Chicana Elected Officials Champion Increased Vaccine Access

Local leaders partner with Servicios de la Raza & CDPHE to bring drive-up vaccinations to north, west, southwest Denver

DENVER – Approximately 600 Coloradans over 70 years of age will receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at a free community vaccination clinic this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at Servicios de la Raza, 3131 West 14th Avenue in Denver. This clinic was organized by House Assistant Majority Leader Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez (HD4), Denver Council President Pro Tem Jamie Torres (District 3), Denver City Councilmember Amanda Sandoval (District 1), Denver Public Schools Board Treasurer Angela Cobián (District 2), and Senate Majority Caucus Chair Julie Gonzales (SD34), in partnership with Servicios de la Raza and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

“The Latino population has been hit hard by this pandemic. Thank you to CDPHE for fulfilling our requests for vaccines and hearing our calls for equity coming from our community. Thank you Governor Polis for stopping by to see the work and leadership of our local elected Chicanas, Servicios de La Raza, and the many volunteers are doing to ensure our Latino elders are getting their vaccines. Within days of publicizing this community clinic, we booked six hundred vaccination appointments for elders in our community,” said House Assistant Majority Leader Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, who represents House District 4, comprised of north and west Denver.

“Working together is needed more now than ever, for our community, for our elders, and for our future. Collaborating with these other Chicana elected leaders has been inspiring and shown that representation matters! We have a growing wait list and are excited to bring more of these vital clinics to neighborhoods who have traditionally been underserved, in ways that ensure that regardless of what language you speak, whether you have access to a computer or not, that you can access this life-saving COVID-19 vaccine,” said Denver Councilmember Amanda Sandoval, who represents north Denver’s District 1 on the Denver City Council.

“We’ve seen several barriers emerge since COVID began and an effort like this is absolutely necessary to cut through inequitable access. We recognize that our elders face barriers to tech, uncertainty about documents or identification, and so our relationships in community become a pivotal factor in getting the vaccine to them. We know that when we proactively reach out to our community, en su idioma preferida, in places that they know and trust, that we can build equity and access,” said Denver Councilmember Jamie Torres, who represents West Denver’s District 3 on the Denver City Council.

“We are better together! There’s a reason why we chant, ‘un Pueblo Unido, jamas será vencido.’ We are so thankful for our volunteers who take ownership over our community. We’ve had to navigate a lot of logistics this week, but we are proud of our work and hope that we can serve as a model for other community-based pop up clinics across the metro Denver region and throughout the state of Colorado,” said Director Angela Cobián, who serves as the treasurer for the Denver Public Schools board of directors.

“I’ve seen firsthand how devastating this virus is. Less than three weeks ago, my husband buried his mom, uncle, and grandfather, who all passed from COVID-19 complications. The values of In Lak’Esh — tu eres mi otro yo, I am your other you — are embedded throughout the planning of this event. This vaccine will save lives and getting a vaccine is an act of love for our families and our community. I am so honored to work alongside these fiercely dedicated public servants to bring this clinic to nuestra comunidad,” said Senate Majority Caucus Chair Julie Gonzales, who represents District 34 (north, west, and downtown Denver) in Colorado’s state Senate.

Senate Celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Members highlight the continued need for racial justice and civil rights

DENVER, CO – In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, the Colorado State Senate passed a resolution sponsored by Senator James Coleman and Senator Rhonda Fields commemorating his birth and legacy. 

After the reading of the resolution last Friday, several members provided poignant remarks regarding the continued impact of Dr. King’s work on this country and the world.  

“Dr. King arrived at the right time in the right place to hold high a moral compass across the hurts [of inequality], with a clarion call that hope would conquer,” said Senator Coleman, D-Denver. “Today in Colorado and in this Chamber, we find ourselves at another ‘right time’ and in another ‘right place’ to hope. It is our time to be those conduits, those champions, those drum majors for justice; to hold to hope, despite the hurts, knowing that we can heal our land and live free as a single garment of destiny because of the choices we make together in this chamber.” 

“We all must strive to ‘Be Like King’ in our actions, words, and interactions with others,” said Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora. “We need to suspend judgment when it comes to the color of people’s skin or their diversity or their differences – and give people the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas in a way that is respectful. We must build on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, so let's continue to keep his dream alive with the work that we do here in the State Senate chamber.” 

“We must honor Dr. King by actively contributing to the vaults of opportunity by the actions we take every day – to take our role as custodians of truth seriously and make a deposit into the bank of justice,” said Senator Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs. “We make deposits when we promote equal opportunity and social justice when we pass laws to reduce mass incarceration, utilize restorative justice to rebuild communities when we eliminate racial disparities in our schools. We do that when we make the law – fair for everyone – not just a privileged few, and that must be our focus moving forward.” 

“We have romanticized the civil rights movement – we have children’s books that portray Rosa Parks as being ‘a tired woman that once sat down’,” said Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster. “But in reality it was so much more than that – it was two years of deep organizing, training and work to make sure that, once the boycott started, people could get to work. And that organizing continues today. Organizing is building power through people and making sure that we’re working furiously every single day to provoke change. This year, that organizing has been more important than ever as we have seen Black Lives Matter come to the forefront and demand justice. It takes all of us together with collective action to make the difference we want to see.”

View the full text of the resolution here. 

General Assembly Concludes Initial Meeting of the 73rd Session

Senate Democrats pass several essential bills before entering one-month temporary adjournment

DENVER, CO - Today, Colorado legislators concluded their initial three-day meeting of the first regular session of the 73rd General Assembly. Throughout the three days, lawmakers passed a slate of necessary bills that make minor fixes to legislation from last year and improvements to existing law, which will provide immediate relief to many Coloradans. 

The package of bills that now await the Governor’s signature will allow relief payments to be more efficiently allocated to disproportionately impacted businesses, provide more flexibility for debtors facing financial hardships, present greater clarity for tax credits initiated by the CARES Act, and reform legislative procedures during declared disaster emergencies. 

Additionally, legislators passed several measures that modify House and Senate rules to allow for remote participation and other methods for lawmakers to safely continue essential legislative work over the next month. The legislature now enters a one-month recess to allow the latest COVID-19 spike to subside.

“I’m pleased that our caucus was able to work collaboratively across the aisle and in tandem with the lower chamber to make this week as efficient as possible,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “With the work we accomplished in these three days, we will be able to confidently recess for the next month to allow COVID cases to decline, and to refine our legislative priorities for debut in February.”

“Though we have already successfully passed meaningful legislation to help get families back on their feet, there is still so much work ahead to ensure Colorado can recover from this pandemic,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “When we reconvene next month, our priority will be supporting small businesses, frontline workers, families, educators, and taxpayers in not only getting out from under this crushing pandemic, but growing beyond it as well. Because returning to an economy that already disadvantaged workers and kept families in debt is not an option. We will use this opportunity to rebuild a stronger, more just Colorado.”

