Senate Committee Approves Historic Legislation to Reduce Health Insurance Premiums by 18%

Senator Donovan’s landmark bill to lower health insurance premiums, improve health equity, and increase accessible care clears its first Senate committee with strong support

DENVER, CO - This evening, the Senate Health & Human Services Committee passed HB21-1232 with strong support after hours of testimony. The bill, sponsored by Senate President Pro Temp Kerry Donovan, seeks to make health insurance coverage more affordable and more accessible, provide relief for small businesses, improve health equity, and maintain protections for rural & critical access hospitals.

“For decades the price of health care in Colorado has been on the rise. For the one-in-five of us who struggle to pay for health care, or make the impossible choice to go without care entirely, the current system isn’t working,” said Sen. Kerry Donovan, D-Vail. “We refused to accept that there was nothing that could be done to change the status quo, and set out to make that change by inviting a diverse coalition of stakeholders to the table. This bill is a result of that collaborative process and we’ll move forward together in ensuring that all Coloradans have access to high-quality, affordable health care."

Specifically, the bill requires health insurance carriers to reduce premiums by at least 18% over the next three years. If carriers fail to meet premium reduction targets, the state may set rates on a limited basis to meet consumer savings targets. Additionally, the state will create a standardized benefit plan, available on the individual and small group market through private insurance carriers in every county in the state. 

The development of the standardized plan will undergo diverse stakeholder engagement and solicit oversight from people of color and Coloradans who live in both rural and urban areas of the state. This is designed to improve racial health equity and decrease racial health disparities.

Overall, HB21-1232 will simultaneously lower out-of-pocket costs for people, families, and businesses across the state, extend coverage to immigrant families and individuals – regardless of documentation status, and insert accountability into the health insurance industry through several transparency mechanisms.

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. To read the bill and find updates regarding the status, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb21-1232.

Quartet of Colorado Comeback Legislation Passes the Senate with Strong Bipartisan Support

Stimulus bills providing financial support for rural economic development, watershed protection, small business recovery, and the agricultural industry receive final approval from the full Senate

DENVER, CO - Today, the State Senate passed four stimulus bills with broad bipartisan support that are a part of Colorado’s recovery package, advancing them to the House for final consideration.

SB21-229, a bill sponsored by Senators Danielson & Story, directs $3 million to the Rural Jump Start Grant Program, which helps economically distressed communities – particularly communities that will be affected by the energy market’s transition away from coal to more renewable energy sources – attract new businesses and jobs. Of the grants available, new businesses can receive up to $20,000 for establishing operations in rural jump-start zones and up to $2,500 for each new job they create. While businesses establishing operations in coal transition communities (as identified in the Office of Just Transition Action Plan) can receive up to $40,000 as well as up to $5,000 for each new job they create.

“As we work to help Colorado recover, we must prioritize directing targeted relief to parts of our state that are too often left behind: small communities, places with particularly low unemployment or income levels, and fossil fuel areas in transition,” said Senator Story (D-Jefferson County). “This bill will help ignite local economies from the Western Slope to the Eastern Plains, and will ensure that Colorado’s economic recovery is both equitable and sustainable.”

SB21-240, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senators Danielson & Simpson, transfers $15 million to the Colorado Water Conservation Board to help watersheds recover from the impacts of wildfire. In addition to direct funding for watershed restoration, the bill sets aside funds to conduct a statewide watershed analysis that investigates the susceptibility of life, safety, infrastructure, and water supplies to wildfire impacts.

“In 2020, Colorado endured the worst wildfire season in state history – devastating countless homes and thousands of acres of forest land. This has severely impacted our watersheds in the state and only increased the adverse effects of Colorado drought conditions” said Senator Danielson (D-Wheatridge). “As a part of our economic recovery, we are working to restore and strengthen our natural environment so that it can better withstand wildfire impacts and save our state painful costs in the future.” 

SB21-241, sponsored by Senators Fields and Bridges, creates the Small Business Accelerated Growth Program to provide small businesses with tools and resources that foster the growth of existing companies that have moved from the start-up stage into the second stage or are on the verge of rapid growth. This program will ensure that these businesses, post-pandemic, will be able to build back stronger.

“COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on small businesses, particularly those owned by women and racial minorities,” said Senator Fields (D-Aurora). “We need to reinvest in these critical community pillars by making resources available that will foster their growth and set them up for success. Because the essence of economic ingenuity and creativity resides in the entrepreneurial minds of our small business owners, who dare to think out of the box and pave their own path.” 

"Innovative, growth-oriented small businesses are critical to our Colorado comeback,” said Senator Bridges (D-Greenwood Village). “Through their perseverance and innovation, small businesses are the economic engine of our economy. This bill makes sure they have the expertise and support they need to thrive here in Colorado, creating jobs and opportunities throughout our state.”

SB21-248, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senate President Pro Temp Donovan and Senator Simpson, allocates $30 million to create and implement the Colorado Agricultural Future Loan Program. This program will provide low-interest loans to beginning farmers and ranchers as well as farm-to-market infrastructure loans for businesses – putting Colorado on a pathway toward a sustainable and prosperous future for the agriculture industry. Although Colorado’s vibrant agricultural sector has served as the backbone of the state’s economy for decades, the industry must navigate a tumultuous future in which an estimated 64% of Colorado producers will exit farming, and over 20 million acres of Colorado’s agricultural land will need a new farmer. This bill will negotiate these challenges, invest in the future of Colorado agriculture, and provide incentives to build capacity for beginning farmers and ranchers.

“The most pressing challenges that lie ahead for Colorado - COVID-19, water and drought, wildfires, and labor shortages - all have a major impact on the agriculture industry,” said Senator Kerry Donovan (D-Vail). “By transferring this $30 million into the Colorado Agricultural Future Loan Program we invest not only in the present recovery of the industry but in the long-term success of agriculture in our state. The program will empower and support a new generation of farmers and ranchers in Colorado who will shepherd the industry forward.”

All three bills now head to the House for further consideration. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Senate Votes to Reduce Recidivism, Increase Successful Reintegration

Legislation would provide former inmates with resources to reintegrate back into society

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed SB21-146 with broad bipartisan support – a bill sponsored by Senator Pete Lee that will help former inmates reintegrate back into normal life by providing them with the resources necessary to find education and employment opportunities after serving their sentence. 

“Our prison system is failing. Rather than focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration, our addiction to punitive incarceration has led to high rates of recidivism, ” said Senator Pete Lee (D-Colorado Springs), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. “This vicious cycle is counterproductive, harmful and costly. But by providing former inmates with the resources they need to attain their education and gain employment, we can make a real difference in Colorado – giving people a chance to succeed.” 

SB21-146 requires the Colorado Department of Corrections to develop a recommended parole plan for every inmate prior to release from prison, as well as procedures for special needs parole – a more carefully crafted parole plan with additional support and resources for inmates with severe physical, mental, or behavioral health issues. 

