JOINT RELEASE: Recession Risk Increases, Tight Budget Conditions Persist

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

“The Joint Budget Committee faces an extraordinarily challenging budget process this year because of the rationing equation in TABOR. Uncertainty at the federal level also poses very real threats to our work at the state level,” said JBC Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “However, unlike Washington, we have combed through the budget to make thoughtful, strategic, and bipartisan cuts. Even tougher decisions lie ahead that will impact everyday services Coloradans rely on. Despite these challenges, we’ll wrap up our work later this week to pass a responsible, balanced budget.”

“Today’s forecast is a reminder that looming trade wars, federal cuts to Medicaid, and sweeping federal layoffs, will significantly harm Colorado’s economy, drive up prices and worsen our budget crisis,” said JBC Member Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “Coloradans are counting on us to responsibly balance our budget, which means we will need to make cuts in places no one wants in order to protect essential services and our most vulnerable community members. Our tight budget condition is the result of increased Medicaid costs and fiscal constraints, and that means we will need to make tradeoffs to deliver on the services Coloradans rely on.”  

“This economic forecast highlights the uncertainty driven by federal decision-making and the concerns many Coloradans share about the nation’s economy,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “These challenges compound an already difficult budgeting process that the Joint Budget Committee has been working through and presents new challenges as we think long term about the state’s budget and economy. As we approach the end of our budgeting process, I will work hard to protect critical funding for services like education and behavioral health care – investments that will build stronger, healthier communities for years to come.”

“As we get closer to delivering a balanced budget for Coloradans, federally-fueled economic uncertainty is creating alarming risks to our economy and new pressures on our budget process,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “While we have difficult, painful budget decisions still before us, we’ve worked hard to prioritize the investments that Coloradans rely on in education, health care and public safety. Colorado has a long history of passing bipartisan budgets, and I’d like to recognize the JBC’s diligent, thoughtful work to find responsible cuts that, while still painful, will help us finalize a balanced and responsible budget in these difficult circumstances.”

Despite headwinds exacerbated by federal policies, Colorado’s economy remains strong. Driven by lower housing inflation, headline inflation in the Denver area is lower than the nation, and inflation in Colorado has been measured at much lower levels than nationally. The LCS forecast anticipates Colorado’s economy will continue to grow, however “rapidly shifting federal policy” has resulted in downward revisions to the economic forecasts. According to LCS, “over the forecast period, increased tariffs are expected to reduce trade volumes, put upward pressure on prices, and dampen business investment in structures and equipment.” Tariffs will “put upward pressure on retail gasoline prices.”

Given the uncertainty surrounding consequential economic decisions made by the Trump administration, including tariffs, freezing federal funds and promised extensive changes to federal economic and tax policy, Colorado’s recession risk has been elevated. President Trump's tariff policies have resulted in more business volatility and uncertainty for consumers, and LCS staff believes there are now more risks to the forecast that could worsen budget conditions (downside risks) as a result of these federal policies. For example, tariffs on the import of crude oil from Canada could raise prices for Colorado consumers. 

Colorado has a large number of federal employees, some of whom have been subject to mass layoffs by the Trump administration at the USDA, NOAA, IRS and other federal departments.

Colorado’s budget conditions remain constrained as costs grow. Medicaid costs have increased in Colorado, mainly due to aging demographics and higher demand for more expensive services, such as long term care. Colorado is facing a budget deficit of more than $1 billion, however, increased costs in Medicaid make up nearly 60 percent of this deficit.

Colorado’s Medicaid funding could further be jeopardized if Congress adopts a plan to drastically reduce Medicaid spending. This federal funding cut to Medicaid has the potential to impact Colorado's ability to provide health care to nearly 400,000 Coloradans.  

The state is also required to fulfill voter-approved investments that further reduce the amount available in a capped budget and require legislative trade offs. 

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.89 billion in FY 2025-2026, adding to an opening balance of $2.20 billion in reserves, and $18.78 billion in FY in 2026-2027 – a 6.5 percent decrease in total funds available when compared year over year. 

