Senate Passes Ginal’s Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Crime, Cut Down on Catalytic Converter Thefts

Legislation to help reduce rising crime rates and protect consumers heads to the House 

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved Senator Joann Ginal's (D-Fort Collins) bipartisan legislation aimed at cracking down on stolen catalytic converters in Colorado. 

The bill, SB22-009, would cut down on the spiking number of catalytic converter thefts across Colorado by giving state regulators more oversight of aftermarket sales of catalytic converters and make it easier to prosecute “chop shops” for selling stolen ones.

“Catalytic converter theft has become a huge problem here in Colorado and throughout our nation, and it’s only getting worse,” said Sen. Ginal. “Coloradans depend on their cars for everyday things like getting to work and picking up groceries, and an inoperable car can cause real harm and unnecessary costs. This bill will allow the state to go after the market that encourages these crimes and better protect Coloradans property and our communities.”

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, catalytic converter thefts nationwide have more than quadrupled recently, from 3,389 in 2019 to 14,433 in 2020.

SB22-009 would give law enforcement more tools to address theft, and disincentivize the crime well into the future.

The bill will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.

Following Marshall Fire, Bill to Preserve Voter Registration Options for Impacted Residents Introduced

Legislation will codify standard voter registration practices following natural disasters

BOULDER, CO – Yesterday, President Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) and Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis (D-Boulder County) introduced legislation that will ensure registered Colorado voters impacted by the Marshall Fire can continue using their home address on their voter registration, even if the home was destroyed or is uninhabitable.

Under SB22-152, voters who have been displaced as a result of a natural disaster such as fire, flood, tornado, or other event may still use their previous address as their residence for voter registration purposes while temporarily living at another location. Voters can simply update their voter registration with an alternative mailing address but leave their residential address as is. This bill will codify a standard practice that county election clerks have historically followed for displaced voters.

“The Marshall Fire forced thousands of Coloradans out of permanent residences and into temporary housing. Knowing that the rebuilding and recovery process will take months and even years, we need to be thinking ahead to make sure voter registration options are preserved,” said President Fenberg. “Every Coloradan deserves to cast a safe, secure vote in every election, and this legislation will ensure that we’re protecting the sacred right to vote for those impacted by the Marshall Fire, while establishing a clear process to abide by in the event of future disasters.”

“Part of what makes the Colorado system of voting a national gold standard is its flexibility and ease of receiving and returning a mail ballot,” Sen. Jaquez Lewis said. “I’m proud to bring forward legislation that will ensure those impacted by the Marshall Fire have the flexibility they need to continue voting easily where they always have. This bill represents one of the many ways the legislature is providing support to impacted Boulder County residents and is an important piece of short term recovery. I’m grateful to have partnered with Clerk Fitzpatrick to quickly bring this bill to fruition.”

“After the devastating Marshall Fire, we realized that law needed to provide voters clear options following displacement from a natural disaster,” said Boulder County Clerk and Recorder Molly Fitzpatrick. “This bill will clarify the process in law and allow residents who have been displaced by this tragedy to vote in their home community, even if they are currently living in a different city and need to for an extended period of time.”

Any displaced resident can take action now to update their voter registration with an alternative mailing address at www.govotecolorado.gov. There is an upcoming special election in Louisville scheduled for April 19 and a statewide primary on June 28. Please note that registration changes are not immediate, but reviewed by county personnel before going live in the GoVoteColorado.gov system. Please allow up to several business days for the change to take effect in your voter registration record.

Voters can also view displaced voter registration guidance due to natural disasters on the Secretary of State’s website.

The bill will be heard in the Senate State, Veterans, & Military Affairs committee. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: INNOVATIVE BILLS TO SAVE PEOPLE MONEY ON HOUSING INTRODUCED

Legislation will invest $65 million in pandemic relief funds to spur development of innovative housing and expand access to “missing middle” workforce housing

DENVER, CO – Legislation to save people money on housing by building thousands more innovative homes, such as factory-built homes, and expanding access to critical workforce housing were introduced in the House and Senate yesterday afternoon.

“This legislation is going to save people money on housing by boosting the construction of innovative housing units across Colorado,” said Rep. Kyle Mullica, D-Federal Heights. “The homes we’re looking to promote with this bill can be built quickly, are affordable, and will create new manufacturing and construction jobs in Colorado. This bill will lead to thousands of new affordable homes across the state that will increase Colorado’s homeownership rate and drive down housing costs for hardworking families.”

“Hard working Colorado families deserve to have a home they can afford,” said Sen. Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village. “But too many Coloradans are getting priced out of the neighborhoods where they work, where they grew up, or really anywhere in the state. This bill will create good-paying jobs while quickly increasing our housing stock with quality, affordable homes that will help drive down the cost of housing and get roofs over heads as quickly as possible. I am proud to sponsor this critical bipartisan legislation as we continue fighting to make sure every Colorado family has a place they can afford to call home.”

Innovative Housing Incentive Program: HB22-1282, sponsored by Representatives Kyle Mullica and Mike Lynch, and Senators Jeff Bridges and Rob Woodward, deploys $40 million to attract, encourage and support the construction of innovative forms of affordable housing to be built all across Colorado. Examples include modular, pre-fabricated, manufactured and other innovative forms of housing. This will quickly boost the affordable housing stock in communities that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, as well as increase the rate of homeownership in communities that have traditionally lacked access to affordable housing. The legislation will also create jobs by incentivizing new innovative housing companies to manufacture and place their homes in Colorado.

“The lack of affordable workforce housing is devastating communities, employers and middle income Coloradans across the state, which is why I’m so excited to sponsor legislation that will inject funding into the state’s Middle Income Access Program,” said Rep. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs. “The Middle Income Access Program has a successful track record of leveraging funds to foster the development of affordable workforce housing. This bill makes a meaningful investment to build off of that success, saving people money on housing through the creation of workforce housing across the state.”  

