Pair of Weissman Bills to Protect Rights of Sexual Violence Survivors Pass Senate

Bills expand housing protections, voluntary parental relinquishment rights for survivors

DENVER, CO – Two bills sponsored by Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, to protect the rights of survivors of sexual violence and domestic abuse passed the Senate today. 

“Survivors of sexual violence deserve systems that respect their agency and reduce, rather than compound, their trauma,” said Weissman. “When it comes to parental rights, survivors should be able to live in peace without maintaining a relationship with their perpetrator. And if a survivor chooses to relinquish their own parental rights, they should not be forced to navigate hurdles like mandatory counseling, court fees, or child support payments that only make a terrible situation worse. These bills ensure that survivors can make the best choice for themselves and their families without facing additional barriers.” 

HB25-1185 would establish a clearer process for a parent of a child conceived by sexual assault to voluntarily relinquish their rights while protecting the child's best interest.

Between 17,000 to 32,000 rape-related pregnancies occur in the US each year, leaving many survivors legally bound to their assailant. Colorado previously enacted SB13-227 and HB14-1162, which established a process for survivors to more easily terminate their assailant’s parental rights. HB25-1185 remedies gaps and barriers in the implementation of these laws.

The bill would also ensure that a victim who became pregnant from a sexual assault who wants to voluntarily relinquish their own parental rights is exempt from additional costs and burdens including required counseling, court fees, and child support payments. 

HB25-1168, also sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would expand housing protections for victims of domestic violence, domestic abuse, unlawful sexual behavior, and stalking. 

"Too often, survivors of domestic violence are forced to choose between their safety and their housing," said Gonzales. "No one should be stuck in a dangerous situation because they can’t afford to break a lease or are left with damages they didn’t cause. This bill gives survivors the legal protections they need to reclaim their safety and move forward with dignity."

The bill would require landlords to offer a repayment plan to survivors for unpaid rent, prevent survivors from being held responsible for property damage caused by their perpetrator, and limit the penalties for terminating a lease early, among other protections.

HB25-1168 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments and HB25-1185 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. 

Senate Approves Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Property Insurance Costs

HB25-1182 would improve accountability from insurance companies who use risk management models to assess price

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to improve transparency and accountability from property insurance companies passed the Senate today. 

“I frequently hear from constituents that they are being denied insurance or their premiums have increased dramatically. It has always concerned me that we incentivize and encourage mitigation, but there’s no way to tie these efforts directly to insurance,” Cutter said. “This bill addresses that, requiring insurers to consider mitigation efforts, provide transparency to homeowners on the wildfire risk models they use, and give them the opportunity to appeal directly.”

HB25-1182, cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would require that insurance companies who use risk management models to assess price according to risk of wildfires and other catastrophic events to provide thorough information about how the models impact an individual’s insurance policy with policyholders and the Division of Insurance in the Department of Regulatory Agencies.

Insurance companies must also accurately consider mitigation efforts from policyholders when assessing risk, implement and publicize discounts and rewards programs for mitigating risk, and clear a path for policyholders to appeal their risk classification data if they believe it’s inaccurate. Insurers would be required to respond to an appeal with a decision within 30 days. 

The bill is another example of Democrat-led bills to prevent big companies from gouging consumers for profit in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. HB25-1010, which is moving through the Senate now, would crack down on corporate price gouging during emergency situations. 

HB25-1182 now moves back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE. 

Senate Approves Bipartisan FY 25-26 Budget that Protects Investments in K-12 Education, Medicaid

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 bipartisan state budget which protects critical investments in K-12 education and Medicaid, caps tuition for higher education, and makes responsible reductions across programs and agencies to achieve a balanced budget. The budget now moves to the House for further consideration.

“This is a budget that no one is happy with but that everyone can be proud of,” said Joint Budget Committee Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Thanks to the rationing equation in TABOR, the Joint Budget Committee faced difficult decisions that resulted in painful tradeoffs. But unlike Washington, we made these cuts thoughtfully, strategically, and with bipartisan support. We eliminated dozens of programs and invested those savings in public education, and public safety, and public lands. It’s not a perfect budget, but it’s responsible and responsive to our TABOR constraints while keeping our commitment to the people of Colorado.”

