Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act Clears Senate

HB25-1225 would expand protections against intimidation for voters and election workers

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, to protect voters and election workers from intimidation passed the Senate today. 

“Coloradans in rural and underserved communities are disproportionately impacted by efforts to suppress voters,” Hinrichsen said. “It is critical that we shore up protections for voters so that everyone, regardless of zip code or identity, feels safe participating in our democratic process.”

“Colorado’s gold-standard free and fair elections are the backbone of our democracy,” Daugherty said. “Increased threats of violence have put voters and election workers at risk of danger. This bill would strengthen protections for all people involved in our elections process so that everyone feels safe to be represented and make their voices heard.”

HB25-1225, also known as the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act, would expand protections against intimidation, threats or coercion while voting, attempting to vote, assisting others in voting, or helping to administer an election. Under the bill, carrying a visible firearm, imitation firearm or toy firearm while engaging in certain election-related activities would be considered intimidation, with exceptions for law enforcement officials and hired on-site security. The bill would also allow an individual who alleges intimidation or coercion to pursue civil recourse. 

This bill is the latest in a series of legislation passed by Colorado Democrats in recent years to protect voters from intimidation, including a 2022 law to prevent armed voter intimidation by prohibiting the open carry of firearms at or near polling centers.

HB25-1225 now moves back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE.