McCluskie, Donovan, Roberts and McLachlan Celebrate Biden’s Executive Action to Protect Public Lands in Colorado

DENVER, CO – Representatives Julie McCluskie, Dylan Roberts, and Barbara McLachlan and Senator Kerry Donovan today celebrated President Biden’s executive action to protect hundreds of thousands of acres, including Camp Hale, the Tenmile Range and the Thompson Divide.

The action protects lands included inthe CORE Act– federal legislation sponsored by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper and Congressman Joe Neguse that would protect iconic public lands in Colorado, establish new wilderness areas and safeguard existing outdoor recreation opportunities to boost the state’s economy for future generations.

On September 16, Representative McCluskie led 34 Colorado lawmakers in sending a letter to President Biden urging him to use the authority granted to him and his cabinet members to protect the public lands proposed for permanent protection in the CORE Act.

“This executive action will preserve over hundreds of thousands of acres of critical wildlife, stunning mountains and beautiful rivers that are essential for recreation, conservation and our Colorado way of life,”said Representative Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon.“This is great news for Colorado and the Western Slope, and I’m grateful that President Biden has acted on our recommendations and the overwhelming support of our communities for this proposal. The new national monument will protect our environment andmemorialize the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers who trained at Camp Hale and bravely served our nation.”

“From Camp Hale where my grandfather trained with the 10th to the Thompson Divide, our public lands are what make Colorado great, and I am deeply grateful that President Biden listened to our request,”said Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail.“This important step will ensure some of our most treasured natural spaces remain open to the public and will help secure Colorado’s outdoor heritage for generations to come. My grandfather fell in love with Colorado at Camp Hale, and I know that experience will happen again and again thanks to this new protection.”

"Today is a great day for Colorado. Thanks to today’s executive action and the voices of Coloradans across the Western Slope, hundreds of thousands of acres of wilderness will be protected, including cherished landscapes in Eagle County as well as the historic Camp Hale,"said Representative Dylan Roberts, D-Avon. "This action will protect world-class recreation opportunities for biking, hiking and hunting that power our local economies. I'm grateful for the work of Senator Bennet and Congressman Neguse to get this done, and I’m excited that President Biden has acted on our recommendations from Democrats, Republicans, and Independent officials and residents across our region to protect these beautiful public lands."

"This executive action to protect thousands of acres of public land, including the Thompson Divide, is a huge win for conservation and historic preservation on the Western Slope,"said Representative Barabra McLachlan, D-Durango."Our state's stunning landscapes drive our economy and must be protected so that they can be enjoyed for generations to come. We’ve been working toward this for a long time because preserving these lands will strengthen our communities and protect our Colorado way of life.”

“The bill has enjoyed longstanding and widespread support by a wide array of our constituents and it is past time for these remarkable public lands to be protected,”the lawmakers wrote. “While our advocacy on behalf of the legislation and our constituents will continue, the protection of these landscapes requires your immediate action. By conserving these lands, you will preserve a rich part of this country’s history through historic landmarks and objects of historic and scientific interest and we know it will provide a path for your administration to protect additional public lands in Colorado in the future.”

The full text of the letter is below and can be foundhere.

Mr. President:
The undersigned Colorado state senators and representatives urge you to use the authority granted to you and your cabinet members to protect the public lands proposed for permanent protection in the Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy Act (CORE Act). As you are aware, this request was recently made by CORE Act sponsors Senator Michael Bennet, Senator John Hickenlooper, and Representative Joe Neguse, and Colorado Governor Jared Polis. The bill has enjoyed longstanding and widespread support by a wide array of our constituents and it is past time for these remarkable public lands to be protected.

In Colorado, we have a long history and commitment to public lands conservation. In January 2021, and for the first time in several years, we saw the Colorado public lands ethos shine through the priorities of the presidency when you committed the country to a first of its kind national conservation strategy. In a time when the impacts to public lands from climate change are rising and racial and economic inequities are expanding, the Conserving and Restoring America the Beautiful conservation plan has never been needed more. By protecting the landscapes within the CORE Act through administrative action, you can secure progress towards the goals set forth in the American the Beautiful plan by taking action to protect Colorado’s public lands.

Camp Hale and the surrounding Tenmile Range are incredibly deserving of permanent protection as a national monument under the Antiquities Act. The 10th Mountain Division trained across the landscape in preparation of high altitude warfare in the European Alps during World War II. The adjacent Tenmile Range was particularly integral to their training. Following the war, the soldiers who were lucky enough to have made their way home founded the US ski industry and the outdoor recreation economy that is now so vital to our state. There are few opportunities to experience and appreciate the history of World War II in our country and the sacrifices made by so many of its citizens. However, Camp Hale and the Tenmile Range are living artifacts to that sacrifice and they also happen to be some of our nations’ most beautiful public lands.

Further west lies the Thompson Divide; another mountainous landscape that local ranchers and outdoor recreationists have spent years advocating to be protected from oil and gas development. Because the legislation has stalled in Congress, its left local advocates living under the veil of uncertainty. We urge your administration to protect the Thompson Divide landscape through a Federal Lands Policy and Management Act mineral withdrawal. Finally, we request your administration provide protections for the exemplary public lands in southwestern Colorado’s San Juan Mountains by working through the ongoing Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest Plan Revision.

