Senate Democrats Release Statement Following Demonstrations in Denver

Denver, CO – Today Senate Democrats released the following statement in response to last night’s protests for police accountability following the death of Minnesota resident George Floyd:
 
“The murder of George Floyd was a senseless, gruesome act of police violence that should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The racism and violence that black communities are forced to navigate on a daily basis is abhorrent and must be stopped. We are shocked and heartbroken by the violence that erupted in our city last night and stand in solidarity with those calling for justice. Our duty is to represent the people of Colorado and the best way we can do that right now is by respecting the gravity of this moment. Therefore, in deference to the demands for police accountability, we will be suspending all legislative work until Monday, June 1. When we return, our priority will continue to be the health, safety, and well-being of all Coloradans.”

JOINT RELEASE: Democrats Introduce Bill to Provide Earned Paid Sick Days to All Hardworking Coloradans

DENVER –– Today, Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg and Senator Jeff Bridges, alongside Speaker of the House KC Becker and Representative Yadira Caraveo, provided a comprehensive overview of their newly introduced bill, SB20-205 which empowers all Colorado workers to protect themselves and their coworkers by earning paid sick days.

“In this new reality, we must ensure that people are able to prioritize and protect the health of themselves, their families, and their communities,” said Majority Leader Fenberg, (D-Boulder). “Currently nearly half of Colorado workers are not able to earn a single sick day. To keep our communities safe, our businesses open and our economy on the road to recovery, we need to ensure that all workers can stay home when they are sick.”

“We are focusing on how we can help Coloradans safely get back to work as we protect our most vulnerable and prioritize the health and safety of all,” said Speaker KC Becker, (D-Boulder). “Too many of those on the frontlines of this pandemic, our health care workers, food service workers who are restocking grocery stores, and so many other essential workers, don’t have paid sick leave. If Coloradans return to work sick, then we will reverse the progress we’ve made and our economic crisis will worsen. Paid sick leave will lead to healthier communities, stronger businesses, and a safer road to recovery.”

“In many ways the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that we don’t have many of the necessary provisions in place to protect Coloradans,” said Sen. Bridges, (D-Greenwood Village). “When people are going to work sick it hurts all of us. That’s why we are sponsoring this legislation to ensure no Coloradan has to choose between their health and their income.”

“As a pediatrician, I see and treat sick children all day long,” said Rep. Caraveo, (D-Thornton). “COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease that can affect an entire family. When people have paid sick days, it means that they are more likely to go to the doctor and get the care they need to prevent further spread of the disease to the rest of their family and loved ones. If we’re faced with anything like this again, Coloradans need to have access to paid sick days for the health of us all.”

Currently, 40% of Colorado’s workforce are not afforded the opportunity to earn paid sick days–– creating a “work while sick” culture in Colorado that increases the deadly transmission of viruses such as COVID-19. SB20-205 will allow those who are feeling ill to protect their coworkers, customers, and loved ones by staying home, without the fear of losing their income. 

Earned sick days are a paid, job-protected benefit to ensure people can stay home to care for themselves or a family member during a short-term illness. Under SB20-205, employees will earn a sick day for every 26 hours worked. Most employees in Colorado will be able to earn a maximum of 80 hours of paid sick time per year, and businesses with 50 or fewer employees will be able to earn a maximum of 40 hours. Employers are not required to pay the balance of sick days to employees when they leave, and because days are earned by employees, there will be a gradual phase of this benefit.

Studies show that employees working while sick costs the national economy approximately $160 billion per year—and that was before coronavirus. Studies also show that providing paid sick days allows businesses to benefit from higher employee productivity, healthier workplaces, and lower employee turnover.

JOINT STATEMENT: New Legislation To Complement Paid Family & Medical Leave

DENVER, CO – Senator Faith Winter and Representative Matt Gray released the following statement today after the Senate introduced SB20-205 which addresses the immediate needs of individuals and families facing mental or physical illness.  

“We are excited about the introduction of SB20-205 and how it will provide some immediate relief for Coloradans. At the same time, it is worth noting that this legislation is entirely distinct from a Paid Family & Medical Leave program. SB20-205 is a necessary life raft during this pandemic—allowing people to stay home when they feel sick rather than be forced to work and risk the health of countless others. However, it does not eclipse the need for a comprehensive solution that provides extended leave benefits for the birth of a child or long term illnesses, such as cancer. This is why it is so critical that we continue to fight for parallel solutions that grant Coloradans the ability to care for themselves and their loved ones over a longer period of time.” 

SB20-205 requires all employers to provide 80 hours of paid sick leave related to COVID-19 through the end of this calendar year. Then starting January 2021, all employers would be required to provide at least 48 hours of paid sick leave per calendar year. 

The paid sick leave can be used for the following reasons: mental or physical illness; caring for a family member with a mental or physical illness; if employee or family member has been the victim of domestic abuse, sexual assault or harassment; or if there are closures due to a public health emergency which would necessitate the employee’s absence from work. This bill also prohibits an employer from retaliating against an employee who uses their paid sick leave.

JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Dems Demand Federal Relief; Send Letter to Congress

DENVER, CO–– General Assembly Democrats today sent a letter to Congress following Tuesday’s devastating economic and revenue forecast, calling on Congress to prioritize flexible state funding to protect communities from revenue shortfalls caused by COVID-19. 

“Colorado is facing a desperate budgetary situation. With a more than $3 billion deficit, many of our critical programs that Coloradans have come to count on are facing crippling cuts,” said Senator Dominick Moreno, Joint Budget Committee (JBC) Vice-Chair. “We need the federal government to step up and use our tax dollars to bail out people rather than corporations, or we will suffer severe consequences for years to come.” 

“With a severe budget shortfall, we are doing everything we can to protect education and critical health-and-safety services,” said JBC Chair Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “We have spent the last several weeks reviewing options for how we can balance the budget responsibly, and it’s clear that without more federal aid, our state will see heartbreaking cuts to essential services. We need our leaders in Washington to come together and support our communities through this crisis.”