This legislation will not only decrease the likelihood of recidivism but will help continue the work on the long road ahead of untangling mental health support systems and correctional facilities.

SB21-146 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.

Senate Approves Gun Safety Bill, Empowering Local Governments & Municipalities

Bill would repeal the state preemption barring local governments from enacting their own gun laws

DENVER, CO - Today, the Senate approved landmark gun legislation that will help address the epidemic of gun violence by empowering local governments to enact their own gun laws to enhance public safety and save lives. SB21-256 declares that the regulation of firearms is a matter of state and local concern and repeals the state-level preemption that currently prohibits said jurisdiction.

The legislation, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg and Senator Dominick Moreno, was introduced in response to the Boulder King Soopers tragedy, where courts struck down Boulder’s locally enacted safety measures just ten days before the shooting. The bill allows local governments to implement gun ownership laws that are stricter than state statutes – granting municipalities the right to decide regulations most suitable for their community.

“Colorado is a state with a long history of trusting local governments to do right by their communities' unique needs,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “Repealing the state preemption on local regulation of firearms will allow communities to respond to the particular issues that their communities face, and that their people demand. This is an essential step forward in continuing the tradition of local control over issues that look different from town to town and county to county.”

Gun violence is concerning at the state and local level, and this bill will allow for a local government to enact an ordinance or regulation regarding the sale, purchase, or possession of a firearm, firearm accessory, and ammunition. Local regulations cannot be less restrictive than state law, and there is no obligation to pass any ordinances as a result of this legislation. The bill also gives the authority to public universities and colleges, as well as special districts, to ban concealed carry on their premises.

“Each city and town in Colorado has different needs and should be able to determine how to best keep their community safe,” said Senator Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “We need to ensure that local governments have the ability to implement the gun safety measures that are needed in their jurisdiction. This bill will empower local officials to enact their own laws to reduce violence and enhance public safety.”

Colorado will be able to continue the longstanding tradition of home rule and local authority because each town, county, and community has different needs and should be able to determine what is best for their own community. Accordingly, the bill preserves state authority in areas where statewide uniformity is desirable, including the responsibility for issuing concealed carry permits while allowing local governments to determine where firearms may be carried. Additionally, the bill preserves a uniform state law that allows people to travel freely throughout the state with firearms inside their vehicles.

The bill now heads to the House for further consideration. To read the bill and find updates regarding its status, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-256.

Colorado Comeback Bills Clear Committee Unanimously!

Legislation works to expand mental health support for kids & aid the restaurant industry

DENVER, CO – Today, Senate committees unanimously approved legislation that will improve access to mental health services for Colorado youth as well as provide support for the restaurant industry as Colorado recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. The bills are part of the legislature’s Colorado Recovery Plan. 

HB21-1258: Mental Health Sessions for Youth, sponsored by Senator Janet Buckner: Our state’s youth mental health crisis has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This bill creates a program in the Office of Behavioral Health to reimburse providers for up to three mental health sessions with a young person. The office will also create a website to serve as a portal for youth and providers to be able to navigate the program easier. 

“The pandemic has resulted in increased mental health needs for so many Coloradans, but especially for our young people, whose lives and learning have been severely disrupted over the last year,” said Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora. “In order to provide relief for our kids, we need to expand access to mental health support. This bill will help break the stigma around mental health by making it easier for kids to seek out care in Colorado.” 

HB21-1265: Restaurant Sales Tax Relief, sponsored by Senator Brittany Pettersen: Colorado restaurants and bars have faced some of the toughest challenges of this pandemic, with many closing and others struggling to stay open. This bill continues the successful sales tax assistance effort passed during the 2020 special session. It allows restaurants, bars, caterers, and food service contractors to deduct up to $70,000 in net taxable sales from their monthly state sales tax return and retain the resulting sales tax revenue during the months of June, July, and August 2021.

“Our local businesses have shouldered tremendous burdens over the past year. Now it’s our job to lift them up, help them recover, and ensure their longevity moving forward,” said Senator Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood. “This bill will provide the critical relief to local bars and eateries that have been struggling to survive – granting them some necessary breathing room while they get back on their feet.” 

Both bills now move to Senate Appropriations for further consideration. Track the progress of the legislation by visiting leg.colorado.gov/.

Senate Democrats Go All In On Stimulus This Busy Legislative Week

Stimulus bills to invest in restaurants, youth mental health, wildfire mitigation, creative industries, clean energy, and workforce development, other priority bills tackle health benefits, prescription drug monitoring, behavioral health, and immigration resources

DENVER, CO - This week, Senate Democrats double down on Colorado’s recovery as the legislative calendar enters its final weeks.

Five of the bills being heard are a part of Colorado’s recovery package:

HB21-1265: Restaurant Sales Tax Relief, sponsored by Senators Pettersen & Woodward.

• Colorado restaurants and bars have faced some of the toughest challenges of this pandemic, with many closing and others struggling to stay open. This bill continues the successful sales tax assistance effort passed during the 2020 special session. It allows restaurants, bars, caterers, and food service contractors (such as airline food service contractors and food concession contractors at sporting events) to deduct up to $70,000 in net taxable sales from their monthly state sales tax return and retain the resulting sales tax revenue during the months of June, July, and August 2021.

This bill is being heard by the Senate Finance Committee today, Monday May 17th in the Old Supreme Court Chambers.

SB21-258: Wildfire Risk Mitigation, sponsored by Senators Ginal & Rankin.

• The impacts of global warming have been devastating for Colorado. With mass wildfires only continuing to worsen, we have all watched in horror as natural habitats get destroyed, wildlife are displaced, and toxic pollution clouds our state. This bill creates the Wildfire Mitigation Capacity Development Fund in the Department of Natural Resources to support wildfire mitigation workforce development, coordinate cross-boundary wildfire mitigation efforts, facilitate engagement, and connect priority wildfire mitigation projects with available resources. Additionally, the bill creates the Hazard Mitigation Fund to assist local jurisdictions in obtaining the matching funds required for certain federal hazard mitigation grants. Finally, the bill dedicates almost $30 million across various wildfire mitigation and response funds to help the state bolster wildfire prevention, detection, and response

This bill will be heard by the Senate Local Government Committee at 2:00PM on Tuesday May 18th in Senate Committee Room 352.

HB21-1285: Funding To Support Creative Arts Industries, sponsored by Senators Jaquez Lewis & Buckner.

• Venues, artists, and so many other culturally vital organizations have struggled to make it through the last year. This bill provides $10 million to support artists and cultural organizations that have been impacted by COVID-19 throughout the state. This includes funding for the performance-based film incentive, cultural facilities and the CO Creative Industries grant program set up during the 2020 special session.

This bill will be heard by the Senate Local Government Committee at 2:00PM on Tuesday May 18th in Senate Committee Room 352.

HB21-1253: Renewable & Clean Energy Project Grants, sponsored by Senators Winter & Rankin.

