Zenzinger, Michaelson Jenet’s Bill of Rights for Foster Youth Passes Senate

HB24-1017 would establish critical statutory rights for foster youth, including freedom from discrimination, harassment and access to basic care

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, to establish a Bill of Rights for Foster Youth cleared the Senate today.

HB24-1017 outlines critical rights to empower and protect foster youth, including freedom from discrimination and harassment, access to basic care and freedom of gender, cultural and religious expression.

“Children and youth who are placed in the foster care system face a number of significant challenges, which is why we must ensure their rights and freedoms are protected,” Zenzinger said. “This bill will guarantee Colorado’s youth have access to basic care and education so that they can live safely and securely while temporarily separated from their parents or families. What’s more, enshrining these rights in law will help ensure that foster youth in Colorado will not only be supported during a difficult time, but can continue to grow and thrive in a manner similar to their peers who are not in the child welfare system.”

“Our foster youth are extraordinarily vulnerable and we must do more to ensure they fully understand and take advantage of the rights provided to them,” said Michaelson Jenet. “This bill will empower foster youth, ensure they can access critical services and care, and help them live safer, more secure lives.”

HB24-1017 establishes critical statutory rights for youth living in foster care, requires county human service departments to provide written notice to foster youth about their rights, and clarifies the enforcement of these rights. The rights of foster care youth include:

• Access to education, basic essentials, and health care;

• The right to confidentiality and privacy;

• Freedom from discrimination or harassment;

• Freedom of thought, cultural and ethnic practice, and religion;

• Freedom to express gender identity;

• Freedom from threats, punishment, retaliation for asking questions, stating concerns, or making complaints about violations of their rights;

• Access to services, placements, and programs they are eligible for and notification of the benefits they are eligible for;

• The ability to request information on how payments are used by individuals who accepted payments for the youth;

• The right to receive appropriate placement and care, including being placed in a safe environment that is free of abuse, having their preferences regarding placement considered, and having providers who are aware of their history;

• The right to timely court proceedings and effective case management;

• The right to a timely notification to the Social Security Administration to initiate the transfer of benefits from providers to youth who are leaving the custody of the department;

• The right to access and communicate privately with caseworkers, legal representatives, advocates, probation officers, and other professionals;

• The ability to participate in legal proceedings and case planning; and 

• Access to certain necessities and support that will allow them to be self-sufficient in their transition to adulthood.

Under the bill, the rights listed above would apply to foster youth including those who are ages 18 to 21 and participating in the Foster Youth in Transition Program. HB24-1071 also requires that foster youth five years old and older receive written notice about their rights at their initial placement in foster care and that the written notice of rights in the youth’s primary language is updated at least annually, including if there is a new placement change.

HB24-1017 now heads to the Governor for his signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Fenberg Bill to Prevent Forced Mineral Development Clears Committee

Fenberg: “This bill creates guardrails that will allow local governments to decide for themselves whether their mineral holdings will be developed or not.”

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, that would bolster the rights of mineral owners, especially local governments, by putting protections around “forced pooling” orders cleared the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee today. Forced pooling is the mandatory consolidation of leased and unleased minerals to access one common underground mineral reserve.

SB24-185 would ensure publicly-owned minerals aren’t developed against the will of local governments, and promote transparency around the process for proving that oil and gas operators own or control 45 percent of the mineral rights within a drilling unit in order to force pool the remaining minerals in the unit.

“Many local governments in Colorado own minerals that have been purchased with public funds, and because of our ‘forced pooling’ law our communities have been forced to develop those minerals against their will and without their consent,” Fenberg said. “This bill creates guardrails that will allow local governments to decide for themselves whether their mineral holdings will be developed or not.”

Current law requires oil and gas operators to own or control 45 percent of the mineral rights within a drilling unit in order to force pool others’ minerals, but it does not require operators to submit sufficient evidence of their proportion of ownership or control. SB24-185 also requires operators to provide a list of the public leases that make up the 45 percent threshold. 

The bill also prevents drilling from starting until a force pooling order has been issued, which would ensure that the 45 percent mineral right threshold has been met before extraction begins.

