JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Lower the Cost of Health Care and Prescription Drugs Goes Into Effect

New laws to preserve access to affordable prescription medicine through the 340B program, safely donate and dispense certain unused medicine, and reduce barriers to changing dose or frequency of a medication all go into effect on August 6. 

SB25-071, sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, will ensure prescription drug manufacturers do not impose restrictions on facilities, such as pharmacies and clinics, that utilize the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program, and will require hospitals to include certain information in their annual reports. The new reporting requirements, including the hospitals' reported 340B savings and how they utilized those savings, aim to improve transparency. 

“Colorado families are counting on us to put their health and safety first,” said Michaelson Jenet. “This new law will ensure that all Coloradans, especially those who rely on rural hospitals, pharmacies, and providers, don’t lose access to the services they depend on to stay safe and healthy.” 

“This law helps ensure that Coloradans, especially those in rural and underserved communities, receive the prescription drugs they need to lead healthy lives,” said Martinez. “This bipartisan law bars pharmaceutical companies from imposing restrictions on the local pharmacies, clinics, and safety net providers that are dependent on the federal 340B program and serve our rural communities.”

SB25-071 aims to preserve access to affordable prescription drugs across Colorado, especially in Colorado’s rural and underserved communities. This law will also help preserve no-cost clinics and vaccines that help keep Coloradans healthy. To improve accountability and ensure 340B savings are passed down to the consumer, this law prohibits hospitals from spending the 340B savings on executive salaries, gifts, lobbying, and advertising.

The 340B Drug Pricing Program is a federal program that requires drug manufacturers participating in Medicaid to provide outpatient drugs to covered hospitals, clinics, or pharmacies at a discount. To qualify for these reduced drug prices, health care facilities must serve a high percentage of low-income patients. In Colorado, an estimated 68 hospitals and 20 federally qualified health centers participate in the 340B program.

SB25-289, sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Representatives Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, and Emily Sirota, D-Denver, will allow individuals and institutions to safely donate certain unused medicine to eligible recipients. Recipients can include distributors, pharmacies, clinics, health care providers, and hospitals. They are required to keep records on donors and donated medicine, store donated medicine separately from regular stock, and have it inspected by a licensed pharmacist.

“Every year, the United States spends billions to dispose of unused prescription medicines from nursing homes, assisted living residences, hospices, and jails,” said Cutter. “Additionally, many left-over prescriptions are flushed down the toilet or thrown into the trash, which causes immeasurable harm to our environment and water supply. With this new law, we are creating a program to reduce waste, protect the environment, and help Coloradans access the medication they need.”

“No one should have to go without the medication they need, yet some patients cannot afford their prescriptions,” said Brown. “This law is a win-win because it cuts back on pharmaceutical waste, which can be harmful to our environment, and redirects medication to patients who need it.” 

“From capping the cost of epi-pens to expanding rural health care, we’ve taken important steps in Colorado to lower the cost of health care,” said Sirota. “This law safely redirects certain unused prescription medication to patients who might not be able to afford their prescriptions. SB25-289 saves patients money, reduces waste, prevents environmental contamination and makes health care more accessible.”  

In 2021, 9.7 percent of Colorado residents reported being unable to fill their prescription due to cost. Of those, 40 percent said their health condition worsened as a result. Under this new law, patients in need will have access to free and low-cost donated medicine. The program will exclude opioids, scheduled medications, and medicines that require special storage conditions unless storage conditions can be verified. The creation of this program was extensively researched by a task force created by SB22-098, which included best practices from other states and safety provisions. 

SB25-301, a bipartisan law sponsored by Senator Katie Wallace, D-Longmont, and Rep. Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton, will prohibit insurance companies from imposing prior authorization requirements to adjust the dose or frequency of medication already being used by a patient for a chronic condition. Providers could make such adjustments up to two times without prior authorization. 

“SB25-301 will increase affordable, consistent access to the medication Coloradans with chronic illnesses rely on by allowing a health care provider to adjust the dose of a medication without needing to go through additional, lengthy insurance authorization processes,” said Wallace. “Colorado’s health care providers know what’s best for their patients, not insurance companies. This new law gives providers the flexibility to respond to their patients’ needs without fear of losing insurance coverage for necessary adjustments.”

“Consistent, reliable health care improves patient outcomes,” said Lieder. “Our law breaks down administrative barriers by allowing health care providers to adjust the dose and frequency of certain medications for patients with chronic conditions without preauthorization. By reducing the back-and-forth between insurance companies and providers, Colorado patients can receive the medication they need, when they need it.” 

In 2015, 3.1 million Coloradans had at least one chronic disease. Many chronic diseases may require adjustment of medication doses to effectively treat the illness. This law will reduce administrative burdens and accelerate access to timely, appropriate care. 

JOINT RELEASE: Law to Combat Wildfire Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO — New legislation to prevent and mitigate wildfire destruction in Colorado goes into effect on August 6, 2025. HB25-1009, sponsored by Representatives Tisha Mauro and Junie Joseph and Senators Lisa Cutter and Nick Hinrichsen, will encourage local governments to reduce dead vegetation that can fuel destructive wildfires.

“Taking steps now to mitigate the risk of destructive wildfires will keep our homes and businesses safer,” said Rep. Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo. “This new law encourages home owners to reduce dead vegetation around their property, which can often accelerate wildfires. Wildfire season in Colorado is now year-round, and property owners play an important role in limiting the risk of wildfire destruction.” 

“Climate change is driving more frequent and intense wildfires, so we must use all the tools at our disposal to protect our communities,” Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, said. “Mitigation is an important tactic, and this law will empower property owners and their local governments to remove dead vegetation that often serve as fuel for wildfires.”

“Our law takes a proactive approach to combat destructive wildfires and keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder. “We know that wildfires can spread quickly, and this law empowers local communities to reduce dead vegetation that can act as an accelerator to wildfires. Keeping our communities safe is a top priority, and this legislation proactively mitigates wildfire risks to protect our neighbors.” 

“With this new law taking effect, we’re adding another tool to our wildfire prevention and mitigation toolbox,” said Senate Majority Whip Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo. “HB25-1009 empowers local governments to take proactive steps to protect homes, families, and neighborhoods – helping build safer, more resilient communities in the face of growing wildfire threats.”

Beginning on August 6, fire protection and metropolitan districts will have more tools to mitigate fire risks locally and improve community safety. Specifically, the law encourages local governments to create programs that assist property owners in reducing dead vegetation around their property. Dead plant materials, such as leaves, grass, shrubs, dead leaves, and fallen pine needles, can accelerate wildfires.

JOINT RELEASE: Pair of Bills to Support Rural Coloradans Goes Into Effect

HB25-1222 and SB25-069 will improve health and safety in Colorado’s mountain and rural communities

DENVER, CO – Two bills championed by Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, to bolster public health and safety in rural Colorado communities will go into effect on August 6.

HB25-1222, cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Representative Ty Winter, R-Trinidad, preserves access to rural health care by: 

• Enabling the delivery of drugs by rural independent pharmacies to underserved communities,

• Clarifying fair audit recovery practices so rural independent pharmacies don’t close,

• Allowing remote supervision for pharmacies to improve accessibility for Coloradans, and

• Beginning on January 1, 2026, ensuring fair reimbursement rates for rural independent pharmacies.