The letter asks Congress to pass several bills being supported by members of the Colorado delegation including The Coronavirus Relief for States Act, sponsored by Rep. Ed Perlmutter, and co-sponsored by Rep. Joe Neguse, Rep. Jason Crow, Rep. Diana DeGette, and Rep. Scott Tipton; as well as The State Operations Stabilization (SOS) Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, Rep. Neguse, and Rep. Crow.

Coloradans can add their name to the letter here.

The full text of the letter is below:

Dear Members of Congress, 

Our state, like so many others, is experiencing extreme hardship due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Not only have more than 1000 of our residents died of this disease so far, but hundreds of thousands have lost their jobs and are in desperate need of assistance.  

However, these are still only the immediate and obvious impacts of the crisis. The longer, more insidious effects are those that will ripple out for years to come, as our state infrastructure crumbles from inadequate funding.

Currently, we are facing a revenue shortfall of at least $3 billion due to the COVID crisis. This represents a massive reduction of our fiscal resources and it spells catastrophe for many of our already-underfunded institutions. Schools, law enforcement offices, health clinics, and correctional facilities all face extreme financial pressures, while literacy, suicide prevention, child welfare, and job training programs will likely need to be eliminated. Urgent transportation projects that would ensure the safety of our roads are also on hold, and public employees face potential pay cuts, furloughs, and benefit reductions. 

These fiscal losses are particularly poised to decimate the people who are helping get us through this crisis––mainly our first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, and state personnel. These professionals have been working tirelessly under immense pressure to cope with the needs of their patients, students, and service users. But now with draining funding reserves, our community servants are set up to receive even less support.

Our situation is devastating and far exceeds that of any downturn we have ever faced. So you can understand our outrage when Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he would rather let state governments declare bankruptcy than receive more federal funding. He also had the audacity to claim that it’s not Congress’ job to help states who didn’t save for a recession.

This kind of sentiment is unacceptable and blatantly disregards the severity of this crisis. Real people are suffering and more will in the coming weeks, months, and years if we do not receive adequate assistance. 

The federal funding so far, while much appreciated, has come with painful restrictions that prevent state or local governments from fully addressing their dwindling resource pools. So now, after hundreds of billions of tax dollars have gone towards bailing out big business and buying down corporate debt, states are completely unable to care for their own people. 

This issue is further compounded by the fact that COVID’s revenue impacts will last multiple budget cycles, and Colorado is uniquely unable to make up for revenue shortfalls due to TABOR. Our state needs the funding and the flexibility to backfill lost revenue, or we will be left with huge fiscal gaps in essential governmental functions.

Therefore, in recognition of this immense and continuing revenue decline, we seek your help in working to ensure that any forthcoming federal stimulus package addressing the COVID-19 outbreak includes substantial aid for state revenue shortages. 

There are presently three congressional bills we would urge you to support: 
 

The Coronavirus Relief for States Act, sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, and co-sponsored by Rep. Neguse, Rep. Crow, Rep. DeGette, and Rep. Tipton provides $500 billion to states and tribal governments affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for FY 2020-21. These funds could be used to cover costs accrued from the public health emergency, to replace revenue lost as a result of COVID-19, or to contribute to economic recovery of the state or tribe.The bipartisan proposal for a State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (SMART) Fund is set to be formally introduced in the Senate shortly. The bill calls for an additional $500 billion in COVID-19 state stabilization funds to support state and local governments. The funds would be split 3 ways: one-third would be provided to all 50 states and the District of Columbia; one-third to state and local governments based upon the number of COVID-19 cases in each place; and one-third to state and local governments based upon state revenue loss from COVID-19. The State Operations Stabilization (SOS) Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Perlmutter, Rep. Neguse, and Rep. Crow, authorizes a state, tribal government, or unit of local government to use funds made available under the Coronavirus Relief Fund to cover expenditures related to COVID-19 or to reduce a budget deficit due to loss of revenue related to COVID-19.  All three of these initiatives would greatly assist Colorado’s ability to recover and maintain vital services for our residents. Fortunately, some of you have already begun the critical work necessary to secure flexible funding for Colorado, and for that, we are exceedingly grateful.  

Going forward, as Congress begins to consider the next phase of national relief, we implore all of you to protect our state’s future by advocating for such measures. We are currently just over a week away from passing a budget with dire consequences and request that you also act urgently. Colorado will need billions of dollars in direct aid to survive the extreme and continued loss of revenue or we will be forced to cut essential services in the midst of a pandemic and potentially crippling economic recession. 

Thank you for your leadership and continued support. We appreciate you rising to the challenge of today’s unprecedented public health emergency with courage, compassion, and commitment. We hope we can rely on you to secure the resources we need to protect the health and wellbeing of Coloradans and we look forward to working with you to craft our state’s path to recovery. 

Sincerely, 

President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo)
Senator Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder)
Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora)
Senator Mike Foote (D-Lafayette)
Senator Joann Ginal (D-Fort Collins)
Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver)
Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver) 
Senator Dominick Moreno (D-Commerce City)
Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood)
Senator Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver)
Senator Tammy Story (D-Golden)
Senator Nancy Todd (D-Aurora)
Senator Angela Williams (D-Denver)
Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster)
Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada)
Senator Jessie Danielson (D-Wheat Ridge)
Senator Pete Lee (D-Colorado Springs) 