These landscapes are simply too important for conservation and historic and cultural preservation to become the subject of ephemeral political whims. The CORE Act, which includes the areas mentioned previously and more, already passed the House of Representative five times, only to meet repeated partisan obstacles in the United States Senate over the last several Congresses. While our advocacy on behalf of the legislation and our constituents will continue, the protection of these landscapes requires your immediate action. By conserving these lands, you will preserve a rich part of this country’s history through historic landmarks and objects of historic and scientific interest and we know it will provide a path for your administration to protect additional public lands in Colorado in the future.
Thank you,

Representative Julie McCluskie
President Pro Tempore Kerry Donovan
Representative Dylan Roberts
Representative Barbara McLachlan

Speaker Alec Garnett
President Steve Fenberg
House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar
Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno
Speaker Pro Tempore Adrienne Benavidez
Senator Julie Gonzales
Representative Meg Froelich
Representative Lisa Cutter
Representative Monica Duran
Representative Brianna Titone
Representative Judy Amabile
Representative Tracey Bernett
Representative Matt Gray
Representative Shannon Bird
Representative Steve Woodrow
Representative David Ortiz
Representative Karen McCormick
Representative Mary Young
Representative Chris Kennedy
Representative Andrew Boesenecker
Senator Rachel Zenzinger
Representative Emily Sirota
Representative Mike Weissman
Representative Dafna Michaelson Jenet
Representative Cathy Kipp
Representative Iman Jodeh
Senator Chris Hansen
Senator Chris Kolker
Representative Edie Hooton
Senator Faith Winter

Bridges Attends White House Discussion on Benefits of Building a Better America Agenda for Colorado

Senator discusses impacts, opportunities of federal policy on Centennial State

WASHINGTON, DC - Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, today joined leaders from around the country at a White House event to celebrate the Biden Administration’s work to support communities through landmark federal policy that creates jobs, invests in the economy, and moves Colorado forward. 

Bridges shared how significant federal policy championed by President Biden like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) have created jobs and grown the economy and how state lawmakers have sought to maximize those resources in Colorado.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to share with the White House how critical bipartisan legislation has helped us here in Colorado make transformational investments in priorities like behavioral health care, workforce development, and housing,” Bridges said. “Every Coloradan deserves to live where they work, which is why we used these federal dollars to help make our state more livable. From investing in middle-income housing and building tens of thousands of new homes across our state to our innovative housing incentive program, Democrats are fighting to make sure every Coloradan has a safe, affordable place to call home.”

The Inflation Reduction Act is the most significant legislation in U.S. history to tackle the climate crisis and strengthen American energy security. It will lower energy costs for households and businesses, create manufacturing jobs for American workers, and deliver a clean, secure, and healthy future for our children and grandchildren.

To date, $1.9 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding has been announced and is headed to Colorado with over 60 specific projects identified for funding. This year alone, Colorado will receive more than $1.1 billion for transportation to invest in roads, bridges, public transit, ports and airports and over $120 million for clean water. And, as of today, more than 150,000 households across the state are receiving affordable internet due to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

The American Rescue Plan Act is helping states recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, including over $26 billion in federal pandemic relief funds to help Colorado build back stronger. These funds were dispersed across the state through various programs and local governments; and the legislature received over $3.8 billion to direct to areas of greatest need. 

Read more about our work to save people money on housing, transform our behavioral health care system, provide economic relief and recovery to communities, and prepare our students for success and bolster Colorado’s workforce HERE.

Kolker, Young Attend White House Discussion on Mental Health, Promote Colorado’s Work to Transform State’s Behavioral Health System

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Representative Mary Young, D-Greeley, recently joined state legislators from across the nation for a White House virtual discussion on state-level efforts to address the mental health crisis and advance access to behavioral health care in recognition of Suicide Awareness Month.  

In the meeting, Kolker and Young discussed steps Colorado is taking to address the mental health crisis, including funding for “9-8-8” services. Legislators also shared their efforts to address mental health workforce shortages, increase accessibility of in-person and telehealth services, and ensure that individuals in the criminal justice system have access to behavioral health services.

“The mental health crisis is impacting communities all across our country, and we’ve worked hard in Colorado to take steps to address it,” said Kolker, a key member of the state’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force. “I’m grateful to have been invited by the White House to share the progress we’ve made and have the opportunity to talk about the critical 9-8-8 law and other initiatives I’ve championed to combat this crisis. Moving forward, I will continue making it a priority to advocate for policies that will advance access to care, and help Coloradans get the treatment they need when they need it.” 

"We've worked hard to address the behavioral health crisis that's affecting our kids, families and mental health professionals, and it's an honor to share our state's progress on the national stage set by the White House," said Young. "This year alone, we invested $450 million to improve behavioral health care in our communities so families and youth can access care in their community. I'm proud of the statewide work we've done to combat the behavioral health crisis and I'm ready to take our efforts one step further to reach more Coloradans in need."

During the 2021 session, Senator Kolker and Representative Lisa Cutter, D-Littleton, sponsored SB21-154, which provided funding to implement the federally mandated 9-8-8 hotline. The hotline – created through a rule adopted by the Federal Communications Commission in 2020 – provides essential resources that will help connect Coloradans facing a mental health crisis with critical mental health services. 

