President Fenberg Statement on Majority Leader Moreno’s Appointment to Johnston Administration

DENVER, CO – Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, released a statement today following the announcement that Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, will resign his seat to accept a job in Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s administration:

“From his first days on city council to serving as Senate Majority Leader, my friend Dominick Moreno has spent his entire career tirelessly fighting for the betterment of his community and his state. Dom’s leadership has helped move Colorado forward in innumerable ways, and his ability to cut through the noise, have tough conversations, forge compromise, and find solutions to our toughest challenges is unparalleled. Dom brings thoughtfulness, relentless hard work, and a razor sharp sense of humor to every challenge he tackles, and I know he’ll bring those same qualities to his next role as well. While I will miss his friendship and his partnership here in the Capitol, I am excited to see the great things he’ll accomplish next. I know he’ll make us all proud.”

Moreno will serve as Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy in the Johnston Administration.

Moreno was first elected in 2012 to represent southwest Adams County as the youngest serving member in the Colorado General Assembly, and won election to the State Senate in 2016. Raised in Commerce City, Majority Leader Moreno attended local public schools and earned his bachelor’s degree in American Government from Georgetown University. Before being elected to the State House, Dominick served on the city council in Commerce City for three years as the youngest council member elected in the city’s history.

President Fenberg Statement on Majority Leader Moreno’s Appointment to Johnston Administration

DENVER, CO - Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, released a statement today following the announcement that Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, will resign his seat to accept a job in Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s administration:

“From his first days on city council to serving as Senate Majority Leader, my friend Dominick Moreno has spent his entire career tirelessly fighting for the betterment of his community and his state. Dom’s leadership has helped move Colorado forward in innumerable ways, and his ability to cut through the noise, have tough conversations, forge compromise, and find solutions to our toughest challenges is unparalleled. Dom brings thoughtfulness, relentless hard work, and a razor sharp sense of humor to every challenge he tackles, and I know he’ll bring those same qualities to his next role as well. While I will miss his friendship and his partnership here in the Capitol, I am excited to see the great things he’ll accomplish next. I know he’ll make us all proud.”

Moreno will serve as Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy in the Johnston Administration.

Moreno was first elected in 2012 to represent southwest Adams County as the youngest serving member in the Colorado General Assembly, and won election to the State Senate in 2016. Raised in Commerce City, Majority Leader Moreno attended local public schools and earned his bachelor’s degree in American Government from Georgetown University. Before being elected to the State House, Dominick served on the city council in Commerce City for three years as the youngest council member elected in the city’s history.

New Bipartisan Laws Save Coloradans Money on Prescription Drugs

Five new laws to improve access and reduce the cost of prescription drugs go into effect August 7

DENVER, CO - On August 7, five laws to save Coloradans money on prescription drugs go into effect. The new laws create pharmacy dispensing machines, allow psychologists to prescribe certain mental health medications, expand access to contraception, improve oversight of Pharmacy Benefit Managers to reduce prescription drug costs, and expand the Prescription Drug Affordability Board to lower out-of-pocket costs.

“Transportation, work hours, and other barriers often make it difficult to access prescription medication due to typical pharmacy hours,” said Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, sponsor of HB23-1195. “With the implementation of our new law, Coloradans will be able to access their essential medication through pharmacist-monitored dispensing machines on a timeline that works for their busy schedule.”

“Coloradans who depend on prescription medications can’t always make it to a pharmacy to pick up their drugs during business hours,” said Senator Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB23-1195. “This new law will make it easier for Coloradans to get medications they need by removing unnecessary roadblocks and will help more people access their prescriptions without compromising important pharmaceutical safeguards.”

HB23-1195, also sponsored by Republican Representative Matt Soper and Republican Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, allows pharmacies to operate automated prescription dispensing machines so patients can access their medication outside of regular pharmacy business hours. The machines would only be placed in pharmacy-licensed locations and would be live monitored to prevent theft. The medication would be stocked in the machine and patients would be able to discuss the prescription with a live remote pharmacist.

“When someone is in a mental health crisis, they need to be able to quickly access remedies that protect themselves from harm, but getting a doctor’s appointment can often take weeks,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB23-1071. “By allowing psychologists to undergo additional training to be able to prescribe certain mental health medications, we’re reducing costs for patients and helping them get the care they need when they need it.”

“Across the state, we are seeing a prolonged mental health crisis, particularly among our youth," said President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB23-1071. “Every day, Coloradans battling mental health struggles face prohibitively long wait times to receive help and a lack of providers who can prescribe them with medication they need, only worsening our crisis. Expanding prescriptive authority to specially trained psychologists will help Coloradans access the life-saving medications that they need on a timeline that makes sense.”

HB23-1071, also sponsored by Republican Representative Mary Bradfield and Republican Senator Cleave Simpson, establishes rigorous standards and education requirements that a psychologist must undertake before being able to prescribe medication to treat mental health illnesses. Starting August 7, psychologists can begin the process to obtain their required education, training, and certificates in order to begin prescribing certain mental health medications.

Currently, if medication is part of the patient’s care plan, the patient must meet with a doctor or psychiatrist to have the prescription issued. Patients often struggle to find an available psychiatrist within their insurance network and few of only 800 psychiatrists across Colorado accept Medicaid, forcing patients to choose between large out-of-pocket costs or waiting months for the medication they need. Allowing psychologists limited prescribing authority to provide immediate access to medication can save the patient time and money.

Psychologists work closely with their patients to determine how to best address their mental health needs. When patients meet with a doctor or psychiatrist, it’s often their first time discussing their mental health issues and telehealth appointments can make it difficult to accurately assess the patient’s condition. Allowing licensed psychologists who meet monthly or even more frequently with patients will streamline access to effective health care and lead to more appropriate care.

“No one should have to ask for permission every month from their insurance company to not get pregnant,” said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, sponsor of SB23-284. “I spoke with a woman during the election who spends more than an hour on the phone every month just getting her birth control prescription refilled. That's absurd. Our new law protects the freedom of Coloradans to make health care choices on their own timeline.”

“Whether folks live in rural areas or work odd hours, trips to the pharmacy can be inconvenient and difficult to make,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, sponsor of SB23-284. “With SB23-284, we’re tightening up restrictions so insurance companies and PBMs can’t skirt our laws, ensuring patients can access 12 months of birth control. This new law will expand and improve access to reproductive health care across Colorado.”

Starting on August 7, SB23-284 requires both insurance plans and Pharmacy Benefit Management firms (PBMs) to cover a year's supply of contraception, which can be dispensed at one time or in smaller amounts if requested. SB23-284 builds off HB17-1186, a bipartisan bill that allowed Coloradans to access 12 months of birth control. However, legal loopholes have allowed insurers and PBMs to not comply with the law. SB23-284 ties up loose ends, and ensures that Coloradans can easily access a twelve-month supply of contraceptives using their medical insurance.

Research shows that dispensing one to three months of birth control at a time increases the likelihood of contraceptive discontinuation and can make it harder for people to plan their pregnancies. Additionally, access to 12 months of birth control can prevent unplanned pregnancies.