Speaker KC Becker (D-Boulder)
Majority Leader Alec Garnett (D-Denver)
Representative Jeni Arndt (D-Fort Collins)
Representative Shannon Bird (D-Westminster)
Representative Janet Buckner (D-Aurora)
Representative Bri Buentello (D-Pueblo)
Representative Yadira Caraveo (D-Thornton)
Representative James Coleman (D-Denver)
Representative Lisa Cutter (D-Jefferson County)
Representative Monica Duran (D-Wheat Ridge)
Representative Daneya Esgar (D-Pueblo)
Representative Tony Exum, Sr. (D-Colorado Springs)
Representative Meg Froelich (D-Englewood)
Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez (D-Denver)
Representative Leslie Herod (D-Denver)
Representative Edie Hooton (D-Boulder)
Representative Dominique Jackson (D-Aurora)
Representative Sonya Jaquez-Lewis (D- Boulder)
Representative Chris Kennedy (D-Lakewood)
Representative Cathy Kipp (D-Fort Collins)
Representative Tracy Kraft-Tharp (D-Arvada)
Representative Susan Lontine (D-Denver)
Representative Julie McCluskie (D-Dillon)
Representative Barbara McLachlan (D-Durango)
Representative Jovan Melton (D-Aurora
Representative Dafna Michaelson Jenet (D-Commerce City))
Representative Kyle Mullica (D-Northglenn)
Representative Dylan Roberts (D-Avon)
Representative Jonathan Singer (D-Longmont)
Representative Emily Sirota (D-Denver)
Representative Marc Snyder (D-Manitou Springs)
Representative Tom Sullivan (D-Centennial)
Representative Kerry Tipper (D-Lakewood)
Representative Brianna Titone (D-Arvada)
Representative Donald Valdez (D-La Jara)
Representative Mike Weissman (D-Aurora)
Representative Steven Woodrow (D-Denver)
Representative Mary Young (D-Greeley)

JOINT RELEASE: JBC Dems Prioritizing Education, Health & Safety as State Faces $3.3B Revenue Shortfall

DENVER, CO –  Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after the Legislative Council and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered revised economic forecasts, both of which project significantly lower General Fund revenue compared to earlier estimates. Both estimates forecast General Fund shortfalls next fiscal year of more than $3.3 billion.  

“Colorado is facing what may be the most dire budget situation in our state’s history, but I know that we will join together and meet this challenge,” said JBC Chair Rep. Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “The JBC has been working hard to protect vulnerable Coloradans and soften the impact of these cuts, as we prioritize education and critical health and safety services. We’re exploring every possible option for how we can best support our state’s recovery, but it’s critically important that Congress provide additional aid if we are to minimize the impact of these cuts on our schools and essential services.”

“Colorado’s economy has a long road to recovery, and today’s forecast assures that there will be difficult cuts,” said JBC Vice-Chair Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “We are prepared to meet these challenges head-on to prioritize our education and health care systems. Our task is not an enviable one, but we will work tirelessly to protect the vital programs and services that our communities depend on.”

“Today’s budget forecast is stark. Coloradans are strong and resourceful, and I am confident that we will step up to the enormous challenge that COVID-19 has presented,” said JBC Member Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “We will continue to look for ways to address our state’s pressing public health concerns and minimize the impact from this crisis on education and critical public health and safety services. We are going to work as hard as we can to deliver a budget that eases the pain of these cuts, supports our recovery and helps Coloradans regain their footing through this crisis.”

“This forecast confirms what we have anticipated for some time: there will certainly be painful decisions ahead,” said JBC Member Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “We must figure out how to do more with much less. Nevertheless, we remain steadfast in our convictions to ensure anticipated cuts do not fall disproportionately on our students, schools or health and safety programs.”

The updated forecast from Legislative Council staff (LCS) estimates a $895.8 million General Fund deficit at the end of FY 2019-20, a reduction of $900.1 million than what was projected in the March forecast. Revenues will fall by 11.6 percent  in FY 2020-2021 from the current fiscal year, a figure that was revised down from 1.4 percent growth in the March forecast. General Fund revenues are now expected to be $892.8 million less in FY 2019-2020 and $2.42 billion less in FY 2020-2021 than anticipated in the March revenue forecast. LCS anticipates lawmakers will have $10.3 billion available for the general fund next year, a 25.3 percent drop from FY 2019-2020, and $4 billion less than estimated in the December forecast. 

The forecast from the governor’s Office of State Planning and Budgeting anticipates General Fund revenues will fall by 7.5 percent in FY 2020-2021 over the current fiscal year, a drop from 3.3 percent projected growth in the March forecast. General Fund revenue forecasts relative to the March estimate are down by $1.1 billion for FY 2019-2020, $2.4 billion in FY 2020-2021 and $2 billion for FY 2021-22. The OSPB estimates that $11 billion will be available for the General Fund next year, $1.9 billion less than FY 2019-2020. 

The LCS estimate indicates there is downside risk to the forecast from a prolonged economic recovery or a double dip recession due to the resurgence of COVID-19 this fall or “vicious cycle.” There is upside risk to the estimate from a faster economic recovery. 

Bipartisan Letter Calls For Coordination In COVID Response

Members urge banks, lending institutions to unify in relief efforts

Denver, CO – Six members of the Senate Finance Committee sent a bipartisan letter to Colorado's banking and lending community on Friday, urging them to take uniform steps to address relief for Coloradans in the wake of unprecedented job losses and economic uncertainty.

Committee members — including chair Sen. Julie Gonzales, vice chair Sen. Pete Lee and Sens. Chris Hansen, Nancy Todd, Jack Tate and Paul Lundeen — called on all major banks, credit unions, and landlord associations to provide coordinated efforts for Coloradans.
 

"Every day we are hearing from constituents across our communities who are asking for our help in these dire circumstances," members wrote. "Many struggle to both provide enough food for the family and also pay rent, sometimes forced to make the decision where to cut costs between necessities. Businesses are trying to stay solvent so that they might have jobs to which Coloradans may return."

Members have witnessed desperate needs emerge in Colorado communities. The letter requests that banks and lenders lead a coordinated, unified response to provide flexibility to building owners that can be passed on to tenants, as well as participation in efforts to relieve loan holders such as fee waivers, deferred payments, interest payment reductions, and debt restructure options.

"Coloradans need a clear path forward, urgently. During this time of national crisis, we stand in solidarity with those affected by this real estate emergency."

You can find the full text of the letter here.

Senate Finance Committee Members Send Bipartisan Letter To Colorado Banking, Lending Institutions

CO Supreme Court Upholds GA Rule Allowing Legislative Days to Pause During State of Emergency

Court rules in favor of the General Assembly’s position that legislative days do not have to be counted consecutively during a public health crisis

Denver, CO – Today the Colorado Supreme Court ruled in favor of upholding Joint Rule 44 of the General Assembly after an interrogatory was submitted to verify its constitutionality on March 14. 