For Coloradans living in rural communities, these modifications maintain access to vital prescriptions and health care services close to home without having to travel long distances or face unnecessary delays. 

The implementation of HB25-1222 serves as a lifeline for rural pharmacies in the wake of Congressional Republicans’ budget reconciliation bill, which experts warn puts rural health care facilities at an increased risk of cuts and closure.

“Independent rural pharmacies are so important to the people who live in the rural and mountain communities that I represent. They rely on them for essential services like prescription refills, medical supplies, immunizations, and so much more,” Roberts said. “This new law will ensure fair reimbursement rates and audit recovery practices so that drug delivery for independent and rural pharmacies are adequate enough to level the playing field against corporate health care giants and safeguard essential health services.”

“Health care access in rural communities is already limited, and this law works to preserve the local pharmacies that Coloradans rely on,” said Lukens. “From regular prescription refills to immunizations, our local and independent pharmacies are a lifeline to our communities. This bipartisan law aims to maintain health care access for Coloradans in the rural corners of our state by establishing fair reimbursement rates and permitting telehealth for our local pharmacies.” 

SB25-069, sponsored by Sen. Roberts, Rep. Lukens, and Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, allows the Colorado Department of Transportation to authorize third-party vendors and companies to set up a roadside station to help install or remove tire chains or other traction devices on commercial and passenger vehicles. 

“Preventing avoidable crashes, spinouts, and delays on I-70 and highways across the state is crucial for public safety and saving Coloradans time and money,” continued Roberts. “This bipartisan bill will authorize a proven chain-assist program for commercial trucks that is working in other states as well as close a loophole that will ensure passenger vehicles have proper tires. It is another significant step we are taking to prevent crashes and reduce unnecessary delays on our roads during the winter.”

“Western Slope highways can be treacherous in the winter, and this law makes our roads safer by expanding access to winter driving tools, including tire chains, that are proven to help prevent accidents,” continued Lukens. “Communities in my district, like Vail and Avon, are home to world-class skiing resorts that attract visitors from across the globe who might not have experience in driving in mountainous, snowy conditions. This law will improve road safety by creating a controlled environment for drivers to receive assistance installing or removing tire chains and other traction devices.”  

“Glenwood Canyon has the most accidents and road closures along I-70 nationally, which is why we need this law to protect Colorado drivers,” said Velasco. “Keeping Western Slope roads open and safe is a priority in my district to ensure that residents, tourists and long-haul truckers can get where they need to go quickly and safely. With this law going into effect soon, we can keep Coloradans safer on our roads.”

The law, cosponsored by Senator Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, includes procedures and guardrails for issuing a permit to vendors and a requirement that those installing tire chains or traction devices wear reflective clothing and use traffic control devices. The law also requires that, between September 1 and May 31, rental car companies notify their renters of Colorado’s traction laws and the penalties for any violation of the law. 

JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Increase Affordable Condos, Expand Tenant Protections Goes Into Effect

Two laws will boost condo construction and ensure safe housing for renter

DENVER, CO – Legislation to reduce the cost of housing, expand homeownership opportunities through condo construction, and strengthen enforcement of landlord-tenant laws goes into effect on August 6.

HB25-1272 is sponsored by Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, Representative Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, and House Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. The law reforms construction defect laws by encouraging condo builders to provide robust warranties and work with third-party inspectors to help prevent, identify, and correct any construction issues upfront, establishing clear guidelines for construction defect claims, and adjusting the statutes of limitation for construction defect claims.

“From building equity and generational wealth to lowering housing costs, condos offer numerous benefits to Coloradans looking to buy their first home,” said Bird. “Rising rent and housing prices have made it nearly impossible for hardworking Coloradans to save enough money to buy a home at the median price tag of $550,000. After years of hard work, I'm thankful for everyone who worked closely with us to help craft this new law so we can spur new housing options that Coloradans can afford and offer more Coloradans a fair shot at the American Dream.”

“HB25-1272 will make fair and balanced reforms to our construction defects laws, ensuring that high-quality homes are built, problems are fixed before sale and excessive costs that deter development can be reined in,” said Coleman. “This law is a proactive solution that incentivizes responsible development, making it a win-win for homeowners and builders alike. It’s intended to meet the demands of our communities, respond to changing demographics, and provide housing that is adaptable to different housing sizes and needs. With this law going into effect, we can create more attainable housing opportunities and ensure that more Coloradans can achieve the dream of homeownership.”

“With a shortage of over 100,000 homes across our state and a decrease in condominium development, it's becoming increasingly difficult for first-time homebuyers to find housing they can afford,” said Boesenecker. “Offering a variety of housing options is a critical piece in making homeownership a reality for more Coloradans. With this law taking effect, we can increase the availability of high-quality starter homes in the market to create more affordable housing options that work for every budget.”

“In Colorado’s mountain and rural communities, there are teachers, police officers, small business owners, nurses, and other crucial working folks who desperately want to be able to buy a home and put roots down, but there’s not any housing available for them to purchase,” said Roberts. “For years, construction defects laws have stunted the development of condos and townhomes, generally more affordable housing options for first-time buyers. This new law will change that and help ensure that we have a healthy mix of housing units, allowing more Coloradans to achieve their dream of homeownership.”

Beginning January 1, 2026, the law creates the Multifamily Construction Incentive Program. Builders will be able to opt into this program if they offer a warranty for damage and defects and hire a third-party inspector to periodically review construction throughout the building process. In exchange for providing these additional safeguards upfront, builders in the program will receive additional protections against construction defect actions, which can be costly to litigate and discourage condo development.

From 2007 to 2022, the number of condo developers working in Colorado declined by 84-percent in part due to the potential for expensive lawsuits. Meanwhile, the median age of first-time homebuyers in Colorado rose from 35 to 38 in the past year.

SB25-020 is sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Representatives Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora, and Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. This law will ensure safe housing and strengthen renter protections by expanding the Attorney General’s and local governments’ authority to enforce landlord-tenant laws. 

SB25-020 allows 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, as well as documentation requirements for housing agreements, and extends protections regarding bed bug infestations in residential homes. The law gives counties and municipalities the ability to 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,” said Gonzales. “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 new law 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.”

“As an Aurora legislator, I’m proud to sponsor this new law to ensure renters don’t have to spend multiple years fighting corporate landlords for basic rights,” said Lindsay. “When negligent landlords allowed several properties in my community to fall into disrepair, the city had limited tools to address the issues. This law builds on past work Colorado Democrats have done to ensure renters can live in safe conditions by empowering counties and municipalities to enforce tenant protection laws. No one deserves to live among rodents or without functioning heat or cooling systems, and this law will help ensure Coloradans have a safe place to live.”

“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.”

“This law will hold negligent landlords accountable when they illegally ignore dangerous living conditions,” said Mabrey. “By giving the Attorney General, counties and municipalities more authority to enforce tenant protection laws, Colorado renters will have more advocates in their corner to fight for safe housing. Colorado Democrats are committed to not only making housing more affordable, but also ensuring that these affordable housing options are a safe and healthy place to live.”