The legislature is tentatively set to reconvene in mid-February. When the General Assembly returns, Senate Democrats plan to introduce bills that protect & expand access to affordable, equitable & high-quality healthcare; preserve jobs, protect businesses & create workforce opportunities; help utilities and businesses reach statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals; protect our communities of color & ensure equal opportunity; and address the rising cost of living in our state by expanding housing assistance, protecting renters, and helping Coloradans afford their bills on time. 

Throughout the legislative recess, the Joint Budget Committee will continue to convene, as well as select committees that are statutorily required to receive SMART Act briefings from executive branch departments. Additionally, legislators will continue conducting sunset hearings in order to stay on top of the approaching expirations of certain programs, boards, and commissions.

Senate Rebukes Trump Decision to Remove Space Force from Colorado

Top military officials thwarted by outgoing president in politically-motivated verdict

DENVER, CO - On Wednesday, January 13, President Donald Trump announced his decision to award a permanent posting of the U.S. Space Command to Huntsville, Alabama – removing this prestigious military operation from its current home in Colorado Springs.

This decision comes after top Pentagon officials are said to have recommended Colorado Springs as the best location for Space Command’s permanent placement.

“We are extremely disappointed by this decision,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo. “Colorado is clearly the best choice for Space Command, making Trump’s politically-motivated announcement painfully transparent. Rather than respect the recommendation of his military leaders, Trump is attempting to punish political opponents and reward loyalists at the expense of our country’s security.”  

Trump’s decision has been widely called into question and will likely result in a congressional probe into how the choice was made. Many insiders report that despite Air Force Secretary Barabara Barnett traveling to the White House this week to inform the President of the military’s choice, Trump instead awarded the honor to Alabama where six lawmakers voted in favor of blocking the certification of the presidential election results.

Today, in response to the administration’s determination to remove the United States Space Command out of Colorado Springs, the Senate passed a Joint Memorial reaffirming Colorado as the best choice for the Space Force headquarters and urging the incoming Biden administration to reconsider the selection:

Colorado is paving the way for new discoveries in the frontiers of space by having a rich history in aerospace development and being at the forefront of space travel, exploration, and aerospace research...Moving the United States Space Command to Huntsville, Alabama, will be incredibly disruptive to the National Defense Strategy. In addition, it will cause a major upheaval in existing infrastructure and jobs in the state, which will result in higher costs and less efficient outcomes for the United States military... Furthermore, we strongly urge the Department of Defense and the incoming presidential administration to permanently base the United States Space Command (USSPACECOM) in Colorado, recognizing that Colorado provides the existing command structure, base infrastructure, and communications platforms necessary to successfully host additional national security initiatives and ensure coordination of efforts without committing additional funds; [We, the members of the General Assembly] proudly express that Colorado has deep ties with the Department of Defense and immense patriotic commitment to providing prior draft for the nation's security and bolstering our defense; Express our most sincere and deepest appreciation to our service members and civilian employees working in and supporting military and civilian aerospace companies, military installations, and civil organizations in Colorado; and Hereby declare Colorado to be the prime location for the permanent headquarters for USSPACECOM.

The Joint Memorial was passed unanimously by the Colorado Senate and will now be sent to incoming President Joe Biden, Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, as well as the leaders of the U.S. House and Senate, Colorado’s Congressional delegation, and top military officials. 

To read the full text of the memorial click here.

Senate Concludes Second Day of 73rd Session

Gives initial approval of four time-sensitive bills before temporary adjournment

DENVER, CO - This afternoon, the Colorado Senate passed the following package of bills out of committee and approved them on second reading. 
 

• HB21-1001: Remote Participation In Party Committee Meetings. This bill, sponsored by Majority Leader Fenberg, will allow political parties to continue to conduct committee meetings remotely or virtually through the end of 2021.

• HB21-1002: Reductions Certain Taxpayers' Income Tax. This bill, sponsored by Joint Budget Committee members, Senators Moreno & Hansen, makes alterations to the Tax Fairness Act of 2020 to provide clarity regarding tax refunds and changes initiated by the CARES Act, which will allow taxpayers continued relief as we recover from the pandemic.

• HB21-1003: Legislative Proceedings During Disaster Emergency. This bill, sponsored by Majority Leader Fenberg, authorizes the Executive Committee of the Legislative Council to allow virtual participation in legislative proceedings during a declared disaster emergency caused by a public health emergency.

• HB21-1004: Colorado Uniform Electronic Wills Act. This bill, sponsored by Senators Lee & Gardner, allows electronic wills to serve as wills for all intents and purposes under Colorado law.

The Senate will give final approval to the bills tomorrow morning and is expected to conclude legislative business Friday before entering their temporary adjournment.

Lawmakers React to Greenhouse Gas Reduction Roadmap

Original sponsors of groundbreaking climate legislation highlight need for equity in implementation

DENVER, CO – In reaction to the Governor's announcement regarding Colorado's Climate Roadmap, Senator Faith Winter and Representative Dominique Jackson released the following statement:

"In 2019, we passed historic legislation to address the devastating impacts of climate change by setting ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We are pleased to see the roadmap moving forward today and appreciate the hard work from the Governor and his administration on this issue.

To truly tackle the crisis of climate change, we need a definitive path forward that prioritizes equity first and foremost. We are committed to that work. Historically disadvantaged communities have borne the brunt of climate change and their voices must be centered in order for our plans to affect meaningful change and to guarantee no communities are left behind.

As legislators, we look forward to ensuring Colorado succeeds in rising to this challenge by codifying the targets identified in this roadmap across individual sectors. We are committed to providing the resources and legal tools necessary to make this vision a reality."

Senate Passes Timely Legislation Before Temporary Adjournment

Bills approved extend limitations on debt collectors and update qualification criteria for small business relief programs 

DENVER, CO - Today, the Colorado Senate passed three bills on third and final reading. All three pieces of legislation represent timely changes in policy necessary before the legislature begins a temporary recess in response to the continued COVID-19 pandemic. 

• SB21-001: Modify COVID-19 Relief Programs For Small Business. This bill, sponsored by Senators Winter & Priola, makes minor tweaks to the COVID-19 small and minority business relief program that was established in last year’s special session, to allow relief payments to be more efficiently allocated to disproportionately impacted businesses.
  

• SB21-002: Extending Limitations on Debt Collection Actions. This bill, sponsored by Senators Winter & Gonzales, extends the time in which debtors experiencing a COVID emergency may have debt collections suspended by 120 days.
  

• SB21-003: Recreate Occupational Therapy Practice Act. This bill sponsored by Senator Fields and Minority Leader Holbert, recreates the Occupational Therapy Practice Act to allow continuity in occupational therapy regulations after the Act expired in September of 2020.