• Market forces, consumer choices, and environmental consciousness have moved Colorado’s economy toward a sustainable clean energy future. This bill will invest $5 million into local government grants for shovel-ready, job-creating projects in the renewable energy sector. The grants are intended to be allocated by August 15, 2021, or as soon as possible thereafter. The Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) is tasked with distributing the grants and will report to the General Assembly regarding the grants during its 2022 annual "SMART Act" presentation to legislative committees of reference.

This bill will be heard by the Senate Transportation & Energy Committee at 2:00PM on Tuesday May 18th in Senate Committee Room 357.

HB21-1270: Appropriation To Department Of Human Services For Supplemental Assistance Nutrition Program sponsored by Senators Fields & Kirkmeyer.

• The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment First initiative has successfully helped Coloradans who receive SNAP benefits obtain new skills to thrive and reenter the workforce. This bill, which was introduced last week on April 9, leverages $3 million in state funds to draw down an additional $3 million in federal funds to provide a total of $6 million for jobs and skills training services to SNAP recipients. The funds may also be used to support work based learning opportunities and expanding 3rd party partnerships to expand the SNAP employment and training program's reach. 

This bill will be heard by the Senate Health & Human Services Committee at 1:30PM on Wednesday May 19th in Senate Committee Room 357.

Other legislative priorities headed to committee this week include:

HB21-1232: Standardized Health Benefit Plan Colorado Option, sponsored by Senator Donovan.

• For far too long, Coloradans have struggled to pay for the healthcare that they need. Though it may seem unattainable, easy access to high-quality, affordable care for everyone can be a reality in Colorado, and this legislation will help us get there. The revised version of the bill requires the Commissioner of Insurance to establish a standardized health benefit plan that will be offered by health insurance carriers in the individual and small group markets. In addition, over the next three years, carriers would be required to reduce premiums by 20%. Access to health insurance coverage is proven to have a positive impact on health outcomes and financial security and well-being.

This bill will be heard by the Senate Health & Human Services Committee at 1:30PM today, Monday May 17th in Senate Committee Room 357.

HB21-1012: Expand Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, sponsored by Senators Pettersen & Coram.

• The Prescription Drug Monitoring Program provides a state database to track all controlled substances that are dispensed in Colorado. The database allows prescribers to monitor their patients’ use of controlled substances, with the goal of mitigating the misuse of prescription drugs. However, the program only applies to controlled substances prescribed in Colorado. This bipartisan bill would expand the program to all prescription drugs prescribed in the state, which will increase transparency and accountability, and help facilitate data-driven, evidence-based policies to reduce substance abuse.

This bill will be heard by the Senate Finance Committee at 1:30PM today, Monday May 17th in the Old Supreme Court Chambers.

HB21-1150: Create The Colorado Office Of New Americans, sponsored by Senator Gonzales.

• Colorado is home to more than half a million immigrants, including refugees, who make up 10% of the state's population and play a vital role in our state's cultural fabric and shared prosperity. To help organize a structure for state agencies and immigrant communities to partner in order to enhance integration across the state, this bill establishes the creation of the Colorado Office of New Americans. This will provide immigrant communities the means to address any concerns and obstacles they encounter when accessing state services.

This bill will be heard by the Senate Finance Committee at 1:30PM on Wednesday May 19th in the Old Supreme Court Chambers.

HB21-1166: Behavioral Health Crisis Response Training, sponsored by Senator Ginal.

• Coloradans with intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health diagnoses have limited access to appropriate treatment, including crisis intervention, stabilization, and prevention. Additionally, individuals who live in rural areas of Colorado are particularly impacted by this limited access to appropriate treatment. To focus more attention to this gap in resources, this bill directs the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to provide a comprehensive care coordination and treatment training model for people who work with persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co-occurring behavioral health needs, which will provide more tools to case management agencies, mental health centers, and other programs across the state.

This bill will be heard by the Senate Health & Human Services Committee at 1:30PM on Wednesday May 19th in Senate Committee Room 357.

To listen to committee hearings, visit leg.colorado.gov/watch-listen. The full Senate calendar for the week can be found at http://leg.colorado.gov/session-schedule?type=senate.

Senate Passes Historic Transportation Funding Legislation with Bipartisan Support

Legislation would future-proof Colorado’s transportation system by providing sustainable funding mechanisms, investing historic amounts in electric vehicle infrastructure, and centering equity

DENVER, CO  – Today, the State Senate gave bipartisan approval to a landmark transportation bill that will create a dynamic, 21st Century transportation system that will drive Colorado’s economic comeback, establish a sustainable funding source to improve Colorado roads, invest in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and expand multi-modal and transit options to reduce congestion and improve air quality.

SB21-260, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Fenberg and Senator Winter, was introduced after decades of work and over a year of intense stakeholder work across the state. The bill will save Coloradans money and time spent on roads by reducing congestion, creating new transportation options, and balancing the needs of every Colorado community.

“Whether or not we realize it, we all use our transportation system every single day. Transportation gets our kids to school, delivers groceries and essential goods directly to our homes, and opens up access to every corner of our great state,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “This plan makes meaningful progress towards a future that can keep up with Colorado’s rapidly growing population and demand for a sustainable transportation system.”

The proposal will provide $5.268 billion in transportation funding to fix roads and bridges, improve transit options, meet Colorado’s climate goals, and future proof the state’s transportation system. The funding will come from a fair and responsible mix of state, federal, and user revenue that fairly reflects all of the uses of our transportation system.

“After months of community planning and more than 130 stakeholder meetings, we have come together with a solution that will creatively and equitably address Colorado’s biggest transportation challenges,” said Senator Winter (D-Westminster). “I am incredibly proud of the balance that this bill strikes as well as the urgency with which it acts because Coloradans can’t afford to wait one more minute as our roads crumble, traffic grinds to a halt, and toxic emissions pollute the air we breathe. This bill represents the future of transportation in our state, and it’s a future we can all be proud of.”

Over the course of the eleven-year plan set forth in the bill, nearly $3.8 billion will be generated through new user revenue, and the bill will leverage nearly $1.5 billion in state general fund revenue and stimulus dollars. This will provide long-overdue funds after years of failed legislative attempts and ballot measures to support our statewide transportation system, as well as create good-paying jobs that will continue to exist for decades to come.

In addition to bipartisan legislative support, the proposal has garnered endorsements from local leaders and organizations across the state, including: Governor Polis, Mayor Hancock of Denver, Mayor Arnt of Fort Collins, Chair of the Metro Mayors Caucus Mayor Jackie Millet, Mayor Suthers of Colorado Springs, Mayor Weaver of Boulder, President and CEO of the Boulder Chamber John Tayer, A Way Forward chair and president and CEO of Colorado Concern Mike Kopp, Adams County Commissioner Eva Henry, SMART Union, Action 22, SWEEP, Lyft, Pipefitters Local 208, Colorado Competitive Council, Denver Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President Mike Ferrufino, Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce President Kelly Brough, Grand Junction Economic Partnership Executive Director Robin Brown, Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association Executive Vice President Dave Davia, Former Colorado Speaker of the House Dickey Lee Hullinhorst, Routt County Commissioner Beth Melton, Chaffee County Commissioner Keith Baker, Summit County Commissioner Tamara Pogue, Boulder County Commissioner Claire Levy, Grand County Commissioner Rich Cimino, La Plata County Commissioner Clyde Church, Eagle County Commissioner Matt Scherr, Larimer County Commissioner Kristin Stephens, Adams County Commissioner Emma Pinter, and Clear Creek County Commissioner Randall Wheelock.