SB24-185 will now move to consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Michaelson Jenet & Priola’s Bill to Increase Gender-Affirming Care for People Convicted of Felonies

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate voted to approve Senators Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Kevin Priola’s, D-Henderson, bill to allow people convicted of a felony to change their name to conform with their gender identity.

Under current law, a person convicted of a felony who wishes to change their name must demonstrate “good cause” to do so. HB24-1071 would expand the definition of “good cause” to include gender-affirming care, or a name change that conforms with a person’s gender identity.

“This legislation is an important part of our commitment to stand up for transgender rights,” Michaelson Jenet said. “We know that access to gender-affirming care, including the ability to change one’s name to align with gender identity, results in more positive mental health outcomes. I am proud to sponsor this legislation to make it easier for folks to identify as their true self.”

“I’m always proud to support policies that ensure Coloradans have the support they need to thrive, and this policy is no different,” said Priola. “What may seem like a small change to some is of great importance to the people this legislation will impact, and I know it will help more people live their most authentic life.”

HB24-1071 now heads to the Governor for his signature. You can follow its progress HERE.

Jaquez Lewis, Kolker Bill to Protect Coloradans, Prohibit Firearms in Sensitive Spaces Passes Senate

Legislation would apply to key locations consistent with SCOTUS rulings

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, and Chris Kolker’s, D-Centennial, bill to protect communities from gun violence and create safer public spaces by prohibiting the carrying of firearms in certain locations.

SB24-131 would restrict the presence of firearms in certain locations where children and families may be present. The bill would prohibit carrying a firearm - openly or concealed - in the following locations and their parking areas: government buildings where legislative meetings and offices are located; courthouses; preschools, K-12 schools, and colleges; and polling locations. The bill includes exemptions for peace officers, members of the US Armed Forces performing official duties, working student resource officers, and more.

“Gun violence has taken far too many lives in communities all across Colorado, which is why we’re working to create safe places free from gun violence,” said Jaquez Lewis. “This bill would restrict firearms in locations where emotions can run high or where children are largely present, such as schools, including college campuses, government buildings or polling places on Election Day.  I’m proud to see this piece of commonsense gun violence prevention legislation move forward.”

“Addressing the gun violence epidemic is one of my top priorities, and is incredibly important to the communities I represent,” Kolker said. “Too many Coloradans’ lives have been permanently altered – or taken – by gun violence. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues as we fight to deliver concrete solutions to save lives, like our bill to prohibit firearms in sensitive spaces.” 

Many states protect sensitive places from gun violence. Arizona, Florida, Texas, Georgia and Louisiana prohibit open and concealed carry at voting locations. The locations protected under this bill have been deemed sensitive spaces in recent rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court.

The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Follow its progress HERE. 

Hinrichsen Bill to Defend Colorado’s Elections, Prevent ‘Fake Elector’ Schemes Clears Senate

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, that would protect Colorado’s elections by punishing future attempts at “fake elector” schemes cleared the Senate today.

HB24-1150 would make it a crime of perjury or forgery to create, serve in, or conspire to create or serve in a false slate of presidential electors, punishable by up to a $10,000 fine. A person who is convicted of perjury or persuading someone to commit perjury would also be disqualified from serving in the Colorado General Assembly or other public offices.

“When I served in the Army I took an oath to defend our freedom and our democracy,” Hinrichsen said. “‘Fake elector’ schemes and other attempts to overturn our free and fair elections aim to undermine our democracy, and are an insult to that oath and the millions of brave men and women like me who have fought on behalf of our country. This legislation will ensure that future efforts to create false slates of electors in an attempt to overturn a free and fair election will be punished, creating critical guardrails and protecting the integrity of Colorado’s votes.”

After the 2020 election, former President Trump and his Republican allies attempted to recruit fake electors in key swing states including Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin, Nevada, and New Mexico, in an attempt to overturn President Biden’s victory. 