CORRECTION: In yesterday's release, it was stated that the Senate passed a chamber rule to allow for remote participation in committees. That was inaccurate. The Senate will however, hear a bill to consider such a policy today in the form of HB21-1003.

The legislature is planning to adjourn on Friday, January 15th, and is tentatively set to reconvene in mid-February. Throughout the legislative recess, the Joint Budget Committee will continue to convene, as well as select committees that are statutorily required to receive SMART Act briefings from executive branch departments. Additionally, legislators will continue conducting sunset hearings in order to stay on top of the approaching expirations of certain programs, boards, and commissions.

General Assembly Convenes 73rd Session

Senate Democrats introduce timely legislation before temporary recess

DENVER, CO - Today, Colorado lawmakers kicked off the first regular session of the 73rd General Assembly –swearing in new members and considering three bills aimed at addressing timely policies before temporarily adjourning on Friday. 

The following bills were heard and unanimously passed out of the Senate Finance Committee: 

• SB21-001: Modify COVID-19 Relief Programs For Small Business. This bill, sponsored by Senators Winter & Priola, makes minor tweaks to the COVID-19 small and minority business relief program that was established in last year’s special session, to allow relief payments to be more efficiently allocated to disproportionately impacted businesses.
  

• SB21-002: Extending Limitations on Debt Collection Actions. This bill, sponsored by Senators Winter & Gonzales, extends the time in which debtors experiencing a COVID emergency may have debt collections suspended by 120 days.
  

• SB21-003: Recreate Occupational Therapy Practice Act. This bill sponsored by Senator Fields and Minority Leader Holbert, recreates the Occupational Therapy Practice Act to allow continuity in occupational therapy regulations after the Act expired in September of 2020.

In addition to considering the bills listed above, the Senate approved resolutions that refined Senate rules to accommodate remote participation in committees, as well as clarified protocol around states of emergency. 

“Our goal with these three days is to meet for as little amount of time as possible, and to only address essential items that we can pass quickly,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “Of course, there are many more priorities that we will tackle when we reconvene in February, but given the state of the pandemic, we do not feel that we can safely gather for much longer at this time.”

“COVID relief has been and will continue to remain our top priority,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “As we wait for COVID cases to decline, we are committed to working on additional relief legislation as well as strategies to increase vaccine distribution so that Colorado can recover quickly and build back stronger.”

The legislature is planning to adjourn on Friday, January 15th, and is tentatively set to reconvene in mid-February. Throughout the legislative recess, the Joint Budget Committee will continue to convene, as well as select committees that are statutorily required to receive SMART Act briefings from executive branch departments. Additionally, legislators will continue conducting sunset hearings in order to stay on top of the approaching expirations of certain programs, boards, and commissions.

Colorado Senate President Selected Leader of National Conference of State Legislatures

Denver, CO—Colorado Senate President Leroy Garcia, Jr. (D) has been selected as the immediate past president of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), a bipartisan organization serving the nation’s 7,383 state lawmakers and legislative staff.

The position exists as one of seven officers who help steer NCSL to best serve legislators and legislative staff by guiding important policy and budgetary decisions.

“I am honored to have been selected to serve on NCSL’s officer’s team,” Garcia said (D-Pueblo). “NCSL’s research, training programs and networking opportunities are integral to the success of the Colorado Legislature, and I am looking forward to working with other leaders from around the country as NCSL’s immediate past president.”

Garcia was appointed to serve the remaining term of former Vermont Speaker Mitzi Johnson (D), who lost her election in November. 

The Colorado Senate president will serve as the past president through the 2021 NCSL Legislative Summit, at which time NCSL’s current president, Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R) will assume the role. Hawaii House Speaker Scott Saiki (D), NCSL president-elect, will become NCSL’s president and Idaho Speaker Scott Bedke (R), NCSL vice president, will ascend to president-elect. NCSL’s executive officers alternate between parties annually.

Garcia was elected in 2014 to represent Colorado Senate District 3 and previously served in the Colorado House of Representatives since 2013. He was named assistant minority leader at the start of the 2017 legislative session, minority leader in 2018, and was unanimously elected Senate president by his colleagues at the start of the 2019 legislative session, making him the first Latino Senate president in Colorado. 

Garcia has been an active participant in NCSL events, particularly with NCSL’s Leaders’ Center and NCSL’s Task Force on Military and Veterans’ Affairs. He is a former member of the Appropriations and Agriculture, Natural Resources and Energy Committee and current chair of the Legislative Council in Colorado.

A sixth-generation Coloradan, Senator Garcia lives in Pueblo’s south side. He is a United States Marine Corps veteran that served in Iraq as a mortuary affairs specialist and works in Pueblo Colorado as a Paramedic and an EMS instructor at Pueblo Community College. Senator Garcia holds a master’s degree in organizational management from Ashford University, a bachelor’s degree in management from the University of Pheonix and an associate’s degree in emergency medical services from Pueblo Community College. 

JOINT RELEASE: Democratic Leadership Condemns Attack on American Democracy

DENVER – Senate President Leroy Garcia, House Speaker-designate Alec Garnett, Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, and House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar today released the following joint statement condemning the violent assault on the US Capitol and attack on American Democracy: 

“American democracy is under attack. Nothing short of a siege is raining down on Congress, incited by a president who has refused to give up power after a free and fair election and enabled by those willing to turn a blind eye as our foundational principles are trampled.  Our democracy is precious and requires constant vigilance and protection. Today was a harrowing reminder that it can crumble without the efforts of everyday Americans working to keep it strong.   

“Now is the time for every patriotic leader in our nation, regardless of party, to call for peace and an immediate halt to this violent attack. Our country has a rich history of bipartisan cooperation and common sense. We must work together to ensure that these values prevail again and encourage the public to remain peaceful and solemn in the face of those who wish to divide us.”

Pueblo Paramedic Pres. Garcia Receives COVID-19 Vaccine

Denver, CO – Today, Senate President Leroy Garcia received the first of two shots in the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at Fire Station 2 in Pueblo. As a practicing paramedic, President Garcia is charged with providing frontline medical care to those in need, including patients potentially suffering from the coronavirus. He is among the first round of vaccine recipients in the state. 

“I am incredibly grateful to have received the COVID-19 vaccine today. For nine long months, our state has been under the heel of this vicious virus, and now the end is finally in sight,” said President Garcia, D-Pueblo. “Working on the frontline during this pandemic has been extremely eye-opening. I continually feel humbled by my colleagues’ sacrifice, resiliency, and commitment. Shift after shift, surge after surge these brave men and women put their own health and safety at risk – submerged by the brutality of this illness every day. But with the new vaccine finally being distributed, we can finally rest assured that this harrowing time is almost over.” 

Garcia was among hundreds of first responders vaccinated in Pueblo over Dec. 23, 24, and 27, and is set to receive his second and final COVID shot in 28 days. 