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.2 billion for FY 2024-2025 and $18.0 billion for FY 2025-2026 – a $344.6 million decrease for FY 2024-2025 and a $108.5 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the December revenue forecast.

Legislation to Recognize Tribal Court Orders, Improve Public Safety Passes Committee Unanimously

SB25-009 would affirm tribal sovereignty by ensuring state agencies recognize Tribal arrest warrants, court orders, and civil commitments

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to require Colorado state agencies to recognize and enforce Tribal court decisions passed the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously today.

SB25-009 would ensure that state entities like courts, law enforcement, hospitals, and behavioral health facilities give full faith and credit to an arrest warrant or civil commitment issued by a Tribal court of a federally recognized Tribe. 

“It is important to honor Tribal orders in all Colorado jurisdictions,” said Danielson. “When a Tribal court issues an arrest warrant, that decision should be the law of the land – full stop. The existing gap in enforcement prevents victims, especially in indigenous communities, from accessing justice. This bill authorizes changes to better serve the American Indian community in our state.” 

“Decisions made in Tribal courts should be enforced throughout the state of Colorado,” said Roberts. “This bill is about sovereignty and safety. By ensuring the state recognizes decisions by Tribal courts, we can honor Tribal sovereignty, improve public safety, and ensure consistency and accountability across our justice system.”

Current law does not expressly allow for the state to recognize an arrest warrant or civil commitment from a Tribal court. Civil commitment orders include orders from law enforcement agencies, behavioral health facilities, and health care providers.

SB25-009 is one of three bills advanced by the bipartisan American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee last year. 

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

Bill to Protect HOA Homeowners Passes Committee

The bill would help keep Coloradans housed by strengthening protections against HOA enforcement and foreclosure

DENVER, CO – The Senate Local Government and Housing Committee today passed a bill that would strengthen safeguards for homeowners in homeowners associations (HOAs) to help them stay housed and recoup their property’s equity if they are forced to sell.

HB25-1043, sponsored by Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, would add several new requirements to HOAs’ enforcement and foreclosure procedures to protect homeowners. 

“Homeowners deserve the certainty and stability of knowing that their home will not be sold out from under them without an opportunity to retain their equity - regardless of whether or not they have an HOA,” said Exum. “Becoming a homeowner is a way to build generational wealth and secure housing stability for the long haul. By adding measures to increase transparency, strengthen homeowner protections, and prevent hasty enforcement and foreclosure actions from an HOA, we can keep Colorado families in their homes.”

Under the bill, an HOA would be required to comply with its own bylaws and all applicable state laws before collecting money through enforcement actions. In cases where an HOA pursues a foreclosure against an owner, HB25-1043 would allow an owner to file a court motion to delay the sale of their home at auction for up to nine months, during which they could sell their own home at market value instead of losing it at auction. 

The bill would also strengthen and clarify existing notification guidelines, require an HOA to provide owners with a notice regarding their right to credit counseling at least 30 days before initiating foreclosure, and add new reporting requirements to HOAs’ annual registration with the Department of Regulatory Agencies. 

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: Bill to Encourage Increased Transportation Options Passes Committee

SB25-030 would encourage alternative modes of transportation

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee approved legislation sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, to encourage increased transportation options to make sustainable transportation more accessible, convenient, and reliable. 

“This bill is a bold step to give Coloradans freedom and choice in how they move and access transit. It helps connect different modes of transportation like biking, walking, taking transit, or driving, to ensure everyone can get to where they need to go," Winter said. “A third of Coloradans don't drive due to economic circumstances, disability, age or choice – this bill increases equity in access. Eighty nine percent of Coloradans want an increase in choice on mobility and this bill is an important step forward.”

“This bill is a practical, long-term solution to a host of different issues – from traffic congestion to climate change,” Hinrichsen said. “We all love shorter commute times and more options to get to school, work, and community spaces. Senate Bill 30 would help give us a clear, practical path to make sure the state’s transit agencies are partners in achieving that goal.”

