Fields & Michaelson Jenet’s Bill to Promote Behavioral Health First Aid Clears Senate

SB24-007 would create a behavioral health first aid training program in the Office of Suicide Prevention

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate voted to advance Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Dafna Michaelson Jenet’s, D-Commerce City, bill to promote adult, teen, youth behavioral and mental health by creating a behavioral health first aid training program.

SB24-007 would create the Behavioral Health First Aid Training program in the Office of Suicide Prevention. The program would train educators, employees of youth-based nonprofits, faith leaders, law enforcement, first responders, and active duty or retired military personnel to recognize and respond to symptoms of mental illness or substance use challenges in both young people and adults and provide tools to help those in crisis.  

“This program will help trusted adults know how to identify and help teens in crisis,” Fields said. “This bill is a step towards a Colorado where youth know they can both ask for help and actually receive it from the adults they already know and trust.” 

“Behavioral health first aid training makes sure that more Coloradans have the tools to support themselves and others,” said Michaelson Jenet. “This bill will empower more people to be able to recognize warning signs and know how to help. It’s about making sure Colorado is a place where we help our neighbors.”

Trainings would include guidance on how to respond to an individual experiencing mental health challenges, including crisis intervention strategies, warning sign recognition training, and resources to help folks in crisis ask for help.

Nearly 100,000 people have received evidence-based behavioral health first aid training in Colorado so far. The new bill will help expand the reach, especially into the more rural areas of the state.

SB24-007 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill's progress HERE.

Senate Approves Danielson, Ginal Bill to Bolster Support for Older Coloradans

Legislation would improve access to resources, help aging Coloradans stay in their homes

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate approved legislation sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins, to improve state support for older Coloradans.

SB24-040 would require the General Assembly to adjust the General Fund appropriation for senior services for inflation, so that older Coloradans can continue receiving the critical support they need to live healthy and independent lives. Services that would be improved include in-home care, legal services, and elder abuse prevention programs.

“Every Coloradan deserves to be supported, but too often older Coloradans are treated like an afterthought,” Danielson said. “This bill will begin to address that and help folks access things they need, like transportation services and home meal delivery. I’m committed to making sure every Coloradan can age with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

“Colorado hasn’t done enough to support older Coloradans, and it’s time we change that,” said Ginal. “This bill will strengthen services for our aging population to help access the care and resources they need to remain in their homes, allowing folks to stay independent and lead safe, healthy and fulfilling lives.”

The bill would also require the Department of Human Services, the Office of State Planning and Budgeting, and Area Agencies on Aging to review the adequacy of the appropriation for state funding for senior services and report the findings to the General Assembly every three years.

SB24-040 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bipartisan Roberts Bill to Boost Water Conservation Funding Passes Senate

Roberts: “This bill will give Colorado voters an opportunity to join in the fight and allow sports betting revenue to fund critical water projects that will benefit communities across our state.”

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, that would refer a ballot measure to Colorado voters to allow the state to keep and spend additional sports betting tax revenue on water conservation projects cleared the Senate today.

“Water is Colorado’s most precious natural resource, because it powers everything we do, from agriculture to our outdoor recreation economy, which is why I am fighting tooth and nail to secure our state’s water future,” Roberts said. “This bill will give Colorado voters an opportunity to join in the fight and allow sports betting revenue to fund critical water projects that will benefit communities across our state. I am proud to be working on this bipartisan legislation that will help protect our precious water resources and our Colorado way of life.”

HB24-1436, cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would refer a ballot measure to Colorado voters to allow revenue above the $29 million cap on sports betting revenue established in 2019 by Proposition DD to be transferred to the Water Plan Implementation Cash Fund. This cash fund supports water projects across the state, including water storage and supply, agricultural projects, and watershed health and recreation projects.

The bill will now move back to the House for concurrence of amendments. Track its progress HERE.

Senate Approves Fenberg, Hansen Bill to Modernize Colorado’s Electric Grid, Position State to Meet Climate Goals

Legislation aims to speed up distribution system upgrades, meet Colorado’s long-term electrification goals, and support a robust workforce

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, to modernize Colorado’s energy distribution systems. 

In order to accomplish Colorado’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meet state and federal decarbonization targets, Colorado’s electric grid needs updating. Coloradans have faced delays when installing electric vehicle chargers or rooftop solar, and delays in meeting our larger transportation and building electrification goals will persist if the distribution system isn’t updated. 

SB24-218 includes a suite of policy changes to modernize and prepare the electric grid for the future. Improving the distribution system would help communities and utility consumers electrify heating and cooling in buildings, accelerate the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and solar energy, and reduce air pollution. 

“Colorado has ambitious goals of rapidly reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, electricity generation, building heating and cooling, water heating, and industrial fuel uses,” said Fenberg. “To reliably and affordably reduce emissions to meet our decarbonization targets, Colorado needs to shift its reliance from fossil fuels to a cleaner electric grid. From requiring investments in undergrounding to maintaining rate stability, this comprehensive bill will improve our distribution infrastructure and help us meet our climate goals.”