After extensive testing and medical trials, the Moderna vaccine has been proven to be 94.1% effective and can produce mild symptoms such as fever, chills, and headaches. Side effects are common and should not be cause for alarm as they are the result of the body’s natural immunity-building process.

Colorado is in the first phase of its COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan, with over 63,000 vaccines being administered so far. Essential healthcare workers and high-risk individuals are receiving the vaccine first, followed by other frontline workers, people over the age of 65, residents with vulnerable health conditions, school and childcare staff, Coloradans working in high-density settings, and the general public. The state anticipates that full issuing of the vaccine will take several months, and therefore encourages people to stay vigilant as immunity still remains low.  

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccines, including side effects, safety, and effectiveness click here.

Garcia Reacts to Federal Stimulus Package

DENVER, CO – Today, Senate President Leroy Garcia released a statement following Congress’s approval of a bipartisan COVID stimulus bill.

“I am glad to hear that after months of deliberation, Congress was able to pass a stimulus package that will deliver some much needed aid to Coloradans suffering under the impact of the pandemic. While I celebrate this victory and applaud Colorado’s congressional delegation for their role in its passage, Coloradans need more from D.C. Our fight against COVID-19 is a marathon, not a sprint, and struggling families, small businesses, students, and front line workers will need continued support to help them cross the finish line.”

JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Delays 2021 Session

DENVER, CO –  House and Senate Democratic leadership today announced a plan for the beginning of the First Regular Session of the Seventy-third General Assembly. 

The General Assembly will convene on January 13 and meet for as little time as is necessary to address urgent business and attend to certain constitutional and statutory obligations such as swearing in new members. The General Assembly will then go into a temporary recess, with the aim of returning to the Capitol tentatively on February 16 to continue the legislative session when the peak of the pandemic will hopefully have subsided. However, if an emergency arises that requires immediate legislative attention, the General Assembly maintains its commitment to responding in whatever format deemed necessary, including temporarily coming back into session to pass urgent legislation. 

After making this announcement, Democratic leadership released the following statements: 

“It is extremely important that as we navigate returning for legislative session, we weigh the safety concerns for people’s health alongside the many changing factors that will guide our decision making,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo. “Last month, with a great deal of planning and coordination, we were able to convene a highly-effective special session aimed at alleviating Colorado’s most immediate needs going into the winter season. Now as we approach our regular session, we are committed to acting with the same precision and forethought – diligently prioritizing what matters most to our state and completing mission-critical work before temporarily exiting the building. That’s why we have decided to delay our official legislative session until safer conditions in the state become more clear.”

“From the very beginning, we’ve worked hard to find ways to protect the health and safety of the public, legislative staff, and lawmakers while allowing for public participation,” said Speaker-designate Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “Recessing until mid-February will place us farther out from the holiday spike in COVID cases and will allow the bulk of our legislative work to take place when we hope it is safer and more Coloradans will have received the COVID vaccine. We'll continue to look at the data and listen to public health experts to guide our decisions. When we return, we’ll take up the people’s work and pass laws to build back a stronger Colorado.”

“The first batch of COVID-19 vaccines are currently being administered in Colorado, which is promising news for the future, but the pandemic is far from over,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “As our state works to administer the vaccine over the next several months, we must remain cautious and do everything we can to limit large gatherings and potential super spreader events. With that in mind, we have decided that the most responsible way to ensure the health of the public, as well as our legislative staff, is to delay session until we can more safely reconvene. We will continue to closely monitor public health data in the coming weeks and months as we eagerly await our return to the Capitol. In the meantime, we are firmly committed to crafting the most effective legislation we can to support hardworking Coloradans in their recovery.”

“With the first vaccines being distributed in our state, the end of this pandemic is finally in sight-- but it’s time for Colorado to be more vigilant, not less,” said House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “Delaying our legislative session is a responsible and science-driven choice that will protect the health and safety of the public while ensuring that we’ll be able to get our work done on behalf of the people of Colorado. This pandemic has exposed and heightened many existing inequities in our economy, and we’ll come back in February ready to work towards ensuring every Coloradan has a fair shot at success.”

On January 13, space inside the Capitol will be limited to ensure social distancing. Most ceremonial activities will be postponed to a later date, and few guests are expected in the building. 

Earlier this year, the Colorado Supreme Court agreed with the General Assembly’s position that Joint Rule 44 allows the legislature to pause its work during a declared public health emergency and return at a later date without those days during the recess counting towards the 120-day limit. 

While the General Assembly is in a temporary recess, the Joint Budget Committee will continue to meet, with virtual participation continuing for those hearings. Additional year-round committees may also meet during this time. Given the new timeline, deadlines for members to finalize and introduce their bills will be pushed back. 

JOINT RELEASE: Economic Recovery Continues, But Not for All

DENVER, CO – Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after the Legislative Council staff and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered the December economic forecasts, both of which project higher General Fund revenue compared to earlier estimates, but highlight continuing uncertainty and budgeting challenges ahead.

“Today’s budget forecast shows a more positive outlook on our state’s recovery than previously expected, though significant challenges remain,” said JBC Chair Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “While we have made strides in Colorado to provide much-needed relief to our communities, circumstances have improved for some, while others -- particularly low-income earners -- continue to suffer. Before we can truly bounce back from this devastating public health crisis, we will need to work diligently to ensure that our most vulnerable communities have the support and resources they need to equally recover.”

“This forecast shows Colorado’s economy is starting to bounce back, but it’s clear low-wage workers in our state are hurting and still have a difficult road ahead,” said JBC Vice-Chair Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “Though we passed bipartisan legislation to help bridge the gap for those who are at the most risk of falling further behind, individuals, small businesses, restaurants and schools desperately need more federal assistance to get through the months ahead. We’re going to use every tool we have at the state level to help Colorado build back stronger. I look forward to working with my colleagues to craft a balanced state budget that supports our schools and critical services and gets Colorado moving again.”

"Today's economic forecasts were reassuring because we are seeing an overall upward trend in our economic recovery that continues to be better than expected,” said JBC member, Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “However, we are still far from pre-pandemic levels. CARES Act funds and our state-level COVID relief package have been helpful, but low-wage workers, the service industry, and many Colorado families are still in desperate need of economic relief, and all levels of government--particularly Congress--must do more to assist them."

“This has been a tough time for many Coloradans, particularly low-wage workers, and we’re going to do everything we can to help the people of our state recover and bounce back even stronger,” said JBC Member Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “I’ve heard from so many who are suffering right now. Coloradans who were already behind before are now further behind, even as our economy begins to turn around. We’ve targeted state assistance so that more Coloradans can have a fair shot to recover and bridge the gap until there is a vaccine and new federal aid. We’re going to continue prioritizing those who have been hit hardest by this pandemic, our communities of color, students and low-wage workers, and with additional state and federal resources, we will create jobs in Colorado and drive our economy forward.”