“Barriers to receiving medication, like contraceptives and prescription drugs, make it harder for Coloradans to receive the remedies they need to meet their health care needs,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, sponsor of SB23-284 and HB23-1227. “With our new laws going into effect soon, we can save Coloradans money on prescription costs and require insurance coverage for 12 months of contraception, expanding access to effective reproductive health care.”

“Our new law cracks down on players in the health care industry that are not acting in accordance with the cost-saving measures that Colorado Democrats have fought for to save you money on your medication,” said Rep. David Ortiz, D-Littleton, HB23-1227. “Affordable access to medication keeps our communities healthy and thriving. We now have the tools to hold Pharmacy Benefit Managers accountable, which will improve prescription accessibility and cut down on medication costs.”

Starting on August 7, 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. This law provides the Division of Insurance (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 Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, sponsor of HB23-1227 and HB23-1225. “The new laws taking effect are part of a multi-year effort to save people money on prescription drugs. I’m proud to see how these essential tools will continue to keep Colorado prescription drug prices affordable and save families even more money on their life-saving medications.”

“Every Coloradan deserves access to essential medication at a price they can afford,” said Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, sponsor of HB23-1225. "Too many people ration their medication or skip refills because they can’t cover the cost. The implementation of HB23-1225 will help more Coloradans afford the prescriptions they rely on and put more money back into the pockets of hardworking families.”

“House Bill 1225 makes important changes that will increase the impact of the Prescription Drug Affordability Board,” said Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB23-1225. “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 Prescription Drug Affordability Board will now be able to implement more cost-saving measures that drive down prescription drug prices to save Colorado patients money,” said Rep. Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial, sponsor of HB23-1225. “I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished this session to save Coloradans money on health care, and this law is one of many steps we’ve taken to ensure that more Coloradans can access affordable, quality health care.”

HB23-1225 increases the effectiveness of the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) to help lower out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Coloradans. In 2021, lawmakers passed the Prescription Drug Affordability Board to evaluate and place upper payment limits on the highest cost prescription drugs. The legislation implemented today will increase the impact of the Prescription Drug Affordability Board to save people money on out of pocket prescription drug costs. It increases the limit on setting no more than 12 Upper Payment Limits (UPLs) per year in the first three years of the PDAB to 18 UPLs, and improves the criteria for selecting drugs for an affordability review.

New Health Care Laws Go Into Effect

Laws include consumer medical debt protections and increased transparency of hospital community benefits

DENVER, CO - On August 7, two new health care laws go into effect in Colorado to limit the negative impacts of medical debt on patients’ credit reports or credit score and increase transparency of hospital community benefits.

“After life-saving medical care, patients are often blindsided by medical debt that they can’t keep up with, making it more difficult to qualify for housing, employment, or affordable interest rates,” said Rep. Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB23-1126. “Because of HB23-1126, Coloradans’ credit scores and credit reports will no longer be impacted by outstanding medical debt. I’m proud to have carried this law to protect Colorado patients from having their whole life being negatively impacted by outstanding health care costs.”

“Medical debt, which is often unexpected and accrues rapidly, can have impacts on credit scores and reports even if the debt has been settled with creditors,” said Sen. Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, sponsor of HB23-1126. “This creates barriers for folks trying to access necessities like housing, utilities, and loans, and it needs to change. With our new law, we’re putting in place new consumer protections that will help ensure Coloradans’ financial futures are not unduly impacted by their medical debt.”

Often medical expenses come as a surprise to many patients, leaving people unable to plan for expensive bills. Currently, when someone can’t afford a medical expense, the bill is sent to collections, and that information is shared with consumer reporting agencies that generate consumer reports and credit scores that are used by banks, landlords, employers, and insurance and utility companies. Medical debt affects people of all ages and incomes, but it disproportionately impacts those with a chronic illness or medical condition who rely on continual medical care to maintain their quality of life.

HB23-1126, also sponsored by Representative Ron Weinberg (R-Loveland), adds medical debt to the list of information that consumer reporting agencies are not allowed to include in a credit report, updates exemptions to expand consumer privacy protections, and requires collectors and collecting agencies to notify Coloradans that medical debt will no longer be included in credit reports. These changes will take effect on August 7, 2023.

“We’re making sure that large non-profit hospital systems actually invest in community-based programs that strengthen the services Coloradans need and want,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB23-1243. “This law improves accountability surrounding how tax exempt hospitals spend resources in the community, so we can ensure Coloradans can access critical services that reduce their health care costs and help them lead healthier lives.”

“Non-profit hospitals have the opportunity to provide much needed benefits back to their community,” said Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, sponsor of HB23-1243. “House Bill 1243 works to ensure the public’s concerns are heard when hospitals are determining what benefits to provide to their community. This new law 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.”

Beginning on August 7, HB23-1243 centers on increasing the transparency of nonprofit hospitals’ community benefit spending through incorporating community feedback into the community benefit implementation plan.

The law also requires each reporting hospital to seek feedback and engagement from a diverse range of community members during its annual proposed community benefit implementation plan, submit a detailed report about any discussions or decisions at the annual meeting, make the report public, and execute a community benefit plan that addresses the needs of the community as discussed in the annual meeting to better understand the impact community benefit spending has on the health of Coloradans and what the greatest needs are.

Pair of Laws to Help Support Rural Colorado to Go Into Effect

DENVER, CO –  A pair of laws aimed at supporting rural Colorado will go into effect on Monday, August 7.

SB23-006, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, and Rep. Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango, will foster economic development in rural communities by formally creating the Rural Opportunity Office (ROO) within the Office of Economic Development and International Trade.

Also sponsored by Senator Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction, and Rep. Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, SB23-006 will enable the ROO to serve as the central coordinator of rural economic development for the state, supporting communities transitioning away from coal-based economies, supporting programs and initiatives, and making recommendations to help inform economic development policy impacting rural communities.

“Rural communities like those I represent are crucial to Colorado’s economy and character. To ensure we’re building a Colorado where everyone can thrive, we must be proactive in our work to support rural economic development,” Roberts, sponsor of SB23-006 and SB23-050 said. “By creating a ‘one-stop shop’ for our small towns in the Rural Opportunity Office and expanding eligibility for the Agricultural Future Loan Program, we’re giving rural Colorado and those who power our agriculture industry a leg up while providing the support and expertise to meet our rural economies’ unique needs.”

“I am proud of our efforts to support local businesses and communities by creating good paying jobs Coloradans can count on,” said McLachlan, sponsor of SB23-006. “The continuation of the Rural Opportunity Office expands economic opportunities for Coloradans living in all four corners of the state. This is an important bipartisan step forward to uplift our rural economies, secure new investments in our communities and create good paying jobs across the state.”

The Rural Opportunity Office began its work to boost rural economies through supportive development strategies in 2019. In the years since, the ROO has expanded services to assist Colorado’s Tribal Nations in their economic development through grant writing support, education campaigns, and technical assistance.