SB25-020 also establishes a process where, only in severe cases with a pattern of neglect, 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 law outlines the process for receivership cases, including providing proper notice to parties, defining powers and responsibilities for entities appointed as receivers, and establishing the process for ending receiverships.

JOINT RELEASE: Democrats Save Coloradans Money with New Laws to Crack Down on Price Gouging, Expand Paid Family Leave

DENVER, CO - On August 6, legislation goes into effect to bring down costs for Coloradans by cracking down on corporate price gouging for everyday necessities like groceries and toiletries. Another law also goes into effect to expand the paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program for families with newborns receiving inpatient care in the NICU.

“Price gouging hurts hardworking Coloradans and mom-and-pop businesses, which is why I sponsored this law that will hold bad actors accountable,” said Rep. Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB25-1010 and SB25-144. “No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying rent, and as a mom to three young children, I have personally felt the pressure facing so many of our Colorado families. With this law going into effect today, Colorado Democrats are standing up against corporate price gouging to reduce the cost of everyday necessities.”

“This law is about putting public welfare and consumer protection ahead of corporate greed,” said Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB25-1010. “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.”

“With corporate bad actors driving up prices on groceries and everyday necessities, Colorado Democrats are taking action to stop price gouging and save Coloradans money,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, sponsor of HB25-1010. “While the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation and supply chain issues have impacted prices, bad-acting corporations have taken advantage of these factors to jack up prices just to increase their profits. While Republicans in the legislature sided with wealthy corporations, our majority passed this law to help tackle the rising cost of living, put an end to corporate price gouging and make Colorado a more affordable place to live for all.”

HB25-1010 prohibits price gouging of goods or services during a declared emergency. In this law, price gouging is defined as a price increase of 10 percent or above the average cost of the product or good that is not attributable to seasonal pricing. Necessities 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.

Colorado Democrats passed a 2024 law, also sponsored by Rep. Brown and Sen. Weissman, to prevent price gouging on rent after a natural disaster. The law was inspired after rents skyrocketed for Coloradans who lost their homes after the Marshall Fire, pricing vulnerable Coloradans out of their communities. Another law created the Prescription Drug Affordability Board to limit price gouging of life-saving prescription drugs, helping lower out-of-pocket prescription drug costs.

SB25-144 allows parents of children who are receiving inpatient care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to receive paid family and medical insurance benefits for up to an additional twelve weeks while the child is receiving care.

“When I was forced to juggle work to pay the bills and spend time with my newborn, who was receiving life-saving care, I knew we needed to reform Colorado’s paid family leave,” continued Zokaie. “Every parent should be able to be fully present with their child during life’s most difficult moments. By expanding FAMLI leave by up to twelve additional weeks, we ensure Coloradans no longer have to choose between a paycheck and their family."

“I know firsthand how terrifying and consuming it can be for a parent of a newborn in intensive care,” said Sen. Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, sponsor of SB25-144. “It is so important for a child's development to be with their parents in those first few months of life. We need to make it easier for parents with kids in the NICU to have access to that quality time, which is why we’re expanding FAMLI in a way that doesn’t raise premiums for employees or employers..”

“This law will support families so they have the time they need to prioritize their newborns who need extra care to ensure they have a long, healthy life,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, sponsor of SB25-144. “As a NICU baby myself, I want to ensure that families have the opportunity to be present with their newborn, something that is proven to have positive impacts on child development. By expanding the voter-approved FAMLI program, we’re being responsive to the needs of Colorado parents while also supporting Colorado businesses.”

“We know that children are more likely to come home faster from the NICU if their parents can be with them,” said Sen. Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, sponsor of SB25-144. “Because of the good work and the existing resources of the FAMLI Insurance program, expanding benefits for additional time allows the state to provide additional help to families going through incredibly taxing times.”

The law also modifies the premiums for the FAMLI program to reduce the current rate of 0.9 percent of wages per employee to 0.88 percent for the next calendar year. For each subsequent year, the FAMLI division director is required to set the premium rate to reflect the solvency of the program and create more stability for businesses. Under the new premium amounts, the law will save Colorado businesses and employees nearly $17 million in FY2025-26 and over $35 million in FY2026-27.

Colorado voters approved Proposition 118 in the November 2020 election, creating the Paid Medical and Family Leave Initiative to provide Colorado families 12 weeks of paid leave. Some families are allowed up to 16 weeks of leave in certain cases. To date, the FAMLI program has paid out an average weekly benefit payment of $915 to cover 155,000 Coloradans for medical leave, parental leave, caretaking, safe leave for survivors of domestic violence and military family leave. The average leave duration is over 51 days.

A 2019 report found that parent presence in the NICU decreases stress and pain, strengthens parent-child attachment and improves brain development.

JOINT RELEASE: Wage Theft Prevention Legislation Takes Effect

DENVER, CO - On August 6, legislation to combat wage theft in all industries goes into effect, boosting the economic security of Colorado workers by ensuring they are paid for their work.

“This new law is a huge win for hardworking Coloradans and continues our bold efforts to boost wages and create an economy that works for everyone,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “Wage theft is the largest source of theft in our state, with women and communities of color disproportionately becoming victims of wage theft. With this law going into effect, we’re allowing workers to more quickly access their owed wages and strengthening protections for whistleblowers so Coloradans can receive the money they have worked hard to earn.” 

“Colorado workers lose hundreds of millions of dollars per year in wages due to theft from bad-acting employers," said Sen. Chris Kolker, D-Centennial. “Many of these workers are heads of their households already struggling to make ends meet. With this legislation, Colorado’s labor force would more quickly and easily access their owed wages so they are fairly compensated for the work they do.”

“When employers refuse to pay their employees for the work they’ve already completed, it is the same thing as stealing money out of their wallet,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “Wage theft hurts Colorado workers and families who are struggling to make ends meet. Now that this legislation is in effect, we are providing better support for workers to ensure they can be fairly paid for the work they do.”

“I am committed to making sure every hardworking Coloradan receives the money they earned,” said Sen. Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “This new law fights wage theft and protects whistleblowers so all workers can speak up without fear of retaliation.”

HB25-1001 helps protect workers who make wage theft claims and prevent wage theft by holding bad-acting employers accountable and increasing the wage theft claim cap. Currently, wage theft claims are capped at $7,500. This law increases the cap to $13,000 starting July 1, 2026, with that claim amount adjusting for inflation beginning in 2028.

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

The law will expedite the process so the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) can process payments to victims of wage theft more quickly. CDLE can now crack down on worker misclassification, a technique used to avoid providing benefits and overtime wages.

To deter employers from stealing wages, CDLE must publish wage theft determinations and update a list of wage theft violators on the division’s website. Under the law, CDLE must report wage theft violations to licensing and permitting bodies if there is a willful violation that is not remedied within sixty days.

HB25-1001 allows third parties to bring complaints on a worker’s behalf and extends anti-retaliation and discrimination measures for all workers who raise complaints, allowing for similarly situated employees to speak up for others. 