The Legislative Council staff (LCS) December forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $12.15 billion in FY 2020-21 and $13.14 billion in FY 2021-2022 – a $775.7 million and $590.9 million increase from the September revenue forecast respectively. These upward revisions reflect a persistent improvement in the state’s economic outlook. However, Colorado’s recovery continues to be divergent in nature – reflecting a “K-shaped” rebound. This means that while some sectors and households are bouncing back to pre-recession levels, others continue to struggle. 

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $12.48 billion for FY 2020-21, which OSPB revised upward by $222 million relative to its September estimate. For FY 2021-22, OSPB projects General Fund revenue will be close to $13.47 billion, which OSPB revised upward by $626 million relative to its September estimate. LCS and OSPB predict that revenue subject to TABOR will come in below the Referendum C cap during this forecast period, so TABOR refunds are not expected.

Both LCS and OSPB also identified downside risks to the forecast including the possibility of long-term economic “scarring” as well as the short-term increase of COVID-19 cases. As stimulus programs expire, a pullback in consumption and investment is also a potential threat to economic instability. On the flip side, upside risks to the estimate were identified, driven by the anticipated COVID vaccine distribution, potential additional federal stimulus support, and sustained resiliency shown by innovations adopted across consumer and corporate behaviors.

Senate Democrats Unveil 2021 Committee Assignments

DENVER – Today, Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, released the committee assignments for the 2021 legislative session – appointing five new Chairs and five new Vice Chairs to the ten Senate committees of reference.

“The Senate remains committed to fighting for all Coloradans, and to do that we must come together and ensure that every single voice is heard – from the Western Slope to the Front Range,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “I am confident that our committee assignments will truly represent our residents’ interests and values, as we seek to amplify the voices of those who have been historically left out of the conversation. If we truly want to make lasting change, then we must choose leaders that reflect the make-up of our communities – centering women and people of color – as we work towards a more just and equitable future.”

Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver will serve as the Chair of the Appropriations Committee and Sen. Dominick Moreno, D-Denver will remain Vice Chair. Sen. Robert Rodriquez, D-Denver will now Chair Business, Labor & Technology and Sen. Jessie Danielson will continue as Vice Chair of the Committee. Sen. Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada will Chair Education and Sen. Tammy Story will remain Vice Chair. Sen. Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood will Chair the Finance Committee and Sen. Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village will become the Vice Chair. Sen. Julie Gonzales, D-Denver will Chair State, Veterans & Military Affairs and Senator-elect James Coleman, D-Denver will serve as Vice Chair. Sen. Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs will continue serving as Chair of the Judiciary Committee and Senator Julie Gonzales will continue as Vice Chair. 

Sen. Kerry Donovan, D-Vail will maintain her position as Chair of the Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee and Sen. Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge will continue her role as Vice Chair of the Committee. Sen. Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora will also continue as Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and Sen. Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins will assume the role of Vice Chair for the Committee. Sen. Faith Winter, D-Westminster will again Chair the Transportation and Energy Committee and Sen. Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood will now serve as Vice Chair the Committee. Sen. Joann Ginal will also serve as Chair of Local Government while Sen. Tammy Story, D-Evergreen will now become Vice Chair. 

The remaining Democratic membership of Senate Committees are listed below:

Agriculture and Natural Resources       
Senator Kerry Donovan – Chair
Senator Jessie Danielson – Vice Chair
Senator Rhonda Fields   

Health and Human Services
Senator Rhonda Fields – Chair
Senator Joann Ginal – Vice Chair
Senator-elect Sonya Jaquez-Lewis
Senator-elect Janet Buckner

Committee on Appropriations
Senator Chris Hansen – Chair   
Senator Dominick Moreno – Vice Chair
Senator-elect James Coleman          
Senator Julie Gonzales   

Judiciary
Senator Pete Lee – Chair
Senator Julie Gonzales – Vice Chair
Senator Robert Rodriguez

Business, Labor and Technology
Senator Robert Rodriguez – Chair
Senator Jessie Danielson – Vice Chair
Senator-elect Chris Kolker
Senator-elect James Coleman

Local Government
Senator Joann Ginal – Chair
Senator Tammy Story – Vice Chair
Senator-elect Chris Kolker

Education
Senator Rachel Zenzinger – Chair
Senator Tammy Story – Vice Chair
Senator-elect Janet Buckner
Senator Jeff Bridges

State, Veterans and Military Affairs
Senator Julie Gonzales - Chair
Senator-elect James Coleman – Vice Chair   
Senator-elect Sonya Jaquez-Lewis

Finance
Senator Brittany Pettersen – Chair
Senator Jeff Bridges – Vice Chair
Senator Pete Lee
Senator Faith Winter

Transportation and Energy
Senator Faith Winter - Chair
Senator Brittany Pettersen – Vice Chair
Senator Kerry Donovan
Senator Rachel Zenzinger

Bills to Support Students, Parents, & Small Businesses Pass Committee Phase

CRUCIAL COVID RELIEF LEGISLATION CLEARS MORE HURDLES ON THE SECOND DAY OF EXTRAORDINARY SESSION

Denver, CO – Today, the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committees approved several pieces of priority legislation that address Colorado’s current public health and economic crisis – focusing on helping students, supporting parents, and relieving businesses of burdensome sales tax liabilities. 

HB20B-1001, Grants To Improve Internet Access In P-12 Education, sponsored by Senator Kerry Donovan (D-Vail) and Senator Don Coram (R-Montrose), will create the Connecting Colorado Students Grant Program – providing $20 million in grants for local education providers (P-12) to secure reliable internet access for their students, teachers, and staff.

“Kids across Colorado are sitting at their kitchen tables, unbelievably frustrated with their unreliable or nonexistent internet connections. They desperately want to learn about the mysteries of our solar system or the history of our country or the meaning of Shakespeare, but they are painfully isolated from their teachers and unable to connect with their classmates,” said Senator Donovan. “This bill ensures that COVID-19 won’t rob a child of their education or a teacher of their vocation by establishing reliable internet access for all of Colorado’s future writers, scientists, and historians.” 

In Colorado, as many as 64,000 public school students, particularly in rural districts, do not have access to the internet. Moreover, Black, Hispanic, and low-income students are losing ten months of learning on average as a direct result of the pandemic. HB20B-1001 encourages collaboration between local education providers and broadband service providers as they find innovative ways to provide access to high-quality internet to all of Colorado’s students and teachers.

HB20B-1002, Emergency Relief Programs For Child Care Sector, sponsored by Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood) and Senator Jerry Sonnenberg (R-Sterling) will provide $45 million in relief for the child care industry through two COVID-19 emergency relief grant programs. This appropriation will expand access to safe and affordable child care – preserving child care opportunities for over 100,000 children and ensuring that facilities throughout the state can remain open. 