The bill will now head to the House for consideration. To read the bill and find updates regarding its status, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-260.

Senate Passes Public School Finance Act Unanimously!

Bill restores cuts to vital programs; provides additional support for low-income students, English-language learners

DENVER, CO – The Colorado Senate today unanimously passed SB21-268, a bill that would reverse major cuts to education funding made last year due to the COVID-19 public health crisis and restore critical funding to a variety of educational programs. The bill, sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger, also includes an additional $77 million to help Colorado students most affected by the pandemic. 

“Our students have experienced one of the most difficult periods of their lives over the last year as their school work has been disrupted and they have had to transition to remote forms of learning,” said Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada), who also chairs the Senate Education Committee. “As we rebuild in a way that makes our school system stronger, we need to focus on lifting up our students, especially those most vulnerable. This year’s School Finance Act restores cuts made last year due to the pandemic, and it distributes additional money to provide students with the best educational experience in this environment.” 

The Legislature has already passed a $34.1 billion state budget with $7.8 billion in spending on K-12 education, which represents an 8.7% increase over the 2020-21 school year. The School Finance Act is a separate piece of legislation that explains how the money for education in the state budget will be distributed to schools, among many other provisions. 

The school finance formula starts with a base of $7,225 per student for next year, which represents a 2% increase. The average per-pupil spending for the 2021-22 budget, however, will be closer to $8,857, which is a 9.7% increase, due to the additional increase of funding included for at-risk students. 

Applying funding to reduce the budget stabilization factor is currently the most equitable way to help steer resources toward students in every classroom. Last year, lawmakers increased the budget stabilization factor by $601.1 million from $572.4 million, taking us up to a record $1.7 billion. Senate Bill 21-268 will restore the budget stabilization factor to pre-pandemic levels. 

In addition, the bill restores funding to a variety of grant programs that were cut last year due to the pandemic, such as money for dropout prevention programs and others that help increase enrollment in advanced coursework. The bill also increases funding for the Charter School Equalization Fund, the Local Accountability System Grant program, and the Counselor Corps Grant Program. 

SB21-268 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.

Bill Aimed at Curbing the Criminalization of Poverty & Over-Policing Introduced!

SB21-273 works to dismantle long-entrenched policing and jailing practices that lead to racial discrimination, unjust detainment, & the destabilization of vulnerable communities

DENVER, CO - Today, Senators Pete Lee and Dominick Moreno introduced their bill to promote liberty and equal justice under the law by enacting pretrial reform. SB21-273 works to curb detainment for low-level offenses – addressing perpetual cycles of abuse and mistreatment of vulnerable populations.   

“Justice and freedom are the cornerstones of American values. But since our founding, these values have been applied inequitably. For people of color, the poor, and socially marginalized justice is a rarity rather than a right,” said Senator Pete Lee (D-Colorado Springs). “One of the biggest culprits of this toxicity is reflected in jailing and arrest practices, where people’s freedom and even lives are taken away with a devastating level of frequency. It’s time to completely rethink how police interact with our communities and recalibrate the role money has in our justice system. Because access to funds shouldn’t determine a person’s right to freedom and non-violent, low-level offenses shouldn’t elicit an arrest.”

“Ability to pay should never determine a person’s freedom, however, we continually criminalize poverty when it comes to our justice system. The majority of people in our pre-trial detention system have not even been convicted of a crime, yet they sit in our jail cells simply because they cannot afford bail,” said Senator Dominick Moreno (D-Commerce City). “We cannot allow this unfair, discriminatory system to endure. This bill is a harm-reducing, common-sense policy that will make an enormous difference in holding people accountable, keeping communities safe, and promoting liberty and equal justice for all.” 

Colorado’s jail population has grown 800% in the last 50 years, largely comprising of low-level, non-violent detainees who simply can’t afford cash bonds. Black people have been disproportionately affected by this trend – being 8X more likely to be arrested than white people for lower-level offenses and 4X more likely to be killed in police custody. This has perpetuated cycles of instability among vulnerable communities and deteriorated society’s relationship with law enforcement. 

SB21-273 prohibits a court from issuing a monetary bond for a misdemeanor offense; municipal offense; class 4, 5, or 6 felonies; or a drug felony unless the court finds the defendant will flee prosecution or threaten the safety of another. The bill also requires peace officers to prioritize the issuance of a summons for low-level, non-violent misdemeanors. Finally, SB21-273 establishes a Community Response Working Group to study and recommend safe, effective alternatives to law enforcement responses including incorporating mental health professionals and social workers.   

The bill was assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee. To read the bill and find updates regarding its status, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Another Day, Another Leap Forward for Colorado Comeback Legislation

Bills targeting relief for agricultural efficiency programs, drought resiliency, and community revitalization all advance through committees

DENVER, CO - Today, two senate committees advanced several stimulus bills that are a part of Colorado’s recovery package, all with strong bipartisan support.

SB21-252, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg and Minority Leader Chris Holbert, creates the Community Revitalization Grant Program to issue grants intended to support creative projects in commercial centers that would combine revitalized or newly constructed commercial spaces with public or community spaces. Projects could include flexible live-work or vendor spaces for entrepreneurs, performance spaces, child care centers, meeting spaces for community events, and other projects that renovate vacant property for creative industries, economic development, or historic preservation purposes. The bill passed out of the Senate Local Government Committee with unanimous support.

“The Community Revitalization Grant Program will help breathe life back into Colorado’s main streets that have been hit hard by the pandemic,” said Majority Leader Fenberg (D-Boulder). “Creative centers and community spaces are anchors of culture and identity in our rural communities and are the very places that make our small towns so unique. This is an incredible opportunity to invest in the diversity and longevity of Colorado’s cities and towns.”

SB21-234, sponsored by Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis & Jerry Sonnenberg, allocates $3 million to the Department of Agriculture to increase the state’s ability to anticipate, mitigate, or respond to droughts. In 2020, each of the 64 Colorado counties were experiencing a drought. Major drivers were an absent monsoon season, increased soil moisture deficits, record-high temperatures, and extreme evaporative demands from winds and low humidity. This drought exacerbated many of the financial impacts on the agriculture sector, and as climate change worsens, drought could cost Colorado an additional $511 million dollars in expected annual damages to agriculture. This bill will help the state plan for and mitigate future droughts and climate disturbances. This bill passed out of the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee with unanimous support.