“After the major power outages at the beginning of April, it was clear that utilities need to do more to guarantee energy resiliency during extreme weather or natural disasters,” said Hansen. “We need a strong electricity system to make sure we can reduce emissions, lower consumer costs, and improve reliability. After months of work, this bill strikes the right balance between making much-needed investments in our distribution system while protecting ratepayers, and I’m proud to see it move forward.”

The bill directs investor-owned utilities with more than 500,000 customers (qualified utility) to modernize the electric grid to the benefit of customers and to achieve state energy goals by:

• Improving distribution system planning to ensure investments meet transportation and building electrification goals, support distributed energy resources, and prepare for a changing energy marketplace;
   

• Addressing the cost allocation for infrastructure upgrades to avoid one customer paying for the cost of a system upgrade that would support state electrification goals and benefit other customers;
   

• Providing a long-term structure for how utilities will recover costs for distribution system upgrades while maintaining rate stability;
   

• Making workforce investments to provide the skilled workforce required to achieve these infrastructure upgrades;
   

• Clarifying the process and timeline for accommodating beneficial electrification loads and connecting customer-sited distributed energy resources to the qualified utility electrical grid;
   

• Establishing a Virtual Power Plant program that can help save customers money by taking advantage of distributed energy resources; and 
   

• Expanding the undergrounding of powerlines and other community benefit investments to avoid the risks of wildfires and power outages during severe weather events

SB24-218 now heads to the House for further consideration. Follow its progress HERE. 

Lawmakers Introduce New TABOR Refund Mechanism, Advance Tax Credits for Working Families

DENVER, CO – Lawmakers yesterday introduced legislation that will restructure the refund mechanisms for state revenue collected above the TABOR cap. 

The bipartisan bill will temporarily lower income tax rates and create a new formula to determine future refund amounts through the six-tier refund mechanism and income rate reductions, and sales and use tax reductions in years with higher surpluses. These steps ensure Colorado will meet its commitment to fund critical services and schools during a recession while furthering efforts to reduce child poverty and boost the incomes of hardworking people through the new Family Affordability Tax Credit and expanded Earned Income Tax Credit.

“Colorado is facing a choice; we can continue with our tax code that doesn’t benefit the majority of Coloradans, or we can boost the incomes of hardworking people, create a pro-family tax code, and cut child poverty in half,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “This legislation, when combined with our Family Affordability Tax Credit and expanded Earned Income Tax Credit, will make our tax code more fair, boost the incomes of hardworking families and families with children, and cut child poverty in half in Colorado. I’m excited that we have found a way forward with Governor Polis to responsibly create new tax credits that benefit the majority of Coloradans and the people in our state that are feeling the brunt of our affordability crisis.”

"Making sure Colorado's tax code works for all Coloradans is one of my top priorities, which is why this bill, combined with our work to bolster critical tax credits that benefit working families, is so important,” Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, said. "Taken together, these measures will put more money into the pockets of working Colorado families, cut child poverty in half, and make it easier to make ends meet."

“I appreciate the work of so many organizations, lawmakers, and the governor who came together to create new tax credits that will cut child poverty, boost incomes for lower and middle-income people, and update our tax code so that it works for the majority of Coloradans, not just those at the top,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn. “Colorado’s working families and children are counting on us to deliver meaningful tax relief, and I’m proud that we are going to deliver on this promise. The bill introduced today alongside our package of tax credits will make Colorado more affordable, put money back into the pockets of hardworking people, and help us forge a brighter future for millions of people who call our state home.”

“Looking out for Colorado families means making sure they don’t have to choose between putting food on the table and paying rent or affording other necessities,” said Senate Assistant Majority Leader Faith Winter, D-Broomfield. “It’s no understatement to say that this is one of the more impactful pieces of legislation we’re going to see this session. I am extremely pleased to be a part of making this package of tax credits possible, because it will cut child poverty in half while benefiting the majority of Coloradans and making it that much easier for working families to get by in our state.”

“Working Coloradans need our support, and I am pleased to say that we have an opportunity to make a real, transformative difference for kids and families,” said Senate President Pro Tempore James Coleman, D-Denver. “This package will provide direct relief for families in our community while making our tax code more equitable, and will help give every Colorado family the resources they need to thrive.”

SB24-228, sponsored by Mullica and Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, and Speaker Pro Tempore deGruy Kennedy and Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, R-Colorado Springs, will create a new refund mechanism and formula to distribute state revenue collected above the TABOR cap. 

The legislation is part of an effort from House and Senate Democrats to boost tax credits for hardworking people and families with children. Under these proposals, hundreds of millions in tax credits will go to middle and lower income families and will cut the child poverty rate in half. These proven-anti poverty measures will boost the incomes of the majority of Coloradans. 