John Eastman, an attorney and advisor to Trump, was one of 18 people indicted with the former president for their alleged effort to overturn Georgia’s election results in 2020. He is accused of attempting to pressure former Vice President Mike Pence to either delay Congress’ certification of electoral votes on January 6, 2021 or reject some states’ slate of electors to allow alternate electors who would support Trump.

HB24-1150 will now move to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bill to Reduce Overdose Deaths, Improve Public Health Passes Senate

Legislation would support harm reduction efforts by local public health agencies and expand good faith protections for Coloradans

DENVER, CO – Senator Kevin Priola’s, D-Henderson, bill to reduce overdose deaths and improve public health in Colorado passed the Senate today.

HB24-1037 would support efforts by local public health agencies to prevent the spread of disease by offering clean equipment and would expand protections for Coloradans acting in good faith to administer an opioid antagonist, such as Narcan, to prevent a fatal overdose.

“We know that harm reduction saves lives,” said Priola. “This legislation supports the good work that local health agencies already do to provide care for those in crisis. For years, I have worked hard to pass policies that provide holistic support to those battling substance use disorders and ensure our neighbors have the resources they need to thrive, and I’m thrilled to see this bill move forward.”

HB24-1037 would also remove the requirement that health care providers call law enforcement if a patient in their care possesses drugs or paraphernalia. Finally, the legislation broadens existing drug testing grant programs to get ahead of the next black market substances hitting Colorado, like xylazine or “tranq.”

The bill was created through the Opioid and Other Substance Use Disorders Study Committee, which met during the 2023 interim and developed policies aimed at bolstering prevention efforts, improving treatment programs, promoting harm reduction strategies, and supporting Coloradans in recovery to prevent overdose deaths and save lives.

HB24-1037 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments. You can follow its progress HERE.

Finance Committee Advances Fenberg, Marchman Bill Aimed at Establishing Passenger Rail for Colorado

Legislation creates dedicated funding to leverage historic federal investment from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for reliable, safe, and convenient transit and passenger rail for Colorado

DENVER, CO – Legislation aimed at leveraging millions in federal infrastructure funding to bring passenger rail service to Colorado and expanding public transportation options across the state cleared the Senate Finance Committee today.

SB24-184, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, would implement a congestion reduction fee that would be used to offset climate impacts and mitigate the congestion, and wear and tear on Colorado’s roads caused by rental vehicles. Revenue generated from the fee would create a sustainable funding source to be used as a matching source for federal investment opportunities for statewide transit and rail, as well as other forms of public transportation.

“For years Coloradans have been waiting for the promise of a fast, efficient passenger rail system that makes it easy, safe, and affordable to travel all across our great state,” Fenberg said. “Now, with the availability of critical federal funds through President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver on that promise. I am excited to champion this effort that will secure more efficient transit options while cutting emissions, reducing traffic, and connecting communities across Colorado.” 

“Expanding our transit system and making it easier for folks in my district to travel across our great state is a key priority of mine at the Capitol,” said Marchman. “Expanding passenger rail service will connect communities like mine with the rest of the state and save people both time and money on their commutes, all while emitting less pollution and reducing traffic. I am incredibly excited about this opportunity to expand our transit options so that more Coloradans can get where they need to go safely and efficiently." 

The bill would encourage RTD, Front Range Passenger Rail, and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to coordinate efforts to secure the funding needed to establish passenger rail service from Denver to Fort Collins.

It would also direct the Colorado Transportation Investment Office to use three studies in the near term to fund regionally important transit and rail projects originating from the Front Range Passenger Rail Service Development Plan, the Mountain Corridor Service Development Plan, and the Statewide Connectivity study that aims to build a more comprehensive statewide bus system, building on the successes of Bustang, Snowstang and Pegasus.

Finally, the bill encourages CDOT to consider public-private partnerships and other innovative funding structures throughout the state to fund a full suite of multimodal infrastructure projects, including bus and passenger rail, and would require a new, multimodal strategic capital plan that aligns with CDOT’s ten-year plan, statewide transit plans, greenhouse gas pollution reduction goals, and other greenhouse gas reduction priorities and pollution reduction planning standards. 