"Climate change has caused the worst drought for farmers in their planting season in 20 years,” said Senator Jaquez Lewis (D-Lafayette). “This legislation will provide funding for drought mitigation and wildfire prevention techniques. As a San Luis rancher's granddaughter, I am proud to support our agricultural families across the state"

SB21-235, also sponsored by Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, allocates another $5 million to the Department of Agriculture, with at least $3 million going to the ACRE3 energy efficiency program and at least $1 million going to conservation districts to implement voluntary soil health programs. Over the next decade, Colorado’s agricultural sector must comprehensively reduce greenhouse gas emissions while also increasing energy efficiency and cutting costs. ACRE3 is Colorado’s premier state-level program for agricultural energy management and provides financial aid, technical assistance, and education to help the agriculture industry cut energy costs and develop their own energy resources. To further increase the sustainability of the ag industry, producers can invest in healthy soil management, nutrient cycling, and erosion prevention strategies which will increase yields and resilience to extreme weather events. This bill also passed out of the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee with unanimous support.

"Agricultural businesses and working families depend on keeping costs low,” said Senator Jaquez Lewis (D-Lafayette). “This legislation funds energy-efficient techniques like improving soil health and Agrivoltaics, which combines solar energy creation over croplands. Farmers and Ranchers will have another way to improve their crop production. 

All three bills now head to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Senate Passes a Host of Priority Legislation with Bipartisan Approval

Bills to create the Front Range Passenger Rail District, expand multilingual ballot access, protect victims of child abuse, and invest in early childhood education receive final approval

DENVER, CO - This morning, the Senate passed several priority bills with strong bipartisan support. These policies address a wide variety of issues including transit, ballot access, victim protection, and childhood education. 

SB21-238, sponsored by Senate President Garcia and Senator Zenzinger, would lay the groundwork for an interconnected, high-speed passenger rail system spanning from Trinidad to the Wyoming border – allowing residents all along the Front Range to travel more efficiently and effectively. 

“I have worked on transportation and transit issues for nearly twenty years, and I am incredibly proud to see our bill to create the Front Range Passenger Rail District pass the Senate,” said Senator Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “Front Range Rail is a smart solution that helps lower emissions and improves the transit experience for the hundreds of thousands of Coloradans that travel along the Front Range. ”

“Front Range Passenger Rail is a crucial opportunity for us to prioritize the long-term economic health of Southern Colorado,” said President Leroy Garcia, D-Pueblo. “A high-speed train will connect Coloradans with new communities, and facilitate stronger investments in areas that have been overlooked. We are one step closer to having a public transit system that addresses our growing population needs and increases mobility throughout regions that have, until now, had limited transit options.”

SB21-236, sponsored by Senators Story & Sonnenberg, is a part of Colorado’s recovery package, and establishes three new grant programs to increase the affordability and availability of early childhood care, and works to improve recruitment, retention, and compensation for educators. Additionally, the bill allocates $8.8 million in state funds and $4.2 million in federal funds to help get these programs up and running.

“Early childhood caretakers and educators are some of the most valuable and influential figures in children’s lives – helping to not only prepare them for K-12, but also shape their critical thinking abilities, social skills, and general wellbeing,” said Senator Tammy Story, D-Evergreen. “Over the last year, the pandemic has disrupted both educators’ ability to teach and children’s ability to learn – making the re-ignition of early childhood care and education an integral component of our recovery.”

HB21-1011, sponsored by Senators Gonzales & Moreno, acknowledges the need for improvement and expansion in supporting Colorado citizens who struggle to speak or read English by requiring certain counties to provide multilingual ballot access. Additionally, the bill tasks the Secretary of State with creating a multilingual ballot hotline that provides translators and interpreters, intended to apply to all general elections beginning for the November 2022 election and for every state-wide odd-year election.

“Even with Colorado’s gold-standard election system, there’s still work to be done so that everyone can make their voice heard,” said Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “With thousands of Spanish-speaking citizens across the state, it is critical that we provide multilingual ballot options – ensuring that every eligible Coloradan has the resources they need to fully participate in our democracy.” 

“Colorado has some of the most free, fair, and open elections in the country, however, we cannot confuse eligibility with access,” said Senator Moreno, D-Commerce City. “This common-sense legislation will enfranchise countless voters and ensure our governing institutions more accurately reflect the will of the people.”

SB21-088, sponsored by Senators Danielson & Fields, seeks to clarify existing law to protect survivors of child sexual abuse and hold bad actors accountable in an effort to provide necessary protections for children and deter instances of sexual abuse for happening in the future. 

“We have a duty to protect those who cannot protect themselves, but for decades, victims of child sexual abuse have been denied justice. It’s time for that to change,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “This vitally important bill will ensure that we hold abusers and their enablers accountable. We know that the healing process is long and hard – providing additional time for survivors to disclose their abuse will give us a greater opportunity to stop predators from causing additional harm and empower victims to find closure on their own terms.”

“Current law serves as a barrier to survivors of sexual abuse,” said Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora. “The window for disclosing abuse is incredibly limited, which ends up benefiting predators and hurting survivors. This bill rebalances the scales of justice by allowing survivors to report the abuse they experienced when they are ready to come forward versus forcing them to comply within an arbitrary time frame that is often misaligned with their healing journey.” 

All four bills now head to the House chamber, either for passage or concurrence. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills.

Colorado Comeback Legislation Continues to Make Headway

Bills providing support to the State Fair and National Western Stock Show, the Colorado Water Plan, workforce development, and the tourism industry all advance through committees

DENVER, CO - Today, two Senate committees advanced several stimulus bills that are a part of Colorado’s recovery package, all with strong bipartisan support.

HB21-1262, sponsored by Senate President Leroy Garcia and Senator Jerry Sonnenberg, provides $3.5 million to the Colorado Stock Show – a staple to the state’s agricultural economy and Denver’s economy – as well as $3.5 million for the State Fair, and $2 million to agricultural events organizations across the state. The bill advanced out of the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee with unanimous support.

“Without direct support to the agriculture industry, Colorado won’t truly recover from the effects of the pandemic,” said Senate President Garcia (D-Pueblo). “My bipartisan bill to send millions of dollars to the Colorado State Fair, the National Western Stock Show, and other agriculture events will provide the support the industry needs to weather this storm.”

HB21-1260, sponsored by Senate President Pro Tem Kerry Donovan and Senator Cleave Simpson, provides $20 million to the Colorado Water Conservation Board to implement the Colorado Water Plan, which will help fund a wide array of projects across the state. After facing one of the worst drought years in Colorado history, growing water demands will continue to strain our limited resources. To help address these needs, the Colorado Water Plan has been established as the state’s framework for solutions to preserve our water values of a productive economy, healthy agricultural sector, and robust recreation industry. This bill also advanced out of the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee with unanimous support.

“Colorado’s water challenges demand united focus and innovation,” said Senator Donovan (D-Vail). “This $20 million investment is an important step in Colorado’s work to address looming issues such as drought, climate change and population growth. But to truly solve these challenges facing Colorado’s water, we must continue to work with farmers and ranchers, conservationists, and water providers to find the necessary funding solutions that Colorado currently lacks.”