SB25-030 would establish “Transit and Active Transportation Project Inventories” to allow the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and local governments to efficiently identify gaps in transit, bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure in state and regional transit systems. Inventories would be utilized to inform future planning of multimodal infrastructure projects and allow CDOT to better identify funding gaps and opportunities. 

The transportation sector is one of Colorado’s largest air polluters. This bill would build on past efforts by Senate Democrats to support multimodal transit infrastructure, such as last year’s SB24-036, also sponsored by Senator Winter, which funded bicycle and pedestrian safety infrastructure.

SB25-030 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Bill to Make it Easier for Consumers to End Automatic Contract Renewals Passes Committee

SB25-145 would require sellers to offer simple, online cancellation of automatic renewal contracts or trial periods

DENVER, CO – A bill to protect consumers from burdensome automatic renewal contract cancellations passed the Senate Business, Labor and Technology Committee today. 

Sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, SB25-145 would require sellers of goods and services to implement simple mechanisms for consumers to cancel automatic renewal contracts and trial periods either online or in-person. Failure to do so would constitute a deceptive trade practice under the Colorado Consumer Protection Act.

“There is nothing more frustrating than signing up for a free trial or a subscription only to have to jump through hoop after difficult hoop to try to cancel that subscription,” Kipp said. “This bill would help prevent deceptive practices and simplify the process for Coloradans to cancel their subscriptions online, saving them time and money in the long run.”

SB25-145 closes a loophole in Kipp’s HB21-1239, which provided transparency to consumers entering into automatic renewal contracts, to further shore up consumer protections.

This bill joins a host of other bills by Colorado Democrats to protect consumers this session, including SB25-157, which would prevent deceptive trade practices that mislead consumers into buying a product or service, HB25-1090, which would protect against junk fees, and HB25-1010, which would prevent price gouging. 

SB25-145 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Pair of Bills to Streamline Childhood Health Care Pass Committee

HB25-1003 and SB25-017 would improve state-supported measures to streamline children’s health care

DENVER, CO – Two bills sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to streamline state support for children’s health care passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee today. 

“We owe it to our children to provide the support they need in their early years. That is not only the right thing to do, but an important investment in our future,” Cutter said. “These bills help protect and streamline children’s health care and early intervention services to make sure every child in Colorado has the opportunity to thrive.”

HB25-1003 would combine two existing Medicaid waiver programs into one, creating the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver program. This new program would help streamline waivers to better support Colorado’s youth with behavioral health conditions or complex needs by providing in-home services and treatments for families with children with a complex health need, including respite care and pain management.

The committee also approved Cutter’s SB25-017, which aims to strengthen access to holistic primary health care for children in child care and learning environments.

HB25-1003 will move to the Senate floor for further consideration. SB25-017 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

Bipartisan Legislation to Encourage Cleaner Construction Passes Committee

The bill would leverage existing financing tools and tax incentives to increase low-carbon materials in construction

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation to advance Colorado’s climate goals by reducing embodied carbon emissions released during the production, transportation, and use of construction materials passed the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee today. 

SB25-182, sponsored by Senators Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would expand incentives for the private sector to use sustainable materials in construction and strengthen the emerging industry of low-carbon material innovators. 

“Colorado consistently ranks as one of the top ten states for population growth and new commercial real estate development, which is why we must take construction-related greenhouse gas emissions seriously,” said Ball. “We already lead the nation with innovative policies to cut emissions from buildings, and this legislation builds on that success by making it easier for private developers to use low-carbon materials. By expanding financing tools and incentives, we can ensure that Colorado’s dynamic construction sector drives progress towards our climate goals while creating demand for the highest quality, climate-positive materials – many of which are being developed and pioneered right here in the state.”