“Coloradans across the state are struggling to afford a place to live, and the time to act is now,” said Sen. Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “This bill will improve support systems for middle income families whose modest resources squeeze them between skyrocketing housing costs and ineligibility for assistance, save people money, and help more Colorado families thrive.”

CHFA Middle Income Access Program: SB22-146, sponsored by Senators Rachel Zenzinger and Denis Hisey and Representatives Marc Snyder and Marc Catlin, will expand critical workforce housing so that more Coloradans and communities have access to affordable housing where it’s needed most. The legislation provides $25 million for the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority’s Middle-Income Access Program, which serves middle income families and individuals with incomes too high to qualify for low income housing tax credits. Typically, the missing middle is made up of renters whose income is between 80 percent and 120 percent of area median income.

JOINT RELEASE: Senate, House Introduce $5 Million Bill to Improve Access to Behavioral Health Care for Colorado Native American Tribes

Legislation to provide grant funding for Colorado land-based Tribes through federal pandemic relief package

DENVER, CO – The Senate and House today introduced bipartisan legislation to increase access to behavioral health care by investing $5 million to support the development of a behavioral health facility and better meet the behavioral health needs of Colorado’s Native American Tribes.

The bill, SB22-148, is part of the legislature’s ongoing commitment to addressing Colorado’s behavioral health crisis using $450 million in federal pandemic relief funds secured in the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This legislation was developed based on recommendations from the state’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force.

“The Tribes are our partners and neighbors and this is a long overdue investment in behavioral health,” said Sen. Kerry Donovan (D-Vail). “Everyone deserves mental health support in their communities and this bill will support the Tribes’ efforts.”

“This is an exciting project that will significantly increase access to behavioral health services for Colorado’s Native American Tribes,” said Rep. Barbara McLachlan (D-Durango). “Members of the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute have confronted rising suicide rates and have nowhere nearby for critical behavioral health care. I’m proud Colorado will be stepping up to build a world class facility to serve tribal members and ensure more people have access to the care they need to thrive.”

To further Colorado Tribes’ ability to provide culturally responsive behavioral health care in specialized facilities, this bill will provide a one-time $5 million grant to Colorado land-based Tribes to support building or renovating a tribal behavioral health facility for inpatient services and transitional housing.

JOINT RELEASE: Senate, House Unveil First Slate of Bills to Address Colorado’s Behavioral Health Crisis

Legislation includes $168 million to increase access to care for youth, address inequities and improve behavioral health outcomes, & increase school-based resources for kids

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, the Senate and House introduced a slate of legislation aimed at addressing Colorado’s behavioral health crisis using a portion of the $450 million in federal pandemic relief funds secured in the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The bills were developed based on recommendations from the state’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force.

The legislation will increase access to behavioral health care for children and youth, help implement innovative community based-programs to address inequities and improve behavioral health outcomes, and increase access to behavioral health resources in schools. 

“We set off the year with an ambitious goal of addressing Colorado’s behavioral health crisis and helping folks get the care they need, and this first package of bills is our first step in achieving that goal,” said Sen. Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood), Chair of the Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force. “With these bills, we are well on our way to providing greater support for our kids and families, as we continue to work toward creating a behavioral health system that is accessible and equitable for all.” 

HB22-1281: Funding for Community Behavioral Health Continuum of Care Gap Grants, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter and Bob Rankin & Representative Gonzales-Gutierrez: In an effort to ensure Coloradans across the state—including children, youth and families—have access to the behavioral health care they need, this bill will invest $90 million in grant funds for local governments and nonprofit organizations to implement innovative, community-based programs with the goal of meeting regional gaps and transforming behavioral health outcomes across the state. 

“Every community in our state is facing unique challenges when it comes to behavioral health care access, which is why we’ve designed a grant program that will respond to the specific gaps in each of our communities to increase access to care,” said Behavioral Health Care Transformational Task Force Vice Chair Serena Gonzales- Gutierrez (D-Denver). “This legislation will provide resources directly to our communities to support locally-tailored solutions across the entire continuum of care. It will also ensure that there is a care access point for youth and family-oriented care closer to their communities.”

“Accessing behavioral health care in our state can be complex and difficult, making it challenging for Coloradans to get the care they need to maintain their health and well-being,” said Sen. Faith Winter (D-Westminster). “We recognize that different parts of the state have different needs when it comes to addressing mental health and substance use disorders, which is why we’re making a critical investment to address these inequities as we continue working toward building a healthier Colorado for all.”

HB22-1283: Youth and Family Residential Behavioral Health Care, sponsored by Senators Janet Buckner and Kevin Priola & Representatives Dafna Michaelson Jenet and Mary Bradfield: Colorado does not have adequate capacity to serve children and youth with complex behavioral health needs. As a result, too many children are sent out-of-state to access treatment, far away from their families and support network. This bill will invest $54 million to support intensive youth and family residential and outpatient care, ensuring that children, youth, and families can access behavioral health treatment and services they need right here in Colorado.

“Kids all across Colorado deserve access to quality behavioral health care, but our current system isn’t getting them the care they need,” said Sen. Janet Buckner, (D-Aurora). “I am proud to champion this important legislation that will improve access to behavioral health care for youth in Colorado, and help make sure that every family in our state is able to receive the vital care they need to thrive.”

“Colorado youth and families need places to turn for residential and outpatient behavioral health care to get the care they need, but these options are limited and are often hard to access in Colorado,” said Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet (D-Commerce City). “My family had to seek out of state education options for our child, and it was hard to have him so far away. Families should be able to access the services they need in Colorado. The legislation we’re advancing will build and fund a youth residential treatment facility at Fort Logan with up to 16 beds and provide operational support for additional 30 beds across the state.”