“After months of precise and careful decision-making to minimize the impact of $1.2 billion in cuts to the state budget, we have crafted a responsible budget that invests in the well-being of every Coloradan by protecting funding for Medicaid, K-12 education, and food stamps,” said Joint Budget Committee member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Despite a challenging budget situation exacerbated by federal uncertainty, we remain committed to creating every possible opportunity for Colorado communities and families to thrive.”

The state’s $43.9 billion budget contains a $16.7 billion general fund. This year’s budget, SB25-206, is accompanied by 63 “orbital bills,” which move through the legislative process alongside the budget and make statutory changes to balance the budget.

Protecting Investments in K-12 and Higher Education

• Protecting K-12 Funding: In just the last few years, we have increased total funding for our schools by nearly $3 billion. Per pupil funding has increased from $8,000 to over $11,000, and will increase again next year. This year’s budget builds on steady progress to increase the resources going to our classrooms by directing an additional $150 million more from the General Fund into schools as compared to the FY24-25 budget.

• Capping Tuition Rates for Higher Education: In recent years, Colorado Democrats have limited tuition increases by boosting funding for higher education and financial aid. This year’s budget includes a 3.5 percent cap on tuition increases for in-state students.

Continuing Medicaid Services for Vulnerable Populations

• Protecting Medicaid Services that Coloradans Rely On: This year, Colorado Democrats rejected proposed reductions to provider rates and instead secured a moderate 1.6 percent increase and protected Medicaid eligibility, mitigating the impact to Coloradans who rely on Medicaid services. However, the state’s budget outlook is still challenging, and this progress is further threatened by potential cuts to Medicaid from the federal government.

• Continuing Dental Services Provided Through Medicaid: This year’s budget protects funding for Coloradans on Medicaid to receive dental care.

Supporting Colorado Kids and Families

• Early Intervention Support for Colorado Children: The budget increases support for early intervention services that help bridge developmental gaps for infants and toddlers who were born premature or with other special needs. This year, Colorado Democrats acted swiftly to plug an unexpected gap in funding in FY24-25 by providing $4 million to halt planned service reductions, and are investing an additional $16.5 million to sustain the program in FY25-26.

• Bolstering Child Care Assistance: The budget invests $15 million in FY24-25 and $10 million in FY25-26 to increase support for the child care assistance program, a vital resource for low-income families to ensure access to quality child care which has been facing waitlists and frozen enrollment in many counties due to funding restrictions.

• Healthy School Meals for All: This budget fully funds the Healthy School Meals for All program through the end of the year, preserving what voters previously approved. This November, voters will decide whether to continue the program or scale it back. 

• Funding for Public Assistance Programs Administered by Local Governments: This year’s budget protects programs administered by local governments that serve the most vulnerable like TANF and SNAP.

• Supporting Hardworking State Employees: This budget provides a fair pay increase of 2.5 percent to the state workers responsible for providing essential services and caring for our most vulnerable. At the same time, the budget pushes state agencies to efficiently manage staff costs by reducing salary budgets by 1.5 percent, in line with typical savings due to vacancies during normal turnover.

Preserving Colorado’s Public Lands and Natural Resources

• Investing in State Parks: This budget utilizes TABOR-exempt revenue like the Keep Colorado Wild pass to preserve and improve Colorado’s state parks, including $52 million in investments to protect critical habitats, maintain park facilities, and reinforce parks infrastructure, and $6.6 million to support amenities and educational programming.

• Promoting Water Conservation: This year’s budget protects funding for water conservation and resource management projects, including exempting $17.1 million in interest earned in the Colorado Water Conservation Board cash fund and Water Plan Implementation Fund from a change in statewide policy to re-direct cash fund interest earnings into the general fund.

Safeguarding Colorado's Civil Liberties

• Maintaining Election Security: The Trump administration abruptly halted support for election security, including from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. This budget keeps Colorado’s elections safe and secure by providing $410,000 to ensure that robust security assessments will continue and that critical Endpoint Detection and Response technology is provided to all local elections systems. 

• Defending Against Unlawful Federal Actions: Amidst ongoing uncertainty from the Trump administration, the budget allocates an additional $604,000 for increased support in the Attorney General’s Office to fight dangerous, unlawful federal actions and protect federal funding streams.

Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Property Insurance Costs Unanimously Passes Senate Committee

HB25-1182 would improve accountability from insurance companies who use risk management models to assess price

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to improve transparency and accountability from property insurance companies passed the Senate Business, Labor and Technology Committee unanimously today. 