For tax year 2024, income tax rates will be temporarily reduced from 4.40 percent to 4.25 percent. For years 2025 through 2035, the income tax rate cut is activated and will fluctuate based on the amount of state revenues expected to exceed the TABOR cap after accounting for reimbursements to counties for the senior homestead exemption. If the surplus exceeds $1.5 billion after the temporary rate reduction and reimbursements to counties, then a fourth refund mechanism will be activated that will reduce sales and use tax rates by 0.13 percent. 

Whether the refund mechanisms are triggered and which ones will be triggered will depend on the amount of state revenues in excess of the TABOR cap. 

• If remaining excess state revenues are less than or equal to $300 million, TABOR refunds are distributed only through the tiered or flat sales tax refund mechanism; 

• If remaining excess state revenues are greater than $300 million but less than or equal to $1.5 billion, TABOR refunds are distributed first through the income tax rate reduction and then through the tiered or flat sales tax refund mechanism; 

• And if remaining excess state revenues are greater than $1.5 billion, TABOR refunds are distributed first through the income tax rate reduction, next through the sales and use tax rate reduction, and finally through the tiered or flat sales tax refund mechanism.

Wage Theft Prevention Bill Passes Committee

DENVER, CO – The Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee today advanced legislation to combat wage theft and boost the economic security of Colorado’s workers.

HB24-1008, sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, would improve wage theft accountability by requiring general contractors to cover lost wages if a subcontractor commits wage theft and increases transparency to improve compliance. It would also impose a $2,000 fine on a subcontractor if they do not forward a written demand for payment to the general contractor.

“Wage theft is wrong, and it impacts people all across the state. Coloradans should know we’re working hard to combat this problem,” Danielson said. “With this bill, we will strengthen protections for workers and ensure they are paid their fair share.”

“Colorado’s dedicated workers lose nearly $728 million in stolen wages annually,” said Kolker. “Theft is theft, and it keeps hardworking families from being able to make ends meet. Our legislation targets the increased use of subcontracts and other labor market intermediaries to ensure all workers are paid for the work they do and no one falls through the cracks.”

Wage theft can include not paying workers minimum wage, non-payment of wages, misclassifying workers as independent contractors or as management to avoid paying overtime and taking tips that were meant for the employees.

A 2022 report by the Colorado Fiscal Institute found that nearly 440,000 low-wage Colorado workers experience $728 million in wage theft annually. Workers of color and women are most likely to be victims of wage theft, and the most common industries for wage theft are retail, construction, and food service. Construction workers are particularly at risk for wage theft due to the high rates of subcontracting and other labor market intermediaries.

HB24-1008 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Follow its progress HERE.

Bill to Save Older Coloradans Money on Housing Clears Committee

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate Finance Committee advanced legislation sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, to reinstate a refundable tax credit to save older Coloradans money on housing.

HB24-1052 would reinstate a refundable income tax credit for Coloradans aged 65 or older with incomes under $75,000 (or $125,000 if filing jointly) who have not claimed a homestead property tax exemption for the 2024 property tax year. The income tax credit was initially created by HB22-1205.

“Amidst our statewide housing crisis, seniors on fixed incomes need additional relief to afford their rent and stay in their homes,” said Hansen. “While we’ve worked hard to extend housing support through property tax relief and a portable homestead property tax exemption, we must do more to help seniors who rent. This refundable tax credit will help even more lower and fixed income seniors remain in the homes and communities they love.”

“We’ve been working hard to support Colorado seniors, and especially those living on a low fixed income while renting, or who are not eligible for the senior homestead exemption, which is why I am so proud to champion this important legislation,” Kolker said. “This measure would save older Coloradans millions of dollars on housing, make our state a more affordable place to live, and ensure seniors can remain in the communities they have called home for years to come.”

The amount of the credit depends on income and taxpayer filing status. Single and joint filers with an income of $25,000 or less would receive the maximum credit amount of $800. For taxpayers who could file jointly but choose to file separately, the maximum credit amount would be $400. For every $500 of income above the threshold, the amount of the credit is reduced by $8 for single filers and by $4 for married taxpayers filing jointly or separately.

Under the bill, taxpayers who qualify for a property tax and rent assistance grant or heat assistance grant may receive the maximum credit amount regardless of income level.

HB24-1052 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Legislation to Encourage More Housing Near Transit and Jobs Clears Committee

DENVER, CO – Legislation aimed at increasing housing options and providing financial support to cities, counties, and municipalities that meet their housing goals cleared the Senate Local Government & Housing Committee today.

HB24-1313, sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, would encourage more housing near public transit, cycling and walking corridors, places of employment, and other centers of community, while helping prevent Coloradans from being displaced from their communities.

“The housing challenges plaguing our state are reaching a fever pitch, which is why Democrats are laser focused on providing solutions,” Hansen said. “One of those solutions is to incentivize smart, strategic growth near jobs and transit. This bill will do just that, while also reducing congestion on our roads, cutting air pollution, and increasing affordability, so that more Colorado families can find a place to call home that works for them.”