SB23-050, sponsored by Roberts and Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, provides key resources to farmers and ranchers to help grow their farms and ranches by expanding eligibility for the Colorado Agricultural Future Loan Program.

“Colorado’s farmers and ranchers play a critical role in our economy, but sometimes entering into the field can be financially challenging,” said McCormick, sponsor of SB23-050. “The Agricultural Future Loan Program has helped ease financial burdens for those entering or expanding their farm or agricultural business in Colorado. We’re committed to making farming more accessible and diverse by expanding the number of Coloradans who can access these critical loans.”

Initially created in 2021 by the legislature, the Agricultural Future Loan Program provides loans and grants to newer or underrepresented producers. The bipartisan SB23-050, which is also sponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Rep. Richard Holtorf, R-Akron, makes the program permanent and expands eligible recipients to include new businesses not yet operating and also businesses developing or manufacturing technology designed to benefit Colorado farmers and ranchers.

Laws to Bolster Tax Credit Awareness and Boost Food Assistance Go Into Effect

DENVER, CO - On August 7, new laws to increase awareness of the Colorado Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit and fund food assistance programs to expand access to healthy foods in lower-income communities go into effect.

“The Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit can boost workers’ incomes by thousands of dollars, making it easier for them to afford housing costs or everyday necessities, yet many Coloradans don’t know how to file for these tax benefits,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley, sponsor of HB23-1006. “This law will help connect families with the tax credits they qualify for, putting more money back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans and boosting local economies.”

“Colorado working families’ budgets are stretched thin, and they deserve a helping hand – but too many folks aren’t taking full advantage of the benefits they’ve earned,” said Senator Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, sponsor of HB23-1006. “Requiring clear, consistent information on how to access tax credits means Coloradans will be able to keep more of their hard earned money in their pockets. I will always fight for Colorado’s working families and I’m proud to see this important bill advance.”

“Colorado families will now be informed of the tax credits available to them to make it easier to file for up to thousands of dollars in tax credits,” said Rep. Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, sponsor of HB23-1006. “Our new law will provide employers with detailed tax credit information that they can easily share with their employees. With the implementation of this law, we’re improving access to critical tax credits to save Colorado families money.”

Starting August 8, HB23-1006 instructs employers to provide information about federal and state earned income tax credits and child tax credits to their employees. The notice must be provided at least once a year in English or any other language typically used to communicate with the employee.

This bill builds on legislation passed by the General Assembly in recent years to increase the state Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit. Senator Chris Hansen and Representatives Mary Young and Lindsey Daugherty previously passed SB22-182 to help Coloradans file for and receive their earned income tax credits and child tax credits. Colorado Democrats passed HB20-1420 and HB21-1311, which doubled the state's Earned Income Tax Credit and funded the Child Tax Credit, saving hundreds of thousands of Colorado families money. Representative Mary Young also passed HB23-1112 with Representative Shannon Bird and Senators Hansen and Chris Kolker to expand the state Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, which is expected to return over $170 million more to hardworking families.

On August 8, HB23-1008 will go into effect, allocating $250,000 to the Department of Public Health and Environment to connect low-income communities throughout the state with healthy eating program incentives and improve access to fresh, Colorado-grown produce.

“Your ability to access healthy food should not be based on your income,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB23-1008. “About 33% of Coloradans do not have reliable access to nutritious food, which leads to chronic health issues and expensive health care bills. With our new law going into effect, everyday Coloradans across the state will soon have better access to fresh produce and groceries, making it easier for Coloradans to purchase healthy foods closer to home and boosting our agriculture industry.”

“Working people in my district and across the state don’t get a tax break on their lunches, and too many of them don’t have enough to eat at all," said Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB23-1008. “I am happy to close this tax loophole that only benefits the wealthiest Coloradans, and redirect the funds toward addressing food insecurity so that more Coloradans can afford to put food on the table.”

“Family owned farms and food retailers need our support more than corporate boardrooms," said Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, sponsor of HB23-1008. “This new law will reduce hunger and strengthen local supply chains in urban and rural parts of Colorado, with a minimal impact on state finances.”

This law builds off bipartisan legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2022 to save Coloradans money on healthy foods. The funding allocated by the 2022 legislation supports programs including the Community Nutrition Incentive Program, which assists women, children, and older Coloradans in subscribing to weekly produce deliveries from a local farm; the Double Up Food Bucks Program, which doubles the value of SNAP benefits in participating markets and stores for fruits and vegetables; and the Community Food Access program, which allows more small retailers to acquire equipment to store and sell produce and supports small family farms in connecting their crops to market demands.

New Law Raising Minimum Age to Purchase a Firearm to 21 To Go Into Effect

Legislation will help prevent young people from committing gun violence, save lives in Colorado

DENVER, CO – New legislation that raises the minimum age to purchase a firearm in Colorado to 21 will go into effect on August 7.

SB23-169, sponsored by Senators Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge, and Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial, raises the age limit to purchase any firearm to 21, with limited exceptions.

“Gun deaths in Colorado have been climbing higher and higher every year, and a disproportionate number of them are committed by younger Coloradans,” Mullica said. “As an ER nurse I’ve seen firsthand the devastating ways gun violence impacts our communities, which is why I am proud to champion this new law that will reduce gun violence and save lives all across our state.”

“As a survivor of gun intimidation, I am relieved that Colorado law now requires all gun purchasers to be at least 21 years old, which will help reduce senseless gun violence and make our communities safer,” Duran said. “With this new law going into effect, we can save countless lives from preventable firearm-related injuries or death and improve public safety.”

“Young people aged 12-24 make up one-fifth of the population, but commit just under half of all gun murders,” Danielson said. “Democrats are committed to doing everything we can to prevent gun violence in Colorado, and our new law will do just that. Raising the age to purchase a firearm will keep more deadly weapons away from our youth, reduce youth suicide rates, and make our communities safer.”

“Having been a teacher for over 30 years, I’ve seen how gun violence can interrupt and devastate our kids’ development and well-being,” Hamrick said. “Colorado kids deserve environments that encourage learning, free from gun violence that is much too common in our schools. As a teacher, parent, legislator, and community member, I am proud that our common sense gun violence prevention laws are going into effect soon to better protect our kids.”

According to Everytown for Gun Safety, firearms are the leading cause of death for young people in the U.S. ages 18 to 20, and the firearm suicide rate among this group has increased a staggering 61 percent in the last decade.

Buckner Discusses Colorado’s Landmark Universal Preschool Program, Support for Child Care at White House Panel

Senator sponsored legislation to support the creation and implementation of the Universal Preschool Program

WASHINGTON, DC - Senator Janet Buckner D-Aurora, took part in a panel at the White House today to discuss child care policy achievements aimed at making child care more affordable for working families, increasing child care provider supply, and improving job quality for child care workers.

Buckner joined state lawmakers from Kansas and Delaware to discuss Colorado’s landmark Universal Preschool Program (UPK) and support for child care providers.