A 2022 report by the Colorado Fiscal Institute found that nearly 440,000 low-wage Colorado workers experience $728 million in wage theft annually. Workers of color and women are most likely to be victims of wage theft, and the most common industries for wage theft are retail, construction, and food service. Reps. Duran and Froelich and Sen. Danielson have championed numerous bills to ensure workers receive the wages they’ve earned, including legislation in 2022 that ensures Colorado workers are able to recover legally earned wages.

JOINT RELEASE: Trio of Bills to Support Veterans and Their Families Go Into Effect

Democrats championed a host of legislation during the 2025 legislative session to support military-connected Coloradans

DENVER, CO – Three laws spearheaded by Colorado Democrats to support Colorado’s veterans and their families will go into effect August 6, 2025.

HB25-1132, sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representatives Sean Camacho, D-Denver, and Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood, allows funding allocated through Proposition KK, approved by voters last 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. The bill also expands veterans’ access to complementary services, such as acupuncture and massage therapy, by directing available funds to providers. 

“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.”

“As a member of the Air Force, I have seen firsthand how military veterans and their families can struggle to access proper health care for their behavioral health issues,” said Camacho. “Voters approved Prop KK to boost funding for crime victim programs, public safety grants, and behavioral health crisis services just like the one this law funds. Military members and veterans need quality health care, and this law will boost lifesaving behavioral health support for Colorado heroes and their loved ones by implementing the will of the voters.”

“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 provides crucial support for our service members while implementing the will of the voters.”

“Far too many military members and veterans suffer from PTSD, anxiety, and other behavioral health struggles that impact their day-to-day life without the proper treatment,” said Stewart. “With this law going into effect, we can fund community behavioral health programs and other beneficial services, improving access to the behavioral health care that veterans and their families deserve.”

HB25-1132 follows a law passed by Colorado Democrats referring a ballot measure to voters in the November 2024 election to create a new excise tax on the sale of firearms sold by 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.

SB25-073, sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, clarifies that Colorado students with disabilities who are children of active duty military members are entitled to the same rights to open enrollment and guaranteed matriculation as any student who lives in the public school district. It also requires school districts and charter schools to ensure those students receive the appropriate services.

“Changing schools and hopping from one military base to the next is difficult enough, and a lack of timely access to disability services exacerbates those difficulties tenfold,” said Marchman. “No child should be deprived of access to the educational pathways they need because of their background or ability. This law gives them the support they need to seize every opportunity available to them and ensure every student has the potential to succeed.”

“As a veteran and an educator, I’m excited that our new law is going into effect to break down barriers to education for students in military families,” said Martinez. “It’s very common for military families to move around every few years, and students suffer when unnecessary administrative delays prevent them from accessing the programs they need to succeed. I’m proud to have sponsored this bipartisan law that will streamline the process for military-connected children with disabilities to transition into Colorado schools to better support students and their families.”

SB25-282, sponsored by Senator Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Representative Lisa Feret, D-Arvada, protects veterans from unaccredited consultants, often called “claim sharks,” who charge money to help navigate the application process to receive benefits from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). 

The law mirrors regulations the federal government uses to regulate Social Security benefits from the Social Security Administration. It requires that businesses must unambiguously notify veterans that they can receive the same services for free from the DMVA, clearly state that they are not affiliated with the DMVA, and limit the amount of money consultants can receive from veterans’ back pay.

“Too often, those who have bravely served our country are misled into paying thousands of dollars in fees and even going into debt for services they receive for free from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs,” Ball said. “Without preventing honest consultants in the industry from doing business, this law will address the backlog in claims from the DMVA while cracking down on bad actors who mislead and defraud our nation’s veterans.” 

"My fellow veterans deserve fair and safe access to services that help them get benefits they earned through their service and sacrifice for our country,” said Feret. “‘Claim sharks’ rake in millions of dollars each year from excessive fees on service members' disability claims, sometimes when they don't even win. Our law helps create guidelines in this unregulated space to protect disabled veterans while allowing companies to address the backlog of disability claims. I will not back down as dark money groups try to scam veterans who put their lives on the line for our country."

JOINT RELEASE: Law to Strengthen the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act Goes Into Effect

HB25-1239 will expand protections under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act

DENVER, CO - On August 6, legislation sponsored by Representative Yara Zokaie, Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker and Senators Lindsey Daugherty and Mike Weissman to strengthen Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws goes into effect.

“Under threat from the Trump Administration, it’s more important now than ever that we strengthen Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws,” said Rep. Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins. “When someone is wronged, we have a duty to create a pathway to justice. With this new law going into effect, we’re upholding our shared values of fairness, dignity, and equality under Colorado law and better protecting Coloradans who experience discrimination.”

“People with disabilities should have the same rights to seek damages after experiencing discrimination as any other protected group,” said Sen. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “This lawbill ensures that people with disabilities can be compensated for attorney fees, emotional distress, and other noneconomic harms if they experience discrimination or violation of their civil rights.”

“This law remedies unreasonable deadlines, barriers to financial compensation and other gaps in the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act to strengthen protections for Coloradans who experience discrimination,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “From housing discrimination to inaccessible building entrances, Coloradans with disabilities have faced barriers to access for far too long. This law provides crucial recourse to people with disabilities and other victims of discrimination to ensure they can receive the justice they deserve.”

“The cost of hiring an attorney prevents many Coloradans from pursuing justice after facing discrimination,” said Sen. Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. “People with disabilities who are denied housing or turned away from public spaces deserve a clear path to hold wrongdoers accountable and access the support they need to move forward.”

HB25-1239 will expand protections under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) to protect vulnerable communities, especially Coloradans with disabilities.

This law stems from a task force established by the legislature in 2023 to study the rights of Coloradans with disabilities and make recommendations. HB25-1239 is the largest expansion of CADA enforcement rights since CADA was passed nearly 70 years ago.

This new law will allow victims of discrimination to receive monetary compensation for unfair housing practices, discrimination in places of public accommodation, or a violation of their civil rights under the CADA for all protected classes. Under the law, victims will be able to recover attorney’s fees and costs, and either recovery of actual monetary damages, non-economic damages of up to $50,000, or a statutory fine of $5,000 per violation per aggrieved party.

Awards for damages for non-economic loss or injury will be limited to $50,000. A defendant will be entitled to a 50 percent reduction of the amount of the non-economic loss or injury if the defendant corrects the violation within 30 days of the complaint and did not knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly cause the violation.

JOINT RELEASE: Colorado Voting Rights Act Goes Into Effect

New law will safeguard voting rights in Colorado amid federal uncertainty

DENVER, CO – The 2025 Colorado Voting Rights Act, sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, and Representative Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, goes into effect on August 6, 2025. 

“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 law will ensure that in Colorado, no matter your gender, race, or the language you speak, your sacred right to vote is protected.”

“With courage, conviction and sacrifice, generations of Black Americans fought for the Voting Rights Act, transforming democracy and ensuring equal access to the ballot for Black Americans and other minority groups,” said Bacon. “With voter suppression and voter dilution tactics being used throughout the country, we’re celebrating this law going into effect to protect the constitutional right to vote. This law makes it clear to Coloradans that, while the federal government continues to chip away at the Voting Rights Act, Colorado Democrats are committed to protecting voting rights.”