“Coloradans are begging for more housing, and there is no better place to build housing and increase density than near transit,” Winter said. “This bill is important in multiple ways - it will increase housing options, reduce costs, and help our state reach its climate goals, all while protecting vulnerable communities from displacement. I am proud to champion this legislation, and I look forward to the benefits it will bring to our state.”

The bill empowers local governments to address Colorado’s housing needs and incentivizes them to build more housing by providing financial assistance to help meet their housing goals. It also aims to conserve Colorado’s natural resources and improve air quality to protect vulnerable communities from pollution-related health issues. Of the 31 jurisdictions that would qualify under this bill, most are along the I-25 corridor.

Communities that meet their Housing Opportunity Goals would benefit from the new Transit-Oriented Communities Infrastructure Fund to support their work to improve infrastructure within transit centers or neighborhood centers.

A recent poll found that 95 percent of Coloradans say the cost of renting or buying a home is a problem, with 70 percent saying that local governments aren’t doing enough to address this issue. Nearly 70 percent of Colorado voters also support a state law, like HB24-1313, to require cities and counties to allow more housing to be built near public transit and businesses and shopping areas while providing financial assistance for these projects.

HB24-1313 will now move to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bipartisan Roberts Bill to Ensure Regular Inspections of Funeral Homes and Crematories Clears Committee

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, that would ensure Colorado’s funeral homes and crematories are regularly inspected by a state agency cleared the Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee today.

HB24-1335, also sponsored by Senator Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, would extend and expand regulations of the Mortuary Science Code, improving regulation and helping avoid future tragedies caused in part by a lack of oversight by the state.

“Coloradans should be able to trust in the services being provided during the most difficult moments of their families’ lives - but too often in Colorado, our state’s lack of oversight results in tragedy instead,” Roberts said. “We’re working hard this session to correct that. This bill will put in place stronger oversight that will ensure funeral homes and crematories are held to a high standard, and combined with SB 173 which will finally license the folks who work in the industry, we'll make sure that Coloradans’ remains are handled with the care, dignity, and respect they deserve.”

The bill expands and continues certain portions of the Mortuary Science Code in the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), which is scheduled to be repealed on July 1, 2024. The bill also:

• Requires inspection of funeral homes and crematories on a routine basis, including after businesses have ceased operations;

• Allows inspections to occur outside business hours;

• Expands rulemaking authority for DORA;

• Adds failure to respond to complaints as grounds for discipline; and 

• Authorizes DORA to suspend the registration for persons who do not comply with orders following a complaint or investigation.

Roberts is also a sponsor of SB24-173, which would align Colorado with the 49 other states that already require education, certification and licensure of those who work as funeral directors, mortuary scientists, cremationists, and embalmers.

HB24-1335 will now move to the Senate Finance Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Buckner’s Bipartisan Bill to Save Colorado Renters Money on Filing Fees

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, that would help save Colorado renters money on filing fees during eviction proceedings.

HB24-1099, also sponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, would eliminate filing fees, including e-filing fees and service fees, for renters during an eviction proceeding, helping ensure renters are not prevented from advocating for themselves in the eviction process. 

“Fees associated with eviction proceedings make an already difficult situation even harder, and they should be eliminated,” Buckner said. “Renters facing eviction must have the resources to make their case and defend themselves, and by removing these fees we can help renters avoid default judgements and ultimately help keep more Coloradans housed.”

HB24-1099 will now move to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Gives Initial Sign Off on Fenberg, Hansen Bill to Modernize Colorado’s Electric Grid, Position State to Meet Climate Goals Moves Forward

Legislation aims to speed up distribution system upgrades, meet Colorado’s long-term electrification goals, and support a robust workforce

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, the Senate Finance Committee approved legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, to modernize Colorado’s energy distribution systems. 

In order to accomplish Colorado’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meet state and federal decarbonization targets, Colorado’s electric grid needs updating. Coloradans have faced delays when installing electric vehicle chargers or rooftop solar, and delays in meeting our larger transportation and building electrification goals will persist if the distribution system isn’t updated. 

SB24-218 includes a suite of policy changes to modernize and prepare the electric grid for the future. Improving the distribution system would help communities and utility consumers electrify heating and cooling in buildings, accelerate the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and solar energy, and reduce air pollution. 

“Colorado has ambitious goals of rapidly reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, electricity generation, building heating and cooling, water heating, and industrial fuel uses,” said Fenberg. “To reliably and affordably reduce emissions to meet our decarbonization targets, Colorado needs to shift its reliance from fossil fuels to a cleaner electric grid. From requiring investments in undergrounding to maintaining rate stability, this comprehensive bill will improve our distribution infrastructure and help us meet our climate goals.”

“After the major power outages at the beginning of April, it was clear that utilities need to do more to guarantee energy resiliency during extreme weather or natural disasters,” said Hansen. “We need a strong electricity system to make sure we can reduce emissions, lower consumer costs, and improve reliability. After months of work, this bill strikes the right balance between making much-needed investments in our distribution system while protecting ratepayers, and I’m proud to see it move forward.”