The bill would expand the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financing program to include low-carbon construction materials, which would reduce upfront cost for developers to buy sustainable materials, which are often more expensive than traditional building materials. The bill would also add embodied carbon improvements to the list of greenhouse gas reduction improvements that may qualify for the Industrial Clean Energy Tax Credit. 

SB25-182 would help ensure that the state’s rapidly expanding construction sector becomes a driver of clean economic growth rather than a roadblock to climate progress.

SB25-182 now heads to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Trio of Michaelson Jenet Bills to Improve Access to Physical & Behavioral Health Care Pass Senate

The bills would increase access to medical equipment, update regulations on psilocybin medicine, and implement new guidelines for electroconvulsive treatment

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed three pieces of legislation sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, to expand access to physical and behavioral health care. 

“I have always been a fierce advocate for ensuring Coloradans can access the care they need to live a full, healthy life,” said Michaelson Jenet. “Occupational therapists know what their patients need, and HB25-1016 will make a real difference in Coloradans’ lives by allowing them to prescribe critical medical equipment like crutches, oxygen tanks, and wheelchairs. My other two bills that passed today will ensure that Coloradans struggling with severe mental illness have access to innovative and life-saving treatments. These bills are about giving Coloradans the care they need, when they need it.” 

HB25-1016 would allow occupational therapists to prescribe durable medical equipment, like ventilators and wheelchairs, without requiring a prescription from a licensed physician, leading to increased access, better health outcomes, and a higher quality of life for occupational therapy patients. 

HB25-1063 is a bipartisan bill that would make a prescription medication that includes crystalline polymorph psilocybin legal to prescribe, dispense, distribute, possess, use, and market in Colorado upon its approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This bill does not allow access to drugs that have not been FDA-approved.

Colorado became the second state in the nation to legalize psychedelic therapy when voters passed Proposition 122 in 2022. In June 2023, the FDA published guidance for researchers investigating the use of psychedelic therapy for medical treatment, stating that psilocybin and other psychedelic drugs have shown promising results when used to treat mood, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and substance use disorders. A Johns Hopkins study found that psilocybin-assisted therapy can relieve major depressive disorder symptoms in some adults for at least a year.

HB25-1070 is a bipartisan bill that would allow minors to receive electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) from trained providers only if less invasive treatments have failed, two psychiatrists approve the treatment (one of whom must be trained in child and adolescent health), and the minor’s parent/guardian consents. 

Numerous case studies and extensive literature reviews demonstrate that ECT is effective and safe in both typically-developing youth and youth with developmental disabilities, including those under 16 years of age, and can drastically improve the quality of life for those with certain severe mental health disorders. 

HB25-1016 now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. HB25-1063 and HB25-1070 now move to the Governor’s desk to be signed. 

Senate Approves Bill to Implement Voter-Approved Protections for Abortion Care & Pregnancy-Related Services

Legislation would update Colorado statute to reflect changes necessitated by the passage of Amendment 79

DENVER, CO – Legislation to implement voter-approved protections for abortion care and pregnancy-related services was approved by the Senate today.

In November 2024, Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 79 to enshrine the right to abortion in the Colorado Constitution and remove the state’s prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care.

Sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, SB25-183 would implement the will of the voters by updating Colorado statute to reflect changes necessitated by Amendment 79’s passage.

“Colorado voters have once again reaffirmed their support for freedom to make decisions about their bodies and their futures,” said Rodriguez. “Our state has a long history of standing up for reproductive health care freedoms, and this represents another chapter in that story. I am honored to sponsor this legislation that implements the will of the voters and ensures reproductive health care is protected in both our state law and our constitution.”
 
“Coloradans deserve the freedom to make their own health care decisions and choices about when to start a family – full stop,” said Daugherty. “Amidst a dangerous national landscape, we have worked hard to ensure that Colorado is a beacon for access to safe and affordable reproductive health care. Last November, Coloradans resoundingly voted to build on that work and permanently protect the fundamental right to abortion care in our state’s constitution.”