“Even before the pandemic, when I was pregnant and touring childcare facilities, almost everywhere we went had 2-3 year-long waiting lists. Now, with the COVID crisis forcing 10% of child care centers to close, parents are facing even more dire shortages,” said Senator Pettersen. “These closures have been especially hard on frontline workers and women, who have had to drop out of the workforce at two-times the rate for lack of child care. The reality is, if we don’t act now, 40% of providers are at risk of closing – a dangerous outcome for our economic recovery as thousands will be without the necessary resources to return to work.” 

Colorado currently has massive shortfalls in child care spots and could face serious economic consequences if existing facilities are forced to close. Moreover, research shows that for every dollar spent on early childhood programs, $2.25 is contributed to our state’s economy, meaning this assistance will both directly help hardworking families and stimulate job creation. 

HB20B-1003, Food Pantry Assistance Grant Program, sponsored by Senator Tammy Story (D-Golden) and Senator Dennis Hisey (R-Fountain) will expand the food pantry assistance program and appropriate $3 million toward the program to provide food banks with the resources necessary to meet the needs of the rising number of Coloradans who are struggling with food insecurity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“With unemployment numbers on the rise, more and more are struggling with food insecurity – forced to choose between paying their rent and putting food on the table. This is as heartbreaking as it is alarming,” said Senator Story. “We need to replenish our state’s food pantry services and protect people from going to bed hungry.  This is especially critical for our children, many of whom are cut off from vital free-and-reduced-lunch programs as schools face more closures.”

Currently, 1 in 3 Coloradans are struggling with food insecurity. This crisis is compounded by a looming December expiration for federal hunger relief. 

HB20B-1004, Qualified Retailer Retain Sales Tax For Assistance, sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges (D-Greenwood Village) and Senator Jack Tate (R-Centennial) will allow restaurants, bars, and food trucks to retain state sales tax they collect from November 2020 through February 2021. This will provide bars and restaurants from $2,000 to $10,000 in tax relief each month to help them make ends meet. 

"COVID has hit taverns and restaurants especially hard and we need to find every opportunity for relief that we can, which is why last year I sponsored the bill allowing to-go sales of alcohol," said Sen. Jeff Bridges. "Allowing these folks to keep the state sales tax they collect won’t eliminate all of their burdens, but it will help to keep more Coloradans employed and lessen the load on those who have invested their lives and livelihoods into these critical Colorado small businesses.”

This legislation builds on the Governor’s November 25th Executive Order that extended the state sales tax payment deadline for 30 days for the month of November for restaurants, bars, and food trucks. 

These bills will now go to the Committee of the Whole for a Second Reading and floor debate, ending the second day of Extraordinary Session. 

Governor & Legislative Leadership Discuss Successful Special Session on COVID Relief

DENVER - Governor Polis and Legislative Leadership today discussed the successful special legislative session and announced the passage of bipartisan legislation to provide COVID-19 relief.

“The bipartisan efforts achieved this week will help folks get through the challenging months ahead. I’m thrilled we are acting now as a state to improve internet access for students and educators, give a much needed boost to child care providers, provide a lifeline for small businesses and restaurants through tax relief and assistance, and bridge the gap on rent, utilities and food pantry programs for Coloradans who have been hit the hardest,” said Gov. Polis. “But we know there is more work to be done and we continue to urge Washington to take action and give Coloradans the support we need to get through these tougher times and build back stronger.”

The legislation passed during special session provides support to small businesses, helps families avoid eviction or foreclosure, keep the lights on, and access safe child care, and ensure every Coloradan has a fair shot to get through this pandemic and succeed as our state recovers.

“During this session, we worked in a bipartisan way to use our limited state resources to help those who have been hit hardest by this pandemic,” said Speaker KC Becker, D-Boulder. “Colorado stepped up to bridge the gap until we have a vaccine or until Congress can pass relief. In the absence of Washington, we deployed every tool and all the state resources we have to boost our small businesses, preserve safe child care options for working parents, and help families make ends meet.”

“I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished during this Extraordinary Session. With limited resources, we were able to come together and work across the aisle to deliver results for our state – passing meaningful legislation to address child care shortages, housing instability, and small business struggles. At the same time, the people of Colorado are not out of the woods yet, families and businesses are fighting to survive, and without Congressional action, people will continue to suffer serious, lasting consequences. But hope is on the horizon, and with aid successfully on its way, we can hold on a little longer,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo.

Legislation approved by the legislature includes:  

SB20B-001 sponsored by Senators Faith Winter and Kevin Priola, will send $57 million in direct aid, grants, and annual fee waivers to struggling small businesses – prioritizing those operating in counties experiencing severe capacity restrictions. It will also create grant programs and allocate funds specifically for art and cultural organizations as well as minority-owned businesses. 

SB20B-002 sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales and Chris Holbert, provides $60 million for emergency housing assistance to individuals and households who are in financial need due to the COVID-19. Of that funding, $1 million will specifically support the Eviction Legal Assistance Fund, which will help Coloradans stay in their homes this winter. Finally, the bill puts in place a provision that seeks to ensure tens of thousands of unemployed Coloradans can continue to have access to the federally funded State Extended Benefits Program through December 26.

SB20B-003 sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields and Larry Crowder, appropriates $5 million to the Energy Outreach Colorado Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund in order to provide financial relief to Coloradans that are struggling to pay their utility bills – a dangerous outcome in the winter months. 

SB20B-004 sponsored by Senator Dominick Moreno, allocates an additional $100 million to ensure the state can continue to protect public health while waiting for further federal stimulus and reimbursement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

HB20B-1001, sponsored by Reps. Mary Young and Matt Soper will dedicate $20 million towards increasing our state’s broadband capacity – connecting more students to their teachers so that they can learn safely in the months ahead. Internet access is absolutely essential for students during this difficult time. But many families who are struggling with financial stability simply can’t afford to cover the cost, while numerous school districts lack the infrastructure to educate their students remotely.

“This special session shows what is possible when people from both parties work together--we can provide meaningful relief to help the small businesses and families who have been hit hardest by this pandemic,” said Speaker-designate Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “We have challenging months ahead, but we’re starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. While we know more help is needed from Washington, this assistance will support small businesses who are struggling to stay open and deliver relief for Colorado families to help them through the pandemic.”

“Coloradans take care of Coloradans,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “Despite the incessant partisan bickering among our friends in the federal government, I’m deeply grateful that we were able to set a better example – putting differences aside and coming together around a common purpose.  This pandemic has been brutally hard, affecting every part of our lives, but things will get better. And hopefully what we accomplished here will lighten the load for families and small businesses through the difficult winter months ahead.”  