SB22-147: School and Pediatric Behavioral Health Care Integrations, sponsored by Senators Chris Kolker and Jerry Sonnenberg & Representatives Mary Young and Rod Pelton: Over the last decade, youth suicide has increased an astonishing 51 percent, as youth behavioral health has reached a crisis level. The bill will expand behavioral health investments for Colorado youth by $11 million, allowing pediatricians to better identify and treat behavioral health conditions and providing school-based supports for kids and their families. 

“Far too many kids in Colorado are struggling with their mental health,” said Sen. Chris Kolker (D-Centennial). “We must act urgently to address this crisis and provide critical support to our state’s young people where and when they need it most. Together, we can work to end the stigma surrounding mental health, expand access to care, and save lives."

“We are going to direct over $11 million to expand access to behavioral health resources in schools to help prepare our students for success and provide them the resources they need to thrive,” said Rep. Mary Young (D-Greeley), who has spent decades working in behavioral health in Colorado schools. “This legislation will expand school-based health centers across the state, invest in having more mental health professionals in our schools, and significantly boost our capacity to offer critical mental health services to Colorado youth.”

Another bill, HB22-1243, puts an additional $2 million in ARPA funding toward the behavioral health care professional matching grant program and extends the popular I Matter program beyond its scheduled repeal in June 2022, paving the way to serve youth with free counseling sessions for another two years. HB22-1243 will be heard in the House Education Committee on Thursday, March 10.

Senate Passes Bipartisan Zenzinger Bills to Address Teacher Shortage, Set Students Up For Success

Legislation would help retirees return to their school districts without fear of losing any PERA benefits

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved two bipartisan bills sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada) to address the state’s teacher workforce shortage and prepare Colorado students for success.

Colorado is facing a significant teacher shortage, and rural school districts are suffering from an extreme labor shortage that extends beyond the classroom. During the 2020-2021 school year nearly 13% of teacher positions were filled through a shortage mechanism and more than 200 positions went unfilled statewide. 

“Colorado's teacher shortage has reached a critical level in recent years, and it is up to the legislature to provide support,” said Sen. Zenzinger. “If we can entice retirees to return to the classroom by preserving their PERA benefits, then our solution is simple and obvious. For the sake of our students, we need to tap into those resources. This strategy will be particularly beneficial to underserved and rural communities.”

HB22-1057, co-sponsored by Senator Rob Woodward (R-Loveland), would waive limitations on the number of days retired teachers can work as substitute teachers when there is a critical substitute teacher shortage. This bill aims to incentivize retired teachers to help with shortages by making it possible for them to substitute teach without the fear of losing their retirement benefits.

If passed, HB22-1057 would temporarily waive rules set by the Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA) limiting the number of days qualified service retirees can substitute teach. Under current limitations, if retired teachers work over the number of allotted days, their PERA benefits are reduced. The bill temporarily lifts the waiver until July 1st, 2025.

The Senate also passed HB22-1101, co-sponsored by Senator Jerry Sonnenberg (R-Sterling), which would extend an existing successful program allowing retirees to return to rural school districts experiencing a critical shortage of staff without a reduction to their PERA benefits.

The bill would make permanent a program currently set to expire next year that allows retired rural teachers, school bus drivers, and food service workers to return to work without a reduction in their PERA benefits. 

Both bills now move to the Governor’s desk. Track the progress of HB22-1057 here, and HB22-1101 here. 

Buckner, Cooke Team Up on Bipartisan Community Safety Investment Act to Tackle Crime, Create a Safer Colorado

SB22-145 will establish critical crime prevention programs, address workforce shortages in law enforcement

DENVER, CO – On Wednesday, March 2nd, Senator Janet Buckner (D- Aurora) and Senator John Cooke (R- Greeley) introduced the Community Safety Investment Act to improve safety and address recruitment, retention, and training concerns in law enforcement agencies across the state.

Research shows that crime prevention strategies that include collaboration between communities and local law enforcement work best. The Community Safety Investment Act will create three grant programs in the Department of Public Safety: 

• The first grant program will provide law enforcement agencies and local governments with $15 million over two years to implement data-driven intervention strategies such as co-responder programs, investing in mental health centers, violence interrupter programs, early intervention teams, and restorative justice services in identified high-crime areas.

• The second grant program will provide law enforcement agencies with $7.5 million over two years to help recruit and retain staff, as well as improve training curriculums, including mental health training. 

• The third grant program -  the State’s Mission for Assistance in Recruitment and Training (SMART) policing grant - will provide $7.5 million over two years  to help recruit and train officers that better represent the communities they serve. 

“Every Coloradan deserves to feel safe in their community, but like the rest of the country, crime has been on the rise here in Colorado, which is why we’re taking action,” Buckner said. “This bipartisan bill will provide critical resources to help communities cut down on crime, address law enforcement workforce shortages, and get folks in crisis the help they need to prevent crime from occurring in the first place. I am proud to champion this common sense legislation, and I look forward to reducing crime and creating a safer Colorado for us all."

“I’m very happy to see this legislation garner bipartisan support,” Senator Cooke commented. “Part of the Republican Commitment to Colorado is to prioritize public safety by providing better training to police officers and recruiting and retaining officers that better represent the communities they protect. This bill will do just that. We have a real opportunity here to help the people of Colorado and slow the spiking crime rate we have seen in recent years.”

The bill also establishes a front-end stakeholder crime prevention forum, and provides funding for oversight and administration within the Colorado Department of Public Safety which will administer the grant programs. 

Law enforcement advocates praised the legislation:

"I support SB 22-145, Resources to Increase Community Safety, as it is a positive step toward the overall goal of reducing crime in our communities while continuing to build partnerships with the citizens our law enforcement agencies serve,” said Montrose Chief of Police Chief of Police Blaine Hall. “SB 22-145 provides grant funding for Colorado Law Enforcement agencies to hire, recruit, and retain law enforcement officers to meet our current hiring shortages. Furthermore, it includes funding for apprenticeship programs allowing law enforcement agencies to be creative in recruiting locals in our communities to serve in the police profession. Finally, expanding the partnerships between law enforcement and our mental health providers is key to growing mental health co-responder programs and immediately applying mental health services to those in crisis. As proposed, I recommend it receives full Colorado legislative support.” 