This year, Kolker and Young championed a number of new laws to help transform Colorado’s behavioral health system using $450 million in federal pandemic relief funds. The new laws they championed will help improve access to much-needed behavioral health care services for youth and families, break down barriers that prevent people experiencing a crisis from getting support, and save mental health professionals money on renewing their licenses. 

To learn more about the work Colorado Democrats did this year to transform our state behavioral health system, visit our website. 

Assistant Majority Leader Fields, Senator Buckner Statement on Aurora Restarting Search for Next Police Chief

Senators: "We look forward to collaborating throughout the remainder of this process and to continuing the critical work of rebuilding public confidence and keeping our streets and our community safe.”

AURORA, CO - Senate Majority Leader Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, today released the following joint statement upon news that Aurora will restart its search for a new police chief:

“Aurora deserves a police chief who values our entire community and will rebuild trust, and we are pleased that the city has chosen to restart its search for a new chief of police. Good policing is critical to keeping us all safe, and any future leader must have buy-in and support from everyone in our community. The city must use this opportunity to more deeply engage with the entire community as we work together to find a qualified and diverse set of candidates who truly meet Aurora’s needs. We look forward to collaborating throughout the remainder of this process, and to continuing the critical work of rebuilding public confidence and keeping our streets and our community safe.”

Assistant Majority Leader Fields, Senator Buckner Statement on Aurora Police Chief Finalists

Senators: “The Aurora Police Department needs a strong leader who can build trust and engage with everyone in our community. We are deeply discouraged that city leadership continues to ignore the voices of the Black community and has refused to ensure a fair and transparent process for all candidates who applied for the position.”

AURORA, CO - Colorado Senate Assistant Majority Leader Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, today released the following statement regarding Aurora’s search for its next Chief of Police:

“Good policing is critical to keeping communities safe, but it is built on trust, and we are deeply concerned that the process for determining the current finalists to serve as Aurora’s next Police Chief was not based on transparency or trust. Black community leaders, including lawmakers such as ourselves, have been excluded throughout the entire search process without the ability to provide adequate input while decisions were made behind closed doors, and it is unclear how these individuals emerged as the finalists. Hiring a Police Chief is a complex process that requires open and honest dialogue with the entire community. This process has been unnecessarily rushed and challenging for the public to access, and the decision not to pursue genuine engagement - especially with communities of color - has led to a disappointing lack of diversity among the finalists for the position. The Aurora Police Department needs a strong leader who can build trust and engage with everyone in our community. We are deeply discouraged that city leadership continues to ignore the voices of the Black community and has refused to ensure a fair and transparent process for all candidates who applied for the position.”

JBC Approves Critical Funding to Bolster State’s Monkeypox Public Health Response, Keep Coloradans Safe & Healthy

$3.35 million request includes $1 million to staff vaccine clinics and almost $800k for mobile vaccine units

DENVER, CO – Members of the Joint Budget Committee today approved an additional $3.35 million in an interim supplemental budget request from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to aid the state’s response to the ongoing Monkeypox (MPX) public health crisis.

The funding will fund CDPHE vaccine clinics and testing supplies among other priorities.

“As we continue to combat the monkeypox outbreak, we need to take the lessons we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and make sure we’re as prepared as possible to keep folks safe,” said JBC Vice Chair Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “These additional funds will provide much-needed support to help Colorado effectively respond to this virus, continue to lower transmission rates, and ensure our communities are equipped with the tools they need to keep our residents safe and healthy.” 

"Colorado is responding to the monkeypox virus responsibly, rapidly and with everyone's safety top of mind," said JBC Member Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. "Taking the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, the JBC is allocating $3.35 million to increase the number of vaccine clinics, improve mobile clinics and educate Coloradans about the virus. This funding is directed toward lowering transmission rates, boosting equity in health care and building a healthier Colorado.”

The supplemental package approved by the JBC to aid the state’s response to MPX includes the following:

• $1 million to staff vaccine clinics, which will include costs for personnel, mobile and static sites, and supplies; 

• $900,000 to distribute to Denver Health and other safety net partners to meet increased staffing needs and to meet the rising demand in testing, treatment, and vaccination;

• $183,144 for the Immunization Branch of CDPHE to purchase supplies and software related to recording, distributing, and storing vaccines; 

• $336,667 for the State Laboratory to support increased testing including supplies, courier services, and biohazard waste disposal;

• $9,667 for the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Response (OEPR) to cover vaccine administration supplies and travel costs;

• $118,000 for the Office of STI/HIV/VH (OSVH) for supplies related to outreach events and education and funding for the Community ResourceFund to support isolation for MPX positive cases; and 

• $791,700 for three months of CDPHE mobile vaccine units (MVUs).

The first cases of MPX were identified in Colorado in mid-May, and it was declared a national public health emergency on August 5th, prompting the CDPHE to ramp up its response to the outbreak. CDPHE has since exhausted the funding appropriated via SB21-243, and is awaiting approval for additional funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to redirect federal COVID-19 funding to MPX. The funding approved by the JBC today will allow the Department to immediately start using these additional resources to strengthen Colorado’s public health response to MPX.