SB24-184 is supported by local officials and organizations across Colorado, including:

• Conservation Colorado

• Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP)

• National Resource Defense Council (NRDC)

• GreenLatinos

• CoPIRG

• Healthier Colorado

• Sierra Club

• Greater Denver Transit

• YIMBY Denver

• Jefferson County

• Chambers of Commerce

• Colorado AARP

SB24-184 will now move to consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bipartisan Michaelson Jenet Bill to Prevent Youth Overdose Deaths Clears Senate

Michaelson Jenet: “This important legislation, which came to us from students who have been impacted firsthand by this terrible epidemic, gives schools more tools to combat this crisis and will ultimately save lives.”

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, that would prevent youth overdose deaths and save lives cleared the Senate today.

Cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, HB24-1003 would make opiate antagonists like Narcan and drug testing strips widely available on school buses and in school buildings.

“Our young people have not escaped being harmed by the opioid crisis that is impacting every corner of our state, and we must do more to protect them,” Michaelson Jenet said. “This important legislation, which came to us from students who have been impacted directly by this terrible epidemic, gives schools more badly-needed tools to combat this crisis and will ultimately save lives.”

Right now, specific educators who receive training are permitted to administer opiate antagonists to students. HB24-1003 would extend those protections to bus drivers, and would also allow school boards to maintain a supply of opiate antagonists on school buses and testing strips in schools.

The bill would also allow for trained students to possess and administer opiate antagonists on school grounds, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored event.

HB24-1003 will now move to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE.

Legislation to Protect More Coloradans from Bias-Motivated Crimes Clears Committee

SB24-189 would add gender identity and gender expression to Colorado’s bias-motivated crimes and harassment laws

DENVER, CO – Legislation that would protect more Coloradans from bias-motivated crimes cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee today.

SB24-189, sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Chris Hansen, D-Denver, would improve protections for Coloradans by adding gender identity and gender expression to the classes included in Colorado’s bias-motivated crimes and harassment laws. 

“Every Coloradan deserves to feel secure in their community, but far too many folks have been targeted because of who they are or how they identify,” Fields said. “As trans, nonbinary, and gender-expressive folks face increasing threats across the country, we will continue fighting to make our state safer for all Coloradans and provide better protections against bias-motivated crime and harassment.”

“Colorado has been a national leader when it comes to advancing equality and protections for our LGBTQ+ neighbors,” Hansen said. “This bill will help protect Coloradans from violence or harassment based on their gender identity or gender expression, and will help ensure perpetrators of bias-motivated crimes are held accountable for their actions. I’m pleased to champion this legislation that will help more Coloradans feel secure and keep people in our communities safe.”

The bill also redefines "sexual orientation" as used in Colorado's bias-motivated crimes and harassment statutes.

SB24-189 will now move to further consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Winter & Marchman’s Bill to Protect LGBTQIA+ Youth

HB24-1039 would require public schools to use a student’s preferred name and pronouns

DENVER, CO – The Senate today voted to approve Assistant Majority Leader Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Senator Janice Marchman’s, D-Loveland bill to protect LGBTQIA+ youth in Colorado schools.

HB24-1039 would clarify the responsibility of school districts to adhere to non-discrimination laws, including addressing students by their self-identified preferred names independent of a court-ordered legal name change.

“Kids learn best when they feel safe and when they feel like themselves,” Winter said. “Tragically, trans kids are 77 percent more likely to try and commit suicide than their peers. Although many schools across Colorado already honor students’ chosen names and pronouns, not all do. This policy change will save lives by ensuring that every Colorado school respects a student’s right to go by a name of their choosing and that schools are safe spaces for all students.”

“We want to ensure Colorado schools are safe and welcoming learning environments for all students,” said Marchman. “Names matter, and addressing students by their chosen name can have a huge effect on a student’s mental health and comfort level in the classroom. This legislation supports healthy learning environments and helps set students up for successful educational careers, and I’m excited to see it advance.”

Public schools and institute charter schools would need to use a student's preferred name upon request and implement a written policy outlining how a school would honor the request. The bill defines a chosen name as any nomenclature an individual formally requests, reflective of their gender identity and differentiated from their legal name.