“I frequently hear from constituents that they are being denied insurance or their premiums have increased dramatically. It has always concerned me that we incentivize and encourage mitigation, but there’s no way to tie these efforts directly to insurance,” Cutter said. “This bill addresses that, requiring insurers to consider mitigation efforts, provide transparency to homeowners on the wildfire risk models they use, and give them the opportunity to appeal directly.”

HB25-1182, cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would require that insurance companies who use risk management models to assess price according to risk of wildfires and other catastrophic events to provide thorough information about how the models impact an individual’s insurance policy with policyholders and the Division of Insurance in the Department of Regulatory Agencies.

Insurance companies must also accurately consider mitigation efforts from policyholders when assessing risk, implement and publicize discounts and rewards programs for mitigating risk, and clear a path for policyholders to appeal their risk classification data if they believe it’s inaccurate. Insurers would be required to respond to an appeal with a decision within 30 days. 

The bill is another example of Democrat-led bills to prevent big companies from gouging consumers for profit in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. HB25-1010, which is moving through the Senate now, would crack down on corporate price gouging during emergency situations. 

HB25-1182 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: Bipartisan Legislative Vacancy Reform Bill Introduced

Bill aims to create more opportunities for Colorado voters to participate in vacancy elections

DENVER, CO – A bipartisan group of lawmakers yesterday introduced new legislation to reform Colorado’s vacancy process used to replace a senator or representative if they leave office before their term ends. HB25-1315 is sponsored by Representative Emily Sirota, House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, and Senators Mike Weissman and Barbara Kirkmeyer.

“This bipartisan legislation will democratize Colorado’s vacancy committee process to boost voter participation and efficiently fill vacancies so all communities maintain representation at the Capitol during the legislative session,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “As lawmaker resignations occur for a variety of reasons, we’ve heard the concerns about our current process and are taking action to increase campaign finance transparency for vacancy elections and limit the time someone can serve before facing an election.” 

“Vacancies in the General Assembly are an issue I heard about as I traveled the state as the Minority Leader,” said Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, R-El Paso. “The people want to preserve the vacancy committee process while also having the opportunity to vote for their legislators. This bill will do both. It addresses increased engagement with our grassroots while still allowing the people an opportunity to vote in a November odd-year primary election.”

"Increasing strains on legislators leading to more frequent resignations have illustrated the need and opportunity to modernize the vacancy process for the Colorado General Assembly," said Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. "This legislation represents a bipartisan way forward that is consistent with Colorado constitutional requirements, allows more input from voters, and does not excessively burden county clerks responsible for conducting elections. Critically, it will also capture raising and spending of campaign funds by candidates who seek vacancy appointments and run in vacancy elections so that voters can understand what influences may be operating in vacancy situations."

“For the past few years, voters have grown increasingly alarmed with our vacancy laws for important elected government offices,” said Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County. “A handful of political insiders should not determine who sits in a state legislative seat for years at a time without voters being able to express their will. I’m pleased to be part of a bipartisan coalition that brings impactful reform to this process. This is an important first step in reforming vacancies for important government offices in Colorado.”

HB25-1315 aims to increase transparency in the vacancy committee process and broaden participation amongst voters when a legislative vacancy occurs. Under current law, vacancies in the General Assembly are filled by vacancy committee selection until the next general election. Colorado’s approach offers voters more opportunities to participate in the vacancy process than many other states where governors or small commissions make the appointments.

The legislative session begins no later than the second Wednesday of January and wraps up 120 days later. HB25-1315 would affect vacancies in the General Assembly in the following ways: 

• If a lawmaker resigns during session or by July 31 in an even-year, the new vacancy committee process will take place and then the selected candidate would run in the normally scheduled general election that November. 

• If a lawmaker resigns after July 31 in an even-year, the vacancy would be filled first by the vacancy committee. Then there would be a vacancy election in the following odd-year November election. If the seat was already on cycle for that even-year, the general election held in November of that year would continue as normal. 

• If a lawmaker resigns during session or by July 31 in an odd-year, the new vacancy committee process would fill the seat until a vacancy election can occur in November of that year.

• If a lawmaker resigns after July 31 in an odd-year, the new vacancy committee process would take place and fill the seat until the next general election in the even-year.

In any scenario, lawmakers would only be able to serve one year before having to run in an election. 

To run for the vacancy, candidates could qualify by collecting signatures from 30 percent of the vacancy committee members or at least 200 same-party voters in their district. This process aims to improve ballot access for candidates. Unaffiliated voters and voters of the same party would be allowed to participate in the vacancy election. 

Vacancy candidates running in both the new vacancy committee process and the subsequent vacancy elections in November will be subject to campaign contribution limits and disclosure laws. Currently, candidates participating in the vacancy process are not subject to campaign finance laws. 

Under the bill, the number of precinct organizers serving on the vacancy committee would double and automatically include any county commissioners who are members of the political party and reside within the district. If a precinct committee person is appointed to fill an open position on the selection committee, they cannot participate in the process until 91 days after their appointment.

Legislation to Reduce Workplace Violence Against Health Care Workers Passes Senate

SB25-166 would bring stakeholders together to reduce workplace violence in hospitals

DENVER, CO – A bill to examine and reduce workplace violence against health care workers in Colorado passed the Senate today. 

SB25-166, sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, would add a workplace violence performance metric to the state’s quality incentive program and empower the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to consult with stakeholders to address workplace violence. 

“As an ER nurse, I’ve been threatened and attacked while doing my job. And I’m not alone – health care workers across Colorado face workplace violence every day,” said Mullica. “This bill would protect Colorado’s health care workers by bringing experts together to create metrics, implement best practices, and ensure that hospitals keep those who provide life-saving care safe from violence.”

In consultation with stakeholders, HCPF would develop workplace violence performance metrics, explore funding opportunities, and provide legislative recommendations. The group would include Medicaid providers, hospital associations, nurse representatives, and relevant state agencies.

The bill would also empower HCPF to assess hospitals’ adoption of a formal workplace violence policy.

Health care and social service workers experience the highest rates of workplace violence-related injuries and are five times more likely to be injured on the job compared to other industries.

SB25-166 now heads to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Pair of Weissman Bills to Protect Rights of Sexual Violence Survivors Pass Committee

Bills expand housing protections, voluntary parental relinquishment rights for survivors

DENVER, CO – Two bills sponsored by Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, to protect the rights of survivors of sexual violence and domestic abuse passed the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday. 

“Survivors of sexual violence deserve systems that respect their agency and reduce, rather than compound, their trauma,” said Weissman. “When it comes to parental rights, survivors should be able to live in peace without maintaining a relationship with their perpetrator. And if a survivor chooses to relinquish their own parental rights, they should not be forced to navigate hurdles like mandatory counseling, court fees, or child support payments that only make a terrible situation worse. These bills ensure that survivors can make the best choice for themselves and their families without facing additional barriers.” 

HB25-1185 would establish a clearer process for a parent of a child conceived by sexual assault to voluntarily relinquish their rights while protecting the child's best interest.

Between 17,000 to 32,000 rape-related pregnancies occur in the US each year, leaving many survivors legally bound to their assailant. Colorado previously enacted SB13-227 and HB14-1162, which established a process for survivors to more easily terminate their assailant’s parental rights. HB25-1185 remedies gaps and barriers in the implementation of these laws.

The bill would also ensure that a victim who became pregnant from a sexual assault who wants to voluntarily relinquish their own parental rights is exempt from additional costs and burdens including required counseling, court fees, and child support payments. 

HB25-1168, also sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would expand housing protections for victims of domestic violence, domestic abuse, unlawful sexual behavior, and stalking. 

"Too often, survivors of domestic violence are forced to choose between their safety and their housing," said Gonzales. "No one should be stuck in a dangerous situation because they can’t afford to break a lease or are left with damages they didn’t cause. This bill gives survivors the legal protections they need to reclaim their safety and move forward with dignity."

The bill would require landlords to offer a repayment plan to survivors for unpaid rent, prevent survivors from being held responsible for property damage caused by their perpetrator, and limit the penalties for terminating a lease early, among other protections.

HB25-1168 and HB25-1185 now head to the Senate floor for further consideration.

JOINT RELEASE: Gov Signs Law to Streamline Access to Youth Behavioral and Complex Health Care

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation into law to combine two waiver programs to create the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver, streamlining access to services for behavioral health conditions or complex health needs.

“I’ve seen the positive impact that access to essential health care and services has on children with IDD, behavioral health, and long-term medical needs, which is why it's so important that we expand and streamline the process for receiving care,” said Rep. Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood. “This bill is near and dear to my heart, and I am excited that this new law will expand the services available to Colorado kids and families so they can enjoy life at home while receiving the health care they need and deserve.”