For more resources related to MPX, including information on testing, vaccines, and public health guidelines, visit the CDPHE’s website.

Forecast Shows Colorado’s Economic Outlook Remains Strong Despite Global Challenges

JBC Dems prioritize saving people money, making Colorado more affordable

DENVER, CO - Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after the Legislative Council staff and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered the September economic forecasts.

“Despite global economic challenges, Colorado’s economy has continued to show resilience and strength, with the number of jobs in Colorado now exceeding pre-pandemic levels by more than 55,000 and our unemployment rate remaining below the national average,” said JBC Vice Chair Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “I am proud of the work we’ve done to invest millions of dollars in affordable housing, develop Colorado’s workforce, help save people money and ease the pain of inflation - including through significant property tax relief for homeowners and small businesses - and I’ll continue fighting to ensure that Colorado’s economy remains strong so that every family is able to thrive.”

“Colorado’s economy continues to grow and outpace the nation with high numbers of job openings, despite the pressures from global inflation and rising federal reserve interest rates that have increased costs for families,” said JBC Chair Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “To help with high costs, we sent Coloradans checks of $750 for individuals and $1,500 for joint filers and saved people money by reducing property taxes, lowering fees on car registrations, and creating free universal preschool that will help parents get back to work. The general fund forecast remains very solid with high levels of reserves that will protect the state from downside risks to the forecast – exciting news that could allow us to once again maintain strong funding for K-12 education and put more resources into classrooms to prepare our students for success.”

"Our state’s economic outlook remains resilient, with above average wage growth and a high labor force participation rate helping to offset persistent inflation,” said JBC member Sen. Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “We created a budget that delivers for Colorado families by investing in our schools and developing our workforce, lowering the cost of housing and health care, and saving taxpayers money, and the results are paying off as Colorado continues to outperform its peers despite global economic headwinds. I am proud of the work we’ve done to support our state during the volatile period, and I look forward to continuing our work to set Colorado on a path to further economic success.”

“While we face headwinds nationally, it’s clear that our actions at the General Assembly have strengthened our economy in Colorado, and employers are looking to hire,” said JBC member Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “We’ve exceeded the pre-pandemic number of jobs in Colorado, and the majority of sectors have recovered. We will continue our work to make Colorado more affordable, build an economy that works for everyone and protect our Colorado way of life. I’m proud of our efforts this year to lower taxes on small businesses and restaurants, save people money, prepare our students for success, expand access to substance use treatment and behavioral health care, and increase resources for proven strategies like co-responder models that make our communities safer and prevent crime before it happens.” 

Colorado continues to have a tight labor market, with significantly more job openings than before the pandemic. The state has now exceeded pre-pandemic job numbers by more than 55,000, and the majority of sectors have recovered the jobs lost during the pandemic. While inflation remains high, it is projected to decline next year with energy and transportation costs already easing in the state. 

The Legislative Council staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.95 billion in FY 2022-2023 and $18.06 billion in FY 2023-2024 – a $521 million increase for FY 2022-2023 and a $655 increase for FY 2023-2024 as compared with the earlier June revenue forecast. The forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $18.25 billion for FY 2024-2025. 

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $16.4 billion for FY 2022-2023, which OSPB revised downward by $130.8 million relative to its June estimate. For FY 2023-2024, OSPB projects General Fund revenue will be close to $16.7 billion, which OSPB revised downward by $551.1 million relative to its June estimate. For FY 2023-2024, OSPB estimates that General Fund revenue will be $17.7 billion.

The forecast anticipates continued growth despite escalating risks of a near-term recession. Evolving monetary policy, the war in Ukraine and a housing market correction are upside risks to the forecasts. Downside risks include inflation and more aggressive monetary policy, steep housing market correction and geopolitical uncertainty. A sustained drop in energy prices, resolution to the war and a stabilized supply chain are upside risks.  

Hansen, Cutter Honored as Inaugural “Champions of a Free Press”

DENVER, CO – The Colorado Press Association (CPA) recently honored Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Rep. Lisa Cutter, D-Littleton, with its inaugural “Champion of a Free Press” award for their work to ensure local news remains a vital part of Colorado’s information and economic ecosystem and that the public has access to the information it needs for civic and daily life.

Hansen was honored for collaborating with the CPA on legislation that would have updated components of the Colorado Open Records Act.

“Colorado’s open record laws are key to keeping the public informed - but they could be even better and need to be modernized,” Hansen said. “I am proud to have partnered with the Colorado Press Association on the important work of making public information more accessible, and I look forward to continuing our fight to make it even easier for Coloradans to stay informed about what all of the branches of government are up to on their behalf.”

Cutter was recognized for her work on HB22-1121, which aimed to increase support for local media by requiring all state departments to spend at least 50 percent of the money they spend on advertising to Colorado residents in a fiscal year on advertising through local newspapers.

“Local news is a critical part of a high functioning society,” said Cutter. “I’m proud to be recognized for my work to support local media, which helps keep Coloradans informed, holds elected officials accountable and strengthens our democracy. I will continue to explore ways to support local news in Colorado.”

About CPA

Founded in 1878, the Colorado Press Association is the champion for Colorado print and online media. CPA is the non-profit trade association representing journalists, investigative reporters and truth seekers throughout the state.