“It is an honor to share the solutions we’ve been working on in Colorado to improve child care programs and support hardworking Colorado families with my colleagues at the White House,” Buckner said. “Access to quality early childhood education not only supports critical early development and future educational outcomes for Colorado kids, but also the very well-being of families and communities across our state. As we continue to work towards a better Colorado for all, our new universal preschool program will directly benefit families across our state, save people money, and set our future leaders up for success. I can’t wait to see how universal preschool benefits Colorado’s youth this fall and for generations to come.”

Beginning this fall, UPK will provide 15 hours per week of free, high-quality preschool to every child the year before entering kindergarten, saving families thousands of dollars per year on child care. UPK supports mixed delivery preschool options, prioritizing quality and respecting parental choice for where to send their child to school, while strengthening and supporting local infrastructure to best serve each community’s individual needs.

This year, Buckner sponsored SB23-269, funding one-time bonus payments for early childhood care providers participating in UPK. The bonuses will be used to implement UPK, or to maintain or expand infant and toddler care capacity.

Prior legislation sponsored by Buckner established the Department of Early Childhood and charged the agency with implementing UPK, improving education outcomes, and supporting families in expanding access to enriching early childhood experiences. Additionally, she championed legislation to implement recommendations from the Department of Early Childhood to elevate early childhood education and ensure that early childhood care is easy to navigate for all Colorado families.

Joint Release: Colorado General Assembly LGBTQ+ Caucus Statement on SCOTUS Ruling in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis

DENVER, CO – Members of the Colorado General Assembly LGBTQ+ Caucus today released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis, in which the Court ruled to allow businesses to refuse service to a customer based on the customer’s sexual orientation. 

LGBTQ+ Caucus Co-Chair Representative Brianna Titone: 

“The decision by the Supreme Court undermines Colorado’s anti-discrimination protections, directly attacks the rights of LGBTQ+ Americans and allows businesses to deny services based on ‘First Amendment’ grounds to anyone due to their gender, race, religion, or who they love.

The US Supreme Court has legalized discrimination and bigotry against LGBTQ people and has endangered equal protections under the law. With one decision, the Court reversed decades of progress to secure the freedoms and rights of LGBTQ+ Americans, and has threatened the rights of Americans to equally and fairly access public accommodations." 

LGBTQ+ Caucus Co-Chair Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis:

"The decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to again take away individual rights, this time from the LGBTQ+ community, can not be respected nor can it stand. The conservative majority on the Court have now joined the voices of hate and is one more example of anti-LGBTQ+ actions that we are seeing across the United States. We in Colorado will continue to stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community and reaffirm our commitment to the protection of all human rights.

Across the country, over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced that put the community in danger of harm, preventing us from freely expressing ourselves or being able to make personal health care decisions. We’ve made great progress in recent years to fight against the increasing anti-LGBTQ+ attacks. We secured the right to access gender affirming care and abortion care, added anti-discrimination protection language to include gender identity and gender expression, and strengthened anti-discrimination protections for people in the workplace. While our new laws ensure Colorado is a safer place for members of the LGBTQ+ community to call home, we still have hills to climb to combat the rising anti-LGBTQ+ vitriol.

Colorado Democrats will continue to fight for your freedoms and stand up against discrimination, bigotry, and violence against the LGBTQ+ community.”

LGBTQ+ Caucus Co-Chairs: 
Rep. Brianna Titone
Sen. Sonya Jaquez Lewis

LGBTQ+ Caucus Members:
Rep. Ruby Dickson
Rep. Lorena Garcia
Sen. Joann Ginal
Rep. Leslie Herod
Sen. Majority Leader Dominick Moreno
Rep. David Ortiz
Rep. Alex Valdez
Rep. Steph Vigil

Today’s ruling sided with 303 Creative, a Colorado-based company that sued the state for the right to refuse service to the LGBTQ+ community. In 2022, Colorado Democrats updated Colorado’s Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA), expanding anti-discrimination protections and guaranteeing equal access to public accommodations, housing, and employment regardless of disability, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, religion, national origin, or ancestry.

In recent years, Colorado Democrats have passed numerous laws to increase protections against discrimination. In 2021, lawmakers approved a law that added “gender expression” and “gender identity” as a protected class under Colorado statute, and in 2022 Democrats amended CADA to improve age discrimination protections in employment cases and extend time limits for complaints and charges.

This year, Democrats fought to protect people and health care providers from being persecuted for providing reproductive health and gender-affirming care, prohibit employers from requiring age-related information on job applications, improve safeguards against harassment and discrimination in the workplace, and protect people with a disability from being excluded from or denied the benefits of services, programs, or activities provided by a place of public accommodation.

Speaker McCluskie and President Fenberg Make Appointments to Colorado River Drought Task Force

DENVER, CO – House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Senate President Steve Fenberg today made legislative appointments to the Colorado River Drought Task Force. The appointments were made pursuant to SB23-295, a new law which establishes a special task force to identify steps the state can take to protect the Colorado River and all who rely on its water.

“The Colorado River speaks to the very spirit of our Colorado way of life, and I hope the work of this task force helps protect it for generations to come,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “The Colorado River Drought Task Force is a vital step forward toward finding innovative and bold solutions to combat drier, hotter climates that jeopardize our freshwater lifeline and all those who depend on it. The leaders I selected for the task force are committed to a collaborative process that brings every voice to the table and uplifts the needs of Coloradans from around the state. This is the first step in a thorough process to preserve Colorado’s water future.”

“Coloradans depend on clean, reliable water to power our economy and our outdoor way of life, and protecting the Colorado River is a key step towards securing the future of our water supply,” said President Fenberg, D-Boulder. “This Task Force will address the challenges facing our water supply head-on, and will help put Colorado on a path to a sustainable water future by finding innovative solutions to safeguard Colorado’s water. I am excited to watch this team work together to protect our most precious resource and ensure clean, accessible water for all.”

Speaker Julie McCluskie’s legislative appointments to the Colorado River Drought Task Force:

Kathy Chandler-Henry, Eagle County Commissioner, to serve as a representative of a local government located within the boundaries of the Colorado River Water Conservation District that provides water for municipal purposes. Kathy Chandler-Henry, a Western Slope native, is Chair of the Eagle County Commissioners. In addition to her role as County Commissioner, she is President of the Colorado River Water Conservation District Board of Directors, Chair of the Ruedi Water and Power Authority as well as the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments Water Quality and Quantity Committee (QQ). She previously served as President of the Eagle River Watershed Council Board of Directors.

Mike Camblin, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, to serve as a representative of a statewide agricultural organization that is the owner of water rights. Mike Camblin lives in Maybell Colorado where he and his family run Camblin Livestock, a 4th generation cattle ranch in northwest Colorado. He serves on the Board of Directors as a Northwestern Quarter Representative for the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association.  