HB20B-1002, sponsored by Reps. Cathy Kipp & Lois Landgraf will distribute $45 million to enable existing child care providers to keep their doors open and new providers to open and meet the needs of working parents, especially in child care deserts. Colorado’s economic recovery depends on its workforce having access to stable child care, but due to temporary closures and the increased costs of health and safety precautions for child care providers, many are on the brink of financial collapse. These grant programs are estimated to support 2,600 child care facilities, preserving child care for over 100,000 children and creating capacity for tens of thousands more. Moreover, research shows that for every dollar spent on early childhood programs, $2.25 is contributed to our state’s economy. 

HB20B-1003, sponsored by Reps. Lisa Cutter and Rod Bockenfeld will devote $5 million to replenishing essential community services that increase access to food for Colorado families facing food insecurity. 1 in 3 Coloradans are struggling with hunger as more and more families are being forced to choose between paying their bills and putting food on the table. Food banks, food pantries and their partners need additional assistance to meet the rising demands, especially as the December expiration for federal hunger relief looms.

HB20B-1004, sponsored by Reps. Alex Valdez & Kevin Van Winkle, will allow restaurants, bars, and food trucks to retain state sales tax they collect from November 2020 through February 2021. This will provide bars and restaurants up to $2,000 per location and limited to five locations for up to $10,000 in tax relief each month to help them make ends meet. 

The Governor and legislative leadership held a press conference following the special session today. Watch the news conference here. 

Priority COVID Relief Legislation Passes the Senate

SENATE APPROVED FOUR BILLS AIMED AT HELPING STRUGGLING FAMILIES AND BUSINESSES RECEIVE IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE

Denver, CO – Today, on the second day of Colorado's Extraordinary Session, the Senate passed four critical pieces of priority legislation on Third Reading and final passage. These bills specifically address the urgent needs of small businesses and families – offering direct aid for housing, utility, and operational costs burdening those most affected by COVID-19.

SB20B-001, COVID-19 Relief Small And Minority Businesses Arts Organizations, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter (D-Westminster) and Kevin Priola (R-Henderson), will send $57 million in direct aid, grants, and annual fee waivers to struggling small businesses – prioritizing those operating in counties experiencing severe capacity restrictions. It will also create grant programs and allocate funds specifically for art and cultural organizations as well as minority-owned businesses. 

“Small businesses are the heart of our community and the backbone of our economy. But, with COVID-19 worsening by the day, many are at the brink of permanent closure,” said Senator Faith Winter. “When businesses work hard and follow the rules, it is up to us to support them by ensuring they can retain employees, make ends meet, and stay in business. Though this measure cannot possibly make up for all we have lost, it is a meaningful life raft that will enable our local businesses to hang on a little longer.”

In June, the legislature set aside $25 million to create the Energize Colorado Gap Fund, a grant program for small businesses, at the same time, lawmakers also passed a bill dedicating $250 million to provide low-interest loans to small businesses. However, without sustained federal relief, small businesses continue to be at risk – with 60% of closures since March reported to be permanent.

SB20B-002 Housing And Direct COVID Emergency Assistance, sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales (D-Denver) and Chris Holbert (R-Parker), provides $50 million for emergency housing assistance to individuals and households who are in financial need due to the COVID-19. Of that funding, $500,000 will specifically support the Eviction Legal Assistance Fund, which will help Coloradans stay in their homes this winter.

“Out of work and drained of resources, thousands of Coloradans are at serious risk of eviction or foreclosure,” said Senator Julie Gonzales. “This is a crisis on top of a crisis. Not only are people struggling to find their next meal, supervise their children’s education, and stay safe during a pandemic, but they are now faced with the reality that, when the eviction moratorium expires, they may have no place to live. This is unacceptable. We have a duty to ensure that vulnerable Coloradans can remain safely in their homes without fear of dislocation or homelessness.”

The impending expiration of federal assistance programs such as enhanced unemployment benefits leaves millions of Coloradans vulnerable to eviction or foreclosure in the coming months. In fact, according to the Household Pulse Survey, over 40 percent of Coloradans are living in a household that is behind on their rent or mortgage.

SB20B-003 Money For Energy Utility Bill Payment Assistance, sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) and Larry Crowder (R-Alamosa), appropriates $5 million to the Energy Outreach Colorado Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund in order to provide financial relief to Coloradans that are struggling to pay their utility bills – a dangerous outcome in the winter months. 

“No matter if they live in a metro, suburban, or rural area, people all over this state are experiencing profound pain and stress due to COVID-19," said Senator Fields. "However, no group has been quite as decimated as low-income families. High unemployment numbers, dwindling federal relief, and encroaching winter months puts them at ever-increasing risk. This bill will protect those struggling to pay their utility bills and lessen their financial burden until more comprehensive aid from Congress is made available.”

Energy Outreach Colorado has experienced a 25% increase in applications this year for their low-income energy assistance fund – revealing the profound need for additional support. This funding boost is intended to allow the organization to meet its demands through June 2021 when the dangers from a lack of heating subside.  

SB20B-004 Transfer To Make Money Available For COVID-19 Emergency, sponsored by Senator Dominick Moreno (D-Commerce City), allocates an additional $100 million to ensure the state can continue to protect public health while waiting for further federal stimulus and reimbursement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. 

“As COVID-19 becomes more rampant in our cities and towns, we must ensure that we have the funds necessary to protect the health of our residents,” said JBC Chair, Senator Dominick Moreno. “This bill would enable the Governor to redistribute millions of dollars for COVID-19 emergency support – keeping hospitals staffed and people safe until Congress sends the additional funds Colorado needs to make it through this pandemic.”

In the last several weeks, numerous Colorado hospitals have reached capacity – a dangerous reality as state positivity rates climb to 11.02%. In order to meet the demand and prepare for all emergency response expenses, the legislature aims to appropriate enough funds to bridge the gap between now and when more federal relief is available. 

These bills will now move to the House chamber for consideration.

JOINT RELEASE: Special Session Aims to Help Coloradans Bridge the Gap, Boost Recovery

BILLS TO FOCUS ON SMALL BUSINESSES, HOUSING, CHILD CARE, BROADBAND FOR STUDENTS, UTILITIES & FOOD PANTRIES

DENVER, CO – The Colorado General Assembly will convene a special session on Monday, November 30 to pass bi-partisan COVID-19 relief legislation that will support small businesses, increase access to child care and food assistance, help Coloradans cover their housing and utility costs, and improve broadband options for students in need. 

“Congressional inaction has left millions stranded – completely abandoned in their time of need. Small businesses have been drowning for months waiting for comprehensive federal aid, while hardworking Coloradans anxiously watch housing and unemployment support dissipate," said Senate President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo. “The amount the Colorado state government can do to alleviate the burdens of struggling communities is limited, but it’s not nothing. That’s why we are using everything in our power to deliver the support families and businesses need to make it through another couple months. I fully believe that federal relief is on its way, but Coloradans simply can’t wait any longer. This stimulus package will help cover the immediate needs of those hit hardest by the pandemic and buoy us until more help is available.”