“Crime prevention programs are an essential component of keeping our communities safe,” said 17th District Attorney Brian Mason. "This bill funds  co-responder programs, mental health centers and diversion programs, all of which are proven to help keep people out of the criminal justice system. I strongly support the Governor’s proposal and urge the Senate to adopt it.”

“I appreciate the collaborative approach and the opportunity offered to criminal justice professionals to participate in working to strengthen public safety in our communities,” said Thornton Chief of Police Terrence T. Gordon. “Public safety is neither a spectator sport nor the sole province of any expert or governmental body. If any one of us sets out to reduce the unacceptably high rates of victimization or serve our communities individually without respecting the voices of all concerned, we will have already failed.”

“This bipartisan bill is an important step forward in supporting multidisciplinary responses to crime and resources for our law enforcement officers as we work together to ensure safe and healthy communities for all in Colorado,” said First District Attorney Alexis King.

The Community Safety Investment Act will be heard in the Senate Local Government Committee. You can follow the bill's progress HERE.

Senate Passes Zenzinger’s Bipartisan Bill to Address Online Crime Amid National Consumer Protection Week

Legislation would cut down on retail theft & protect Coloradans from fraudulent online sellers 

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed Senator Rachel Zenzinger’s (D-Arvada) bipartisan legislation that would address the rise in retail crime and protect Coloradans from fraudulent online marketplace sellers.

HB22-1099, cosponsored by Senator Rob Woodward (R-Loveland), would require sellers to go through a comprehensive authentication process for selling online goods and would allow buyers to report suspicious activity, making it harder to resell stolen goods online.

“Right now, it’s far too easy for thieves to resell online goods and take advantage of Colorado consumers making online purchases,” Zenzinger said. “This common sense legislation is an all around win for Coloradans. It will protect consumers and cut down on retail theft, ensuring our online marketplaces remain safe, legitimate places to buy goods and do business.”

The bill would require online marketplaces to verify the bank account information, tax identification number, and contact information from high-volume third-party sellers. It would also require sellers to disclose personal contact information to buyers, such as their name and address to assist in the authentication process for purchasing goods online.

HB22-1099 now moves to the Governor’s desk. Track the progress of the bill here.

JOINT RELEASE: Reproductive Health Equity Act Introduced

DENVER, CO – Representative Meg Froelich, Senator Julie Gonzales and House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar today released the following statements after HB22-1279, the Reproductive Health Equity Act, was introduced.

“Reproductive rights are under attack at the Supreme Court and here in Colorado from GOP politicians who have attempted time and time again to take away women’s right to an abortion,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Denver. “We have seen the dystopian version of our post Roe world with bills brought before the legislature this session to ban abortion. It’s clear that Coloradans strongly support abortion rights, and this session, we are going to pass the Reproductive Health Equity Act to ensure Colorado’s laws protect access to abortion and fundamental reproductive rights.”

“Right now, reproductive rights are under attack across the country, and if Roe v. Wade is overturned, there is no Colorado law in place that would protect the fundamental right to abortion,” said Sen. Julie Gonzales (D-Denver). “With the Reproductive Health Equity Act, we will be able to preserve abortion access in our state, ensuring that every Coloradan is guaranteed their right to reproductive freedom and can make their own decisions about their life and their future.”

“Colorado is going to lead the way to protect access to abortion,” said House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “We won’t let the Supreme Court or extreme politicians threaten a woman’s right to an abortion in Colorado. Coloradans must be able to make their own decisions about what’s best for themselves and their families, not the government. The Reproductive Health Equity Act will protect reproductive rights and ensure women in Colorado have the access to the full spectrum of reproductive health care.”

HB22-1279 would update Colorado’s laws to protect reproductive rights. The bill establishes that every individual who becomes pregnant has a fundamental right to choose to continue that pregnancy and give birth, or to have an abortion. The legislation is supported by: Cobalt, COLOR, Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, the Center for Reproductive Rights, the Anti-Defamation League of the Mountain States, the ACLU of Colorado, ONE Colorado, New Era Colorado, Catholics for Choice and dozens of other organizations.

Democrats have defeated three anti-choice bills so far this session.

HB22-1079, sponsored by Representative Williams, is an unconstitutional ban on abortion in Colorado with no exceptions. The bill explicitly directs Colorado to disregard federal law and federal courts and would subject Colorado judges who support access to abortion to impeachment. It would allow a private right of action against abortion providers, and potentially patients too.

HB22-1047, sponsored by Representative Neville, would ban abortion in Colorado with no exceptions. The bill also criminalizes miscarriages and would imprison providers who perform an abortion.

HB22-1075, sponsored by Representative Luck, would establish a registry to track and surveil abortion patients and providers. It would create a roadmap for abortion opponents to identify and further threaten abortion patients and providers.

Buckner, Hinrichsen’s Safer Streets Act to Improve Public Safety Wins Committee Approval

SB22-001 will help local governments utilize $10.3 million to make critical, evidence-based improvements that will cut down on crime

DENVER, CO – The Senate Local Government Committee today gave initial approval to the Safer Streets Act, an evidence-based approach that will help local governments make critical improvements that will cut down on crime and improve public safety in Colorado.

The bill – sponsored by Sens. Janet Buckner (D-Aurora) and Nick Hinrichsen (D-Pueblo) – creates a $10.3 million grant program that will help local governments make critical upgrades to neighborhoods such as better lighting to increase visibility and improved design of the built physical environment that will prevent crime and create safer communities.

“Every Coloradan deserves to feel safe, but right now too many of our neighbors don’t have that luxury, and we are taking action to address it,” Buckner said. “The Safer Streets Act is an important, evidence-based bill that will help communities across our state implement data-driven solutions to prevent crime. I’m proud to be pushing this critical legislation, and I’ll continue fighting to create a safer Colorado for us all.”