“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,” said Sen. Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. “This legislation helps 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, also sponsored by Rep. Max Brooks, R-Castle Rock, creates the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver by merging the Children’s Home and Community-Based Services (CHCBS) and the Children with Life Limiting Illness (CLLI) waivers. This helps streamline waivers to better support Colorado’s youth with behavioral health conditions or complex needs.

The CHCBS provides home and community-based services for families with children with significant medical needs so they can continue to live at home and prevent institutionalization. The CLLI provides in-home services and treatments for families with children with a complex health need, including respite care and pain management.

Colorado Democrats have passed legislation in recent years to improve access to behavioral health care, including creating the I Matter program to offer no-cost behavioral health services to students, training for first responders and community leaders to identify and respond to symptoms of mental health struggles or substance use disorders, and expanding behavioral health care coverage for Colorado youth.

Senate Approves Legislation to Ensure Safe Housing and Strengthen Renter Protections

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

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved 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 heads to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Bill to Improve Treatment of People with Behavioral Health Disorders in the Criminal Justice System Passes Senate

SB25-041 would refine competency restoration and sanity examinations while expanding supportive housing for incarcerated individuals

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved legislation sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, to improve services for people with behavioral health disorders in the criminal justice system.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and protected in their interactions with law enforcement and the justice system, especially people battling serious behavioral health issues,” said Michaelson Jenet. “This bill works to streamline and protect access to the resources that the most vulnerable people in the criminal justice system need to heal and eventually re-enter their communities feeling healthier, stronger and more productive.” 

“Coloradans seeking support in the aftermath of mental health crises deserve comprehensive care and a system willing to treat them with dignity,” said Amabile. “Every American is owed the right to fair criminal trial, and we owe it to victims, defendants, their families and their communities to implement an equitable and dignified environment for proceedings to take place.”

SB25-041 would allow the Colorado Department of Human Services to continue providing inpatient services for up to 90 days after an individual’s case is dismissed because the person is deemed “incompetent to proceed.” The bill also allows the department to work with community organizations to provide permanent supportive housing for these individuals or those who complete the Bridges of Colorado program.

The bill was recommended by the Treatment of Persons with Behavioral Health Disorders in the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Systems Interim Committee, which is responsible for overseeing its associated task force and implementing recommendations regarding the treatment of people with behavioral health disorders in the criminal and juvenile justice systems until 2027.

SB25-041 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Increase Stock of Affordable Factory-Built Housing

SB25-002 would increase the supply of affordable housing by reducing regulatory barriers on factory-built structures like tiny homes and modular housing

DENVER, CO – Senators Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, and Jeff Bridges’, D-Arapahoe County, bill to increase the stock of affordable factory-built housing passed the Senate today. 

SB25-002 would increase the stock of affordable housing by reducing regulatory barriers to the construction, installation, and inspection of factory-built structures like tiny homes and modular housing. Modular housing is usually less expensive than traditional homes and can be assembled quicker, which can help expand permanent housing opportunities and build more affordable housing options. 

"Every Coloradan should be able to afford to live where they work," said Bridges. "We have an affordability crisis here in Colorado, and while there's no silver bullet for housing, there are silver BBs. This is one of them. Our bill will increase Colorado's housing stock by bringing down construction costs, giving more folks the opportunity to live where they work, raise a family, and call Colorado home.”

“Right now, the people that keep our communities running – teachers, nurses, and firefighters – can’t afford to live where they work,” said Exum. “Expanding opportunities for them and their families to thrive and grow together in a stable, safe environment is vital to strong, lasting success for Colorado communities.”

This bill would direct the State Housing Board in the Department of Local Affairs to develop regional building codes for factory-built structures by July 1, 2026. The new building codes would supersede current regulations only for factory-built structures. 

The bill heads to the House next for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bill to Safeguard Voting Rights in Colorado Law Passes Senate

Colorado Voting Rights Act would strengthen voter protections and access amid federal uncertainty

DENVER, CO – In anticipation of efforts to dismantle the national Voting Rights Act of 1965, which prohibits discriminatory election practices, the Senate passed legislation to protect and strengthen the right to vote in Colorado today. 

SB25-001, sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would codify stronger voter protections, expand access to voting information for historically excluded communities, and prohibit discriminatory election practices, even if federal protections are rolled back.

“The right to vote is under attack by a federal administration testing the limits of its power,” said Gonzales. “Generations of brave activists, women, and people of color have fought for the right to vote – and now, it’s our turn. This bill would ensure that in Colorado, no matter your gender, race, or the language you speak, your sacred right to vote is protected.”

The bill would expand access to multilingual ballots in certain local elections, protect access for eligible voters confined in local jails, require residential facilities that house people with disabilities to provide nonpartisan voter information, and empower the Attorney General to enforce voting rights. The bill would also prohibit impairing an individual’s right to vote based on their gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation, and would create a publicly available, statewide database of election information, without compromising any personal voter data.

The bill was amended to ensure that people who cannot vote in person for a primary election, like military members overseas, have a way to participate in the election. 

SB25-001 now heads to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Sends SB25-003 to Governor’s Desk

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate sent SB25-003, sponsored by Senators Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, to the Governor’s desk after voting to concur with amendments adopted in the House.

Beginning August 1, 2026, SB25-003 would implement and enforce Colorado’s existing law by requiring a permit and firearm safety training to purchase semiautomatic firearms that accept detachable magazines. The bill would also prohibit the purchase and sale of all rapid fire conversion devices, like bump stocks and binary triggers.

“High-capacity magazines are what put the ‘mass’ into mass shootings, which is why over a decade ago Colorado Democrats passed legislation to prohibit magazines that hold over 15 rounds of ammunition,” said Sullivan. “This legislation is another in the list of policies I have worked on to develop evidence-based solutions and reduce gun violence of all types. The people of Colorado have mandated that we do something about the public health crisis that is gun violence, so that’s what we’re going to do.”

“Gun violence continues to have devastating effects on Colorado communities, and we must do more to protect lives,” said Gonzales. “The firearm industry’s profits come, time and again, at the expense of public safety and something has to change. Senate Bill 3 is about holding firearm manufacturers to account, ending the industry’s profit motivation, and enforcing the law we have had on the books for more than a decade. I’m honored to join Senator Sullivan on this legislation and in his work to reduce gun violence in Colorado.”

SB25-003 would allow a person to purchase a semiautomatic firearm with a detachable magazine after undergoing a background check and completing a firearm certification course that includes information on safe gun usage, federal and state firearm laws, de-escalation and crisis intervention strategies, range time, and more.

The bill would not impact the sale of shotguns, commonly used hunting rifles, semiautomatic firearms that have fixed magazines, and almost all handguns. While SB25-003 would prohibit the sale of gas-operated semiautomatic handguns, the sale of recoil-operated handguns, which make up over 90 percent of the pistol market, would not be impacted by the bill. The bill would not impact the possession of currently-owned firearms.

In response to the 2013 Aurora theater shooting, Colorado Democrats passed legislation that prohibited the sale and transfer of magazines that hold more than 15 rounds of ammunition. Semiautomatic weapons and high-capacity magazines have been used in numerous mass shootings in Colorado, including the 2021 Boulder King Soopers shooting, the 2022 Club Q shooting, and the Columbine High School massacre.

SB25-003 now moves to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: 'YIGBY' Bill to Increase Affordable Housing Passes Committee

HB25-1169 would allow religious and educational institutions to build affordable housing on their land

DENVER, CO – The Senate Local Government and Housing Committee yesterday passed legislation known as “YIGBY” (Yes in God's Backyard) to increase affordable housing development.

HB25-1169, sponsored by Senators Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would allow faith-based organizations, school districts, and state colleges or universities to more easily build affordable housing and other community services on their land. 

“Many congregations and faith-based organizations have underutilized properties that they want to transform into housing and community services, but current zoning regulations stand in the way,” said Exum. “At my own church in Colorado Springs, we turned our land into an affordable housing community, and I’ve seen firsthand how this can change lives. Institutions who wish to pursue similar projects and benefit from public-private partnerships should have the opportunity to do so."

“Well over a year ago, I was first approached by constituents who asked me to consider this policy approach,” said Gonzales. “Community pillars – especially when they are centrally located, near public transit, and essential services – should have the freedom to use their own land to meet their communities’ housing needs.”

Under the bill, local governments would have to permit the construction of affordable residential developments on land owned by faith-based or educational institutions through a streamlined administrative approval process. They would still be able enforce infrastructure standards, locally adopted life safety codes, impact fees, inclusionary zoning ordinances, and site design standards. If zoning allows, these residential developments could also include child care centers and facilities that provide recreational, social, or educational services.