McCluskie Leads Joint Letter from Lawmakers Urging Biden to Protect Public Lands in Colorado

DENVER, CO – Thirty-four Colorado lawmakers led by Representative Julie McCluskie today urged President Biden to protect the public lands within the Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy Act (CORE Act).

The CORE Act is federal legislation sponsored by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper and Congressman Joe Neguse that would protect over 400,000 acres of public land in Colorado, establish new wilderness areas and safeguard existing outdoor recreation opportunities to boost the economy for future generations.

"From recreation to conservation, Colorado's public lands are stunning and play a critical role in our state's economy," said Representative Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “These 400,000 acres of cascading mountains, abundant ecosystems and crystal clear rivers are extraordinary. Preserving them is vital for our communities, our environment and our economy. By designating these lands as wilderness areas and a national monument, we will memorialize the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers who trained at Camp Hale, provide much needed certainty for the communities that depend on conserving these lands, and protect our Colorado way of life.”

“From Camp Hale where my grandfather trained with the 10th, to the Thompson Divide, Colorado’s public lands are what make our state great, and are a critical driver of our outdoor recreation economy,” said Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail. “Ensuring our most treasured natural spaces remain open to the public will protect Colorado’s outdoor heritage for generations to come. My grandfather fell in love with Colorado at Camp Hale and I hope that experience will happen again and again under this new protection.”

In their letter, the lawmakers urged President Biden to use the authority granted to him and his cabinet members to protect the public lands proposed for permanent protection in the CORE Act.

“The bill has enjoyed longstanding and widespread support by a wide array of our constituents and it is past time for these remarkable public lands to be protected,” the lawmakers wrote. “While our advocacy on behalf of the legislation and our constituents will continue, the protection of these landscapes requires your immediate action. By conserving these lands, you will preserve a rich part of this country’s history through historic landmarks and objects of historic and scientific interest and we know it will provide a path for your administration to protect additional public lands in Colorado in the future.”

The full text of the letter is below and can be found here.

Mr. President:

The undersigned Colorado state senators and representatives urge you to use the authority granted to you and your cabinet members to protect the public lands proposed for permanent protection in the Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy Act (CORE Act). As you are aware, this request was recently made by CORE Act sponsors Senator Michael Bennet, Senator John Hickenlooper, and Representative Joe Neguse, and Colorado Governor Jared Polis. The bill has enjoyed longstanding and widespread support by a wide array of our constituents and it is past time for these remarkable public lands to be protected.

In Colorado, we have a long history and commitment to public lands conservation. In January 2021, and for the first time in several years, we saw the Colorado public lands ethos shine through the priorities of the presidency when you committed the country to a first of its kind national conservation strategy. In a time when the impacts to public lands from climate change are rising and racial and economic inequities are expanding, the Conserving and Restoring America the Beautiful conservation plan has never been needed more. By protecting the landscapes within the CORE Act through administrative action, you can secure progress towards the goals set forth in the American the Beautiful plan by taking action to protect Colorado’s public lands.

Camp Hale and the surrounding Tenmile Range are incredibly deserving of permanent protection as a national monument under the Antiquities Act. The 10th Mountain Division trained across the landscape in preparation of high altitude warfare in the European Alps during World War II. The adjacent Tenmile Range was particularly integral to their training. Following the war, the soldiers who were lucky enough to have made their way home founded the US ski industry and the outdoor recreation economy that is now so vital to our state. There are few opportunities to experience and appreciate the history of World War II in our country and the sacrifices made by so many of its citizens. However, Camp Hale and the Tenmile Range are living artifacts to that sacrifice and they also happen to be some of our nations’ most beautiful public lands.

Further west lies the Thompson Divide; another mountainous landscape that local ranchers and outdoor recreationists have spent years advocating to be protected from oil and gas development. Because the legislation has stalled in Congress, its left local advocates living under the veil of uncertainty. We urge your administration to protect the Thompson Divide landscape through a Federal Lands Policy and Management Act mineral withdrawal. Finally, we request your administration provide protections for the exemplary public lands in southwestern Colorado’s San Juan Mountains by working through the ongoing Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest Plan Revision.

These landscapes are simply too important for conservation and historic and cultural preservation to become the subject of ephemeral political whims. The CORE Act, which includes the areas mentioned previously and more, already passed the House of Representative five times, only to meet repeated partisan obstacles in the United States Senate over the last several Congresses. While our advocacy on behalf of the legislation and our constituents will continue, the protection of these landscapes requires your immediate action. By conserving these lands, you will preserve a rich part of this country’s history through historic landmarks and objects of historic and scientific interest and we know it will provide a path for your administration to protect additional public lands in Colorado in the future.