“Tackling crime is one of my top priorities, and I am proud to be sponsoring the Safer Streets Act to improve public safety in Colorado,” Hinrichsen said. “I’ve seen firsthand how important good lighting and well-maintained public spaces can be, and the data shows that these strategies not only reduce crime, they also improve civic pride and quality of life for everyone. I’m excited to move this bill forward, and am eager to get it signed into law.”

“SB 1 is an important investment in public safety that will allow localities to implement strategic physical upgrades that are proven to reduce crime and increase public safety,” said Arapahoe County Sheriff Tyler Brown. “I support this effort and I'm eager for my county to be able to participate in this important grant program that will help to deter occurences of violent crime and property crime."

SB22-001 will let local governments – as well as community non-profit organizations partnering with local governments – apply for grants that make physical improvements to the built environment that increase visibility, direct foot traffic, and improve aesthetics through graffiti and trash removal.

The bill utilizes Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, an effective tool in reducing crime. Research and case studies have proven that the proper, safe design of the physical environment can result in a lower incidence of crime, increased safety, and an overall increase in quality of life.

The Safer Streets Act now moves to consideration before the Appropriations Committee. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Colorado Democrats Introduce Bill to Make Juneteenth a New State Legal Holiday

DENVER, CO – Today, Governor Jared Polis, bill sponsors, the Colorado Black Democratic Legislative Caucus, and advocates held a press conference to highlight and celebrate the introduction of SB22-139, legislation recognizing Juneteenth as the eleventh state holiday in Colorado. The bill is sponsored by Sen. James Coleman and Janet Buckner, and Rep. Leslie Herod, and was introduced in the Senate on February 24. 

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union Soldiers, led by Major General Gordan Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced the end of the Civil War and declared that more than 250,000 enslaved Black people were free. 

"Adopting Juneteenth as a State Holiday pays tribute to the millions of Black Americans who endured incredible suffering under the horrors of slavery, but just as important, we elevate the celebration and the joy that this holiday has embodied in the Black community for more than 150 years," said Governor Polis. "We're grateful to our state employees and Colorado WINS, to the legislators, and everyone who has contributed to bringing this bill forward. I'm proud to stand today among champions for progress that’s long overdue to move our state forward together.” 

“Juneteenth has long been celebrated in Black communities as America’s second independence day, but most Americans still know little or nothing about the history and celebration of the day,” said Rep. Herod. “By making Juneteenth a legal holiday across the State of Colorado, we hope to rectify that. June 19th should be celebrated and hailed as a monumental and historic day by Coloradans, and that’s exactly what this bill aims to do. We wouldn’t be here without the advocacy of Colorado WINS, who negotiated their first contract with the State last year incredibly successfully, and pushed hard for recognition of Juneteenth as a state holiday.” 

“Juneteenth is more than just a federal holiday we recognize in historical Black communities like Five Points where we march, eat good food and listen to good music,” said Sen. Coleman. “Making Juneteenth a state holiday means Colorado not only recognizes that Black people are free, but that all people are free. It is a recognition that we not only desire for some Coloradans to prosper, but for all to prosper, and for all Coloradans, regardless of race or background, to earn a living wage, have an affordable place to call home, and get the equitable access to healthcare and education people need to move forward and thrive.”

“To me, Juneteenth commemorates the end of the historic practices of slavery and honors freedom for all of us,” said Sen. Buckner, “and we must never forget our past.” 

Members of Colorado Workers for Innovative and New Solutions (WINS), the union that negotiated their historic first contract with the State of Colorado last year and won a provision to make Juneteenth a state holiday, also spoke at the press conference. 

"I’m thrilled to be standing here today with our Governor and amazing bill sponsors, who are working to pass legislation to make Juneteenth as a state holiday,” said Skip Miller, an IT Specialist at the Colorado School of Mines and the President of Colorado WINS. “This is a critical part of our broader commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and movement to increase fairness and equality in our state agencies.” 

"I know unions are how we could make a real difference - working people coming together as one to win better jobs for state employees, and better public services for Coloradans,” added Tanesha McQueen, Youth Service Specialist at Marvin Foote Youth Service Center. “I'm proud to see our work from the negotiating table start to pay off with this bill.” 

“Juneteenth celebrates the day that all Americans were free,” said Norman Harris, president of the Juneteenth Music Festival Corporation. “Recognizing it as a state holiday gives our community the opportunity to acknowledge and more fully understand the impacts of slavery and systemic racism, while fostering community healing through celebration of our African American culture. We are proud to stand with our leaders today to advocate for Juneteenth to become a state holiday.” 

Zenzinger’s Bipartisan Bill to Address Online Crime, Cut Down on Retail Theft Advances

Legislation to protect Coloradans from fraudulent online sellers passes out of committee

DENVER, CO – The Senate Business, Labor, and Technology Committee today unanimously voted to advance Senator Rachel Zenzinger’s (D-Arvada) bipartisan legislation that would address the rise in retail crime and protect Coloradans from fraudulent online marketplace sellers.

HB22-1099, cosponsored by Senator Rob Woodward (R-Loveland), would require sellers to go through a comprehensive authentication process for selling online goods and would allow buyers to report suspicious activity, making it harder to resell stolen goods online.

“Right now, it’s far too easy for thieves to resell online goods and take advantage of Colorado consumers making online purchases,” Zenzinger said. “This common sense legislation is an all around win for Coloradans. It will protect consumers and cut down on retail theft, ensuring our online marketplaces remain safe, legitimate places to buy goods and do business.”

The bill would require online marketplaces to verify the bank account information, tax identification number, and contact information from high-volume third-party sellers. It would also require sellers to disclose personal contact information to buyers, such as their name and address to assist in the authentication process for purchasing goods online.