Alexandra Davis, Aurora Water, to serve as a representative of a front range municipal water provider that diverts water from the Colorado River. Alex Davis is the Assistant General Manager of Water Supply and Demand at Aurora Water. She has experience in the public and NGO sector, working for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Department of Natural Resources as the Director of Colorado Interbasin Compact Committee, and in the Colorado Attorney General’s office.

Daris Jutten, Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association, to serve as an agricultural producer that owns water rights within the boundaries of the Colorado River Water Conservation District. Daris Jutten is the Chair of the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association Board of Directors and head of the Lazy K Bar Land and Cattle Co., a 5th generation ranching operation in Montrose and Ouray Counties.

Aaron Citron, The Nature Conservancy, to serve as a representative of a statewide environmental nonprofit organization with expertise in water rights and Colorado River interstate governance. Aaron Citron is the Associate Director of External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in Colorado. He leads the Conservancy’s state legislative and government relations efforts as well as the Colorado chapter’s engagement on Colorado River water issues.

President Steve Fenberg’s legislative appointments to the Colorado River Drought Task Force:

Melissa Youssef, City of Durango, to serve as the representative of a local government located within the boundaries of the southwestern water conservation district that provides water for municipal purposes. Youssef has served on the Durango City Council since 2017. Before she was elected, Youssef founded and served as a CEO of a successful Durango based company, as well as the City of Durango Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Trails 2000 board.

Orla Bannan, Western Resource Advocates, to serve as the representative of a statewide environmental nonprofit organization with expertise in water rights and Colorado River Interstate Governance. Bannan is Western Resource Advocates’ Healthy Rivers Strategic Engagement Manager. She helps develop and advocate for policy programs that protect and improve western rivers and works to address water scarcity issues by partnering with regional water boards and emerging leaders in local communities.

By December of 2023, after an extensive stakeholding process open to public comment, the task force must make policy recommendations to the General Assembly for demand reduction projects that proactively address the impact of droughts on the Colorado River and its tributaries and:
·        Avoid disproportionate economic and environmental impacts to any one region of the state,
·        Ensure that any program related to the acquisition of agricultural water rights is voluntary, temporary, and compensated,
·        Assure meaningful collaboration among the Colorado River District, Southwestern Water Conservation District, and the State of Colorado in the design and implementation of drought security programs, and
·        Evaluate sources of revenue for the acquisition of program water.

A sub-task force consisting of representatives from the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and the Department of Natural Resources would also be established to provide policy recommendations to the General Assembly to address tribal needs. These recommendations would consider the unique nature of tribal water rights and tribal water use.

The goal of the Colorado River Drought Task Force is to convene experts and relevant stakeholders to provide effective solutions to the General Assembly so our state can protect the Colorado River and its tributaries.

JOINT RELEASE: Forecast Shows Colorado Economy Remains Strong, Despite Headwinds

DENVER, CO – Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) today released the following statements after the Legislative Council Staff and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered the June economic forecasts.

“Today’s forecast shows that Colorado’s economic outlook remains positive, despite the structural difficulties and potential further challenges that we face,” said JBC Chair Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “Thanks to smart, responsible budgeting we have been able to bolster support for Colorado’s families by investing in housing, health care, and education, and we are committed to protecting those gains and ensuring that Colorado remains on a sound and sensible economic path, enabling our state to thrive for generations to come.”

"Despite persistent inflation, Colorado's economy remains strong with one of the lowest rates of unemployment in the nation,” said JBC Vice-Chair Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “Today’s forecast showed Colorado’s continued growth, but underscores the ongoing need to budget and govern responsibly as we find ways to make the most impact for Coloradans with limited resources. I’m proud that we have prioritized investments in the services our communities need, like education, public safety and at the same time, have built a strong reserve. This kind of smart budgeting will help us weather any possible economic headwinds that we may face.”

“The numbers we saw today show that while Colorado’s economy remains strong, there are mixed signals that could spell trouble on the horizon if left unchecked,” JBC Member Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, said. “That’s why we worked so hard this session to craft a thoughtful, flexible budget that meets the needs of families and communities across our state. I am proud of the work we’ve done to support Coloradans during this volatile economic period, and I look forward to continuing our work to set Colorado on a path to further economic success.”

“This economic forecast showed Colorado is on a steady track forward," said JBC Member Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “We've made important progress over the years to support our youngest learners, save Coloradans money on health care and reduce the cost of living. While this economic forecast looks promising, Colorado continues to face some fiscal constraints. This includes inflation in the rental housing market, making it more challenging for Coloradans to keep pace with rising costs. We've budgeted wisely to be able to provide critical services to our communities and must continue to make smart choices with our limited public dollars so that all Coloradans can thrive." 

Colorado’s economy continues to grow, with an unemployment rate of 2.8 percent, which is lower than before the pandemic and below the national average of 3.7 percent, with total employment growth clocking in at around 1.1 percent.

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.70 billion in FY 2022-2023 and $17.76 billion in FY 2023-2024 – a $540 million increase for FY 2022-2023 and a $20 million increase for FY 2023-2024 as compared with the earlier March revenue forecast. The LCS forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $18.57 billion for FY 2024-2025.

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.80 billion for FY 2022-2023, an $806 million increase over the March forecast. For FY 2023-2024, OSPB revised down its projected General Fund revenue by $178.9 million to $16.52 billion. For FY 2024-2025, OSPB estimates that General Fund revenue will be $18.14 billion, an increase of $146.2 billion as compared with the March forecast.

The forecast anticipates continued growth as Colorado stands well positioned to fare better in the case of a downturn. Factors that could improve the forecast include slowing inflation in the services industry, stronger wage growth, and a rebound in real wages, and reduced housing costs. Risks that could negatively impact the forecast include persistent inflation leading to further restrictive  monetary policies and continued geopolitical and trade uncertainty. 

At White House Panel, Jaquez Lewis Discusses Colorado’s Landmark Safe Access to Protected Health Care Package

Senator sponsored legislation to establish protections from criminal prosecutions for receiving, providing, or assisting with legally-protected health care

WASHINGTON, DC - Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, took part in a panel at the White House today on reproductive rights and state-level efforts to secure access to care and Colorado’s Safe Access to Protected Health Care Package.

Jaquez Lewis joined state lawmakers from Connecticut, New York, and Illinois to discuss legislation aimed at protecting providers and patients, including through interstate shield protections, provider licensing, and measures to address anti-abortion centers (AACs).

“Colorado is a leader when it comes to protecting access to reproductive and gender affirming care, and it was an honor to share more about the critical work Colorado has been doing to keep patients and providers safe at the White House today,” Jaquez Lewis said. “We designed the Safe Access to Protected Health Care Package to protect the rights and privacy of patients and providers seeking abortion or gender affirming care, prohibit deliberate health care misinformation in our communities, and make it easier and more affordable for folks to access the health care they need to thrive. I am proud to be a part of the coalition that got these bills across the finish line in Colorado, and I am excited to continue our work to break down the barriers that stand in the way of getting our communities the care they need.”