The bill directs investor-owned utilities with more than 500,000 customers (qualified utility) to modernize the electric grid to the benefit of customers and to achieve state energy goals by:

• Improving distribution system planning to ensure investments meet transportation and building electrification goals, support distributed energy resources, and prepare for a changing energy marketplace;
   

• Addressing the cost allocation for infrastructure upgrades to avoid one customer paying for the cost of a system upgrade that would support state electrification goals and benefit other customers;
   

• Providing a long-term structure for how utilities will recover costs for distribution system upgrades while maintaining rate stability;
   

• Making workforce investments to provide the skilled workforce required to achieve these infrastructure upgrades;
   

• Clarifying the process and timeline for accommodating beneficial electrification loads and connecting customer-sited distributed energy resources to the qualified utility electrical grid;
   

• Establishing a Virtual Power Plant program that can help save customers money by taking advantage of distributed energy resources; and
   

• Expanding the undergrounding of powerlines and other community benefit investments to avoid the risks of wildfires and power outages during severe weather events.

SB24-218 passed the Senate Appropriations Committee and second reading today and now heads to the Senate floor. Follow its progress HERE. 

JOINT RELEASE: Governor, Democratic Leadership and Ozone Bill Sponsors Announce Agreement to Address Air Quality and Boost Transit

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis, Democratic Legislative Leadership, lawmakers from both chambers, and a broad coalition of major environmental NGOs today announced an agreement with large operators in Colorado’s oil and gas industry on a new legislative package that makes near-term progress on air quality, ozone, and climate goals while focusing on an economy-wide transition that will support Colorado’s future for generations to come.

"Forging consensus on an issue like this is hard, which is what makes today's announcement all the more exciting," Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, said. "This agreement represents Coloradans of all stripes coming together to put the needs of our state and our community first. It's taken a lot of hard work to get to this point, and I am grateful to everyone, especially the members of my caucus who have come to the table willing to work and, more importantly, listen to each other in the pursuit of an agreement we can all get behind. I am incredibly excited to see the benefits today’s announcement will bring to both our air quality and our transit system for generations to come."

“I appreciate the leadership of Governor Polis and all the parties who worked tirelessly to bring people together, achieve this consensus agreement and move forward the ‘Colorado Way,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “Hearing and respecting diverse voices is critical to making lasting policy, and I believe that’s what we’ve accomplished with this agreement. I’m proud that groups with different goals and interests came to the table and reached consensus on a landmark agreement that will improve our air quality, boost transit options and protect our Colorado way of life for future generations.”

This agreement between major oil and gas producers, a coalition of environmental nonprofit organizations, Governor Polis, and legislative leaders also calls for a focus on implementation of regulatory measures rather than competing ballot measures. This will give the state time to implement the new, agreed-upon policies and make the investments needed to put Colorado on a path to achieve the state’s climate goals.

The legislative package will create more permitting and enforcement authority for the state to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and reduce pollution in Colorado communities. It will also generate significant new funding for transit and rail, as well as land and wildlife habitat conservation and restoration, from modest fees placed on oil and gas production in Colorado.

The agreement is supported by Conservation Colorado, Earthjustice, Southwest Energy Efficiency Project, Green Latinos, and major oil and gas operators Chevron, Occidental, and Civitas.

“Colorado is at a turning point; we have to do more to improve our air quality and ensure that every Coloradan can live without fearing the dangerous consequences of ozone pollution, and that’s what this package does,” said House Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “We are coming together for Coloradans to do the right thing and address the longstanding impacts of pollution on Disproportionately Impacted Communities, which are predominantly lower-income Coloradans and people of color. It’s not easy to come to consensus, and I’m grateful to the parties on all sides for coming to the table and demonstrating the leadership needed to move Colorado forward.”

“Exposure to dangerously unhealthy ozone levels is an unfortunately common occurrence in our state, and it's impacting far too many Coloradans' health, leading to higher risk of shortness of breath, asthma attacks, increased risk for respiratory diseases, and lower birth weights for children born in high-ozone areas," said Senate Assistant Majority Leader Faith Winter, D-Broomfield. “While Colorado has worked hard to address the ozone problem, we need to do even more to reduce harmful emissions and keep our communities safe. Today’s agreement is a great first step, and is particularly exciting because of how it came together: through real, honest discussion towards a shared goal. It’ll help get our air quality crisis under control, and create a healthier future for our kids and our grandkids."

“Finding common ground can be challenging, but with this agreement, industry and environmental groups have worked hard to bridge gaps, come to consensus, and put Colorado first,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn. “This agreement, which allows time for meaningful legislation to take effect, will provide a clear timeline to implement new pollution reduction measures and put Colorado on a path to achieve our climate goals. I appreciate the hard conversations and collaboration that went into this agreement, and I’m excited to make meaningful progress that cracks down on repeat violators, improves air quality and supports future generations of Coloradans for years to come.”  