HB24-1039 will now return to the House for consideration of amendments. You can follow its progress HERE.

Zenzinger, Michaelson Jenet’s Bill of Rights for Foster Youth Clears Committee

HB24-1017 would establish critical statutory rights for foster youth, including freedom from discrimination, harassment and access to basic care

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, to establish a Bill of Rights for Foster Youth cleared the Senate Health & Human Services Committee yesterday.

HB24-1017 outlines critical rights to empower and protect foster youth, including freedom from discrimination and harassment, access to basic care and freedom of gender, cultural and religious expression.

“Children and youth who are placed in the foster care system face a number of significant challenges, which is why we must ensure their rights and freedoms are protected,” Zenzinger said. “This bill will guarantee Colorado’s youth have access to basic care and education so that they can live safely and securely while temporarily separated from their parents or families. What’s more, enshrining these rights in law will help ensure that foster youth in Colorado will not only be supported during a difficult time, but can continue to grow and thrive in a manner similar to their peers who are not in the child welfare system.”

“Our foster youth are extraordinarily vulnerable and we must do more to ensure they fully understand and take advantage of the rights provided to them,” said Michaelson Jenet. “This bill will empower foster youth, ensure they can access critical services and care, and help them live safer, more secure lives.”

HB24-1017 establishes critical statutory rights for youth living in foster care, requires county human service departments to provide written notice to foster youth about their rights, and clarifies the enforcement of these rights. The rights of foster care youth include:

• Access to education, basic essentials, and health care;

• The right to confidentiality and privacy;

• Freedom from discrimination or harassment;

• Freedom of thought, cultural and ethnic practice, and religion;

• Freedom to express gender identity;

• Freedom from threats, punishment, retaliation for asking questions, stating concerns, or making complaints about violations of their rights;

• Access to services, placements, and programs they are eligible for and notification of the benefits they are eligible for;

• The ability to request information on how payments are used by individuals who accepted payments for the youth;

• The right to receive appropriate placement and care, including being placed in a safe environment that is free of abuse, having their preferences regarding placement considered, and having providers who are aware of their history;

• The right to timely court proceedings and effective case management;

• The right to a timely notification to the Social Security Administration to initiate the transfer of benefits from providers to youth who are leaving the custody of the department;

• The right to access and communicate privately with caseworkers, legal representatives, advocates, probation officers, and other professionals;

• The ability to participate in legal proceedings and case planning; and 

• Access to certain necessities and support that will allow them to be self-sufficient in their transition to adulthood.

Under the bill, the rights listed above would apply to foster youth including those who are ages 18 to 21 and participating in the Foster Youth in Transition Program. HB24-1017 also requires that foster youth five years old and older receive written notice about their rights at their initial placement in foster care and that the written notice of rights in the youth’s primary language is updated at least annually, including if there is a new placement change.

HB24-1017 will now move to further consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Fields, Buckner Bill to Improve Black Maternal Health Care Coverage Earns Committee Approval

More than 80 percent of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable

DENVER, CO – The Senate Health and Human Services Committee today passed legislation that aims to improve perinatal health outcomes, especially in Black and historically marginalized communities. 

SB24-175, sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, would require large employer health benefit plans to cover doula services in alignment with Medicaid. The bill would also instruct hospitals that provide labor and delivery or neonatal care services to participate in at least one maternal or infant health quality improvement initiative. 

Additionally, the Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) would contract with a Colorado perinatal care quality program to provide maternal and infant health equity improvement initiatives to hospitals; track disparity and health outcome data; and address disparate outcomes particularly among American Indian, Native Alaskan, and Black birthing populations.

“The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of any rich country and significant disparities in outcomes – and the crisis will continue to worsen unless we act,” said Fields. “This legislation is incredibly important as it addresses gaps in coverage and holds hospitals accountable for ensuring equitable care for all people, and I’m proud to see it move forward.” 