Beginning on January 1, 2026, the bill would ensure that state employee health insurance plans cover abortion care and require the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to authorize reimbursements for abortion care under publicly funded insurance, including community members with coverage through Health First Colorado, and the Reproductive Health Care Program.

SB25-183 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Signed! New Law Will Improve Building Accessibility for Coloradans with Disabilities

HB25-1030 will require local governments to ensure building codes incorporate accessibility standards in new and renovated buildings

DENVER, CO – Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera today signed a bill into law that will improve accessibility standards for Coloradans with disabilities, sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, Senator Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood.

“Coloradans with disabilities deserve the opportunity to move about freely and fully participate in society,” said Cutter. “They deserve equal access to public buildings and services. This law moves us closer to making these things a reality, and to complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was signed into law nearly 35 years ago.”

“Coloradans with disabilities rely on certain accessibility features in going about their daily lives, and it’s important that new and renovated buildings such as schools and health facilities meet or exceed the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act,” said Joseph. “With this law, we’re standing by our commitment to Colorado’s disability community by improving accessibility requirements in building codes throughout our state and supporting basic access to public buildings.”

“The heart of this new law is about letting all our neighbors live with dignity and respect. The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed 35 years ago, yet many buildings are still inaccessible,” said Winter. “One step forward to ensure that we're increasing accessibility is to have local governments update their building codes. Everyone should be able to fully participate in all aspects of society and not be limited by access to a building.”

“The Americans with Disabilities Act has been law for over 30 years, yet gaps in enforcing those accessibility requirements continue to act as a barrier to Coloradans with disabilities,” said Stewart. ”As a former local government official, I know this law will benefit our communities by creating a guideline for local governments to follow when it comes to accessibility updates, mitigating lawsuits and making our communities more accessible for all.”

Beginning January 1, 2026, HB25-1030 will require local governments to ensure that new or substantially amended building codes meet or exceed international accessibility standards. It also requires the Division of Fire Prevention and Control to ensure building codes for public school and health facilities meet these standards. 

For hotels, motels, and multiple dwellings in jurisdictions with no local building code, the State Housing Board will be responsible for meeting or exceeding these standards. 

This bill is another in a series of steps Colorado Democrats have taken in recent years to support Colorado’s disability community, including creating the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office to serve as an official resource for implementing a statewide strategy to promote successful economic, social, and community integration.

Legislation to Expand Access to Educator Pathways Passes Senate

SB25-154 would expand opportunities to obtain an educator license to address Colorado’s teacher shortage

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved legislation sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, to address Colorado’s teacher shortage by expanding access to educator pathways. 

“As a former school board member and district volunteer, I know that students and educators, especially in rural communities, are hurting as a result of a shortage of teachers,” said Kipp. “Giving aspiring educators more opportunities to pursue a career in teaching will help students and teachers alike succeed in Colorado schools.” 

SB25-154 would reduce excessive barriers to becoming an educator by amending and clarifying assessment requirements for early childhood special education, elementary education, and special education candidates and allowing candidates to demonstrate their qualifications in multiple ways. It would also allow currently licensed teachers to teach subjects that may face even steeper shortages, like special education, without extensive barriers. 

Additionally, the bill would require that state universities who offer courses through the Teacher Recruitment Education and Preparation (TREP) program, which provides concurrent enrollment opportunities for qualifying students seeking a career in education, only offer TREP courses at a community college tuition rate. This change would expand opportunities for low-income students to pursue a career in education. 

SB25-154 will now head to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Reduce Wildfire Risk

HB25-1009 would mitigate fire risk by requiring removal of vegetation that fuels wildfires

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to mitigate wildfire risk passed the Senate today. 

“Climate change is driving more frequent and intense wildfires, so we must use all the tools at our disposal to protect our communities,” Cutter said. “Mitigation is an important tactic, and this bill would empower property owners and their local governments to remove dead vegetation that often serve as fuel for wildfires.”