HB21-1263, sponsored by Senators Robert Rodriguez and Dennis Hisey, creates a program to provide organizations and businesses up to 10% rebates for holding an event in the state. The program also offers rebates of up to 25% for hard costs of complying with COVID-19 associated public health orders for the event. This will help bring people back for the weddings, vacations, conferences, and festivals that have halted since COVID. This bill advanced out of the Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee with unanimous support.

“Colorado typically has a booming events and tourism industry. From weddings to conferences to concerts, we attract people from all around the country and the world to our beautiful state. But COVID has decimated this industry and put thousands of people out of work.” said Senator Rodriguez (D-Denver). “We need to attract business back to Colorado, that’s why this bill is so critical. By giving organizations and businesses a 10% rebate for holding events in Colorado, we will be powering the comeback and stimulating local economies.”

HB21-1264, sponsored by Senators Chris Kolker and Dennis Hisey, invests $25 million to create an initiative within the state Workforce Development Council to reskill, upskill, and “next-skill” workers during periods of substantial unemployment. This will ensure that the state can build back stronger by making sure that Colorado’s workers have the tools they need to thrive. This bill advanced out of the Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee with bipartisan support.

“The last year has had a devastating impact on all of us, but especially our workforce. Coloradans were unexpectedly forced out of work during the pandemic, which resulted in financial loss, heightened stress, and decreased productivity,” said Senator Chris Kolker (D-Centennial). “In order for us to build back stronger, we need to ensure that our workers are fully equipped with this skill set necessary for them to get back to work and do their jobs efficiently. This funding supports training to advance one’s skills with their chosen work and develop new skills for those looking for careers new to the twenty-first century.”

All four bills now head to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov.

Bill to Further Strengthen Colorado’s Gold-Standard Voting System Passes Out of Senate With Bipartisan Support

Legislation would further improve Colorado’s election system by: modernizing voter registration, expanding access to drop boxes, and creating more transparency in recall elections.

DENVER, CO - Today, the Senate passed a critical piece of elections and voting legislation that upholds, and makes improvements to, Colorado’s gold-standard voting system by strengthening certain aspects of our election laws.

SB21-250, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Fenberg and Senator Gonzales, works to ensure Colorado maintains its status as a role model for secure, safe, and fair elections.

“Colorado consistently has one of the highest voter turnout rates in the country thanks to the convenience and accessibility of our voting system. This is a result of our continual commitment to improvement efforts like this one,” said Senate Majority Leader Fenberg (D-Boulder). “By seeking to ensure Colorado’s elections remain exemplary, we are standing up for voters and protecting our democracy from the onslaught of restrictive voting laws being pushed by Republicans across the country.”

Each year, Colorado’s sixty-four County Clerks, the Secretary of State, and other stakeholders identify clarifications, adjustments, and improvements that are needed to make the election system even better. This bill is the result of their findings and subsequent recommendations. 

“At a time when other states are restricting access to the ballot, here in Colorado we’re going above and beyond to make it easier for Coloradans to vote securely,” said Senator Gonzales (D-Denver). “I am proud of Colorado’s commitment to continually improving our elections system. Ensuring Coloradans are able to participate in democracy with ease will strengthen our electorate and increase voter engagement across the state.”

The legislation includes adjustments to Colorado’s voting system that will: improve drop boxes and Voter Service and Polling Centers, protect voting from partisan interference, and improve Colorado’s voter registration system. Additionally, the legislation includes language to increase transparency in recall elections.

The legislation now moves to the House for consideration. To track the progress of the bill here: leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-250.

Senate Champions Women’s Health, Increasing Access & Affordability for Essential Services

Bills seeking TO create a reproductive health care program, expand family planning services, protect rights of pregnant person’s and bolster maternal health now head to the House

DENVER, CO - Today, the Senate passed four critical pieces of legislation to protect and expand women’s health care. The bills, SB21-009, SB21-025, SB21-193, and SB21-194 will address a number of issues relating to women’s health, including reproductive and maternal support services.

SB21-009, sponsored by Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, seeks to support families across Colorado by establishing the Reproductive Health Care Program to provide a 12-month supply of contraceptives and counseling services without prior authorization or co-pays to eligible individuals, regardless of citizenship status. 

“Every Coloradan should have access to the reproductive care they need to maintain their health, but many low-income and undocumented women cannot access health insurance and, therefore, are unable to recieve contraceptive support,” said Senator Jaquez Lewis (D-Lafayette). “This bill would expand access to reproductive health services so that every resident -- regardless of income, insurance or immigration status – can access the care they need.”

SB21-025, sponsored by Senator Brittany Pettersen, seeks to assist those who are thinking of starting a family by providing counseling services, contraceptives, and health care coverage information to eligible individuals – allowing them to make the best decisions for themselves and their families.

“Financial barriers inhibit the ability of many marginalized women throughout Colorado from accessing family planning services,” said Senator Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood). “The money in your pocket should never determine whether you can access health care. This bill would simply expand eligibility for family planning services so that more Colorado women can afford contraceptive care – ultimately addressing health disparities as well as enhancing health equity in our most vulnerable communities.”  

SB21-194, sponsored by Senator Buckner, requires insurance carriers as well as the Department of Health Care Policy & Financing to reimburse health care providers for services related to labor and delivery in a way that promotes high-quality, cost-effective care, prevents risk in subsequent pregnancy, and does not discriminate based on the type of provider or facility. Additionally, the bill seeks to amend the State Medicaid Plan to provide 12 months of postpartum medical benefits to people who received these benefits during pregnancy.

“Everyone deserves access to quality, affordable health care. But, ongoing health disparities amplified by racial inequities prevent too many mothers in Colorado from receiving the care they need,” said Senator Janet Buckner (D-Aurora). “Maternal mortality is on the rise, particularly for communities of color. This legislation will help address underlying issues associated with this crisis, improve maternal health outcomes for those most marginalized, and combat the racial injustices that have allowed these inequities to persist.”

SB21-193, also sponsored by Senator Janet Buckner, requires the Colorado Civil Rights Commission to receive reports regarding culturally incongruent maternal care provided to pregnant women or those in postpartum care. Additionally, the bill extends the statute of limitations for actions alleging lack of informed consent in cases related to a pregnant person, and adds protections for pregnant people in jails and state correctional facilities.

In addition to these bills, SB21-251, which will provide initial funding to get the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program up and running, will be heard by the Senate Finance committee this afternoon at 1:30PM in the Old Supreme Court Chambers.

All four bills passed by the Senate now head to the House chamber. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov. To tune into this afternoon’s Finance Committee hearing, visit leg.colorado.gov/watch-listen.