“No Black woman should lose their life, or come close to losing their life, in an attempt to birth their child,” Buckner said. “While maternal mortality rates around the world fell 44 percent, maternal mortality rates in the United States increased by 16.7 percent during that same period of time. It's unacceptable. Working to solve our maternal health crisis – especially for Black and historically marginalized communities – will lead to better economic, health, and social outcomes while saving lives.”

Under this bill, CDPHE would create a program that provides financial support to hospitals in rural areas, hospitals serving a higher percentage of Medicaid and uninsured patients, or hospitals with lower-acuity maternal and neonatal care. Lastly, the bill requires coverage of over-the-counter and prescribed choline supplements for pregnant people.

Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women. According to the CDC, multiple factors contribute to these disparities, such as variation in quality health care, underlying chronic conditions, structural racism, and implicit bias. SB24-175 intends to address systemic racism in health care and develop better care for historically marginalized communities.

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Follow its progress HERE.

Ginal’s Bipartisan Bill to Improve Care in Assisted Living Residences Clears Committee

Legislation would allow direct-care workers in assisted living residences to transfer training certifications when changing jobs

DENVER, CO – The Senate Health and Human Services Committee today unanimously voted to advance Senator Joann Ginal’s, D-Fort Collins, bipartisan bill to improve care in assisted living residences.

Cosponsored by Senator Jim Smallwood, R-Parker, SB24-167 would allow direct-care workers to transfer training certifications when changing jobs, making it easier for workers to move jobs within the state.

“Coloradans living in assisted living residences deserve the highest quality of care,” said Ginal. “This important bill helps support the direct-care workforce by allowing folks to transfer prior training requirements and required health measures like tuberculosis testing and respiratory mask fittings from job to job. Through the portability options included in Senate Bill 167, we will improve care for Coloradans living in assisted living residences and provide their loved ones with the peace of mind that our most vulnerable citizens are receiving the best possible care and consideration, and are able to live out their final years with the comfort and dignity that they have earned.”

SB24-167 would also allow direct-care workers to transfer their prior tuberculosis test results and respiratory mask fittings when changing jobs.

SB24-167 will now move to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. You can follow its progress HERE.

Hinrichsen Bill to Defend Colorado’s Elections, Prevent ‘Fake Elector’ Schemes Advances

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, that would protect Colorado’s elections by punishing future attempts at “fake elector” schemes cleared the Senate State, Veterans, & Military Affairs Committee today.

HB24-1150 would make it a crime of perjury or forgery to create, serve in, or conspire to create or serve in a false slate of presidential electors, punishable by up to a $10,000 fine. A person who is convicted of perjury or persuading someone to commit perjury would also be disqualified from serving in the Colorado General Assembly or other public offices.

“When I served in the Army I took an oath to defend our freedom and our democracy,” Hinrichsen said. “‘Fake elector’ schemes and other attempts to overturn our free and fair elections aim to undermine our democracy, and are an insult to that oath and the millions of brave men and women like me who have fought on behalf of our country. This legislation will ensure that future efforts to create false slates of electors in an attempt to overturn a free and fair election will be punished, creating critical guardrails and protecting the integrity of Colorado’s votes.”

After the 2020 election, former President Trump and his Republican allies attempted to recruit fake electors in key swing states including Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin, Nevada, and New Mexico, in an attempt to overturn President Biden’s victory. John Eastman, an attorney and advisor to Trump, was one of 18 people indicted with the former president for their alleged effort to overturn Georgia’s election results in 2020. He is accused of attempting to pressure former Vice President Mike Pence to either delay Congress’ certification of electoral votes on January 6, 2021 or reject some states’ slate of electors to allow alternate electors who would support Trump.

HB24-1150 will now move to consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Fields’ Bipartisan Legislation to Remove Bail Eligibility for First-Degree Murder Cases

Legislation would refer a constitutional amendment to voters on the November 2024 ballot to remove bail eligibility for people accused of first-degree murder

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, to refer a ballot measure to Colorado voters to make first-degree murder defendants ineligible for bail.

“We have seen harrowing examples in Colorado of first-degree murder defendants posting bail and committing further violent crime before their court date,” Fields said. “Making first-degree murder defendants ineligible for bail would give victims and their families peace of mind and help keep our communities safe. I’m proud to see this legislation advance and move one step closer to giving Coloradans the opportunity to weigh in on this important issue.”