HB22-1099 will now head to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.

Bipartisan Zenzinger Bills to Address Teacher Shortage, Set Students Up For Success Move Forward

Legislation would help retirees return to their school districts without fear of losing any PERA benefits

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Education approved two bipartisan bills sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada) to address the state’s teacher workforce shortage and prepare Colorado students for success.

Colorado is facing a significant teacher shortage, and rural school districts are suffering from an extreme labor shortage that extends beyond the classroom. During the 2020-2021 school year nearly 13% of teacher positions were filled through a shortage mechanism and more than 200 positions went unfilled statewide.

“Colorado's teacher shortage has reached a critical level in recent years, and it is up to the legislature to provide support,” said Sen. Zenzinger. “If we can entice retirees to return to the classroom by preserving their PERA benefits, then our solution is simple and obvious. For the sake of our students, we need to tap into those resources. This strategy will be particularly beneficial to underserved and rural communities.”

HB22-1057, co-sponsored by Senator Rob Woodward (R-Loveland), would waive limitations on the number of days retired teachers can work as substitute teachers when there is a critical substitute teacher shortage. This bill aims to incentivize retired teachers to help with shortages by making it possible for them to substitute teach without the fear of losing their retirement benefits.

If passed, HB22-1057 would temporarily waive rules set by the Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA) limiting the number of days qualified service retirees can substitute teach. Under current limitations, if retired teachers work over the number of allotted days, their PERA benefits are reduced. The bill temporarily lifts the waiver until July 1st, 2025.

The committee also approved HB22-1101, co-sponsored by Senator Jerry Sonnenberg (R-Sterling), which would extend an existing successful program allowing retirees to return to rural school districts experiencing a critical shortage of staff without a reduction to their PERA benefits.

The bill would make permanent a program currently set to expire next year that allows retired rural teachers, school bus drivers, and food service workers to return to work without a reduction in their PERA benefits.

Both bills now move to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the progress of HB22-1057 here, and HB22-1101 here. 

Signed! Polis Signs Supplemental Budget Bills to Set Students Up for Success, Support Marshall Fire Survivors, and Improve Pay Equity into Law

FY21-22 supplemental budget package will help move Colorado forward

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law three bills from the FY21-22 supplemental budget package.

The bills include measures to boost funding for Colorado’s K-12 schools and get the Colorado Department of Early Childhood up and running ahead of schedule, provide support for survivors of the Marshall Fire, and study ways to address pay inequities in Colorado. 

“As we continue our efforts to move Colorado forward, we’re channeling critical funds to address the challenges Coloradans are seeing in their everyday lives,” said JBC Vice Chair Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “From boosting funding to support our schools, to providing much-needed relief to the survivors of the Marshall Fire, to improving pay equity in our state, we’re making important investments to uplift folks in need and help more Colorado families thrive.”

Support for Counties Impacted by the Marshall Fire
HB22-1183 provides $3.7 million to help make up for lost property taxes as a result of diminished property values in areas impacted by the Marshall Fire. The funding will be transferred from the General Fund to the Treasury Department, and then distributed to affected counties. These funds will be used to make up for lost revenue as a result of decreased property values due to the fire.

“The Boulder County community was heavily impacted by the Marshall Fire that destroyed homes and devastated families, and it’s critical that we deliver the relief they need to rebuild and recover,” said Sen. Sonya Jaquez Lewis (D-Boulder County). “These funds will make a big difference by helping offset property taxes that were lost due to the wildfires, which will help affected communities bounce back and begin to move forward.” 

“Our community was hit hard by the Marshall Fire, and we’re doing everything we can to ensure the folks rebuilding their lives have all the support they need,” said Senator Tammy Story (D-Conifer). “This critical funding will help make sure our communities have the resources they need to continue funding critical services as we continue working to recover and rebuild.”

“The communities impacted by the Marshall Fire are looking at a long road to recovery. As the rebuilding process stretches on, we’re working to ensure communities have access to the resources they need to get back on their feet, without being forced to cut critical services,” said President Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder). “I’m proud to see that this funding will soon make its way to Boulder County and I remain committed to doing all I can to continue to support our communities.”

Increased Funding for Colorado’s K-12 Schools, At-Risk Students
HB22-1186 will buy down the Budget Stabilization Factor by $68 million and provide an additional $91 million to help school districts better serve and support at-risk students. 

Jumpstarting the Department of Early Childhood
HB22-1197 will allow the Department of Early Childhood to become effective upon signature of the bill - nearly six months earlier than the previously established July 1, 2022 effective date. The bill also makes a $3.5 million transfer to initiate the department’s goal of expanding access to early childhood education to every Colorado family.

“I am pleased that we were able to increase funding to our schools mid year, especially considering the enormous challenges our schools have faced recently,” said Sen. Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada). “This additional investment is a huge step forward and will definitely lead to better educational outcomes for our students.”

“Our schools and students have faced tremendous challenges over the last few years, and it’s up to us to help them bounce back and set them up for success,” said Sen. Chris Kolker (D-Centennial). “This supplemental package will make vital investments in our public education system. It will get the Department of Early Childhood up and running, reduce the Budget Stabilization Factor, and help schools better serve and support at-risk students.”

Improving Pay Equity in Colorado
HB22-1196 directs the equity diversity and inclusion task force to contract for a pay equity study to assess pay inequities specific to gender, race, and other protected classes, to provide recommendations to alleviate pay inequities. 

“Colorado has been a national leader in building more equitable workplaces and ensuring pay transparency,” said Sen. Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood). “Funding the pay equity study means we will soon be able to take a data driven look at what inequities remain and determine how we can chart a path to alleviate them. This is a critical step in ensuring Colorado remains the best place to work.”

“All Colorado state employees deserve to be paid a fair wage for their service to our state,” said Majority Leader Dominick Moreno (D-Commerce City). “We know pay inequities exist in many workplaces. This law is the first step toward ensuring we have the data and tools needed to honor the service of all of our public servants.”