“As the first Black person elected to represent my area, I know I stand on the shoulders of those who fought for the Voting Rights Act of 1965,” said Joseph. “Without the protections secured by that landmark legislation, my path to public office might never have been possible. I am proud to sponsor our own Colorado Voting Rights Act to expand on the foundation laid in 1965 and ensure that all Coloradans – especially those in historically marginalized communities – can access the ballot box freely and fairly. At a time when federal protections are under threat, it is more important than ever that Colorado leads in safeguarding our democracy and protecting the voting rights of LGBTQ+ people, tribal members, and our most vulnerable communities.”

In anticipation of efforts to dismantle the national Voting Rights Act of 1986, which prohibits discriminatory election practices, SB25-001 protects and strengthens the right to vote in Colorado. This law codifies stronger voter protections, expands access to voting information for historically excluded communities, and prohibits discriminatory election practices, even if federal protections are rolled back.

The law protects access for eligible voters confined in local jails, requires residential facilities that house people with disabilities to provide nonpartisan voter information, and empowers the Attorney General to enforce voting rights. It also prohibits impairing an individual’s right to vote based on their gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation and creates a publicly available, statewide database of election information without compromising any personal voter data. The law also gives municipalities until January 2027 to expand access to multilingual ballots in certain local elections. 

In April, the US House of Representatives passed the SAVE Act that would require in-person proof of citizenship to register to vote, threatening the future of voter registration by mail and disenfranchising millions of eligible voters, especially the almost 70 million Americans who have changed their name. This would make it impossible for many Americans who do not have a passport, REAL ID, or access to their birth certificates to vote.

Colorado is a national role model for administering secure, accessible, and fair elections. Colorado Democrats have passed legislation to reduce barriers to voting access for Native Americans, incarcerated Coloradans, and college students. In 2021, Colorado Democrats also passed a law to expand multilingual ballot access beyond federal requirements.

Colorado has one of the highest voter registration and turnout rates in the country. Over 93-percent of eligible Coloradans are registered to vote, which is nearly 10-percent higher than the national average.

JOINT RELEASE: House GOP Passes Megabill to Slash Medicaid & SNAP, Kick Coloradans Off their Health Care

DENVER, CO – Democratic Leadership and members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after Republicans Gabe Evans and Jeff Hurd cast the deciding votes to pass the GOP megabill, which will kick Coloradans off their health insurance, increase costs and jeopardize services for the most vulnerable people.

“Congressional Republicans’ megabill benefits billionaires on the backs of hardworking Coloradans and Americans,” said President James Coleman, D-Denver. “Millions of Coloradans rely on Medicaid and Medicare, and the drastic cuts to these programs passed in the bill will have devastating impacts from the Western Slope to the Eastern Plains. The legislature will have to respond to these cuts and attempt to blunt the harm, but the budget hole caused by Washington’s recklessness will make it extremely difficult to fund our priorities, from health care to K-12 education and beyond.”

“The GOP megabill is dangerous and reckless and will have a ripple effect on the health and success of Coloradans for generations to come,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “The billion-dollar impact on our state budget will force the legislature to consider pausing the important progress we’ve made on priorities like education funding, tax credits for working families and efforts to reduce health care premiums. Businesses, rural hospitals, STEM research, food pantries and many others will lose the support that they rely on to serve our communities. This is a disastrous outcome for our state, and it will impact people in every corner of Colorado.”

“The GOP megabill bill prioritizes the interests of the wealthiest Americans and powerful corporations over working families,” said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “While we’re fighting to lower costs for Coloradans, Gabe Evans and Jeff Hurd are kicking people off their health care, slashing food assistance for children and families, cutting clean energy tax credits and jobs, and increasing the cost of student loans. The bill reflects a consistent pattern: advancing the agenda of billionaires and other special interests at the expense of consumer protections and public wellbeing."

“The GOP Megabill has far-reaching impacts on Colorado and it goes against everything that we stand for as Democrats,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “From hundreds of thousands of the most vulnerable Coloradans losing access to health care to draconian cuts to food assistance programs and tax credits for seniors and working families, the destruction caused by the GOP Megabill will be felt by everyone. Rural hospitals and health care providers could close under this budget, and rural Coloradans will lose health care coverage while Republicans in the state legislature continue to turn a blind eye to what’s happening in Washington. Years of work to make Colorado more affordable and support the low- and middle-class, families, people of color, seniors, veterans and other Coloradans will be at risk now that the GOP has passed this regressive tax policy that favors the ultra-wealthy.”

“Here in Colorado, we know what it’s like to make difficult decisions to balance our state budget,” said JBC Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Every year, the Joint Budget Committee works across the aisle to do so carefully, thoughtfully, and with the best interests of Colorado families in mind. Gabe Evans and Jeff Hurd just cast the deciding votes on a budget that will hurt Coloradans. This bill slashes Medicaid, hurting families today and shifting costs to people with insurance. We will all pay more for health insurance because of this bill. Finally, this bill will almost certainly force us into a special session to make deep cuts to Colorado’s already tight budget, and those cuts rest entirely at the feet of Gabe Evans, Jeff Hurd, and Donald Trump.”

“The GOP’s cruel megabill will have devastating impacts on our state, and we will do our best to shield Coloradans from as much pain as we can,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “In addition to slashing Medicaid and food assistance, this bill will create a massive hole in our budget and force cuts to other critical programs Coloradans rely on. By passing this bill, Gabe Evans and his GOP colleagues are increasing costs on middle class families and closing the doors of opportunity for hardworking people across our state.”

“Republicans in Congress are hellbent on making it harder for everyday Coloradans to stay on Medicaid,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Millions of Coloradans rely on Medicaid and Medicare, and the drastic cuts to these programs in the newly-passed GOP megabill will have devastating impacts from the Western Slope to the Eastern Plains. This further compounds our state’s budgetary challenges and will force the Joint Budget Committee to make impossible decisions about the future of Medicaid funding in Colorado and our ability to provide core services to hardworking families.”

"The GOP megabill will drive up energy costs, force rural health clinics to shut their doors, and drive up the cost of health insurance for everyone,” said JBC Member Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. "In a tight budget year, we worked diligently to protect the services Coloradans rely on, but Congressional Republicans are jeopardizing everything from food assistance to health care. Colorado’s state budget simply cannot absorb the $1 billion in Medicaid cuts, revenue reductions and other cost increases, which will put health care, food assistance and services for our most vulnerable at risk. The GOP’s priorities are clear – give massive tax breaks to billionaires at the expense of hungry kids and families.” 

The most recent nonpartisan CBO analysis estimates that the GOP megabill will kick nearly 12 million Americans off their health care. It places a tax on energy, drives up utility costs, cuts food assistance and will force deep cuts to Medicaid and services for Colorado’s most vulnerable people, including veterans and many lower income families. Colorado Democrats—alongside health care providers, conservationists, and community leaders—have repeatedly asserted that this bill would be devastating to the American people and urged Congress not to pass it. 