Senate Diaper Drive Raises Awareness of Urgent Diapering Needs in Colorado

Event was held in support of SB21-027, a critical bill aimed at helping struggling parents access essential diaper supplies 

DENVER, CO – Today, in partnership with the Women’s Lobby of Colorado and WeeCycle, Senators Brittany Pettersen and Jessie Danielson hosted a diaper drive on the west steps of the Capitol. This event was held in support of SB21-027, a bill aimed at delivering emergency relief to struggling parents in need of diaper supplies. 

“The stress of not having a diaper for your baby is overwhelming. I can’t imagine facing it as a new mom. No parent should have to choose between paying for food or paying for diapers,” said Senator Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood. “At a time when women have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, we need to ease the burden on families, which is why I am so proud of this common-sense policy that uses existing diaper bank infrastructure to help families across the state.”

“We are the wealthiest nation in the world and yet some of our parents can’t afford diapers – that’s just unacceptable,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “It costs at least $80 per month to provide diapers for a child, which is unfeasible for families who have lost their jobs and struggle to afford rent or buy food. Our families have suffered enough over the last year – providing diapers to parents in need is a simple, effective way we can support maternal mental health, infant safety, and family wellbeing."

Diaper needs are always high, but because of COVID-19 and its impact on Colorado’s economy, the need for them has soared. It is estimated that diaper need is up 300% since the pandemic began, according to the National Diaper Bank Network. In Colorado, one of Colorado's largest diaper banks WeeCycle, anticipated providing 300,000 diapers to families in 2020. They ended up distributing 1.1 million due to COVID’s impacts on families' ability to cover their basic needs. 

“We exist because we know some families need help at certain times in their lives. We are excited to see state leaders elevating and responding to diapering essentials’ needs. This legislation can help diaper banks reach families across the state, and help families with their economic security,” said Lindsey Zaback, Program Director for one of Colorado’s diaper banks WeeCycle. 

This bill requires the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to select one or more non-profit organizations to administer diaper distribution centers to provide increased funding for diapering essentials to low-income families. This will help ensure that diaper essentials are widely available to Colorado residents in need. 

Currently, there are 202,608 children under the age of three in Colorado, 33% of which are experiencing the negative effects of unmet diaper needs. This issue is compounded by the fact that diapers cannot be purchased through other public assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Woman, Infants, and Children program (WIC). By using existing infrastructure with diaper organizations on the ground, Colorado will be able to get diapering essentials to all low-income residents at a minimal cost.

SB21-027 has passed the Senate and is currently awaiting consideration in the House. To track the progress of the legislation, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-027.

Senate Democrats Champion Affordable Housing Legislation In Local Gov. Committee

DENVER, CO - Today, Democrats on the Senate Local Government Committee emphatically approved three priority housing bills – advancing them to the next step in the legislative process.

HB21-1271 and SB21-242, both part of Colorado’s recovery package and both sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, will establish grant programs to encourage local governments to utilize affordable housing strategies, and will direct money to local governments for the acquisition or restoration of underutilized properties to house people experiencing homelessness.

“The housing crisis is impacting every corner of our state — and both HB1271 and SB242 are crafted to ensure that we are responding with thoughtful, innovative ideas,” said Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “These bills provide resources to support effective and groundbreaking solutions to Colorado’s housing crisis, offering much-needed relief to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Specifically, HB21-1271 creates three different programs in the Department of Local Affairs to promote innovative solutions for the development of affordable housing across the state. Together, the programs provide for $13 million in state stimulus funds to jump-start development in the next three years.

SB21-242, also sponsored by Senator Brittany Pettersen, creates a $15 million grant program for local governments, municipalities, and nonprofits to rent, acquire, or restore underutilized hotels or motels to provide immediate housing for people experiencing homelessness.

“It’s heartbreaking to see so many people experiencing homelessness on our streets without safe shelter,” said Senator Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood. “We have a moral obligation to lift up those in our community who are struggling and need our support, and that is what we are seeking to do with this bill. By fully utilizing hotels, motels, and other establishments to house the most vulnerable among us, we can put Colorado on a successful pathway towards ending the homelessness crisis once and for all.”

Lastly, HB21-1028, sponsored by Senator Tammy Story, adds reporting requirements for the Division of Local Housing regarding expenditures on housing solutions. To ensure this stimulus money and other housing grant program dollars are being used in the most efficient and effective way, HB21-1028 requires the Division of Housing or the State Housing Board to report on the number and amount of grants awarded, the locations of projects funded, and the number of units placed or rehabilitated on the market each year.

“Transparency is a fundamental component of good governance,” said Senator Story, D-Evergreen. “If we want to protect our investments into affordable housing, we need to ensure funds are being used wisely. This bill will allow us to more effectively expand access to affordable housing throughout our state by ensuring that our initiatives are having the greatest possible impact. Because a lack of affordable housing is one of the most significant and pressing issues we face today, and we must do everything in our power to find sustainable solutions.”

All three bills now head to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. To read the bills and find updates regarding their status, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb21-1271, leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-242, and leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb21-1028.

Senate Democrats Approve Gun Safety Legislation, Empowering Local Governments & Municipalities

Legislation would repeal the state preemption barring local governments from enacting their own gun laws

DENVER, CO - Yesterday, the Senate State, Veterans, & Military Affairs Committee gave bipartisan approval to a landmark gun bill that declares that the regulation of firearms is a matter of state and local concern, and will repeal the state level preemption that currently says otherwise.

SB21-256, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Fenberg and Senator Moreno, was introduced in response to the Boulder King Soopers tragedy, where courts struck down Boulder’s locally enacted safety measures just ten days before the shooting. 

This bill allows local governments to implement laws around gun ownership that are stricter than state statutes – granting municipalities the right to decide regulations befitting their community.

“Protecting and upholding public safety has always been at the very heart of local governments’ duties to their people,” said Senate Majority Leader Fenberg, (D-Boulder). “However, what works for Boulder might not work for Alamosa. And what works for Sterling might not work for Denver. Our state includes a diverse set of communities, and we should allow each of these communities to look out for the safety of their own.”

Gun violence is concerning at the state and local level, and this bill will allow for a local government to enact an ordinance or regulation regarding the sale, purchase, or possession of a firearm, firearm accessory, and ammunition. Local regulations cannot be less restrictive than state law, and there is no obligation to pass any ordinances as a result of this legislation. The bill also gives the authority to public universities and colleges, as well as special districts, to ban concealed carry on their premises.

“Our country is plagued by gun violence. Every day more than 100 people are killed by a firearm – from mass shootings to suicides to domestic and gang violence. But we have the power to stop this cycle,” said Senator Moreno (D-Commerce City). “Empowering Coloradans to implement local gun safety measures is a critical step towards creating safer communities. Every local body should be able to decide what policies work for them and have the ability to respond to constituents demanding change."

Colorado will be able to continue the longstanding tradition of home rule and local authority because each town, county, and community has different needs and should be able to determine what is best for their own community. Accordingly, the bill preserves state authority in areas where statewide uniformity is desirable, including the responsibility for issuing concealed carry permits while allowing local governments to determine where firearms may be carried. Additionally, the bill preserves a uniform state law that allows people to travel freely throughout the state with firearms inside their vehicles.