Thank you,

Representative Julie McCluskie
President Pro Tempore Kerry Donovan
Representative Dylan Roberts        
Representative Barbara McLachlan

Speaker Alec Garnett
President Steve Fenberg
House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar
Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno
Speaker Pro Tempore Adrienne Benavidez
Senator Julie Gonzales
Representative Meg Froelich
Representative Lisa Cutter
Representative Monica Duran
Representative Brianna Titone
Representative Judy Amabile
Representative Tracey Bernett        
Representative Matt Gray
Representative Shannon Bird
Representative Steve Woodrow
Representative David Ortiz
Representative Karen McCormick
Representative Mary Young
Representative Chris Kennedy
Representative Andrew Boesenecker
Senator Rachel Zenzinger
Representative Emily Sirota
Representative Mike Weissman
Representative Dafna Michaelson Jenet
Representative Cathy Kipp        
Representative Iman Jodeh
Senator Chris Hansen
Senator Chris Kolker
Representative Edie Hooton                
Senator Faith Winter

Colorado Community College System to Award Legislator of the Year to McCluskie, Snyder, Buckner and Kolker

The lawmakers will be recognized for their outstanding support of the community college system during the 2022 legislative session

DENVER, CO – Representatives Julie McCluskie and Marc Snyder, and Senators Janet Buckner and Chris Kolker will be awarded the Colorado Community College System’s (CCCS) Legislator of the Year Award at the upcoming CCCS state board meeting.

CCCS announced the honorees in a press release, describing the annual award as recognizing “legislators who make extraordinary efforts to understand issues facing community colleges and champion their open-access mission.”

"Every Coloradan should have a pathway toward educational opportunities that set them up for success and this session, we worked diligently to boost higher education funding, develop regional talent pipelines and carve out new postsecondary credential programs," said Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillion. "Higher education is transformational for so many learners, and I'm proud to continue my work as a strong supporter of Colorado's community colleges."

Rep. McCluskie, who chairs the Joint Budget Committee, earned the Legislative Champion Award for “her work to support higher education funding; launch a regional workforce development innovation grant; and expand access to state financial aid.”

“Education is the single best way to help Coloradans get the training they need to land a job and provide for their families, which is why it’s critical we do everything we can to support our community colleges,” said Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora. “I am honored to receive this recognition for my bill to help more students enter the nursing profession while giving Colorado hospitals a larger and better-trained pool of employees to hire from, and will continue supporting Colorado’s community colleges to help even more students thrive.”

Sen. Buckner earned the award for championing SB22-003, “which allows CCCS colleges to offer a streamlined, cost-effective pathway for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). These programs will help the state meet demand for bachelor’s-prepared nurses.”

“Community colleges are a critical resource in our state for both students seeking higher education and employers in need of well-trained workers,” said Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial. “I am proud to receive this honor for our work to support Colorado’s community colleges, and will continue working to expand opportunities for students, strengthen our workforce, and ensure every Coloradan is able to access the education they need to succeed.”
 
Sen. Kolker earned the award for supporting “important technology projects at CCCS colleges, including funding for CCCS’s innovative Rural College Consortium – an interconnected platform that will virtually connect student support services and courses across CCCS’ rural colleges.”

“For more than fifty years, Pikes Peak State College has made higher education accessible and created strong pathways to help Coloradans succeed after graduation," said Rep. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs. "I am proud of our legislation to rename Pikes Peak State College, because it gave the college some well-earned recognition for their long-lasting impact in Colorado Springs and beyond."

Rep. Marc Snyder earned the award for sponsoring “legislation allowing Pikes Peak Community College to change its name to Pikes Peak State College, a community-led effort to recognize the college’s growing impact in the Colorado Springs region.”

Winter Recognized as Climate Champion, Conservation Hero for Environmental Advocacy at State Capitol

GOLDEN, CO — Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster, was recently awarded the 2022 CRES Courage Award by the Colorado Renewable Energy Society (CRES) for her efforts to combat climate change and named a “Conservation Hero” by Keep It Colorado for her steadfast advocacy of conservation issues in Colorado.

“We are in the midst of a growing climate emergency, and the time to act is now,” said Winter. “The past several legislative sessions I have worked hard to ensure we meet our climate goals, and I’m pleased to be recognized for those efforts. With these new policies, we are taking important steps toward building a healthier and more sustainable future for us all."

Winter was awarded for her efforts championing SB22-180, which created the Ozone Season Transit Grant Program, which provides free transit rides during ozone season to encourage transit ridership, ultimately reduce air pollution, and furthering Colorado’s climate goals. Winter was also recognized for her work on HB21-1266, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance environmental justice in disadvantaged communities, and set Colorado on a pathway toward meeting its climate targets.

She was also named a Conservation Hero by Keep It Colorado for her consistent outspoken advocacy of conservation initiatives at the State Capitol, being a leader and collaborative partner on environmental issues, and for her commitment to protecting Colorado for the future.

ABOUT SEN. WINTER:

In 2018, Faith Winter was elected to the Senate to represent Colorado’s 24th District, which includes parts of Westminster, Thornton, and Northglenn. Senator Winter currently is Chair of the Transportation and Energy Committee as well as a member of the Finance Committee. Senator Winter previously served in the Colorado House of Representatives and on the Westminster City Council where she supported bills that would improve the lives of students, mothers, and families.

ABOUT CRES:

The Colorado Renewable Energy Society (CRES) drives environmental, social, and economic benefits for Colorado by promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency. CRES and its local chapters provide education, policy advocacy, and community engagement that accelerate the adoption of all forms of renewable energy, energy efficiency, high-performance building, energy storage, and emerging technologies that will help Colorado achieve 100% renewable energy. CRES is a statewide, non-partisan, non-profit, 501(c)3 membership organization.