Senate Passes Pettersen’s Bipartisan Bill to Streamline Professional License Portability Program

Legislation would bolster Colorado workforce by cutting red tape around credential transfer process

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed Senator Brittany Pettersen’s (D-Lakewood) bipartisan legislation that would make it easier for qualified individuals to get professional licenses in Colorado.

SB22-116, cosponsored by Minority Leader Chris Holbert (R-Douglas County), would strengthen Colorado’s workforce by further increasing the efficiency of the existing credential portability program.

“If we want Colorado’s workforce to continue to grow and thrive, we need to make it as easy as possible to get a professional license,” Pettersen said. “This bill will cut the red tape currently slowing these processes down and help us attract highly qualified candidates and good businesses, ensuring Colorado remains the best place to work."

The bill would also add a military occupational specialty, allowing those having served in certain military roles to qualify for a credential through the program.

The bill expands on the progress of HB20-1326, which created the occupational credential portability program within the Department of Regulatory Agencies. The program was created to enable regulators to more quickly and easily approve licensure for qualified individuals.

SB22-116 will now head to the House for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.

Senate Passes Bipartisan Education Bill to Set Students Up for Success, Help Schools Get Back on Track

Legislation pushes back implementation of school performance framework to help students catch up from pandemic-related learning loss

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator Rachel Zenzinger (D-Arvada) and Senator Don Coram (R-Montrose) to allow students more time to recover from pandemic-related learning loss and help schools transition back to the state’s accountability system.

The bill, SB22-137, gives schools a clear path to get back on track in measuring performance by delaying the application of the performance framework by one year and adding a new reporting mechanism to determine the number of students that took standardized tests last year.

"If we want the state’s accountability system to work properly, we need to apply it appropriately, with an onramp that takes us smoothly back to the efficiencies and effectiveness that we enjoyed pre-COVID," Zenzinger said. "In deference to the pandemic last year, we paused the accountability system; but we can’t now just flip a switch. Senate Bill 22-137 gives us a thoughtful transition and allows us to preserve the integrity of our achievement data with an accurate perspective that considers the number of students who were missing from the tests a year ago."

Last year, the legislature passed HB21-1161, which temporarily paused Colorado’s state accountability system. Given the low student participation numbers in last year’s Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) tests, launching the accountability system without a transition process would be problematic. The integrity of achievement data and calculation of growth data would be compromised and subject to significant inaccuracies because such a high number of students were missing from the testing due to pandemic-related factors.

The legislation aligns with the State Board of Education’s resolution to ensure districts will not advance on the accountability clock for the 2022-2023 school year. Districts currently on the accountability clock, however, may submit local data through the request for reconsideration process to provide additional evidence of improvement and progress that may have been made over the past two years during the COVID interruption with assessments.

In addition, the bill adds a new set of data to the District and School Performance Frameworks to include the percentage of students who contributed to growth data, which will provide the context for understanding the school’s growth ratings and overall ratings. The added growth data set provides much-needed transparency and ensures improved accuracy in decision-making as a result of growth calculations.

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

Senator Nick Hinrichsen Officially Sworn Into Senate to Serve Pueblo

A vacancy committee appointed Hinrichsen to replace former Senate President Leroy Garcia in mid-February

DENVER, CO – Today, Senator Nick Hinrichsen (D-Pueblo) was officially sworn into the Colorado State Senate to represent Senate District 3 after winning a vacancy committee appointment on February 19 to succeed former Senate President Leroy Garcia.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to represent Southern Colorado at the State Capitol and work together with my Senate colleagues to deliver for Coloradans and help move Colorado forward,” said Sen. Hinrichsen (D-Pueblo). “It is a distinct honor and privilege to serve in this capacity, and I’m eager to hit the ground running as we fight to make Colorado a safer, healthier, and more affordable place to live.”

Senator Hinrichsen began his career as an Army logistics officer, serving five years active duty with deployments to Iraq and Kosovo. He then earned his Master’s of Public Administration from CU Denver in 2017.

Following his service in uniform, Hinrichsen worked in logistics in the trucking industry for two years before moving over to Pueblo Transit. There, he serves as the Operations Supervisor ensuring that Pueblo’s public transit system remains open to riders and runs as effectively as possible.

Hinrichsen lives in Pueblo with his wife Bri and his son Noel.

Bipartisan Senate Resolution Vows Support for Ukraine, Condemns Putin’s ‘unjust and unwarranted invasion’

Joint resolution urges Russia to end its violent, illegal, and immoral assault on Ukraine and return to diplomacy

DENVER, CO – In a bipartisan joint resolution the Colorado State Senate today voiced its unequivocal support for the people of Ukraine and condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin for launching the first violent invasion of a sovereign nation in Europe since 1945.

The resolution, which passed unanimously, also endorsed the sanctions imposed on Russia’s economy by President Joe Biden and called for a swift end to the bloodshed and a return to diplomacy.

“Vladimir Putin’s cruel and reckless attack on Ukraine is an indefensible violation of international law that will cost thousands of lives and cause pain and suffering for millions,” said Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver), who sponsored the resolution. “We strongly condemn Putin’s needless aggression, as well as anyone who supports him or his despotic regime. Colorado is proud to stand alongside the Ukrainian people as they endure this brutal and senseless war, and we will do everything we can to support Ukraine, encourage diplomacy, and hold Russia and its leaders accountable for their actions.”

The joint resolution was also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Chris Holbert (R-Douglas County) and Sen. Bob Gardner (R-Colorado Springs), and will be considered by the House on Monday.