The bill only applies to local governments with at least 2,000 people and parcels of land that are five acres or smaller and have been owned by the faith-based or educational entity for at least five years.

California passed a law in 2023 that makes it easier for higher education and religious institutions to build housing on their land, opening up over 170,000 acres of land to be developed into affordable housing or other uses. A church in Washington D.C., built 99 units for low-income families in addition to amenities like office space, a gym, and a culinary arts training program. An Atlanta church plans to build 300 affordable housing units, two schools, and 10,000 square feet of new retail space on their property.

HB25-1169 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Following Sundance Announcement, Senate Passes Bill to Boost the Film Festival

Sundance Institute named Boulder, Colorado as the new host of the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, to attract film tourism to Colorado. 

HB25-1005, also sponsored by Senator Mark Baisley, R-Woodland Park, would create two tax credits: one to offer a financial incentive to the Sundance Film Festival as it prepares to move to Colorado beginning in 2027, and one to support existing or small film festivals in Colorado.

“This bill has paved the way for yesterday’s historic announcement by demonstrating our state’s commitment to ensuring the success of the Sundance Film Festival in Colorado. Sundance is more than just an economic driver – it will cement Colorado’s place as a global hub for the arts, creating opportunities for filmmakers and audiences alike,” said Amabile. “Our communities will benefit year-round from Sundance’s investments in expanded access to the arts, support for aspiring storytellers, and a platform for powerful narratives that have the potential to move, inspire, and change all of us.”

Boulder was recently selected to host the iconic Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027 – which will boost economic growth, tourism, and Colorado’s reputation as a destination for the arts.

As outlined in the legislation, Colorado would create tax incentives of $34 million over the next ten years, or $3-5 million per year, for a film festival that sells more than 100,000 tickets and attracts tens of thousands out-of-state attendees. A recent economic impact report of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival in Utah revealed the festival created 1,730 jobs for residents, generated $69.7 million in wages, $132 million in gross domestic product and generated almost $14 million in state and local tax revenue. 

The bill would also leverage $500,000 annually to support small or existing local film festivals entities that are part of Colorado’s growing film festival ecosystem. 

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

Legislation to Reduce Workplace Violence Against Health Care Workers Passes Committee Unanimously

SB25-166 would bring stakeholders together to reduce workplace violence in hospitals

DENVER, CO – A bill to examine and reduce workplace violence against health care workers in Colorado passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee unanimously today.

SB25-166, sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, would add a workplace violence performance metric to the state’s quality incentive program and empower the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to consult with stakeholders to address workplace violence.

“As a nurse, I’ve been threatened and attacked while doing my job. And I’m not alone – health care workers across Colorado face workplace violence every day,” said Mullica. “This bill would protect Colorado’s health care workers by bringing experts together to create metrics, implement best practices, and ensure that hospitals keep those who provide life-saving care safe from violence.”

In consultation with stakeholders, HCPF would develop workplace violence performance metrics, explore funding opportunities, and provide legislative recommendations. The group would include Medicaid providers, hospital associations, nurse representatives, and relevant state agencies.

The bill would also empower HCPF to assess hospitals’ adoption of a formal workplace violence policy.

Health care and social service workers experience the highest rates of workplace violence-related injuries and are five times more likely to be injured on the job compared to other industries.

SB25-166 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Bill to Protect Insurance Coverage for Preventive Health Care Passes Committee

SB25-196 would safeguard insurance coverage for preventive health care services in the event of federal action

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, to proactively protect insurance coverage for preventive health care in the event of federal action passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee today. 

“Regular check-ups, cancer screenings, and immunizations are life-saving care that must be protected,” Jodeh said. “In recent months, we’ve seen dangerous threats to cut fundamental departments at the federal level that protect patients and providers. This bill ensures that even if those cuts do happen, Coloradans’ health care remains protected. Preventative services today mean avoiding emergency events tomorrow — events that can leave families with crippling debt and devastating health outcomes.”

SB25-196 would give the Colorado Commissioner of Insurance within the Department of Regulatory Agencies the authority to reinstate recommendations on preventive care from federal agencies such as the United States Preventive Services Task Force, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or the Health Resources and Services Administration in the United States Department of Health and Human Services in the event that any of these agencies are repealed, dismantled, or disempowered. 