The bill now heads to the full Senate for further consideration. To read the bill and find updates regarding its status, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-256.

Senate Democrats Champion Mental & Behavioral Health, Pass Critical Bill Expanding Access in CO!

DENVER, CO - Today, the Senate approved legislation to expand mental and behavioral health care access in Colorado. SB21-137, sponsored by Senator Brittany Pettersen and Senator Faither Winter, would create various grant programs to assist local governments and rural municipalities address substance use disorder, maternal and child health, and other behavioral health prevention & treatment programs throughout the state.

“We were facing a substance use disorder crisis far before the pandemic hit, but it has only been exacerbated due to increased anxiety, isolation and stress surrounding the pandemic and the economic downturn. As a result, we have seen a significant increase in relapses, abuse of alcohol and drugs, overdose deaths, mental health crises, and sadly, deaths by suicide,” said Senator Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood. “This bill is about bringing much-needed support to those who need it the most.”

“For far too long, mental health has become a forgotten component of our healthcare system, resulting in thousands of Coloradans without the adequate treatment they need,” said Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster. “With this bill, we are saying loud and clear that mental health matters, and that it is just as important, valuable and worthy of treatment as physical health. Today, we are taking an important step to fix our broken mental health care system so that it is equitable, accessible and truly meets the needs of some of our most vulnerable residents.” 

There is an unprecedented need for increased behavioral health access for Coloradans due to the stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic consequences associated with the emergency public health response. Due to the lack of access to services as well as widespread isolation, overdose deaths and suicides have skyrocketed. 

The Colorado Health Foundation found that 53% of respondents to a recent survey said the stress related to the coronavirus has negatively impacted their mental health. In addition, a recent national study by the Well Being Trust predicted that the pandemic could lead to 75,000 additional “deaths of despair” from substance misuse and suicide.

The legislation now moves to the House for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.

Once-In-A-Generation Transportation Proposal Clears Committee!

Bipartisan bill modernizes aging infrastructure, saves Coloradans money, accelerates climate goals, & advances equity

DENVER, CO - Tonight the Senate Finance Committee approved landmark transportation legislation sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg and Senator Faith Winter. SB21-260 comprehensively addresses Colorado’s aging transportation system by establishing a sustainable funding source to improve Colorado roads, investing in the future of EV charging infrastructure, and expanding multi-modal transit options to reduce congestion and improve air quality.

“Colorado has fallen behind when it comes to transportation investment and efficiency – costing our residents endless amounts of money and time. Even states like Mississippi and Utah have far outpaced us, making this plan even more urgent,” said Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “As a growing state, we need a transportation plan that will not only meet the growing demands of the present but prepare us for the realities of the future. With this bill, we are establishing just that: a modern, sustainable transportation system that is a reliable asset to our state rather than an ongoing liability.”

“Today we heard countless supporters from every sector, political ideology, and level of local government attest to the transformative power and efficacy of this bill,” said Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster. “After months of community listening sessions and more than 130 stakeholder meetings, we have come together with a solution that will creatively and equitably address Colorado’s biggest transportation challenges. I am incredibly proud of the balance that this bill strikes as well as the urgency with which it acts because Coloradans can’t afford to wait one more minute as our roads crumble, traffic grinds to a halt, and toxic emissions pollute the air we breathe. This bill represents the future of transportation in our state, and it’s a future we can all be proud of.”   

Colorado’s gas tax was created in 1991, and its value has significantly eroded since, leaving Colorado’s roads and transportation system drastically underfunded. The proposal will provide $5.268 billion in transportation funding to fix roads and bridges, improve transit options, meet Colorado’s climate goals, and future proof the state’s transportation system.

Funding will be sustainably sourced from a mix of state, federal, and fee revenue that equitably reflects all the users and uses of Colorado's transportation system. New fees will be delayed until 2021 and will be minimal – costing the average driver about $28 in the first year. However, the collective impact of these contributions will have a substantial impact.

Overall, the bill promotes collaboration between the Department of Transportation (CDOT), Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE), and the Colorado Energy Office (CEO) to coordinate both regional and statewide efforts to develop a transportation system that supports a dynamic economy while improving air quality, saving Coloradans money and time spent on the roads, and making key investments in rural and disproportionately impacted communities.

To ensure transparency, performance and accountability measures will be required for every entity that receives funding through this bill, including the four new enterprises created within the bill. The Colorado Energy Office and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment will report on progress made toward the electric motor vehicle adoption goals in the "Colorado Electric Vehicle Plan 2020" and the transportation sector greenhouse gas pollution reduction goals in the "Colorado Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction Roadmap." CDOT and every new enterprise will maintain project management public dashboards that will show key performance indicators for projects paid for by the funding in this bill.

Over the course of the eleven-year plan set forth in the bill, nearly $3.8 billion will be generated through new, sustainable revenue sources, alongside a standing investment of general fund and stimulus dollars of approximately $1.5 billion. After years of failed legislative attempts and ballot measures to support our statewide transportation system, this will provide long-overdue investments as well as create good-paying jobs for decades to come.

SB21-260 will now head to the Senate Appropriations Committee. To track the bill’s progress, visit: leg.colorado.gov/bills/SB21-260

Bipartisan Bill to Expand Broadband Services to Unserved Populations Clears Committee

HB21-1109 will work to ensure that underserved Coloradans get connected to broadband as well as streamline Broadband Deployment Board governance

DENVER, CO - This afternoon, the Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee passed HB21-1109 with strong bipartisan support. The bill, sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges, Chair of the Joint Technology Committee, seeks to extend broadband services to critically unserved communities in the state and ensure that everyone can get connected to the internet.

“Going to school these days requires books, backpacks, and broadband,” said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village. “Especially after this last year, more and more of our economy is online, and we have an obligation to make sure every Coloradan can participate in that economy. Connecting unserved and underserved communities to high-speed reliable internet creates more opportunity for everyone, and increases statewide equity and prosperity for all of our families.”

According to the Colorado Governor’s Office of Information Technology, an estimated 85,000 Coloradans do not have access to affordable or reliable broadband service. 

The Broadband Deployment Board provides grants to deploy broadband service in unserved areas of the state. Since 2016, the board has awarded almost $41 million in grants to 51 projects. As a result, over 25,500 rural households across Colorado will benefit from Broadband Internet access. This bill will help build on this progress and extend the reach of the Board into the communities most in need.

Specifically, HB21-1109 adds a new definition of “critically unserved” to better categorize the needs of Coloradans that don’t have adequate broadband connections. Additionally, the bill requires the Broadband Deployment Board to ensure limited state dollars for broadband investments are targeted to areas of Colorado that lack access in a timely and efficient manner. 

Furthermore, the bill seeks to depoliticize the Broadband Deployment Board by reducing the size from 16 to 11 members, and specifying that no more than five voting members of any one major political party may serve on the board at the same time.

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. To read the bill and find updates regarding the status, visit leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb21-1109.