“We are thrilled with the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Joint Rule 44 of the General Assembly,” said President Leroy M. Garcia, D-Pueblo. “While public health experts are advising citizens to stay home, we must continue to protect all those who do business at the Capitol by temporarily suspending the session. However, counting legislative days consecutively during this state of emergency would have been devastating for Colorado. As leaders, we were elected to serve the community, especially during times of hardship. With this decision, we will not be robbed of that opportunity, but rather be allowed to honor public safety measures while still preserving the breadth of our civic duties. The legislature’s critical work on behalf of Coloradans will continue as it is deemed safe. When that happens we will have a lot to do, but we’re ready to rise to the challenge.”  
 
“I thank the court in reaching this common-sense conclusion: during a public health crisis, the legislature can pause and return back when it’s safe to do so," said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. "This ruling means that when we return to the Capitol, we’ll have time to pass legislation to get Colorado’s families, businesses, and economy back on their feet.”
 
Under normal circumstances, the General Assembly operates under a 120-consecutive day limit each year. However, when the Governor declares a national health emergency, such as the current public health crisis Colorado is facing, the Legislature adheres to a rule that allows for the counting of only “working calendar days” and thus does not lose time if the session is suspended in a state of emergency. 
 
On March 14, the General Assembly made the difficult but critically important decision to temporarily halt all formal legislative work until the people of Colorado could safely participate in their democracy. However, the duties of the legislature are far from over. Therefore, in order to preserve the important work being done on behalf of Coloradans, the General Assembly requested that the Supreme Court make a determination as to whether the unanimously adopted legislative rules of the body were constitutionally sound.

With this ruling, the General Assembly will be allowed to pick up where they left off at a later date–resuming its responsibility to serve the citizens of the state once it is safe to do so. 

To read the full court opinion, click here.

Colorado Leaders Urge President Trump To Increase Production of Critical Medical Supplies

Today, 43 members of the General Assembly alongside 65 other elected officials from across Colorado formally wrote President Trump urging him to expand production of critical medical supplies in response to the COVID-19 epidemic:

We write to urge you to immediately exercise your authority under the Defense Production Act (DPA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand national production of much needed medical supplies including masks, ventilators, and respirators. We applaud your decision to use this authority to increase one company’s manufacturing of ventilators, but ask you to use the full extent of your authority under the Act to ensure sufficient supplies and distribution of all necessary medical equipment.

Senator Faith Winter, who spearheaded this bipartisan effort, argues that the United States is fast approaching unprecedented devastation if proper steps are not immediately taken to arm medical professionals with the necessary supplies:

“We need aggressive, ambitious action to combat this virus. Every day more people are becoming sick, and without life-saving equipment, hospital staff will be overwhelmed by impossible working conditions that will likely cost countless lives,” said Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster). “In Colorado, we are doing everything we can to flatten the curve and buy time to increase our health care capacity. But a key part of increasing this capacity is to get the necessary supplies. I know that Americans will rise to the occasion and manufacture the goods we need.”

Currently, the medical community is experiencing dangerous shortages of respirators, isolation gowns, surgical masks, eye protection, intensive care unit equipment, and diagnostic testing tools. With dwindling reserves, hospitals fear that they will be wholly unprepared for the inevitable surge of ill patients as COVID-19 continues to sweep across the nation.

In Colorado, it is projected that local hospitals will reach critical capacity within weeks if the rate of infections continues: 

Without an increase in manufacturing capacity for critical medical supplies and federal coordination in distributing these supplies, Colorado will not have the needed resources to protect our frontline workers and effectively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the Defense Production Act (DPA), President Trump has the authority to compel private companies to prioritize the manufacturing of critical goods in the face of a national emergency. It also allows the federal government to direct fair distribution of resources — ensuring that communities hardest hit by the pandemic are addressed first.

You can find the full text of the letter here. 

Letter From Colorado Delegation of State and Local Leaders Urges President To Expand Production of Medical Supplies

March 31, 2020

The Honorable Donald J. Trump
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20500 

Dear Mr. President:

The global COVID-19 pandemic has now spread to every state in our nation, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that up to 214 million Americans could contract COVID-19 as it continues to spread throughout the country. Schools, childcare centers and workplaces have been shut down across the country. Our healthcare system is preparing for impending shortages of critical equipment. 

We write to urge you to immediately exercise your authority under the Defense Production Act (DPA) to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand national production of much needed medical supplies including masks, ventilators, and respirators. We applaud your decision to use this authority to increase one company’s manufacturing of ventilators, but ask you to use the full extent of your authority under the Act to ensure sufficient supplies and distribution of all necessary medical equipment. The country cannot rely solely on private industry initiatives to make up the growing deficit of critical supplies. We must use all tools at our disposal to ensure that front line workers have the resources they need to slow the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. 

Critical medical supplies are already in short supply across the country. As noted in the March 21 letter from the American Hospital Association, the American Medical Association and the American Nurses Association, the “dwindling supplies of N95 respirators, isolation gowns, isolation masks, surgical masks, eye protection, intensive care unit equipment and diagnostic testing supplies” are insufficient to adequately respond to the projected COVID-19 outbreak. The CDC has reported that already orders for N95 respirators and facemasks are going unfilled by distributors, and the CDC has told healthcare workers to use homemade masks as “a last resort.” The nation’s supply of ventilators is wholly inadequate to meet the projected need over the next several months. Our nurses, doctors, and first responders deserve better. 

As of March 30, Colorado has 2,627 COVID-19 cases with 414 individuals hospitalized throughout 47 counties. We have seen significant daily increases in these numbers, and expect these increases to continue despite our best efforts to flatten the curve. Colorado hospitals worry that without swift action, Colorado may experience a situation similar to Northern Italy where a shortage of critical medical equipment forced doctors to make life-or-death decisions about who most needed the limited resources. In Colorado, state health officials estimate that our state will be about 6,000 ventilators short of what will be needed during the peak of the pandemic. 