Jaquez Lewis sponsored SB23-188, which establishes protections from criminal prosecutions for receiving, providing, or assisting with legally-protected health care – including abortion and gender-affirming care – ensuring these overreaching interstate actions will not be recognized by the state of Colorado. SB23-188 is part of Colorado Democrats’ Safe Access to Protected Health Care Package that ensures people in Colorado are free to access essential and affirming health care, including abortion and gender-affirming care.

The Safe Access to Protected Health Care Package also includes SB23-189, which improves access to reproductive health care, including abortion, and makes reproductive health care more equitable by limiting surprise medical billing and removing patient cost sharing for reproductive health care services and treatment, including but not limited to sterilization, sexually transmitted infections and abortion care. 

It also includes SB23-190, which protects Coloradans seeking reproductive health care by prohibiting the use of deceptive advertising by AACs. The bill makes it a deceptive trade practice to share information or advertise providing abortion care, emergency contraceptives or referrals of either of these services when the service is not actually provided. This bill also clarifies it is a deceptive practice to advertise providing a “medication abortion reversal."

SIGNED! New Law to Reduce the Cost of Housing

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law new legislation that will eliminate arbitrary caps on building new housing that drive up costs for families in order to save people money on housing, improve our environment and increase our housing supply.

“This new law will reduce the cost of housing, increase the number of homes on the market, and help Coloradans afford to stay and live in the communities they love,” said Rep. William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield. “Arbitrary local growth regulations drive up the cost of housing, lead to longer commutes, increase water use and hurt our air quality while putting increasing pressure on neighboring communities that impacts their ability to provide the critical services Coloradans need to thrive. We’re tossing these cost-increasing regulations into the dustbin of failed housing policies and are moving forward with bold solutions that will save families money.”

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

“By getting rid of limits on how many homes can be built, we’ll increase our housing supply, lower costs for families, and help more Coloradans find a place to live they can afford,” said Rep. Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial. “Cutting red tape and out-of-date regulations for new home construction will help Colorado meet our housing needs, improve affordability, and reduce commute times. This will help Coloradans live closer to their jobs, schools, and loved ones while improving our air quality and our environment."

HB23-1255, sponsored by Representatives William Lindstedt and Ruby Dickson and Senator Julie Gonzales, prevents local governments from enacting and enforcing housing growth restrictions that limit housing development to a certain number of building permits or approvals without a transparent process and fair consideration of a proposal’s merits. The law will create more housing options for every budget so Coloradans can afford to stay in their communities without being priced out. Removing growth limits will improve air quality, protect open space, conserve water, create jobs and help local communities plan for future growth.

Under the law, local governments are not required to accept any specific developments or projects, but they cannot reject a proposal simply due to an arbitrary growth cap. There are exceptions to the prohibition, which allow temporary moratoria in cases of a declared disaster emergency, for the purpose of updating land use plans and laws, or acquiring public infrastructure or water resources.

SIGNED! Major Expansion of Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit

New laws put $170 million back into the pockets of lower and middle income Coloradans.

DENVER, CO – Governor Polis today signed HB23-1112, sponsored by Representatives Shannon Bird and Mary Young, and Senators Chris Hansen and Chris Kolker, which expands the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC).

“Expanding these tax credits will put $170 million back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans,” said Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “Coloradans deserve a tax code that boosts their incomes and helps them build a better future for themselves and their families, and that’s exactly what this law does. These tax credits have lifted thousands of Coloradans across the state out of poverty, and I’m proud to champion this essential legislation.”

“Colorado’s working families deserve a break,” said Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “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.”

“With this law, Coloradans who claim these tax credits will see hundreds of dollars more in their 2024 tax refunds,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “We know the Earned Income and Child Tax Credits have played a major role in lifting children out of poverty, and I’m thrilled that Coloradans who claim these credits will soon have more breathing room in their budgets. This will boost local economies and make our tax code more fair by putting hardworking families first and giving them the support they need to build a brighter future.”

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

Under HB23-1112, the Colorado EITC will rise from 25-percent to 38 percent of the federal EITC for tax year 2024, a nearly four-fold increase from where it stood in 2020. The Colorado CTC, a refundable tax credit available to families with children under the age of six and incomes under $75,000 for single filers or $85,000 for joint filers, will now range from $200 to $1,200 depending on income and filing status.

The federal CTC has lifted over 57,000 Colorado kids out of poverty and helped over 630,000 families across the state, while the federal EITC has helped cut the national poverty rate in half. The law builds on legislation passed by Colorado Democrats in recent years to make Colorado more affordable for working-class families. The General Assembly passed HB20-1420 and HB21-1311, which at the time doubled the state's EITC and funded the CTC, saving hundreds of thousands of Colorado families money.

JOINT RELEASE: New Law Will Save Coloradans Money On Epi-Pens

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed HB23-1002, sponsored by Representatives Javier Mabrey and Iman Jodeh and Senator Dylan Roberts, which will save Coloradans money on epinephrine auto-injectors by limiting the cost for the devices to $60 for a two-pack.

“Coloradans who rely on Epi-pens for life saving medical interventions should not be subjected to corporate price gouging, this legislation caps the price of epi pens for Colorado consumers making them far more accessible,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “I’m proud to continue our work to hold pharmaceutical manufacturers and insurance companies accountable to protect consumers from excessive price gouging that forces many lower-income Coloradans to use expired Epi-pens or make life or death decisions whether to use one or not because they aren’t sure they can afford to replace it.”

“Colorado families like the ones I represent on the Western Slope are getting charged an arm and a leg for the EpiPens they rely on to save their lives in emergency situations, and it’s unacceptable,” Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, said. “Nobody should have to choose between paying the bills and affording their prescriptions. This new law will lower costs and make life-saving EpiPens much more affordable for working folks.”

“From the Colorado Option to new laws cracking down on the pharmacy benefits industry, we’ve taken bold action to drive down the cost of health insurance and prescription drugs and improve access to life-saving care,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “As someone who relies on emergency medication, I know the fear and anxiety that can come with not knowing if you’ll be able to afford the next prescription. The law Governor Polis signed today will break down the cost barriers that prevent many lower-income people, often people of color, from affording the medication they need.”

An epinephrine auto-injector is a medical device that is used to dispense epinephrine, a hormone that quickly combats life-threatening reactions including swollen airways and rapidly dropping blood pressure. It is commonly used by people with moderate to severe allergies, in addition to other medical issues, to prevent a fatal anaphylactic reaction. Epinephrine auto-injectors are commonly referred to by the trademark name “EpiPen”, which was acquired by one company in 2007. Since then, prices have increased over 660% to $690 for a 2-pack. Because Epi-pens expire a year after purchase, Coloradans have been forced to spend hundreds of dollars annually for medication that can save them from potentially lethal reactions.

HB23-1002 creates the Epi-Pen Affordability Program, where uninsured Coloradans with a prescription can apply online through the Colorado Division of Insurance to obtain low-cost epinephrine auto-injectors. Under this bill, manufacturers would be required to provide access to the program on their websites. The bill also requires insurance carriers that provide coverage for epinephrine auto-injectors to cap the out-of-pocket cost to $60 for a 2-pack.