“Communities across our state, and especially like those I represent on the Front Range, have been forced to bear the consequences of unhealthy ozone levels for far too long, which is why I am so excited to be a part of this landmark agreement,” said Senator Kevin Priola, D-Henderson. “We must take action now to improve our air quality and mitigate the harmful impacts of ozone on our communities. Today’s agreement is a critical step towards reducing emissions and air pollution that puts Colorado on a path to securing a healthier future for us all."

“Under this agreement, Colorado will soon see significant new funding for rail and other critical transit efforts that will save Coloradans money, make it easier for people to get where they need to go, and reduce harmful emissions that lead to poor air quality,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D- Englewood. “This legislative package will help reduce traffic by increasing transit options, support new housing construction, and improve the quality of life for people across our state while investing in habitat conservation, increasing state wildlife areas, and restoring important lands and native species.”

“Our geography in Colorado – and especially along the Front Range – makes us uniquely susceptible to unhealthy ozone levels and poor air quality,” said Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. “This results in short and long term health impacts that affect entire communities. We’ve worked hard on policies to improve our air quality, especially during months where ozone levels are the worst. This agreement gives us the opportunity to take significant action that will reduce air pollution, protect Colorado’s environment, and build a healthier Colorado.”

“The impacts of climate change disproportionately impact communities like mine, which is why it is so important that we come together to make lasting changes that will stand the test of time,” said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D- Glenwood Springs. “From floods to wildfires, extreme climate events are devastating communities across our state. It’s not always easy, but coming together, like we have with this agreement, will protect our environment and paves the way for a future we can be proud of.”

I’ve long worked to advance environmental justice and protect communities from the impacts of our changing climate, and I’m excited by the progress we’ve made with this agreement,” said Rep. Manny Rutinel, D-Commerce City. “It’s not often that people with different perspectives and goals come together like this, and it’s something we should celebrate. This agreement will lead to increased transit options, reduced ozone emissions, and healthier communities, especially for the Coloradans who have far too often faced the brunt of the consequences from our changing climate and industrial pollution.”

“I support moving forward with this critical agreement because bringing together and finding consensus among competing sides of this issue will help us make immediate progress on addressing poor air quality on the Front Range and creating new transit options for Coloradans,” said Rep. Cathy Kipp, D- Fort Collins.  “We’ve made a lot of progress in recent years, and while there is still considerable work to do, I recognize that this consensus agreement represents the best chance we have to make meaningful change that protects our environment and fosters the healthy communities Coloradans deserve.”

Marchman Bill to Increase Workers’ Compensation Benefits Passes Senate

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed legislation sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, to bolster workers’ compensation benefits.

HB24-1220 would increase workers’ compensation disability benefits limits on temporary injuries to $185,000, and permanent injuries to $300,000. Currently, workers' compensation disability benefits are determined by the claimants’ impairment rating. A claimant with an impairment rating of 19 percent or less is eligible for benefits up to $75,000, while a claimant with an impairment rating over 19 percent is eligible for benefits up to $150,000. 

“Workers compensation benefits are limited and don’t provide compensation for pain and suffering or other non-economic losses,” Marchman said. “I’ve heard directly from folks who didn’t receive the full amount they were owed, while others who received nothing for their permanent injury sustained on the job. It’s time we adjust the law and ensure that more workers receive fair compensation.”

HB24-1220 would require workers’ compensation insurers to issue benefit payments through direct deposit if requested by a claimant. If an injured worker has a medical condition that restricts them from driving, the bill would protect the worker from being fired if they do not accept an offer of modified employment that includes driving to or from the workplace.

The bill now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature. Follow its progress HERE.

Senate Passes Bill to Strengthen Protections for Residents of Mobile Home Parks

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed a bill to keep Coloradans housed and strengthen protections for residents of mobile home parks.

HB24-1294, sponsored by Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, would close gaps in the Mobile Home Park Act that have left mobile park residents vulnerable to displacement and financial harm. Specifically, this bill would update owner and landlord responsibilities, strengthen tenant protections, ensure important park notices and meetings are accessible to Spanish speakers, and clarify the conditions of the sale of mobile homes and parks.

“Homeowners in mobile parks face unique challenges since they own their home but rent the lot it sits on,” said Cutter. “This bill addresses many gaps in our current protections, including increasing transparency in ‘rent to own’ agreements, speeding up dispute resolution, and ensuring that a resident’s housing is not at risk due to a language access issue. These provisions will help keep more Coloradans housed in their communities.” 

The bill increases transparency in “rent to own” contracts by ensuring that both parties are informed of their rights and responsibilities, such as the refundability of payments in the event a tenancy terminates prematurely. Additionally, HB24-1294 would require that parkwide meetings, as well as written notices of potential evictions or rent increases, are communicated and accessible in both English and Spanish. It would also clarify the circumstances when park residents are protected against rent increases.