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting estimated that the GOP megabill will decrease state revenues by as much as $500 million and increase costs to the state by around $500 million. Even without passage of the GOP megabill or an economic downturn, nonpartisan economic forecasters estimate the state will face a nearly $700 million deficit and that revenues could drop below the TABOR cap in each of the three years in the forecast window. Under these conditions, the state will not be able to replace the loss of federal funding under the GOP megabill and will be forced to consider difficult trade offs and cuts to core services.

JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Save Coloradans Money on Housing by Eliminating Parking Mandates Takes Effect

Legislation puts ‘people over parking’ to lower the cost of building new homes, increase Colorado’s housing supply, and reduce harmful air pollution

COLORADO - Legislation goes into effect today to make housing in Colorado more affordable and reduce traffic congestion. HB24-1304, also sponsored by Former Rep. Steph Vigil and Former Senator Kevin Priola, eliminates parking mandates that drive up the cost of building new housing, especially multi-family developments.

“Parking minimums add to building costs that then get passed down to potential homebuyers and renters, increasing housing costs for everyone,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver. “Each parking space can add tens of thousands of dollars and reduce the number of units that we can build—restricting supply and driving up costs. This law going into effect, coupled with the other housing legislation that Colorado Democrats passed in recent years, will help alleviate our affordability crisis.”

“Parking spots cost tens of thousands of dollars each to build - an unacceptable amount at a time when too many Coloradans are struggling to find housing they can afford,” Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, said. “We must do more to encourage the construction of new housing in our state, including for Pueblo which has a large amount of land devoted to parking that could be redeveloped as housing and businesses. I am incredibly proud of our new law that will make it easier to do just that while reducing traffic, bolstering economic development, and freeing up valuable space for our communities while enhancing our downtowns.”

Beginning June 30, 2025, HB24-1304 prohibits a county or municipality within a metropolitan planning organization (MPO) from enacting or enforcing minimum parking requirements for most new multifamily residential properties that are within a quarter mile of a transit stop or station.

The law still allows a local government to impose a parking minimum of up to one space per unit on proposed housing developments with more than 20 units or that include any units classified as affordable housing. To impose this mandate, they must show that the parking minimum is required to avoid a substantial negative impact.

HB24-1304 does not allow a county or municipality to decrease required parking spaces for people with disabilities and does not prevent a local government from enacting or enforcing a maximum parking requirement or requiring a number of spaces for temporary loading purposes.

Lastly, the law required the Colorado Department of Transportation and other state agencies to publish a map of the applicable transit services area and technical assistance materials and best practices for optimal parking supply and management policies by the end of 2024.

Parking minimums increase home prices and rents by requiring developers to use valuable space for cars that may not be fully utilized and could instead be dedicated to more housing units. In 2020, new structured parking spaces in Denver cost $25,000 each.

The city of Minneapolis, which eliminated parking minimums in 2021 and has enacted a suite of other land use reforms, saw rents increase by just one percent between 2017 and 2022, while rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Denver increased by almost 25 percent over the same time period. Research attributes the significant expansion of the housing supply in Minneapolis, leading to lower rent increases, to the elimination of parking minimums.

The oversupply of parking is also directly linked to higher vehicle miles traveled. The transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas pollution in Colorado, with passenger vehicles such as cars and light-duty trucks contributing nearly 60 percent of the sector’s greenhouse gas emissions.

joint release: Legislation to Streamline Crisis Response Services, Expand Access to Behavioral Health Care Takes Effect

SB25-236 improves efficiency and expands access to crisis response services by consolidating the Colorado Crisis Line and the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line

DENVER, CO – Legislation to streamline access to crisis response services and expand access to behavioral health care will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Sponsored by Senators Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representatives Emily Sirota, D-Denver, and Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, SB25-236 consolidates crisis response services by moving the Colorado Crisis Services Line under the 988 Crisis Hotline Enterprise. Starting July 1, 2025, any time someone calls or texts the Colorado Crisis Services line at 1-844-493-8255 or 38255, they will be connected to the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line for support and services, just as if they had called or texted 988 directly. 

“Streamlining access to mental health care will help save more lives,” said Amabile. “Colorado has amazing crisis response services that help people during their difficult times, and this legislation makes them even stronger. Combining the two separate lines into one will make it that much easier for Coloradans to access quick, supportive services that help them get back on their feet.”

“In Colorado, we’re taking steps to improve the efficiency of our crisis response, not tear it down,” said Sirota. “At a time when our youth are experiencing a worsening mental health crisis, the Trump administration plans to cut funding for the 988 crisis hotline, eliminating counselors specifically suited to help LGBTQ+ youth. This law streamlines access to crisis response services so that everyone in Colorado can receive the support they need during a behavioral health emergency.” 

“In Colorado, efficient government means cutting red tape, not cutting support,” said Bridges. “While lawmakers in Washington slash suicide prevention funding in pursuit of ‘efficiency,’ we’re taking steps to streamline our services and make sure every Coloradan is able to access the help they need in moments of crisis.”

The Colorado Crisis Line was created by SB13-266 to respond to and assist individuals who are in a behavioral health emergency. The 988 Crisis Hotline is a national network of local crisis contact centers designated by Congress in 2020. Earlier this month, the Trump administration eliminated funding for specialized support on the 988 Crisis Hotline for young LGBTQ+ callers. 

Bill to Improve Youth Justice System Goes Into Effect

HB25-1146 increases the emergency detention bed cap and funds deflection programs

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation to allocate $10 million to support youth justice sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Representative Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, goes into effect on July 1, 2025. 

“This new law funds crucial programs to help kids get on the right path after a mistake and get connected to a community of support,” said Amabile. “The grant program aims to address the underlying causes of juvenile crime and treat them effectively – which is good for young people, their families, and our state. HB25-1146 is a balanced approach to keep Colorado communities safe while holistically supporting our youth.”

“This bipartisan law will make Colorado a safer place,” said Bird. “We know that many youth who commit violent crime often lack the support and guidance that they need to build a bright future for themselves. This law invests in programs to reduce recidivism and keep youth out of the justice system in the first place while also protecting our communities from harm by allowing more flexibility in the use emergency beds in detention centers.”

HB25-1146 is also sponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, and Representative Dan Woog, R-Erie. The new law increases the number of emergency detention beds available under the statewide juvenile detention bed cap from 22 to 39, and allows more flexibility on when the beds may be used. It enhances transparency by requiring the Colorado Department of Human Services to publish a monthly report including the number of youth in detention and the number awaiting services. 

To address concerns about staff interactions with detained youth, the law also establishes a pilot program for Department of Youth Services (DYS) staff at one facility to wear body-worn cameras during interactions with youth.

Additionally, the new law allocates over $3 million for deflection and community programs. The law creates the Deflection and Community Investment Grant Program in the Colorado Department of Public Safety to provide grants to eligible applicants to implement trauma-informed health and development deflection programs for youth, including Native American youth.

Finally, the law makes procedural changes to the juvenile justice system to repeal infrequently-used provisions and streamline case dismissal for some low-level charges, improving efficiency and fairness. 

DYS operates 14 secure youth centers serving youth between the ages of 10 to 21. DYS also administers juvenile parole services. In 2023, HB23-1307 allowed DYS to administer 22 temporary emergency beds that did not count toward the detention cap of 215 beds.

