewis said. “This new law will improve pathways to critical jobs and help Colorado communities stay safe by training more firefighters who will protect our people and our property from increasingly dangerous wildfires.”

“Colorado’s state forest service plays an important role in helping mitigate wildfires by maintaining healthy forests,” said Snyder. “From cutting down dead trees to removing excess brush, the state forest service steps up to provide the year-round mitigation efforts we need to keep our communities safe from wildfires. This law ramps up workforce development and recruitment within the state forest service so we can continue these important wildfire prevention efforts.”

SB23-005 also bolsters the state’s wildfire mitigation capacity development fund and creates and expands forestry programs at state colleges. Finally, the new law will work to increase the number of qualified educators at colleges that deliver a wildfire prevention and mitigation program or course.

SB23-005 and SB23-013 were developed and recommended by the interim Wildfire Matters Review Committee.

SIGNED! Legislation to Save People Money and Expand Clean Energy

HB23-1272 saves Coloradans money with approximately $65 million in annual tax credits and incentives for businesses and consumers for decarbonization investments

AURORA, CO - Today, legislation to implement tax incentives to reduce the costs of adopting clean energy technologies for Colorado residents and businesses was signed by Governor Jared Polis.

HB23-1272, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenber, D-Boulder, Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Reps. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, 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,” Fenberg said. “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 passed this year will save Colorado residents and businesses money, help us meet our climate goals, and improve Colorado’s air quality.”

“This legislation is pivotal in helping Colorado reach its climate goals while significantly lowering energy costs for businesses and families,” said Weissman. “From electric vehicles to heat pumps, this law creates clean energy tax incentives to improve our air quality and save Coloradans money. Colorado Democrats are committed to investing in innovative, clean energy solutions across the board to help power our economy and heat and cool our homes.”

“Many Coloradans want to make the switch to electric vehicles or install heat pumps, but costs stand in the way,” Cutter said. “With these tax credits, we will lower the prices of clean energy technologies for Colorado families and business owners, helping us to improve our air quality, meet our climate goals, and bolster our economy. I’m proud to see this important legislation signed into law.”

“Under this law, more Coloradans can take advantage of clean energy technology in their homes, vehicles and businesses,” said Joseph. “A wide range of tax credits will soon be available to businesses and every day Coloradans that will save them money on energy efficient upgrades and streamline our transition to a clean energy economy in Colorado. With smart investments and strong clean technology adoption, we can move Colorado forward, reduce costs for consumers and protect our environment.”

HB23-1272:

• Extends and expands electric vehicle tax credits and creates an additional $2,500 credit for electric vehicles under $35,000.

• Continues 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.

• Creates a $450 consumer credit for qualified e-bike purchases while supporting local retailers.

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

• Extends 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.

• Creates 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 law compliments and builds on incentives included in the Federal Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and helps Colorado residents and businesses maximize their ability to utilize federal investments. 

SIGNED! Bills to Fight Climate Change, Create Pathways for Thermal Energy Technology

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills to propel Colorado’s clean energy transition forward and better combat climate change.

“This bold law sets us on a strong pathway forward to cleaner air, reducing our carbon footprint and creating a healthier Colorado we can all enjoy,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, sponsor of SB23-016. “We’re creating interim targets to help our state reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of clean energy alternatives to power our homes and businesses. Coloradans are counting on us to do the work to reach our state’s climate goals, and this law streamlines our tactics for a cleaner future.”

“As the effects of climate change become more and more pronounced, it is obvious we must implement bold policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts on our climate and our environment,” said Sen. Chris Hansen, sponsor of SB23-016 and HB23-1252. “Coloradans are demanding action. With these new laws, we are tackling this challenge head on by reducing emissions through innovative technology and setting reasonable and achievable goals. I’m proud of our work that puts our state on a path to climate sustainability for generations to come.”

“We’re committed to creating a healthier Colorado for the generations to come, and that begins with supercharging our transition to clean energy,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver, sponsor of SB23-016. “This law sets crucial greenhouse gas pollution reduction goals to improve the air we breathe across the state, and ensures our electrical grid is running smoothly. Reaching our climate goals requires dedication and coordination across sectors, and we’re establishing new standards that prioritize clean energy now and into the future.”

SB23-016 updates Colorado’s greenhouse gas emission reduction goals to match the latest climate science by adding interim targets, including a 65 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions relative to 2005 levels by 2035, and a new goal of 100 percent emissions reduction by 2050.

To help reach these targets, this law requires the Public Utilities Commission and local governments to consider and prioritize upgrades and additions to the state’s electrical transmission infrastructure system, and conduct a study on transmission capacity to pave the way for electrification across the state. Local permitting for projects to renovate, rebuild, or recondition transmission lines would be expedited, and the construction would be subject to the state’s labor standards.

To further expedite electrification, the bill would incentivize the retirement of a major local ozone contributor: gas-powered lawn equipment. SB23-016 creates an income tax credit worth 30 percent of the purchase price of electric lawn mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers, and snow blowers, which is provided to purchasers as a discount, and encourages climate-aware financial investing by requiring large insurance companies to complete a climate risk disclosure survey annually. Finally, the law would expand the definitions of “pollution control equipment” and “clean heat resource” to include currently underutilized wastewater thermal energy, and enable Colorado to lead in carbon sequestration by allowing the state to apply to the Environmental Protection Agency for Class VI injection well primacy.

“Thermal energy heating and cooling systems are already being used across Colorado, and this law makes it easier for businesses and homeowners to take advantage of this cost-saving technology,” said Rep. Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton, sponsor of HB23-1252. “Expanding reliable thermal energy creates good-paying jobs, saves Coloradans money on their energy bills and works to improve our air quality along the Front Range.”

“Adopting new clean energy technologies like thermal energy will help create jobs while lowering overall emissions,” said Sen. Tony Exum Sr., sponsor of HB23-1252. “Natural gas is driving up utility costs and putting a squeeze on Coloradans' budgets. With this new law, we are continuing to move away from polluting energy sources and instead adopt cleaner technology to move Colorado’s economy and climate goals forward.”

“By using the heat beneath our feet, we can cut back Colorado’s reliance on fossil fuels,” said Rep. Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB23-1252. “Together, we’re expanding avenues for thermal energy technologies in homes and businesses across the state, which will save Coloradans’ money and bring us closer to our climate goals. We are working hard to attract and adopt clean energy technology that sets us on a path forward toward cleaner, healthier air.”

Including Thermal Energy As A Clean Heat Resource: HB23-1252 continues Colorado’s work to reduce emissions from gas utilities by providing a pathway for wider adoption of thermal energy as a clean heat resource. This law aids in the transition away from expensive fuel commodities like natural gas and lowers utility costs for Coloradans.

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, create new job opportunities, decrease greenhouse gas emissions and save Coloradans money on their utility bills.

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.