HB25-1009 would allow districts that provide fire prevention services to establish programs to help property owners facilitate the removal of dead or dry plant material that fuels fires in accordance with codes adopted by the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code Board. 

HB25-1009 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Legislation to Ensure Safe Housing and Strengthen Renter Protections Clears Committee

SB25-020 aims to ensure compliance with landlord-tenant laws and uphold housing standards statewide

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced legislation sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, to ensure safe housing and strengthen renter protections by expanding the Attorney General’s and local governments’ authority to initiate and enforce landlord-tenant laws.

SB25-020 would allow the Colorado Attorney General to seek any penalties or use any enforcement mechanisms available under landlord-tenant laws to enforce housing protections for victims of unlawful sexual behavior, stalking, or domestic violence, documentation requirements for housing agreements, and protections regarding bed bugs in residential homes. The bill would give counties and municipalities the ability to initiate and enforce these same landlord-tenant laws in addition to existing provisions the Attorney General may already enforce.

“In recent years, we have worked hard to strengthen renters’ protections and level the playing field between tenants and landlords,” Gonzales said. “When apartment buildings fall into disrepair because of neglect and mismanagement, it throws tenants’ lives into chaos, jeopardizes safe living conditions, and disrupts their ability to simply get through their day. This bill empowers local governments and the Attorney General to enforce the laws we already have on the books by holding neglectful management companies who have a pattern and practice of disregarding our safe housing laws to account, with the goal of ensuring that all Coloradans can live in safe and healthy housing.”

“For too long, bad actors in property management have ignored tenant complaints, neglected basic repairs, and left communities in crisis. This must end,” said Weissman. “Recent events in Aurora and Denver highlight the urgent need for stronger tools to protect renters. Violations of our state’s safe housing laws cannot be ignored – especially in a housing crisis where every rental unit matters. SB20 is narrowly focused on tackling cases of chronic neglect where tenants have been left without options for far too long.”

SB25-020 would also establish a process where, only in severe cases, residential housing may be placed into receivership – a legal process where a court appoints a caretaker to oversee a neglected property to temporarily manage operations, make necessary repairs, and repay debts. The bill outlines the process for receivership cases, including proper notice to parties, powers and responsibilities for entities appointed as receivers, and the process for ending receiverships.

SB25-020 now moves to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bipartisan Bill to Increase Access to Veterinary Education

HB25-1131 would address Colorado’s veterinary care shortage by expanding access to Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, to address Colorado’s veterinary care shortage. 

“When our state is facing a shortage of veterinarians, any student who wants to jump-start their careers at CSU’s first-rate College of Veterinary Medicine should be able to,” Kipp said. “This bill would expand access to veterinary education and address Colorado’s veterinarian shortage, especially in rural communities feeling the shortage the most.” 

Cosponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, HB25-1131 would increase access to veterinary care by eliminating the cap on student enrollment for Colorado State University’s (CSU) College of Veterinary Medicine. 

CSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences is ranked as the #2 veterinary school in the nation and works in partnership with CSU’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. This bill would make it easier for students to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and help tackle Colorado’s rising veterinary care shortage.

HB25-1131 now moves to the Governor’s desk to be signed. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Survivors of Sexual Misconduct Passes Senate Unanimously

The bill would expand Colorado’s Civil Rape Shield Law to mirror protections found in criminal courts

DENVER, CO –  Today, the Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, that would strengthen protections for survivors of sexual misconduct.

Cosponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, HB25-1138 would protect victims of sexual misconduct in civil court by expanding the Civil Rape Shield Law. 

“This legislation ensures that survivors of sexual violence are treated with dignity and fairness in civil court,” said Daugherty. “Survivors who bravely come forward deserve to know that irrelevant details – like their clothing, hair style, or past sexual history – will not be used against them. By preventing the use of these unrelated details in civil cases, we can protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.”