With over 500,000 Coloradans experiencing severe food allergies and over 430,000 Coloradans with asthma, this bill will help nearly a million individuals and families across the state get low-cost access to the emergency medication they need.

This legislation is modeled after successful policy passed by Colorado Democrats in recent years to limit profiteering off essential medication. Senator Dylan Roberts sponsored HB21-1307, creating the Colorado Insulin Affordability Program and successfully reducing insulin prescription costs without shifting them to the marketplace or insurance policy consumers. The bill caps monthly insulin costs at $100, regardless of the number of prescriptions a person may have. Insulin is used similarly to EpiPens in regulating bodily reactions. Without insulin or EpiPens, individuals can experience dangerous and potentially fatal symptoms.

New Law Will Reduce Automatic, “No-Show” Default Evictions

HB23-1186 allows Coloradans to participate in eviction proceedings remotely, reducing the number of default evictions of tenants unable to participate in person

DENVER, CO – Governor Polis today signed HB23-1186, sponsored by Representatives Mandy Lindsay and Iman Jodeh and Senators Tony Exum and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, which will reduce default evictions by allowing Coloradans to participate in hearings remotely.

“This new law will help nearly 8,000 Coloradans avoid no-show, default evictions and make it easier for working families without reliable transportation to attend their eviction proceedings,” said Rep. Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora. “Right now, Coloradans who can’t attend eviction proceedings in person automatically receive a default eviction judgment, which goes on their record and can be a barrier to future housing opportunities. By allowing Coloradans to participate in hearings remotely, more lower income and vulnerable people will avoid losing their homes and instead will have another shot at retaining the housing security they need to thrive.”

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

“Coloradans will soon be able to attend eviction hearings remotely, removing often insurmountable barriers that can make it impossible for some Coloradans facing eviction to have their fair day in court,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “From lack of child care options or unreliable transportation to work obligations, there are many reasons why someone might not be able to attend their eviction hearing in person. These burdens predominantly fall on lower income and vulnerable Coloradans–disproportionately people of color. This new law will reduce no-show rates, prevent automatic default judgments, and prevent the displacement of Coloradans who can least afford to lose their homes.”

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

HB23-1186 allows individuals in residential eviction cases to participate in county court proceedings remotely. Under this law, individuals must communicate with the courts if they would like to participate in their hearing remotely or in-person 48-hours before their hearing. HB23-1186 aims to improve accessibility for attending eviction proceedings especially for those living in rural areas, Coloradans with disabilities and those with additional circumstances that make it difficult to take time off work.

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

SIGNED! New Laws Address Harassment, Discrimination in Schools & Workplaces

DENVER, CO – Today, Governor Jared Polis signed landmark legislation that will improve safety and equity in the workplace and schools by implementing critical anti-harassment and discrimination policies.

SB23-172, the Protecting Opportunity & Workers’ Rights (POWR) Act, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Assistant House Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, and Representative Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, updates the definition of harassment and specifies that harassment does not need to be “severe or pervasive” to constitute a discriminatory or unfair practice. The bill also deters future harassment by modernizing language around non-disclosure agreements, expanding protections for people with disabilities, and adding marital status as a protected class.

“No Coloradan should face harassment or discrimination at the workplace or at school, which is why we’re taking action to protect our workers and students,” Winter, sponsor of SB23-172 and SB23-296, said. “In the workplace, our bill will deter bad behavior and better support survivors by improving accountability measures and enhancing equity in the workplace. And in schools, SB23-296 ensures equal access to education and helps schools better support students experiencing harassment and discrimination. With today’s signings, we will ensure that every Coloradan can feel safe and secure whether they’re on the job or in the classroom.” 

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

“Every Coloradan deserves to feel safe from harassment or discrimination in their workplace,” Weissman said. “The POWR Act modernizes workplace protections to allow for victims to seek accountability for harassment, creating safer workplaces and improving economic security for vulnerable workers and their families. Our new law lifts up the experiences of survivors and treats claims with the seriousness they deserve, so Coloradans can have peace of mind in their workplace.”

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

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

The POWR Act also removes language in the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act that permitted employers to discriminate against people with disabilities or refuse to accommodate them if “the disability has a significant impact on the job."

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

SB23-296, also sponsored by Winter and Bacon, along with Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Representative Leslie Herod, D-Denver, provides clear definitions for harassment and discrimination in K-12 public schools and requires schools to post notices describing how a student can report harassment or discrimination to the school. The bill further requires schools to adopt procedures for investigating reports, and to grant an excused absence to a student for certain out-of-school appointments related to the student experiencing harassment or discrimination.

“These new laws will support the students and workers in our state who have been harassed or discriminated against because of their race, gender identity or religion. They will prevent more Coloradans from facing harassment in their schools or workplaces,” said Bacon, sponsor of SB23-172 and SB23-296. “These changes will make it easier for Coloradans to hold workplaces accountable for misconduct and for students to notify school leadership when they are in a dangerous situation. We’re also requiring additional training for educators and school personnel and making sure that students who have experienced harassment or discrimination can have time outside of the classroom to access the support they need to thrive in school.”

“As a middle school teacher and a mom, I know how important it is for our kids to get a good education free from the fear of harassment and discrimination,” Marchman said. “This new law will provide students, staff, and families with better resources to respond to, prevent, and recover from harassment and discrimination, and will support students so they can focus on what matters most: learning.” 

“I’m proud to sponsor legislation to prevent racism and anti-LGBTQ bullying in our schools because students in Colorado deserve to learn in a safe environment free from harassment or discrimination,” said Herod. “Far too many students in Colorado, in particular people of color and LGBTQ youth, have faced racism and harassment in their schools and classrooms. With this new law, every school district must have a plan in place to accept reports of discrimination and harassment, investigate incidents, and provide necessary accommodations and supportive measures to students who have experienced discrimination or harassment.”

Additionally, SB23-296 requires schools to provide accommodations and supportive measures to students being harassed, and to adopt a written policy that protects students experiencing harassment or discrimination. That policy must include information on reporting options for students, an explanation of the school’s role in responding to reports, information about resources for victims of gender-based violence and sexual violence, amnesty protections, and information on accommodations and supportive measures.

Signed! Fenberg’s Bill to Increase Transparency, Improve Colorado’s Elections

Fenberg: “This bill will build confidence and ensure Colorado remains at the forefront when it comes to holding free and fair elections”

DENVER, CO – Today Governor Polis signed into law administratively Senate President Steve Fenberg’s, D-Boulder, legislation to increase transparency and further improve Colorado’s gold standard elections.

SB23-276 expands and clarifies personal financial disclosures for certain candidates and elected officials; improves voter access in tribal communities, on college campuses, and in county jails; and streamlines election day results, among other provisions.

“Colorado’s elections are the envy of the country - but there are always adjustments and improvements we can implement to make our election system even better,” Fenberg said. “Whether it’s creating more transparency for candidates and elected officials or improving access for Native American and other underrepresented voters, this bill will build confidence and ensure Colorado remains at the forefront when it comes to holding free and fair elections.”