Coloradans are committed to slowing the spread of COVID-19 so that our healthcare system is not overwhelmed. Governor Polis has issued a statewide stay-at-home order through April 11, closed Colorado schools through April 17, and closed most businesses through April 30. But without an increase in manufacturing capacity for critical medical supplies and federal coordination in distributing these supplies, Colorado will not have the needed resources to protect our frontline workers and effectively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

We are heartened to see companies--like Colorado’s Genesis Plastics Technologies--stepping up to address this medical supply shortage, but we need leadership and coordination at the federal level to ensure that supplies are going to where they are most in-need, that pledged supplies are delivered in a timely fashion, and that manufacturers are producing enough supplies to meet the surging need. 

We urge you to take aggressive action without delay, and thank you for your consideration as we work to protect the lives and livelihoods of Coloradans and all Americans. 

Sincerely, 

Leroy Garcia, CO Senate President, District 3
Steve Fenberg, CO Senate Majority Leader, District 18
Pete Lee, CO State Senator, District 11
Joann Ginal, CO State Senator, District 14
Tammy Story, CO State Senator, District 16
Mike Foote, CO State Senator, District 17
Rachel Zenzinger, CO State Senator, District 19
Jessie Danielson, CO State Senator, District 20
Dominick Moreno, CO State Senator, District 21
Brittany Pettersen, CO State Senator, District 22
Faith Winter, CO State Senator, District 24
Kevin Priola, CO State Senator, District 25
Jeff Bridges, CO State Senator, District 26
Nancy Todd, CO State Senator, District 28
Rhonda Fields, CO State Senator, District 29
Chris Hansen, CO State Senator, District 31
Robert Rodriguez, CO State Senator, District 32
Angela Williams, CO State Senator, District 33 
Julie Gonzales, CO State Senator, District 34

KC Becker, CO Speaker of the House, District 13
Alec Garnett, CO House Majority Leader, District 2
Meg Froelich, CO State Representative, District 3
Serena Gonzales Gutierrez, CO State Representative, District 4
James Coleman, CO State Representative, District 7
Leslie Herod, CO State Representative, District 8
Emily Sirota, CO State Representative, District 9
Monica Duran, CO State Representative, District 24
Lisa Cutter, CO State Representative, District 25
Brianna Titone, CO State Representative, District 27
Kerry Tipper, CO State Representative, District 28
Tracy Kraft-Tharp, CO State Representative, District 29
Dafna Michaelson Jenet, CO State Representative, District 30
Yadira Caraveo, CO State Representative, District 31
Matt Gray, CO State Representative, District 33
Kyle Mullica, CO State Representative, District 34
Shannon Bird, CO State Representative, District 35
Mike Weissman, CO State Representative, District 36
Dominique Jackson, CO State Representative, District 42
Daneya Esgar, CO State Representative, District 46
Mary Young, CO State Representative, District 50
Cathy Kipp, CO State Representative, District 52
Barbara McLachlan, CO State Representative, District 59
Julie McCluskie, CO State Representative, District 61
Eva Henry, Adams County Commissioner, District 1
Chaz Tedesco, Adams County Commissioner, District 2
Emma Pinter, Adams County Commissioner, District 3
Mary Hodge, Adams County Commissioner, District 4
Steve O’Dorisio, Adams County Commissioner, District 4
Elise Jones, Boulder County Commissioner, District 1
Deb Gardner, Boulder County Commissioner, District 2
Matt Jones, Boulder County Commissioner, District 3
Ron Engels, Gilpin County Commissioner, District 1
Linda Isenhart, Gilpin County Commissioner, District 2
Gail Watson, Gilpin County Commissioner, District 3
Gwen Lachelt, La Plata County Commissioner, District 2
Greg Poschman, Pitkin County Commissioner, District 3
Tim Corrigan, Routt County Commissioner, District 1
Beth Melton, Routt County Commissioner, District 3 

Hilary Cooper, San Miguel County Commissioner, District 1
Ann Mullins, Aspen City Council
Rachel Richards, Aspen City Council
Nicole Johnston, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Aurora
Crystal Murillo, Aurora City Council Member, Ward I
Juan Marcano, Aurora City Councilmember, Ward IV
Alison Coombs, Aurora City Council Member, Ward V
Curtis E. Gardner, Aurora Council Member, At-Large
Angela Lawson, Aurora City Council Member, At-Large
Allison H. Hiltz, Aurora City Councilmember, At-Large
Jacque Whitsitt, Mayor, City of Basalt
Sam Weaver, Mayor, City of Boulder
Aaron Brockett, Boulder City Councilmember
Rachel Friend, Boulder City Councilmember
Guyleen Castriotta, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Broomfield
William Lindstedt, Broomfield City Councilmember, Ward 2
Deven Schaff, Broomfield City Councilmember, Ward 3
Jean Lim, Broomfield City Councilmember, Ward 3
Laurie Anderson, Broomfield City Councilmember, Ward 4
Heidi Henkel, Broomfield City Councilmember, Ward 5
Yolanda Avila, Colorado Springs City Councilmember, District 4
Amanda Sandoval, Denver City Councilmember, District 1
Jamie Torres, Denver City Councilmember, District 3
Candi CdeBaca, Denver City Councilmember, District 9
Debbie Ortega, Denver City Councilmember, At-Large
Robin Kniech, Denver City Councilmember, At-Large
Angela Cobian, Denver Public School Board Member, District 2
Brad Laurvick, Denver Pubic School Board Member, District 5
Angie Malpiede, Regional Transportation District Board, Chair
Adam Haid, Town of Erie Trustee
Michal Rosenoer, Edgewater City Councilor
Julie Pignataro, Fort Collins City Councilmember, District 2
Jamie Harkins, Mayor, City of Lafayette
JD Mangat, Lafayette City Councilor
Chelsea Behanna, Lafayette City Councilor
Dana Gutwein, Lakewood City Councilmember, Ward 5
Kathi Wright, Loveland City Councilmember, Ward 2
Andrea Samson, Loveland City Councilmember, Ward 2
Rob Molloy, Loveland City Councilmember, Ward 1
Katie Gill, Morrison Board of Trustees Member
Paul Sutton, Morrison Board of Trustees Member 