“We have to do everything possible in Colorado to help families, workers and businesses get through the challenging months ahead,” said Speaker KC Becker, D-Boulder. “This pandemic is taking its toll on nearly every Coloradan, with businesses on the brink of closing and families struggling to avoid eviction or foreclosure. Only Washington can deliver the kind of comprehensive relief our communities need, but Coloradans can’t wait any longer. Our state government will step up with every tool we have, despite our limited budget, to do what we can to help bridge the gap until Congress acts and until a vaccine is ready.” 

“The lack of federal leadership during the coronavirus pandemic has claimed more than just human life, it’s claimed careers, financial stability, mental health, and our way of existing in community,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “This package of bills cannot replace what we’ve lost and it can’t make up for the lack of nation-wide relief, but it can offer a lifeline to those who find themselves fighting to stay afloat. We are committed to implementing any and all solutions that get us over this next hurdle, which will be one of the biggest ones we have faced yet, but together we can make it through.”

“Restaurants and bars, small businesses, and hardworking families across our state are struggling to make ends meet as the virus spreads at record levels and essential federal aid has run out,” said Speaker-designate Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “Our state legislature will get to work Monday on a relief package to support small businesses, help families avoid foreclosure or eviction, and increase access to safe child care options. While we still need Congress to pass a meaningful relief package, we have a responsibility to do what we can to boost our economy and help Coloradans get through this pandemic.”  

The General Assembly will address seven key areas aimed at providing immediate relief to Coloradans who have been hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic. Each area will include policy proposals focused on meeting the most essential needs of families and businesses.   

Small Business Aid (Sens. Winter & Priola and Rep. Herod): Capacity limits have severely impacted small businesses across the state, especially bars, restaurants, gyms, and entertainment venues. To buttress these industries for the difficult winter months ahead, two bills are being proposed. The first will begin in the Senate, sponsored by Senators Winter & Priola and Representatives Herod. This bill will send $57 million in direct aid, grants, and annual fee waivers to struggling small businesses – prioritizing those operating in counties experiencing severe capacity restrictions. It will also create grant programs and allocate funds specifically for art and cultural organizations as well as minority-owned businesses. 

Sales Tax Relief (Reps. A. Valdez & Van Winkle and Sens. Bridges & Tate): Eating establishments have been hit particularly hard by capacity restrictions. This bill will allow restaurants, bars, and food trucks to retain state sales tax they collect from November 2020 through February 2021. This will provide bars and restaurants from $2,000 to $10,000 in tax relief each month to help them make ends meet.  

Child Care Support (Reps. Kipp & Landgraf and Sens. Pettersen & Sonnenberg): Colorado’s economic recovery depends on its workforce having access to stable child care. But due to temporary closures and the increased costs of health and safety precautions for child care providers, many are on the brink of financial collapse.  This legislation will distribute $45 million to enable existing providers to keep their doors open and new providers to open and meet the needs of working parents, especially in child care deserts. These grant programs are estimated to support 2,600 child care facilities, preserving child care for over 100,000 children and creating capacity for tens of thousands more. Moreover, research shows that for every dollar spent on early childhood programs, $2.25 is contributed to our state’s economy.

Housing and Direct Rental Assistance (Sens. Gonzales & Holbert and Reps. Exum, Sr. & Tipper): The impending expiration of federal assistance programs such as enhanced unemployment benefits, leaves millions of Coloradans vulnerable to eviction or foreclosure in the coming months. In fact, according to recent surveys, over 40 percent of Coloradans are living in a household that is behind on their rent or mortgage and at risk of foreclosure or eviction. This legislation will provide $50 million for emergency housing assistance to individuals and households who are in financial need due to the COVID-19. Of the funding, $500,000 will support the Eviction Legal Assistance Fund, which will help Coloradans stay in their homes this winter. 

Increasing Broadband Access (Sens. Donovan & Coram and Reps. Young & Soper): Internet access is absolutely essential for students during this difficult time. But many families who are struggling with financial stability simply can’t afford to cover the cost, while numerous school districts lack the infrastructure to educate their students remotely. This proposal will dedicate $20 million towards increasing our state’s broadband capacity – connecting more students to their teachers so that they can learn safely in the months ahead.

Food Pantry Assistance (Rep. Cutter & Bockenfeld and Sen. Story): 1 in 3 Coloradans are struggling with food insecurity as more and more families are being forced to choose between paying their bills and putting food on the table. Food banks and their partners need additional assistance to meet the rising demands, especially as the December expiration for federal hunger-relief looms. A bill beginning in the House would devote $3 million to replenishing these essential community services to increase access to food for Colorado families that fear they’ll go to bed hungry. 

Utilities Assistance (Sens. Fields & Crowder and Reps. Duran & Landgraf): As unemployment numbers remain high and federal resources continue to dwindle, many Coloradans are at risk of losing their utilities – a dangerous outcome in the winter months. This bill will appropriate $5 million to the Energy Outreach Colorado Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund in order to meet the 25% increase in applications that Energy Outreach Colorado has seen this year.  

Public Health Response (Sens. Moreno & Rankin and Reps. McCluskie): With many hospitals across Colorado reaching critical capacity in recent weeks, additional funds are needed to continue the State’s robust public health response. This legislation will allocate an additional $100 million to ensure the State can continue to protect public health while we await additional federal stimulus and reimbursement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. 

The legislature will convene with the same overall composition and legislative leadership as the 2020 regular legislative session. Lawmakers will have the option of participating remotely for floor work, and there will be limited committee work with remote public testimony options. Other measures will also be adopted to mitigate the risk of a COVID-19 outbreak, including the provision of additional safety measures in the building, such as daily rapid testing and KN95 masks for legislators and staff as well as increased social distancing.

Senate Leadership React to Presidential Election Results

AP CALLS RACE FOR BIDEN AFTER SECURING PENNSYLVANIA

DENVER, CO –  Following the Associated Press's projection that Joe Biden will win Pennsylvania and thus the Presidency, Senate leaders, President Leroy Garcia and Majority Leader Steve Fenberg released the following statements: 

“With more people voting for Joe Biden than any other presidential candidate in history, this was a historically hard-fought victory. Rather than succumb to fear, hate, and cynicism, people chose to believe that things could change for the better. But this is just the beginning. We are standing at the foot of an enormous challenge that in many ways feels insurmountable. Bringing the country back together will take unparalleled effort, patience, and compassion. But I believe we are up to the task and that President-elect Biden will heal our nation’s divides, despite the damage Trump has done,” said President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo).

“This result gives me so much hope for our future as a state and as a country. Because when we show up for our democracy, when we actually participate in the process, change does happen. So even though the task of healing our country is still incredibly daunting, it’s clear that there is a prevailing spirit of determination. We are determined to withstand the crushing circumstances of the last four years and begin to rebuild a better country,” said Majority Leader Fenberg (D-Boulder).