The bill expands what is required to be disclosed in a candidate or elected official’s personal financial disclosure and clarifies enforcement, ensuring the public knows about potential conflicts of interest for a candidate or elected official and ensures there is an enforcement mechanism for if and when a candidate provides false information. Additionally, the bill specifies that election administrators at the state, county, and local level cannot use public funds for advertising that features candidates for local, state, or federal office. 

Improved voter access on tribal lands 
SB23-276 establishes a process to allow tribal councils in Colorado to submit membership lists for purposes of Colorado’s existing automatic voter registration law. Additionally, the bill guarantees the placement of early voting and Election Day voting sites on tribal lands. 

Increased voter access for underrepresented voters
The bill increases the number of voter service and polling centers for public and private higher education campuses. The bill also clarifies how sheriffs facilitate voter registration and voting to make it easier for inmates in jails to vote.

Bolstered funding for local election administration
The bill increases funding for local county clerks to help facilitate smooth and secure election administration. The current formula hasn’t been updated in more than a decade while administering elections has gotten more challenging and expensive. The new formula will ensure that a more equitable share of county election budgets are covered by the state.

Streamlined election results 
SB23-276 requires larger counties to begin counting ballots at least four days prior to Election Day, which will result in publishing election results faster on Election Day. The bill also requires that clerks update “cure” data within 24 hours for voters who need to fix a problem with their ballot. 

Modernized ID system
The bill allows the use of digital IDs such as the state of Colorado’s official myColorado app as well as digital copies of already accepted forms of identification in order to confirm their Colorado address when they vote in person. 

General election and campaign finance cleanup
Finally, SB23-276 makes several changes to Colorado’s Election Code to remove obsolete provisions, update procedures to reflect current practice, and ensure transparency in campaign finance laws.

SIGNED! Legislation to Expand Educational Opportunities & Support Youth Mentorship Programs

Bills create a free adult high school program for those over 21 to receive their diploma, offer financial incentives for youth mentorship programs

DENVER, CO – Governor Polis today signed legislation to support Coloradans through expanded education opportunities and youth mentorship programs. 

Sponsored by Senators Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, and Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, SB23-003 creates the Colorado Adult High School program to expand educational opportunities for adults, which will improve Colorado’s workforce and close equity gaps. The Colorado Adult High School Program will reside within the Department of Education and partner with a local nonprofit to operate the program with an initial pilot campus located in Aurora.

“Many Coloradans are forced to leave high school early due to various life circumstances, and face barriers that make it difficult to return and earn their degree,” Buckner said. “This bill creates a pathway for adults to get their high school diploma free of cost. The Colorado Adult High School Program will save folks money while setting them up for success in their careers – helping us build a better Colorado for all.”

In addition to a high school diploma, students will also have the option to earn an industry certificate or college credits. In 2022, Colorado’s graduation rate was 82.3 percent – showing that the need for alternative education opportunities is clear.

SB23-149, sponsored by Senators James Coleman, D-Denver, and Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, implements a pilot program to create financial incentives for college students participating in eligible youth mentorship programs. Effective mentorship groups have been shown to benefit young people by increasing high school graduation rates, improving their self image, and raising their academic performance.

"Mentorship programs have been shown to improve mental health and performance at work or school for mentors and mentees," said Coleman. “By encouraging more college students to be mentors, we are building more support systems for our students and taking a step toward resolving Colorado’s student mental health crisis.”

“Mentors in youth programs are positive role models that can connect young Coloradans to opportunities that they otherwise would have never known existed,” Exum said. “The pilot program we’re creating in this bill will help college students connect with mentees who might need a helping hand. This important legislation empowers college students to make a difference in the lives of young people in their communities and will have impacts for years to come.”

The benefits of mentorship programs are not limited to youth participants; mentors have reported increased self esteem, a sense of accomplishment, and improved skills as a supervisor following participation in a program.

SIGNED! Pair of Bipartisan Bills to Support Colorado’s Water Supply, Bolster Stream Restoration

BRECKENRIDGE, CO – Today Governor Jared Polis signed into law a pair of bipartisan bills to support Colorado’s water supply and bolster projects that help restore natural streams.

SB23-177, sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, and Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Representatives Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, and Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, funds the Colorado Water Conservation Board’s (CWCB) water projects. This legislation provides the Board, within the Department of Natural Resources, with over $90 million to fund water-supply projects, species conservation and research. The projects aim to take on Colorado’s water crisis, including funding for Water Plan Grants, Water Plan Action Advancement items, water forecasting, and watershed restoration efforts, among other investments. This year’s bill has particular emphasis on conservation of threatened fish in the Platte and Colorado Rivers.

“Communities all across the state depend on this crucial funding to protect their water and I am grateful that we are investing more in our water projects through this year’s water funding bill than we ever have before,” said Roberts, sponsor of SB23-177 and SB23-270. “Now more than ever, it’s important that we work collaboratively to develop solutions to conserve our water and improve our water infrastructure. Coloradans know we need solutions, but too often are faced with legal obstacles or a lack of funding for projects. These bipartisan bills will simplify processes to complete stream restoration projects, tap into millions of dollars of state and federal funding, and ultimately help secure our state’s water future.”

“Colorado’s watersheds and streams protect us from wildfires, preserve diverse ecosystems and support the livelihood of our local farmers and ranchers,” said McCormick, sponsor of SB23-177 and SB23-270. “The Colorado way of life revolves around water, and with these laws, we’re focused on restoration and preservation of our streams and rivers. This bipartisan legislation makes it easier for communities to leverage federal dollars to complete stream restoration projects and creates a plan for preserving our water resources now and into the future.”

The CWCB’s work includes protecting Colorado's streams and lakes, flood mitigation, watershed protection, stream restoration, drought and water supply planning, and water project financing. Many of the Board’s projects focus on the Western Slope, like the Upper Colorado Conservation Project, which is researching the use of water-sharing agreements as ways to enhance water flow and provide temporary municipal water supplies in times of shortage.

Stream restoration projects are vital in protecting water supplies, restoring habitats, and recovering from drought, fire, and floods. SB23-270, sponsored by Senators Roberts and Simpson, and Representatives McCormick and Catlin, creates a more streamlined process for stream restoration projects to move forward.

Currently, certain stream restoration projects could be considered an out-of-priority diversion of water, creating an uncertain or impossible path for those projects to proceed. The bill constitutes an important first step by creating a rebuttable presumption that a minor stream restoration project doesn’t impede on downstream water rights – thus allowing smaller projects to move forward without unnecessary enforcement actions while the community continues to explore solutions for larger projects. A rebuttable presumption is an assumption made by a court that is taken to be true unless proven otherwise. 

The legislation outlines stream restoration projects as those with the purpose of wildfire or flood mitigation; bank stabilization; water quality protection or restoration; habitat, species, or ecosystem restoration; infrastructure protection, and more.