Legislation to Streamline Access to Youth Behavioral and Complex Health Care Takes Effect

DENVER, CO - On July 1, 2025, a bipartisan law goes into effect to combine two waiver programs to create the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver. This will help streamline 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 legislation is near and dear to my heart, and I am excited that this new law is going into effect to 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.

Bipartisan Lukens, Daugherty Bill to Strengthen Civil Rape Shield Law Goes Into Effect

COLORADO - On July 1, 2025, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Representative Meghan Lukens and Senator Lindsey Daugherty goes into effect to strengthen protections for survivors of sexual misconduct by expanding the Civil Rape Shield Law.

“Too many times, victims have been blamed for an assault based on what they wear and how they live their lives,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs.“The unfortunate reality is that survivors of sexual misconduct have been hesitant to pursue legal action against their assailant because irrelevant details about their past sexual history, lifestyle, and clothing could be used against them. In Colorado, we stand by victims of sexual assault. With this bipartisan law going into effect, we’re preventing lawyers from using these unrelated details in a civil case to protect survivors so they can hold their stalker, harasser, or assaulter accountable.”

“This legislation ensures that survivors of sexual violence are treated with dignity and fairness in civil court,” said Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. “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.”

HB25-1138, also sponsored by Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, R-Colorado Springs, and Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, will protect victims of sexual assault in civil cases by making hairstyle, speech, lifestyle, and clothing related to an alleged sexual offense inadmissible as evidence of consent, credibility, or harm. Except for the source or origin of semen, pregnancy, disease, or proving someone else committed the assault, past sexual history cannot be discussed unless permitted by a judge after privately reviewing the evidence.

Prior to this law going into effect, Colorado statutes deemed sexual activity as irrelevant and inadmissible in a civil proceeding unless that sexual activity was between a victim and a defendant. HB25-1138 eliminates that exception. This law applies to court proceedings occurring on or after July 1, 2025.

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.

Bill to Increase Judges and Boost Access to Justice Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO – On July 1, 2025, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and Representative Michael Carter, D-Aurora, goes into effect. SB25-024 adds 15 judges across Colorado to decrease wait times for court cases.

“As a former deputy district attorney, I know how important it is to have an adequate number of judges serving our communities,” said Roberts. “Over and over again, we’ve heard from judges, attorneys, victims, and litigants who are hurting from an overburdened court system. Adding 15 new judges to Colorado’s judicial system is a major step forward that will help Colorado fulfill its fundamental duty to provide timely access to justice.”

“The right to a speedy trial is guaranteed in our constitution, but the shortage of judges and other judicial staff makes it unrealistic to schedule cases in a reasonable timeframe,” said Carter. “When cases are continuously pushed back, justice for victims and their families is delayed, while potentially innocent Coloradans sit in jail awaiting trial. Our new law increases the number of judges, attorneys and other staff to cut down on wait times, protect the autonomy of judicial actors and improve access to justice.”

SB25-024, also sponsored by Sen. Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, and Rep. Matt Soper, R-Delta, increases the number of district and county judges by 15 judges for criminal and civil court cases over the next two years. Beginning on July 1, 2025 and spread over the next two years, specific districts will be allocated the funding to hire more district and county judges.

The new law also allocates funds for courts to hire public defenders, deputy district attorneys, sheriff deputies, behavioral health court professionals and support staff. Judicial Districts 4, 7, 13, 17, 18, 19 and 23 and Larimer, Douglas, La Plata, Mesa and Eagle counties will see at least one additional judge. 

Governor Polis and Lieutenant Governor Primavera have already made several appointments to fill the new judgeships, effective July 1, 2025. These include:

• Kelly J. McPherson to the 4th Judicial District Court,

• Sara S. Price to the 17th Judicial District Court,

• Stacy K. Guillon to the 23rd Judicial District Court,

• James X. Quinn to the 18th Judicial District Court,

• Kimbra L. Killin to the 13th Judicial District Court, and

• Richard E. Schmittel, Jr., to the La Plata County Court in the 6th Judicial District. 

In early 2025, Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Monica Márquez made a plea to the Colorado General Assembly to add judges during the annual State of the Judiciary address.

Bill to Expand Substance Use Disorder Treatment Options Takes Effect

DENVER, CO – On July 1, 2025, legislation sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, to expand treatment options for Coloradans with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) will fully take effect.

“More than 1,500 of our neighbors died from a drug overdose here in Colorado last year, a heartbreaking number we must work hard to reduce,” said Mullica. “In recent years we’ve advanced a number of policies to tackle this crisis, including this bill to expand treatment options for folks struggling with substance use disorders. I am proud of the work we've done, and I look forward to helping more Coloradans get the help and support they need to get their lives back on track.”

Beginning July 1, 2025, HB24-1045 requires the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to provide the following reentry services to people immediately before they are released from the Division of Youth Services (DYS) in the CDHS or a Department of Corrections (DOC) facility:

• Medicated-assisted treatment (MAT) medications, via an opioid treatment program;

• A 30-day supply of additional medications, if needed; and

• Case management services, which are assumed to include screening, brief intervention, and care coordination services. 

Additionally, the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) will begin to collect and share data on admission denials from withdrawal management facilities. BHA will also contract with a third-party entity to support behavioral health providers pursuing safety net status, offering assistance with billing, cost reporting, and payer enrollment.

During the 2023 interim, ten lawmakers served on the Opioid and Other Substance Use Disorders Study Committee. The committee advanced four bills, including HB24-1045, for the General Assembly to consider during the 2024 session. These bills bolster prevention efforts, improve treatment programs, promote harm reduction strategies, and support Coloradans in recovery to prevent overdose deaths and save lives.

Western Slope Lawmakers Urge Congress to Oppose Selling Colorado’s Public Lands

WESTERN SLOPE, CO – A group of bipartisan lawmakers from the Western Slope today sent a letter to Colorado’s congressional delegation urging them to oppose the selling of Colorado’s public lands. 

In the letter, signed by House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, and Senator Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, lawmakers said, “We, the undersigned state legislators of Colorado, are writing to you today to express our unwavering opposition to any efforts within the federal budget reconciliation package that include the sale of public lands.”

In the letter, lawmakers stated, “Countless Coloradans have stood up in recent weeks to oppose public lands sell-off, and more voices are joining the opposition to this deeply misguided effort every day. The local voices are strong and clear; Coloradans do not support public land sell-off.”

“Public lands are vital to Colorado's economy and way of life. These lands drive our regional economy through outdoor recreation, hunting, tourism, and industries, like agriculture and ranching. They provide essential clean air and water, supporting the quality of life that attracts businesses and skilled workers. Colorado's outdoor recreation industry alone generated over $65.8 billion in 2023, supporting 404,000 jobs statewide. Selling off these lands would threaten this economic engine and betray the public trust.”

While the Senate parliamentarian ruled that the language to sell-off more than 2 million acres of public land must be stripped from the federal reconciliation bill, Western Slope lawmakers expressed concern about US Senator Mike Lee’s commitment to “...reintroducing new language, demonstrating a determination to push through this deeply unpopular agenda.” 