Last year, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled in People v. Smith that defendants charged with first-degree murder are eligible to be released on bail per language in Colorado law.

Cosponsored by Senator Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, HCR24-1002 would refer a constitutional amendment to Colorado voters on the November 2024 ballot to exempt the right to bail for first-degree murder cases when the proof is evident or the presumption is great. Voters would have to approve the constitutional amendment by at least 55 percent for it to be adopted into the Colorado Constitution. 

HB24-1225, also sponsored by Gardner, would make the conforming changes in Colorado statute if voters adopt the constitutional amendment. The bill also aligns jury procedures for first-degree murder cases with other capital cases to allow 10 peremptory challenges during jury selection for the first defendant and an additional three for every defendant after.

HCR24-1002 will now be delivered to the Secretary of State to be placed on this November’s ballot. HB24-1225 will now go to the Governor for his signature, however its implementation is dependent on voter approval of HCR24-1002.

Bipartisan Michaelson Jenet Bill to Prevent Youth Overdose Deaths Clears Committee

Michaelson Jenet: “This important legislation, which came to us from students who have been impacted firsthand by this terrible epidemic, gives schools more tools to combat this crisis and will ultimately save lives.”

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, that would prevent youth overdose deaths and save lives cleared the Senate Education Committee today.

Cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, HB24-1003 would make opiate antagonists like Narcan and drug testing strips widely available on school buses and in school buildings.

“Our young people have not escaped being harmed by the opioid crisis that is impacting every corner of our state, and we must do more to protect them,” Michaelson Jenet said. “This important legislation, which came to us from students who have been impacted directly by this terrible epidemic, gives schools more badly-needed tools to combat this crisis and will ultimately save lives.”

Right now, specific educators who receive training are permitted to administer opiate antagonists to students. HB24-1003 would extend those protections to bus drivers, and would also allow school boards to maintain a supply of opiate antagonists on school buses and testing strips in schools.

The bill would also allow for trained students to possess and administer opiate antagonists on school grounds, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored event.

HB24-1003 will now move for further consideration before the full Senate. Track its progress HERE.

Fenberg, Marchman Bill Aimed at Establishing Passenger Rail for Colorado Clears Committee

Legislation creates dedicated funding to leverage historic federal investment from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for reliable, safe, and convenient transit and passenger rail in Colorado

DENVER, CO – Legislation aimed at leveraging millions in federal infrastructure funding to bring passenger rail service to Colorado and expanding public transportation options across the state cleared the Senate Transportation & Energy Committee today.

SB24-184, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, would implement a congestion reduction fee that would be used to offset climate impacts and mitigate the congestion, and wear and tear on Colorado’s roads caused by rental vehicles. Revenue generated from the fee would create a sustainable funding source to be used as a matching source for federal investment opportunities for statewide transit and rail, as well as other forms of public transportation.

“For years Coloradans have been waiting for the promise of a fast, efficient passenger rail system that makes it easy, safe, and affordable to travel all across our great state,” Fenberg said. “Now, with the availability of critical federal funds through President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver on that promise. I am excited to champion this effort that will secure more efficient transit options while cutting emissions, reducing traffic, and connecting communities across Colorado.” 

“Expanding our transit system and making it easier for folks in my district to travel across our great state is a key priority of mine at the Capitol,” said Marchman. “Expanding passenger rail service will connect communities like mine with the rest of the state and save people both time and money on their commutes, all while emitting less pollution and reducing traffic. I am incredibly excited about this opportunity to expand our transit options so that more Coloradans can get where they need to go safely and efficiently." 

The bill would encourage RTD, Front Range Passenger Rail, and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to coordinate efforts to secure the funding needed to establish passenger rail service from Denver to Fort Collins.

It would also direct the Colorado Transportation Investment Office to use three studies in the near term to fund regionally important transit and rail projects originating from the Front Range Passenger Rail Service Development Plan, the Mountain Corridor Service Development Plan, and the Statewide Connectivity study that aims to build a more comprehensive statewide bus system, building on the successes of Bustang, Snowstang and Pegasus.