The full text of the resolution is below:

WHEREAS, the post-war international security order, led by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), has relied upon diplomacy, peace and open communication over armed conflict to ensure prosperity and stability for over 1 billion people for more than 70 years; and

WHEREAS, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Ukrainian people voted overwhelmingly to form a nation independent from Russia, building a democracy and a thriving country grounded in the rule of law; and

WHEREAS, in 2014, the pro-Western Euromaidan protest movement in Ukraine led to the resignation of authoritarian president Viktor Yanukovych, a brutal ally of Vladamir Putin, ushering in democratically elected leaders who have sought closer ties to the EU and the United States; and

WHEREAS, the Russian Federation, seeking to block the free will of the Ukrainian people in their pursuit of security, peace and prosperity through closer ties to the EU and the United States, annexed territory from Ukraine in 2014 and instigated, supported and supplied a deadly separatist war in Eastern Ukraine that has destabilized the region and killed thousands of civilians; and

WHEREAS, the Russian Federation deployed military assets to support the separatist militias in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, resulting in the reckless missile attack that downed Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 and killed 298 innocent civilians in 2014; and

WHEREAS, Vladimir Putin intentionally lied to his own people and to the global community to create a false pretext to invade and occupy Ukraine based on lies that Ukraine posed a threat to Russians and that falsely connected Ukraine and its political leaders to Nazism; and

WHEREAS, the Russian Federation violated international peace and security agreements that sought a peaceful solution in Eastern Ukraine and instead amassed hundreds of thousands of troops on Ukraine’s border; and

WHEREAS, Vladimir Putin has now launched an unjust and unwarranted invasion upon the peaceful nation of Ukraine; and

WHEREAS, Russian soldiers are currently sweeping through the country, inflicting violence and terror upon millions of civilians and destroying homes, businesses, and property; and

WHEREAS, Ukraine is a proud and honorable nation under siege and the brutality of this unnecessary and violent war is an affront to both international law and common decency; and

WHEREAS, Ukraine has been a bulwark against Russian military aggression in Europe and Vladimir Putin has said his goal is to recreate the Soviet Union and may have intentions to threaten NATO allies with military force; and

WHEREAS, Vladimir Putin has sought to destabilize countries across Europe and interfere in other countries’ elections and democracies including the United States; and

WHEREAS, The United States has galvanized the international community and our allies to impose the strongest possible sanctions on Russia and its financial institutions in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine; and

WHEREAS, Colorado is home to thousands of Ukrainian Americans and to millions who care deeply for and stand strongly in support of the Ukrainian people; and

WHEREAS, Ukraine deserves the support of every American and the entire international community as it defends itself from this unprovoked Russian invasion, the largest attack by one state against another in Europe since World War II; therefore

Be It Resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Seventy-third General Assembly of the State of Colorado:

That we, the members of the Colorado General Assembly:

(1) Proudly stand alongside Ukraine, its people, and its leaders during this horrific and unnecessary war, and vow to support Ukraine and hold Russia fully accountable for its catastrophic decision to invade;

(2) Condemn, in the strongest possible terms, Vladimir Putin’s violent attack on the people of Ukraine, and strongly endorse the swift and severe economic sanctions and stringent export controls President Biden's administration has imposed on Russia; and

(3) Urge Russia to immediately cease its violent, illegal, and immoral assault upon Ukraine, end the needless bloodshed, and return to diplomacy and the rules-based international order that has ensured peace and prosperity for so many.

Be It Further Resolved, That copies of this Resolution be sent to the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the Majority Leader of the United States House of Representatives, the Minority Leader of the United States House of Representatives, the President of the United States Senate, the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, the Minority Leader of the United States Senate, and all members of the Colorado Congressional delegation.

Rodriguez Bipartisan Clean Slate Bill to Help Coloradans Rebuild Their Lives, Access Work & Housing Clears Committee

Legislation would help redevelop state’s workforce & bolster economy

DENVER, CO – Today, the Judiciary Committee unanimously approved a bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver) and Senator Dennis Hisey (R-Fountain) that seeks to reform the way criminal records are sealed to help Coloradans get jobs and access housing. 

Currently, criminal records can be an obstacle for folks in search of jobs or housing, further punishing Coloradans after they have served their time while also harming the state’s workforce. The bill, SB22-099, would remove this initial barrier to housing and employment by making the process automatic. 

“Minor offenses should not be an obstacle to a person's ability to find a job or a place to live in Colorado, but that is unfortunately the case in our state,” said Sen. Rodriguez. “Automatically sealing criminal records will help Coloradans who have paid their debt to society access the jobs and housing they need to rebuild their lives while strengthening our workforce as we work to rebuild our economy and move Colorado forward.” 

The pandemic has made it harder for employers to hire and retain employees, and for Coloradans to find adequate housing.

Under the bill, criminal records that are currently eligible for sealing upon petition, including civil infractions, will now be automatically sealed. This includes the records of victims of human trafficking who have been convicted or charged with prostitution. 

SB22-099 now moves to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.

Pettersen’s Bipartisan Bill to Streamline Professional License Portability Program Advances

Legislation to bolster Colorado workforce by cutting red tape around credential transfer process passes out of committee

DENVER, CO – The Senate Business, Labor, and Technology Committee today voted to advance Senator Brittany Pettersen’s (D-Lakewood) bipartisan legislation that would make it easier for qualified individuals to get professional licenses in Colorado.

SB22-116, cosponsored by Minority Leader Chris Holbert (R-Douglas County), would strengthen Colorado’s workforce by further increasing the efficiency of the existing credential portability program.

“If we want Colorado’s workforce to continue to grow and thrive, we need to make it as easy as possible to get a professional license,” Pettersen said. “This bill will cut the red tape currently slowing these processes down and help us attract highly qualified candidates and good businesses, ensuring Colorado remains the best place to work.”

The bill would also add a military occupational specialty, allowing those having served in certain military roles to qualify for a credential through the program.

The bill expands on the progress of HB20-1326, which created the occupational credential portability program within the Department of Regulatory Agencies. The program was created to enable regulators to more quickly and easily approve licensure for qualified individuals.

SB22-116 will now head to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill here.