HB24-1294 now heads to the House for concurrence of amendments. Follow its progress HERE. 

Fields, Jaquez Lewis Bill to Improve Health Insurance Transparency Passes Senate

Bill would require insurance compliance with federal regulations in Colorado

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, legislation to enhance transparency in health care coverage. 

Currently, insurers are required to disclose and post pricing details and submit prescription drug spending information to the federal government. However, this information is not easily accessible to Coloradans. SB24-080 would ensure transparency for consumers so they can make informed decisions about their health care. 

“Coloradans deserve to have easy access to information on health insurance costs,” said Fields. “Right now, too many health insurance carriers aren’t complying with federal price transparency laws. By addressing the problem at the state level, we can hold these companies accountable and help save Coloradans money on health care.”

“I’m proud of our work to make health care coverage more affordable for Coloradans. This bill is the next step forward in that process,” Jaquez Lewis said. “Folks would have a digital tool to compare rates, covered items and services, and get real time responses on questions so they can find an option that works best for them and their family.”

The bill would require carriers to submit information on their negotiated rates and prescription drug trends to the Division of Insurance (DOI) in an easy-to-read, accessible format. DOI would have the ability to ensure compliance from insurers by creating a consumer price comparison tool that insurers use to input data – so that Coloradans can have easy access to cost sharing information on all items and services. 

SB24-080 now heads to the House for further consideration. Follow its progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Increase Access to Preventative Care for Treatment of Chronic Obesity and Pre-Diabetes

Legislation would require insurers and Medicaid to cover bariatric surgery and FDA-approved anti-obesity medication

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved Senators Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Joann Ginal’s, D-Fort Collins, bill to increase access to preventative care for the treatment of obesity and pre-diabetes.

SB24-054, the Diabetes Prevention and Obesity Treatment Act, would require insurers and Medicaid to cover the treatment of chronic obesity and pre-diabetes. Covered treatments would include screenings, behavioral and lifestyle therapy, bariatric surgery, and FDA-approved anti-obesity medication, or semaglutide.

“For many people, it can take years of trial and error to find the right method to lose weight and keep it off,” Michaelson Jenet said. “I don’t want anyone else to face the kinds of obstacles I did in accessing the right treatment, and I don’t want anyone to face judgment due to the way they choose to live their life and seek care. With this bill, we have an opportunity to open up access to preventative care that can and will change lives, all while relieving stress on Colorado’s health care system.”

“Obesity-related conditions including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes are among the top causes of premature and preventable death,” said Ginal. “New weight loss medications like Ozempic or Wegovy offer a new lease on life to folks struggling to lose weight and get their health on track. If we are able to prevent diabetes or heart disease before it starts, we can save our health care system millions of dollars and help people live out their lives unburdened by avoidable and costly medical expenditures.”

Medication with the active ingredient semaglutide has been shown to be effective for weight loss. Since 2017, two semaglutide drugs have been approved for diabetes treatment: Ozempic and Rybelsus. In June of 2021, a third semaglutide medication was approved for weight loss management, Wegovy, which was further approved for reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with a history of heart disease in March of 2024.

SB24-054 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

President Fenberg’s Legislation to Make Colorado’s Elections More Democratic and Inclusive Passes Committee

Each year, Fenberg champions legislation to clean up Colorado’s elections and ensure they remain the gold-standard

DENVER, CO – The Senate Appropriations Committee today approved Senate President Steve Fenberg’s, D-Boulder, bill to improve our elections system, including strengthening financial disclosures of candidates and elected officials and improving the vacancy elections process.

Under current state law, if a state senate or house district comprises more than one county, elected precinct committee persons are not part of the vacancy committee. On the other hand, if a state senate or house district consists of one county, elected precinct committee persons are part of the vacancy committee. This difference leaves single county districts with hundreds of voters in the case of a vacancy, where multi-county districts have single digits to tens of votes. 

SB24-210 would address this discrepancy by requiring all state central committees to include their elected precinct committee persons, as well as the chairpersons, vice-chairpersons, and secretary of the several party county central committees who reside within the district. Expanding the number of voices on a vacancy committee increases the representation of those in the impacted districts and makes the process more democratic.

“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. “This bill will allow more Coloradans to have their voice heard in the case of vacancies and improve access for young voters, in addition to strengthening our financial disclosure laws. In Colorado, we are continuing to build confidence in our democratic process and ensuring we remain at the forefront when it comes to holding free and fair elections.”

This legislation would increase transparency and ethics in financial disclosure laws by ensuring the public has access to information about public officials’ finances and their potential conflicts of interests. If a citizen feels that someone isn’t complying with the law, there will now be a clear process for how to file complaints. 

Additionally, the bill would make Colorado’s election process more accessible to young voters by requiring counties to establish a ballot drop box on each higher education campus that has 1,000 or more enrolled students.

SB24-210 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Follow its progress HERE.

Bill to Improve Protections for Victims of Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Clears Committee

DENVER, CO – Legislation to improve protections for victims of domestic violence and child abuse engaged in court proceedings cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee today.