This year, the CRES Courage Award was conferred to three state legislative leaders who have enacted key structural reforms that combat the adverse effects of climate change on Colorado's economy, air quality and public health, ecosystems, natural resources, and quality of life. These leaders worked to build public trust in their actions and embody the highest principles of leadership - integrity, compassion, vision, and courage.

ABOUT KEEP IT COLORADO:

Keep It Colorado continues the legacy of conservation through our statewide coalition of conservation organizations. The organization advances more on-the-ground conservation and increases the pace of conservation by bringing together land trusts, open space agencies, conservation champions and other partners to collaborate, strategize, problem-solve and advocate for good policy. 

Danielson Named Senate Labor Champion by Colorado AFL-CIO

DENVER, CO — Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, was recently named a Senate Labor Champion by the Colorado AFL-CIO for her long standing advocacy of worker’s rights issues at the State Capitol.

“Since I began my legislative career, I have consistently stood up for our workers, passing important policies to strengthen workers’ rights, demand equal pay, combat wage theft and more,” said Danielson. “I’m proud and honored to be recognized by the Colorado AFL-CIO, who I have partnered with on a number of initiatives over the years to support our workforce. Moving forward, I will continue my commitment to empowering Colorado’s workers and working hard at the Capitol to ensure they always have a seat at the table.”

“The Colorado AFL-CIO is an expression of the hopes and aspirations of Colorado’s working families and we are made up of over 130,000 hard-working union members across 185 affiliate unions,” said Dennis Dougherty, the Executive Director of the Colorado AFL-CIO. “We proudly recognized Senator Jesse Danielson as a labor champion in the state Senate. Senator Danielson is a fierce fighter for workers and has delivered on legislation that has positively affected the lives of millions of Coloradans, including equal pay, the Agricultural Workers’ Bill of Rights, and the formation of a State Apprenticeship Council.”

Throughout her legislative career, Danielson has consistently championed legislation to support and empower Colorado’s workforce. This session, she sponsored SB22-161, which modernizes Colorado’s wage enforcement procedures and ensures workers are able to recover their legally earned pay. The new law empowers the Attorney General and the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment to collaborate and combat cases of wage theft to make sure workers receive the wages they are rightfully owed, and that violators are held accountable.

In 2021, Danielson championed the groundbreaking Agricultural Workers’ Bill of Rights, which modernizes the ag industry, promotes equity, and establishes fair treatment standards by extending basic labor rights to agricultural workers. SB21-087 guarantees break times, meal times, safe and comfortable working conditions, safe housing, overtime pay, clean water, and health protections for Colorado’s agricultural workers.

Danielson also led the effort in the Senate to pass the historic Equal Pay for Equal Work Act in 2019 to reduce the wage gap, level the playing field for women in the workplace, enhance equity, and bolster the state’s workforce. SB19-085 strengthens the state's pay equity requirements, prohibits employers from seeking salary history from job applicants, and requires employers to post all employment advancement opportunities ll and list salary ranges on all postings.

Visit Senator Danielson’s legislative profile on the Colorado General Assembly website to learn more about the legislation she has sponsored to support Colorado workers.

JOINT RELEASE: Winter, Cutter & Bernett Honored for Work to Combat Climate Change at State Capitol

Legislative leaders were recognized for their efforts to improve air quality, preserve natural resources, and protect public health

GOLDEN, CO – Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster, as well as Representatives Lisa Cutter, D-Littleton, and Tracey Bernett, D-Louisville, were recently awarded the 2022 CRES Courage Award by the Colorado Renewable Energy Society (CRES) for their efforts to combat climate change.

“We are in the midst of a growing climate emergency, and the time to act is now,” said Winter. “The past several legislative sessions, I have worked hard to ensure we meet our climate goals, and I’m pleased to be recognized for those efforts. With these new policies, we are taking important steps toward building a healthier and more sustainable future for us all.”

Winter was awarded for her efforts championing SB22-180, which created the Ozone Season Transit Grant Program to provide free transit rides during ozone season to encourage transit ridership, ultimately reduce air pollution, and further Colorado’s climate goals. Winter was also recognized for her work on HB21-1266, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance environmental justice in disadvantaged communities, and set Colorado on a pathway toward meeting its climate targets.

“Due to a lack of access to convenient, affordable curbside recycling services, Colorado only recycles about 15 percent of its waste,” said Cutter. “We all need to do our part to protect our environment, which is why I worked hard this legislative session to make it easier for Coloradans to recycle. Through these new laws, we can help conserve energy, reduce air and water pollution, reduce greenhouse gasses, and preserve our natural resources.”

Cutter was honored for her work on HB22-1355, which makes recycling free for most consumers, improving access to reliable, no-cost curbside recycling for Coloradans across the state. She was also recognized for HB22-1159, which aims to improve access to end markets – businesses that use recycled material to make new products.

“I’ve spent my time at the Capitol advocating for energy efficiency, transitioning to a sustainable future and creating a healthier Colorado for all,” said Bernett. “Under these new laws, Colorado will build right the first time, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve indoor air quality and create more efficient homes and buildings for the future, all while saving Coloradans money in the process. We’ve taken action to address pollution on the Front Range and improve the resiliency and reliability of Colorado’s electric grid, especially in rural areas vulnerable to grid disruption due to natural disasters.” 