Finally, the bill encourages CDOT to consider public-private partnerships and other innovative funding structures throughout the state to fund a full suite of multimodal infrastructure projects, including bus and passenger rail, and would require a new, multimodal strategic capital plan that aligns with CDOT’s ten-year plan, statewide transit plans, greenhouse gas pollution reduction goals, and other greenhouse gas reduction priorities and pollution reduction planning standards. 

SB24-184 will now move to consideration before the Senate Finance Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Committee Advances Michaelson Jenet & Priola’s Bill to Increase Gender-Affirming Care for People Convicted of Felonies

DENVER, CO – The Senate Judiciary Committee today voted to advance Senators Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Kevin Priola’s, D-Henderson, bill to allow people convicted of a felony to change their name to conform with their gender identity.

Under current law, a person convicted of a felony who wishes to change their name must demonstrate “good cause” to do so. HB24-1071 would expand the definition of “good cause” to include gender-affirming care, or a name change that conforms with a person’s gender identity.

“This legislation is an important part of our commitment to stand up for transgender rights,” Michaelson Jenet said. “We know that access to gender-affirming care, including the ability to change one’s name to align with gender identity, results in more positive mental health outcomes. I am proud to sponsor this legislation to make it easier for folks to identify as their true self.”

“I’m always proud to support policies that ensure Coloradans have the support they need to thrive, and this policy is no different,” said Priola. “What may seem like a small change to some is of great importance to the people this legislation will impact, and I know it will help more people live their most authentic life.”

HB24-1071 will now move to the Senate floor for further consideration. You can follow its progress HERE.

Kolker’s Bipartisan Bill to Enhance Child Welfare System Earns Committee Approval

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, that would enhance tools for Colorado’s child welfare system cleared the Senate Health & Human Services Committee today.

HB24-1046, cosponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, would require reports of known or suspected child abuse or neglect to include any information of evidence of domestic violence found in the home. The bill also requires the Colorado Department of Human Services to create a consistent screening process for county departments to follow when responding to a report hotline. 

“It’s past time we take a closer look at how our child welfare system identifies instances of child abuse and domestic violence,” said Kolker. “This bill will enable us to audit and improve the risk and safety assessment tools we use when investigating reports so we can correctly identify needs and better ensure we’re getting a complete picture of the problem at hand. This is a critical step we can take to ensure we’re doing everything we can to improve how we investigate reports and, ultimately, keep kids safe.”

The bill also requires the Office of the Child Protection Ombudsman to contract with a third-party evaluator to conduct audits on safety assessment tools to get a better understanding of the efficacy of the safety assessment tool and any future changes that could be made that will ensure children are protected.

HB24-1046 will now move for further consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

2024 School Finance Act to Pay Off B.S. Factor, Fully Fund Colorado Public Schools Clears Committee

School Finance Act will increase per-pupil funding by $420

DENVER, CO – The 2024 School Finance Act, which sets funding levels for Colorado’s public school districts, earned approval before the Senate Education Committee today.

Sponsored by Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, SB24-188 would raise the base level of per-pupil funding by $420 to $8,496, and completely buy down the Budget Stabilization Factor, a longstanding goal that will ensure Colorado students get the quality education they deserve.

"Fully funding our schools is one of the main reasons I ran for the state senate, and I am absolutely thrilled to finally make it happen,” Zenzinger said. “All our students deserve a quality education that meets their needs and prepares them for success. While we have much more to do to truly fully fund our schools, this bill represents a great start, and will help reduce class sizes, increase teacher pay, and provide a world class education for our children and youth."

“As Chair of the Senate Education Committee and a former educator, ensuring our schools and students have the resources they need is personal to me, and this year’s School Finance Act will do just that,” said Buckner. “By eliminating the Budget Stabilization Factor and fully funding K-12 education, we’re opening the door to so many more opportunities to improve our schools, support our teachers, and make Colorado the best state in the nation to learn and grow.”

SB24-188 will now move to further consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.