Earlier this year, this group of Colorado lawmakers sponsored a resolution to affirm the state's support for public lands and opposition to any efforts to sell-off public lands. SJR25-009 passed both chambers overwhelmingly with bipartisan support.

Read the full text of the letter below:

June 24, 2025 

To our esteemed Colorado Congressional Delegation Members: 

We, the undersigned state legislators of Colorado, are writing to you today to express our unwavering opposition to any efforts within the federal budget reconciliation package that include the sale of public lands. This letter builds upon our previous actions as legislators in opposing public land sell-off and we urge you to stand firmly against this deeply unpopular and misguided effort. 

Colorado has demonstrated a powerful and broadly bi-partisan stance against federal public land sell-offs. This spring, the Colorado General Assembly overwhelmingly passed bipartisan Senate Joint Resolution 25-009, "Concerning the Protection of Colorado's Public Lands," with near-unanimous support. This resounding legislative statement underscores the statewide consensus on safeguarding these invaluable resources. Following this, multiple counties and municipalities have echoed this sentiment, including Pueblo County, La Plata County, Chaffee County, Routt County, and San Miguel County, among others.  

Furthermore, over 160 elected leaders from across our state have signed onto a letter publicly opposing public land sell-off. Countless Coloradans have stood up in recent weeks to oppose public lands sell-off, and more voices are joining the opposition to this deeply misguided effort every day. The local voices are strong and clear; Coloradans do not support public land sell-off.  

Public lands are vital to Colorado's economy and way of life. These lands drive our regional economy through outdoor recreation, hunting, tourism, and industries, like agriculture and ranching. They provide essential clean air and water, supporting the quality of life that attracts businesses and skilled workers. Colorado's outdoor recreation industry alone generated over $65.8 billion in 2023, supporting 404,000 jobs statewide. Selling off these lands would threaten this economic engine and betray the public trust. 

From the state of Utah’s failed effort in the fall of 2024 to seize 18.5 million acres of public lands through the Supreme Court to the failed House measure earlier this year in the budget reconciliation process and to two failed language attempts in the Senate thus far, the public has repeatedly rejected these proposals. Just recently, the Senate Parliamentarian ruled that the sell-off language in the budget reconciliation package violates the Byrd Rule and must be stripped. Despite this, Senator Lee has already committed to reintroducing new language, demonstrating a determination to push through this deeply unpopular agenda. This lack of transparency and repeated attempts to bypass public input are unacceptable.

Therefore, we, the undersigned Colorado State Legislators, urge you, our federal delegation members, to strongly oppose any and all provisions in the budget reconciliation package, or any other legislation, that seeks to sell off our public lands. 

Thank you for your dedication to our state and for standing with Coloradans to protect our shared public lands for current and future generations. 

Sincerely, 

Speaker Julie McCluskie, House District 13   

Senator Dylan Roberts, Senate District 8   

Representative Rick Taggart, House District 55 

Senator Marc Catlin, Senate District 5

Colorado Democrats Protect Public Health, Safeguard Vaccine Recommendations Backed by Science

DENVER, CO – Colorado Democrats passed legislation this year to ensure the state’s science-backed vaccine recommendations are protected in the event that federal guidance is undermined or overhauled.

"As a health care professional, following the science is non-negotiable. Science-based decision making should never be political, but unfortunately in this day and age we’re seeing misinformation and debunked studies weaponized in order to advance a dangerous public health agenda," said Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton. "That’s why this year we worked proactively to ensure that here in Colorado, we’re using well-informed recommendations about immunizations that keep our kids and communities protected. With this bill, we’re expanding CDPHE’s ability to incorporate recommendations from a broad group of trusted organizations that rely on science, not whoever happens to be in office."

"Secretary Kennedy’s circulation of medical misinformation and the promotion of false information about vaccines has left many physicians and health care experts concerned about the long-term safety of our communities," said Rep. Lindsay Gilchrist, D-Denver. "For years, I worked in the public health space, and I can say with confidence that vaccines are one of the best tools we have to fight disease and save lives. In the shadow of federal uncertainty, we stepped up to protect the health of our kids and community members, and under our law, Colorado can utilize vaccine recommendations from trusted organizations that follow the science."

"For months, physicians have been fearful about what vaccine recommendations will come down from the federal government," said Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. "Secretary Kennedy has been a longtime skeptic of vaccines and consistently chooses misinformation over science. Given his influence and the uncertainty in DC, we knew that we needed to take action to put science first and protect Colorado’s best interests. This legislation ensures that whatever happens federally, Colorado will continue to rely on scientific data that protects Colorado kids and builds healthier communities for us all."

"Choosing science-based information to keep our kids safe shouldn't be controversial, yet the Trump administration continues to unravel foundational health care tools trusted by doctors and public health experts," said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. "To protect the health and safety of Coloradans, our immunization policy must be driven by science, not misinformation. Under our law, Coloradans can rest assured knowing that their vaccine recommendations are coming from organizations that rely on fact-driven, scientific information to make their decisions." 

HB25-1027, sponsored by Senators Mullica and Daugherty, and Representatives Brown and Gilchrist, updates disease control statutes to direct the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to consider recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American College of Physicians, in addition to federal guidance from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Prior to this legislation, CDPHE only considered recommendations from the ACIP.

Earlier this month, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired every member of the ACIP, which advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on the safety, efficacy and clinical needs of vaccines. The newly-appointed ACIP is currently meeting to discuss the efficacy of several vaccines including: COVID-19, RSV, and Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella (MMRV). The advisory committee is scheduled to vote tomorrow on new recommendations regarding influenza and RSV vaccines. Secretary Kennedy has repeatedly spread widely-debunked misinformation linking vaccines with autism.

HB25-1027 also aims to improve health care outcomes by expanding patient access to testing for hepatitis C, which is currently difficult for many patients to obtain. Hepatitis C cases are on the rise nationally and in Colorado.

Democrats also passed SB25-196 to protect insurance coverage for preventive health care should the existing federal protections be repealed, dismantled, or disempowered. The new law gives state insurance agencies the authority to reinstate guidelines on preventive care from federal agencies that existed in January 2025, including from the ACIP.

Bill to Improve Colorado Privacy Act, Protect Colorado Consumers Goes into Effect

DENVER, CO – On July 1, 2025, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, goes into effect to amend the Colorado Privacy Act to include protections for biometric data.

Biometric data is highly unique to an individual and includes fingerprints, facial recognition used to unlock smartphones, and iris scanning. HB24-1130 requires biometric data to be destroyed within two years of collection or when the data is no longer needed, whichever is earliest, and to be stored securely.

“From fingerprint scanners to the facial recognition that unlocks our smartphones, our biometric data is intertwined with current and emerging technology,” said Daugherty. “Biometric data is incredibly personal. This law ensures our biometric data is protected and stored safely, improving consumer protections and reducing the risk of our personal data being used improperly.” 

In 2021, legislators passed SB21-190 to enact the Colorado Privacy Act and make it a deceptive trade practice for entities who control the personal data of at least 25,000 people to process sensitive data without consent.