Joyce Downing, Northglenn City Council Member, Ward 2
Katherine Goff, Northglenn City Council Member, Ward 3
Julie Mullica, Northglenn City Council Member, Ward 3
Jenny Wilford, Northglenn City Council Member, Ward 4
Mark Lacis, Mayor Pro Tempore, City of Superior
Julia Marvin, Thornton City Councilor
Anita Seitz, Mayor Pro Tempore, City of Westminster
Kathryn Skully, Westminster City Councilor
Jon Voelz, Westminster City Councilor

COVID-19: Colorado Updates & Resources

• CDPHE: Release Recommending CDC Guidance for Colorado

• Get up-to-date information from CDPHE here

• Follow #COVID19Colorado on social for regular updates from county agencies and school districts

• CDC: Resources for Large Community Events & Mass Gatherings

  • Current guidance “recommends that for the next 8 weeks, organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States”

RELEASE: Joint Resolutions Approved To Temporarily Recess Legislative Session and Request a Court Opinion

Bill to allow local parties more flexibility during COVID-19 outbreak also passes

Denver, CO – In an effort to protect the health and safety of all Coloradans, the Senate passed HB20-1359 as well as two joint resolutions today in response to Colorado's COVID-19 outbreak. 

With the passage of HB-1359, county assemblies will be able to extend various deadlines related to ballot access requirements as well as amend their bylaws as needed to accommodate remote participation in assemblies, conventions, and vacancy committees. In this way, delegates to assemblies may participate remotely if allowed by the party, and parties may reduce or waive any quorum requirements to allow assemblies to proceed. These modifications are repealed effective December 31, 2020.

"In order to combat the spread of COVID-19, it is crucial that we limit large gatherings, especially those involving vulnerable populations," said Majority Leader Fenberg (D-Boulder). "Currently, some of our essential democratic processes require in-person voting and therefore present a serious community-spread risk for participants. This bill will take public safety concerns into account while allowing important functions of our democracy to continue." 

Furthermore, in light of increased community spread of COVID-19, the General Assembly has approved bipartisan joint resolution HJR-1007 to recess the legislative session until March 30, 2020. 

“Today we made an important bipartisan decision to protect the health & safety of state employees and the community at large,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “I am proud that we were able to come together and rise to the occasion in solidarity. This is an unprecedented time in recent history and the decision to recess our session is not one we take lightly. But participation in the process is foundational to our democracy and we will not do the people’s work without their critical input.”

Due to the viral transmission of COVID-19, limiting public access to the Capitol remains in the best interest of public health and limiting the spread of the virus. Our senators value and rely on significant citizen input, and have chosen to recess until it is safe for the public to participate in our democratic process. 

In light of capitol closures, the General Assembly is also seeking the opinion of the Colorado Supreme Court regarding the number of legislative session days outlined in the state's constitution. 

Current Joint Rules of the General Assembly deem the length of session to be 120 consecutive calendar days. However, the Colorado Constitution only stipulates a maximum of 120 calendar days. Therefore, clarification is needed regarding session length in the event that the Governor declares a state of emergency due to a public health crisis. HJR-1006 requests an opinion from the Colorado Supreme Court on the following question:

Does the provision of article V, section 7 of the Colorado Constitution that limits the length of the regular legislative session to "120 calendar days" require that those days be counted consecutively and continuously beginning with the first day on which the regular legislative session convenes, or may the General Assembly for purposes of operating during a declared disaster emergency interpret the limitation as applying only to calendar days on which the Senate or the House of Representatives, or both, convene in regular legislative session?

The General Assembly will now await clarification from the Colorado Supreme Court to determine if Joint Rule 44, which allows session days to be counted as separate working calendar days in the advent of a state emergency, is indeed constitutional.

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About the Colorado Senate Democrats
The 19-member Senate Democratic Caucus for the 2020 legislative session includes Senators Leroy Garcia, Kerry Donovan, Pete Lee, Tammy Story, Julie Gonzales, Stephen Fenberg, Rachel Zenzinger, Jessie Danielson, Dominick Moreno, Brittany Pettersen, Jeff Bridges, Faith Winter, Nancy Todd, Joann Ginal, Mike Foote, Angela Williams, Rhonda Fields, Chris Hansen and Robert Rodriguez.

RELEASE: Legislative Leadership Announces “Plan of Action” In Response to COVID-19

DENVER – On Thursday afternoon, leadership of all four legislative caucuses in the Colorado General Assembly agreed on the following “Plan of Action” over the coming days in response to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak:

Step One: House Bill 20-1359 was introduced this afternoon and has passed the House Judiciary Committee and Second Reading in the House of Representatives. This bill will move swiftly through the General Assembly with the goal of being delivered to Governor Jared Polis by Saturday, March 14. This legislation, drafted with the leadership of all caucuses and with the support of both the Colorado Democratic Party and the Colorado Republican Party, will give county political parties more control regarding where their assemblies are to be conducted and what procedures they must follow. This includes allowing for changes in location and allowance of electronic means of participation for delegates and candidates if such means can be secured by those entities.

Step Two:  A Joint Resolution will be introduced in the House of Representatives to ask the Colorado Supreme Court – via an interrogatory – to clarify the General Assembly’s ability to count legislative days non-consecutively. The State Constitution limits the General Assembly’s session to “no more than 120 calendar days,” but does not clearly define whether that means consecutive days; and a Joint Rule provides for the ability to meet non-consecutively when a public health-related emergency has been declared by the Governor. Clarification from the Supreme Court would avoid the potential risk of litigation over ambiguity regarding the counting of those 120 days. 

Step Three: A Joint Resolution is currently being drafted that would allow both the Senate and the House to adjourn temporarily. As of now, there is no plan on when that Resolution would be introduced or for what period of time the General Assembly might be adjourned. This is being drafted as a precaution so that we are prepared in the event that the General Assembly decides it is in the best interest of staff, legislators, lobbyists, and the public at large to temporarily adjourn for some length of time.

Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo) released the following statement:

“Protecting the health and safety of state employees as well as the public, is our top priority right now. We are currently navigating all of our options and will continue to do our due diligence in determining how to proceed in the coming weeks. By taking these next steps, we are laying the groundwork to act quickly if necessary, while allowing essential tenets of democracy to continue. In moments like this, Coloradans need unity, and I applaud my colleagues in both chambers in working together during this difficult time.”

Speaker of the House K.C. Becker (D-Boulder) released the following statement:

“The health and safety of all Coloradans is our top priority. We are closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and are in close contact with state agencies, public health experts and the governor. Any decision we make will be informed by public health experts and our State’s Constitution. Today we are taking steps to prepare the General Assembly for actions we may need to take to protect the public, and I am grateful for the willingness of leaders in both parties and in both chambers to work together during this public health emergency.”

Senate Minority Leader Chris Holbert (R-Douglas County) released the following statement:

“Unlike a sports league, an amusement park, or a parade, the General Assembly is obligated to follow the Colorado Constitution. We are determined to prioritize the health and safety of all who work in – or visit – the Colorado State Capitol, and that means taking these steps to ensure we remain constitutionally compliant in every action we take. I am thankful for Democrat and Republican leadership in both chambers for working collaboratively. This is truly a Colorado effort.”

House Minority Leader Patrick Neville (R-Castle Rock) released the following statement:

“As a legislature, we need to ensure the safety of not only this body, but more importantly the public. The Capitol sees hundreds, sometimes thousands, of visitors a day and we have a duty to protect them. That being said, we, as legislators, are unable to perform our duties without public input. I cannot represent the people of Colorado if they are shut out of the building. If we go into recess, we have to make certain that no legislative business is done without the participation of the people. As many of my colleagues know, public testimony can make or break a bill.”

RELEASE: Fenberg Unveils Critical Air Quality Legislation

DENVER – Today Majority Leader Steve Fenberg introduced the “Clean Up Colorado’s Air Act,” a bill to improve Colorado’s air quality through the implementation of a sophisticated air monitoring network, better cooperation with the science community, and increased resources for enforcement and response to toxin-related public health concerns.

“Colorado’s air quality division is woefully under-resourced and hasn’t kept up with the severity of Colorado’s air quality problem,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg. “SB-204 will ensure CDPHE is using state-of-the-art technology and collaborating with atmospheric & public health experts to reduce air pollution from oil and gas development and other sources of emissions in Colorado.”

The EPA recently reclassified the air quality in Denver and eight other northern Colorado counties from “moderate” to “serious” nonattainment in late 2019, and EPA data from 2018 has shown metro Denver’s air quality to place in the bottom 10 ranking when compared with other large U.S. cities. Studies also found that 3 million residents in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood area endure bad air conditions for 35% of the year.

"Coloradans are breathing in bad air and we need access to the best research and science to be able to take aggressive action,” Senator Fenberg continued. “This bill will enhance the state’s ability to collaborate with the experts as well as better address Colorado’s poor air quality and the public health issues associated with it.”

The “Clean Up Colorado’s Air Act” does the following:

• Establishes a new fee on pollution sources such as oil and gas operators that is dedicated to funding advanced research and science related to air quality in Colorado. The research will be directed and administered by a new board that includes atmospheric scientists and public health experts.

• Increases existing permit fees on stationary emitting sources and dedicates the additional funds to cover increased enforcement and inspections, better air monitoring, additional air toxicologists at CDPHE, as well as improved toxin detection through the use of “sniffer vans” and other technologies.

• Prioritizes the use of aerial surveys and the installation of a real-time air monitoring network in order to more accurately measure and study concentrations and trends of volatile organic compounds, ground-level ozone, methane, and particulates in Colorado’s air.

• Deploys more resources to find and fix leaks and to more quickly respond to health risks associated with air toxin exposure. 

The bill will now be heard in the Senate Transportation & Energy Committee. Read more here.

RELEASE: Winter Bill to End Retroactive Fees on Pharmacies Heads to Governor

DENVER, CO - A bipartisan bill aiming to lower prescription drug costs and support rural pharmacies, passed the Senate today. HB20-1078, sponsored by Senator Faith Winter, creates requirements for the rates paid by pharmacy benefit managers (PBM) to pharmacies.

"Coloradans are struggling to access affordable prescription drugs,” said Senator Faith Winter (D-Westminster). “Our small and rural pharmacies need to be able to serve their communities and provide essential medications without going bankrupt as well. This bill serves as a strong step towards ensuring prescription drug costs are lowered for Coloradans everywhere.

In the last 15 years, 16% of independently-owned rural pharmacies have closed, and hundreds of rural communities went from having one or more to having none. Retroactive billing negatively impacts rural pharmacies, who have less financial capacity to absorb losses on drug costs and have to raise prices — ultimately forcing consumers to bear the burden of these crippling costs.

HB20-1078 requires that all middle management companies, known as PBMs, reimburse for clean claims and reasonable dispensing fees. The bill would prohibit all PBMs from allowing retroactive fees, including for performance or value-based contracts, which increase the cost of prescription drugs for Coloradans and pharmacies. Finally, this bill would allow for any ‘unclean claims’ to be audited and recovered. 

Similar legislation has been passed in 18 other states so far.

Through HB20-1078, Colorado has the opportunity to ensure that rural pharmacies are able to sustainably provide prescriptions for the medications that Coloradans need the most. 

HB20-1078 now moves to the Governor's desk for final approval. For more information about this bill, please click here.

RELEASE: Sen. Fields Works To Improve The Health & Well-being Of Coloradans

Denver, CO – Today the Senate Health & Human Services and Judiciary committees passed two critical bills that would expand insurance coverage as well as parental rights when it comes to mental health exams.

As our state grapples with increased rates of suicides and overdoses, it is imperative to increase access to preventive care. They can help identify potential mental health issues early on, allowing individuals to receive services and supports to address their needs before an issue becomes a crisis.