The bill would make a victim’s hairstyle, manner of speech, lifestyle, and clothing related to an alleged sexual offense inadmissible as evidence of consent, credibility, or harm. With few exceptions, the past sexual history of a victim could not be discussed, and a judge must first review any such evidence in private. 

Currently, Colorado law says sexual activity is irrelevant and inadmissible in a civil proceeding unless that sexual activity was between a victim and a defendant. This bill would eliminate that exception. 

Colorado Democrats passed a 2024 law that expanded the Criminal Rape Shield Law to prohibit the admission of evidence of a victim’s clothing or the victim’s past sexual history with a defendant to prove consent in criminal court.

HB25-1138 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track its progress HERE.

Trio of Michaelson Jenet Bills to Improve Access to Physical & Behavioral Health Care Pass Committee

The bills would increase access to medical equipment, update regulations on psilocybin medicine, and implement new guidelines for electroconvulsive treatment

DENVER, CO – The Senate Health and Human Services Committee today passed three pieces of legislation sponsored by Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, to expand access to physical and behavioral health care. 

“I have always been a fierce advocate for ensuring Coloradans can access the care they need to live a full, healthy life,” said Michaelson Jenet. “Occupational therapists know what their patients need, and HB25-1016 will make a real difference in Coloradans’ lives by allowing them to prescribe critical medical equipment like crutches, oxygen tanks, and wheelchairs. My other two bills that passed today will ensure that Coloradans struggling with severe mental illness have access to innovative and life-saving treatments. These bills are about giving Coloradans the care they need, when they need it.” 

HB25-1016 would allow occupational therapists to prescribe durable medical equipment, like ventilators and wheelchairs, without requiring a prescription from a licensed physician, leading to increased access, better health outcomes, and a higher quality of life for occupational therapy patients. 

HB25-1063 is a bipartisan bill that would make a prescription medication that includes crystalline polymorph psilocybin legal to prescribe, dispense, distribute, possess, use, and market in Colorado upon its approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This bill does not allow access to drugs that have not been FDA-approved.

Colorado became the second state in the nation to legalize psychedelic therapy when voters passed Proposition 122 in 2022. In June 2023, the FDA published guidance for researchers investigating the use of psychedelic therapy for medical treatment, stating that psilocybin and other psychedelic drugs have shown promising results when used to treat mood, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and substance use disorders. A Johns Hopkins study found that psilocybin-assisted therapy can relieve major depressive disorder symptoms in some adults for at least a year.

HB25-1070 is a bipartisan bill that would allow minors to receive electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) from trained providers only if less invasive treatments have failed, two psychiatrists approve the treatment (one of whom must be trained in child and adolescent health), and the minor’s parent/guardian consents. 

Numerous case studies and extensive literature reviews demonstrate that ECT is effective and safe in both typically-developing youth and youth with developmental disabilities, including those under 16 years of age, and can drastically improve the quality of life for those with certain severe mental health disorders. 

All three bills now move to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track their progress: HB25-1016, HB25-1063, HB25-1070. 

Legislation to Expand and Improve Public Transit Passes Committee

SB25-161 would require RTD to set ambitious goals, expand transit access, and improve accountability and transparency

DENVER, CO – Legislation to improve the Regional Transportation District (RTD) passed the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee yesterday. 

SB25-161, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, would require RTD to adopt new policies to enhance services, boost ridership, and rebuild public trust in the transit system. 

“Colorado deserves a world-class public transit system that is convenient, safe, and reliable,” said Winter. “As Colorado grows, we must be intentional about growing sustainably, keeping services affordable, and making sure that Coloradans can access transit where they live and work. This bill will help unlock the potential of RTD to deliver fast, frequent, and dependable public transportation.” 

“Thousands of Coloradans rely on public transit every day to get to work and school, attend essential appointments, and see their loved ones,” said Jodeh. “For many, unreliable service can mean losing a paycheck or even their job. This bill is about restoring trust in our transit system and ensuring all Coloradans, including my constituents in Aurora, get the safe, efficient transit they need.”

The bill would require RTD to develop an ambitious 10-year strategic plan to expand and improve transit in the Front Range, aligning its goals with state climate goals and enhancing partnerships with local governments. It would increase ridership by directing RTD to expand access to affordable EcoPasses through apartments or employers and streamline enrollment for low-income discounted transit passes. 

SB25-161 would improve transparency and accountability by creating public dashboards for riders to access information on transit performance, safety, and reliability. Finally, the bill would also establish a 13-member RTD Accountability Committee to evaluate RTD’s governance structure, local and state agency representation, and workforce retention, as well as develop recommendations. 

SB25-161 now heads to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Committee Approves Bill to Implement Voter-Approved Protections for Abortion Care & Pregnancy-Related Services

Legislation would update Colorado statute to reflect changes necessitated by the passage of Amendment 79

DENVER, CO – Legislation to implement voter-approved protections for abortion care and pregnancy-related services was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee today.

In November 2024, Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 79 to enshrine the right to abortion in the Colorado Constitution and remove the state’s prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care.

Sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, SB25-183 would implement the will of the voters by updating Colorado statute to reflect changes necessitated by Amendment 79’s passage.

“Colorado voters have once again reaffirmed their support for freedom to make decisions about their bodies and their futures,” said Rodriguez. “Our state has a long history of standing up for reproductive health care freedoms, and this represents another chapter in that story. I am honored to sponsor this legislation that implements the will of the voters and ensures reproductive health care is protected in both our state law and our constitution.”
 
“Coloradans deserve the freedom to make their own health care decisions and choices about when to start a family – full stop,” said Daugherty. “Amidst a dangerous national landscape, we have worked hard to ensure that Colorado is a beacon for access to safe and affordable reproductive health care. Last November, Coloradans resoundingly voted to build on that work and permanently protect the fundamental right to abortion care in our state’s constitution.”

Beginning on January 1, 2026, the bill would ensure that state employee health insurance plans cover abortion care and require the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to authorize reimbursements for abortion care under publicly funded insurance, including community members with coverage through Health First Colorado, and the Reproductive Health Care Program.

SB25-183 now moves to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Legislation to Expand Access to Educator Pathways Clears Committee

SB25-154 would expand opportunities to obtain an educator license to address Colorado’s teacher shortage

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Education Committee approved legislation sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, to address Colorado’s teacher shortage by expanding access to educator pathways. 

“As a former school board member and district volunteer, I know that students and educators, especially in rural communities, are hurting as a result of a shortage of teachers,” Kipp said. “Giving aspiring educators more opportunities to pursue a career in teaching will help students and teachers alike succeed in Colorado schools.” 

SB25-154 would reduce excessive barriers to becoming an educator by amending and clarifying assessment requirements for childhood special education, elementary education, and special education candidates and allowing candidates to demonstrate their qualifications in multiple ways. It would also allow currently licensed teachers to teach subjects that may face even steeper shortages, like special education, without extensive barriers. 

Additionally, the bill would require that state universities who offer courses through the Teacher Recruitment Education and Preparation (TREP) program, which provides concurrent enrollment opportunities for qualifying students seeking a career in education, only offer TREP courses at a community college tuition rate. This change would expand opportunities for low-income students to pursue a career in education. 

SB25-154 will now head to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Bill to Reduce Wildfire Risk Passes Senate Committee

HB25-1009 would mitigate fire risk by requiring removal of vegetation that fuels wildfires

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to mitigate wildfire risk passed the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee today. 

“Climate change is driving more frequent and intense wildfires, so we must use all the tools at our disposal to protect our communities,” Cutter said. “Mitigation is an important tactic, and this bill would empower property owners and their local governments to remove dead vegetation that often serve as fuel for wildfires.”

HB25-1009 would allow districts that provide fire prevention services to establish programs to help property owners facilitate the removal of dead or dry plant material that fuels fires in accordance with codes adopted by the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code Board.

HB25-1009 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.