HB24-1350, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, would make changes to the regulation of child and family investigators and evaluators. The bill would:

• Increase the hours of training required for investigators and evaluators;

• Require investigators and evaluators to provide options to the court that serve the best interest of the child;

• Require investigators and evaluators to provide written disclosure about their duties to each party involved in a court proceeding; 

• Require investigators and evaluators to include all information concerning domestic violence and child abuse acquired during the case, regardless of how they learn this information; and

• Require court personnel to be trained on coercive control, or a pattern of behavior an abuser uses to gain control and power over their victim.

“Too often, when domestic violence or child abuse is reported in custody cases, not only is custody ultimately awarded to the abuser, but survivors’ experiences are not taken seriously or are disregarded altogether,” said Winter. “In recent years, we have passed important legislation to increase awareness around these issues, but there’s more we can do. The protections included in this bill will ensure investigators have the necessary tools to reduce victim blaming bias and ensure safety for all of Colorado’s youth.”

“Victims of domestic violence and child abuse are often re-traumatized during court proceedings by custody decisions that put them in further danger,” Michaelson Jenet said. “We must do everything we can to ensure child and family investigators are well-trained and equipped to act in the best interest of victims, which is why this bill is so important. With this bill, we’re helping ensure victims’ well-being and safety, while also improving accountability in our court system.”

HB24-1350 would also require a court to consider the health and safety needs of a child when allocating parenting time. If a court orders unsupervised parenting time for a parent accused of domestic violence or child abuse, the court must make a statement on why that decision is in the best interest of the child. 

Finally, the bill charges the State Court Administrator (SCA) with accepting complaints against family investigators and evaluators, and requires the SCA to annually report those complaints to the legislature.

HB24-1350 will now move to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Roberts Bill to Ensure EpiPen Affordability, Save Coloradans Money Clears Committee

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, that would boost enforcement of a law intended to save Coloradans money on epinephrine auto injectors, commonly known as EpiPens, cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee today.

HB24-1438 builds on Roberts’ bill to cap the cost of a two pack of EpiPens at $60 by increasing the fines for noncompliance. The bill also authorizes the Colorado Attorney General to enforce both the Epinephrine Auto-Injector Affordability Program and the Insulin Affordability Program, and makes it a deceptive trade practice for a manufacturer to fail to comply with the Insulin Affordability Program.

“Nobody should have to choose between affording their prescription drugs and paying rent or putting food on the table - but too many families like the ones I represent on the Western Slope are being forced to do just that when it comes to insulin or EpiPens, despite the state law that requires them to be sold at a price families can afford,” Roberts said. “This bill will put more teeth into enforcing our landmark legislation to make EpiPens more affordable, and hold accountable the bad actors who continue to charge Colorado families an arm and a leg for this life saving medication.”

HB23-1002 created the Epinephrine Auto-Injector Affordability Program, which allows uninsured Coloradans with a prescription to obtain low-cost epinephrine auto-injectors. Under the law, manufacturers are required to provide access to the program on their websites - but recent reports show that some pharmacies and manufacturers are not complying with the new law. 

HB24-1438 will now move to further consideration before the Senate Appropriations Committee. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Cutter, Michaelson Jenet Bill to Protect Colorado Libraries From Book Bans Clears Committee

Colorado saw a 143 percent increase in book ban attempts in 2023, according to the American Library Association

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Education Committee passed legislation to address the rise in attempts to ban certain books from Colorado libraries.

SB24-216, sponsored by Senators Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, would establish policies for the acquisition, retention, and display of library sources, as well as their removal upon the request of a patron. Libraries would not be allowed to remove content based on the demographics of the author or based on partisan disapproval of the topic. 

“Librarians work hard to provide their patrons with an inclusive array of materials, but culture war extremists are attacking them trying to deny other library goers materials and programming they don’t agree with,” said Cutter. “As more states move to ban books and limit citizens’ freedoms, we have to protect free speech and ensure access to information in Colorado. This bill protects librarians and ensures libraries remain welcoming and enriching spaces for all.”

“The freedom to read is one of our most precious rights, providing us with knowledge and skills to think critically and be informed citizens,” Michaelson Jenet said. “Most books challenged have been written by or about a historically marginalized group. This political tactic has dire consequences, especially for children, whom research shows benefit from culturally and racially responsive representation. Our communities deserve to be represented in public spaces like libraries, and codifying those legal standards demonstrates our commitment to protecting all Coloradans.”

Under this bill, libraries may only remove materials based on the policies their board adopts, and librarians would be protected from retaliation, discrimination, or termination for any resource that is not removed in accordance with the board’s policy. 

Finally, a person who requests that material may be removed must live within the service area of the library, and their requests would be public under the Colorado Open Records Act. For example, if a person requests a book be removed from a Jefferson County Public Library, they must reside within Jefferson County.

The bill now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Follow its progress HERE.