HB-1086: Insurance Coverage Mental Health Wellness Exam
This bill mandates — without any deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance — coverage for an annual mental health wellness examination that may include behavioral health screenings, education and resources for healthy lifestyle changes, and referrals to ongoing care.

HB-1270: One Parent Consent For Behavioral Health Services
Under current state law, both parents must consent to services by physician and mental health providers for a child. This bill changes the requirement to consent of only one parent, as it relates to treatment for a child's behavioral health disorder. This bill protects court-ordered joint parent agreements regarding the behavioral health decisions.

“There is an urgent need to protect and support Colorado’s children during this growing mental health crisis," said Sen. Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora.) "These bills help address this problem among our youth by increasing access and ability to receive care.”

HB-1086 now moves to Senate Appropriations, and SB-1270 heads to the committee of the whole.

RELEASE: Bill to give Military Members In-State Community College Tuition Approved

DENVER, CO - A bipartisan bill aiming to save service members and their families money by reducing education costs, passed the Senate Education Committee today. HB20-1275, sponsored by Senator Pete Lee, allows active members of the United States military, veterans, and their families to receive in-state tuition for Colorado community colleges regardless if they reside in Colorado. 

“Our servicemen and women deserve to obtain a quality education no matter where in the world their job takes them,” said Senator Pete Lee (D-Colorado Springs). This bill is about investing in those who invest in our safety and freedom every day.”

Most military members and their families move every two to three years, with some families moving even more frequently than that. Ultimately, this leads to difficulties in fulfilling residency requirements. By allowing military members and their families to attend Colorado community colleges at an in-state tuition rate without requiring them to achieve permanent residency standards, military members will no longer need to jump through bureaucratic hoops in order to receive an education.    

HB20-1275 permits active members of the United States armed forces, veterans, or one of their dependents, eligibility for in-state tuition at any Colorado community college whether or not they officially fulfill Colorado residency status. Our servicemen and women, veterans, and family members have sacrificed so much for us, and this is a way we can support them in their dreams. 

The bill will now be heard in the committee of the whole. For more information about HB20-1275, please click here. 

RELEASE: Gonzales Bill to Improve School Safety Moves Forward

DENVER, CO - A bill aiming to improve school safety and protect Colorado students passed the Senate today. SB20-023, sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, creates a multi-agency working group to address school safety standards and ensure Colorado children are able to learn in a safe environment every day. 

“When our kids wake up and go to school, there is only one thing that they should be focused on - learning,” said Senator Julie Gonzales (D- Denver). “Our kids shouldn’t have to worry if they’re safe when they go to class or be constantly looking over their shoulders in fear. Our children deserve a learning environment that helps them feel protected, and by giving experts the platform they need to ensure that our schools are safe, we’ll be one step closer towards making that happen.”
In 2018, Colorado was ranked 10th in the nation for school threats. So in the wake of recent shootings, including Colorado STEM School where student Kendrick Castillo lost his life protecting his fellow classmates, children and their families fear the vulnerability of their classrooms. 

SB20-023 works to address school safety by creating the Colorado interagency working group on school safety. This group would consist of 14 voting members and 4 legislative members tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of lockdown drills, identifying safety best practices, providing school risk assessments and training, creating minimum school safety standards, and reporting data concerning these topics on a monthly basis.   

Colorado children deserve to feel safe at school. This bill serves as a tangible way to improve school safety in Colorado for years to come. 

For more information about SB20-023, please click here. 

Zenzinger Bills to Honor Women Vets and Increase Government Accessibility Advance

DENVER - Senator Rachel Zenzinger made important strides today on three critical pieces of legislation. Two of her bipartisan bills passed out of the Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee, while one sailed through the Senate on consent calendar. 

SB20-178, Woman Veteran Disability License Plate, addresses the lapse in representation for those who are Disabled Women Veterans, where there are no regular or handicapped plates available. As of now, there are regular and handicapped plates for Veterans, Disabled Veterans, and Women Veterans. This bill passed the Senate on Thirds 32-3 and will now be sent to the House. 

“All of Colorado’s women veterans should be recognized for the sacrifices they have made for our country,” said Senator Zenzinger. “This bill gives them the visibility they deserve.”

HB20-1039, Transparent State Web Portal Search Results, establishes a task force to study and outline a plan for a centralized and mobile-optimized website for all agency rulemaking that is easily navigable and searchable for the average citizen and business owner. This bill aims to increase transparency and accessibility in government. 

HB20-1165, Interior Design Practice, removes confusing and contradictory language in the Architect's Practice Act governing the regulation of the interior design profession. Additionally, the bill updates the statutory language regarding education requirements for the profession.

"I'm proud to be working on these important bills to increase government transparency and streamline the law in industry professions," said Sen. Zenzinger. "With each new mile marker, we get one step closer to a state system that is efficient, equitable, and that works for everyone." 

HB20-1165 & HB20-1039 will now both head to the Senate floor for consideration.

Boost To Backcountry Search & Rescue Passes Senate

Denver, CO – Today the Senate advanced legislation to increase resources and capacity for our backcountry search and rescue teams with the passage of SB-130. The bill now heads to the House.

Colorado averages an estimated 3,600 search and rescue incidents per year, but a growing population and recreation industry has meant an increased need for search and rescue teams. The program relies on grants and donations to operate, and about 70% of funding came from hunting and fishing licenses last year. More than 2,800 unpaid volunteers give half a million hours every year to the state program.

"If we want to support the outdoor recreation activities that so many love in our great state, it comes with ensuring the safety of both residents and guests in Colorado," said Sen. Kerry Donovan (D-Vail). "This bill helps our search and rescue system respond to growing strains on capacity by exploring recommendations for funding and volunteer retention."

The bill will commission a study to make recommendations on funding sources and to identify: necessary equipment replacements and maintenance, workers’ compensation or other benefits for individuals injured during rescue (including volunteers), retirement benefits, and compensation and reimbursement of expenses for volunteers.

Read more about the bill here.