Since January, the Trump Administration has made devastating cuts to essential services for Americans. Recently, the administration cut billions of dollars from state health services, prompting measures such as this one to protect Coloradans’ access to health care.

SB25-196 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill's progress HERE. 

Trio of Roberts Bills to Protect Colorado’s Water Supply and Improve Water Access and Management Pass Committee

DENVER, CO – Three bills sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to modernize and improve Colorado’s water management programs passed the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee today. 

“Securing our state’s water future is one of the most pressing issues facing Colorado, especially for the rural and mountain communities I represent,” Roberts said. “All three of these bills update and expand tools and resources we use to ensure that we’re prepared to have enough water in the face of a hotter, drier future.”

HB25-1014, cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would streamline permitting for Colorado’s groundwater and cut red tape for the Division of Water Resources to more efficiently issue and extend permits for Coloradans who want to build a water well. 

HB25-1113 would expand an existing limitation on new artificial turf and invasive plants on government property to include new residential apartment or condo construction. It would require local governments to implement ordinances to limit turf installation by January 1, 2028. Studies show that artificial turf contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or “forever” chemicals, and is therefore linked to broad negative health and environmental impacts.

HB25-1115, cosponsored by Senator Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, would expand power for the Colorado Water Conservation Board to administer programs to monitor, measure, and disseminate data on snowpack using the latest technologies. These measures would strengthen our state’s ability to forecast water supply and flood hazards. 

HB25-1113 now heads to the Senate floor while HB25-1014 and HB25-1115 head to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. 

Legislation to Bring Down Costs, Prohibit Price Gouging on Essentials Passes Committee

HB25-1010 would save Coloradans money by cracking down on corporate price gouging during emergencies

DENVER, CO – A bill that would bring down costs for Coloradans by cracking down on corporate price gouging on everyday necessities during a declared emergency passed the Senate Business, Labor, and Technology Committee today. 

HB25-1010, sponsored by Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, would prohibit price gouging of essentials like groceries, diapers, and sanitary products during a disaster and empower the Colorado Attorney General to create and enforce rules to ensure compliance.

“This bill is about putting public welfare and consumer protection ahead of corporate greed,” said Weissman. “Time and time again, we have seen bad actors use disasters as an excuse to raise prices on necessities and line their own pockets. It’s time for us to step in and ensure that Colorado families can purchase the things they need – like groceries and diapers – at prices they can afford during times of crisis.”

Under the bill, price gouging would be defined as a price increase of 10 percent or above the average cost of the product. Necessities would include goods and services essential for the health, safety, and welfare of the public like groceries and toiletries.

A 2024 Federal Trade Commission report stated that the three largest grocers accelerated and distorted the negative effects associated with supply chain disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

HB25-1010 is one of several consumer protection bills that Senate Democrats have advanced in recent years, including a 2024 law to prevent price gouging on rent after a natural disaster and a 2021 law to limit price gouging of life-saving prescription drugs. 

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

Bill to Increase Mental Health Funding for Veterans and Their Families Passes Committee

HB25-1132 would fund community-based programming for military members and their families

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, to authorize existing funds to cover community-based behavioral health services for veterans and their families passed the Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today. 

“Since my time in the Army, I’ve become intimately familiar with the critical need for community-focused mental health services for veterans,” Hinrichsen said. “Our veterans and their families gave everything they had to protect and serve our country, and they deserve all the life-saving support we can give in return.”

“Too many of our state’s veterans struggle with PTSD, anxiety, and other life-altering mental health conditions without access to proper treatment,” Bridges said. “Voters approved Prop KK, which boosts funding for crime victim programs, public safety grants, and behavioral health services like the ones supported by this bill. This legislation would provide crucial support for our service members while implementing the will of the voters.”

HB25-1132 would allow funding allocated through Proposition KK, which passed in November, to fund eligible non-profit organizations that offer community-based mental health services to veterans and their families. To be eligible, organizations must offer evidence-based practices, provide proper competency training to staff and have established verifiable community partnerships. 

Colorado Democrats passed a law referring a ballot measure to voters in the November 2024 election that would create a new excise tax on gun dealers, gun manufacturers, and ammunition vendors to fund the Colorado Crime Victim Services Fund, Behavioral Health Administration, and school safety efforts. Nearly 54.5 percent of Colorado voters approved Prop KK to bolster crime victim support and behavioral health programs.

Track HB25-1132’s progress HERE.