Bernett was recognized for her work on HB22-1362, which updates Colorado’s building codes to improve energy efficiency, save Coloradans money, and reduce harmful indoor and outdoor air pollution. Additionally, she was awarded for her efforts on HB22-1249, which will jumpstart the development of a grid resilience and reliability roadmap to improve grid resilience and reliability, as well as better serve the electricity needs of customers.

This year, Colorado Democrats passed a slate of legislation to address the climate crisis, improve our air quality, and protect our environment. Learn more about these new laws related to climate HERE and environment HERE.

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ABOUT CRES:

The Colorado Renewable Energy Society (CRES) drives environmental, social, and economic benefits for Colorado by promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency.

CRES and its local chapters provide education, policy advocacy, and community engagement that accelerate the adoption of all forms of renewable energy, energy efficiency, high-performance building, energy storage, and emerging technologies that will help Colorado achieve 100% renewable energy. CRES is a statewide, non-partisan, non-profit, 501(c)3 membership organization.

This year, the CRES Courage Award was conferred to three state legislative leaders who have enacted key structural reforms that combat the adverse effects of climate change on Colorado's economy, air quality and public health, ecosystems, natural resources, and quality of life. These leaders worked to build public trust in their actions and embody the highest principles of leadership - integrity, compassion, vision, and courage.

JOINT RELEASE: Story, Cutter & Titone Join Local Leaders, Community Members for Town Hall on Election Integrity

Lawmakers tout Colorado Election Security Act championed by Colorado Democrats 

EVERGREEN, CO – State lawmakers, including Senator Tammy Story, D-Conifer, Representative Lisa Cutter, D-Littleton, and Representative Brianna Titone, D-Arvada, recently held a town hall and community discussion on election integrity at the Evergreen Fire Rescue. The event was also attended by Commissioners Lesley Dahlkemper and Andy Kerr as well as Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder George Stern.

Colorado is known for its free and fair gold standard election system, yet Republican-driven election conspiracies in recent years continue to threaten and undermine our democracy. The town hall discussion served as an opportunity for community members to raise their concerns about the impact of these misconceptions as well as learn about the work the state legislature is doing to ensure our elections remain free and fair while continuing to strengthen our democracy.

“As state legislators, we must do everything in our power to strengthen our democracy and make sure our elections remain free and fair,” said Story. “Colorado leads the nation in election security, and with the Colorado Election Security Act signed into law this year, we made sure our gold standard election system is even stronger. Every Coloradan should feel comfortable knowing their vote counts and their vote matters. The actions we took this session and the actions we will take going forward will ensure that.”

“Our democratic process has been dangerously damaged by lies, and it is more important than ever to stand firm for the truth,” said Cutter. “The truth is that elections in Colorado are amongst the most secure in the nation, and we acted this year to further strengthen our system. Public trust is imperative for a high functioning democracy, so we will continue to pursue commonsense policy solutions so all Coloradans have access to voting and can exercise that right without fear.”

"When we passed the Colorado Election Security Act, we took critical steps to defend our elections from those using their positions to undermine and dismantle our free and fair election system," said Titone. "Colorado's voter access and election security are top-tier, and we're pleased to say people who tamper with election equipment or break the laws surrounding elections will be held accountable for their undemocratic actions."

This year, Colorado Democrats passed the Colorado Election Security Act, which improves election security by, among other measures, prohibiting anyone from serving as an election official if they have been convicted of any election offense or any offense or conspiracy to commit sedition, insurrection, treason, or conspiracy to overthrow the government.

The Colorado Election Security Act further secures Colorado’s gold standard elections by improving training for clerks and election workers, and penalizes anyone who interferes with or obstructs the notification of a potential violation, or retaliates against someone providing notice.

The law also prohibits accessing electronic equipment or a reporting system without authorization, makes knowingly publishing passwords or other confidential information a class 5 felony, and directs the Colorado District and Supreme Courts to expedite scheduling and issuance of final rulings of any orders in connection with a violation of election code.

As Colorado State Fair Kicks Off, Hinrichsen Celebrates Historic Bipartisan Investment to Support Longstanding Pueblo Institution

Senator championed legislation that provides $4 million to update facilities, move forward on master plan 

PUEBLO, CO – As the Colorado State Fair gets under way, Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, is celebrating his bipartisan bill that invests $4 million to improve and support the Colorado State Fair and keep it in Pueblo.

Cosponsored by Senator Don Coram, R-Montrose, and House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo, and signed into law by Governor Polis, SB22-134 provides $4 million to help implement the Colorado State Fair Master Plan, which aims to update and modernize the Colorado State Fair by improving facilities, addressing a backlog of capital construction projects, expanding marketing capacity, and making the State Fair more resilient and sustainable.

“The Colorado State Fair is a Pueblo institution, a chance to show off all the great things our city has to offer, and a critical economic driver for our community,” Hinrichsen said. “I was proud to pass this bill and secure this critical funding to update the fair’s master plan, improve fairground facilities, and help ensure families can continue enjoying the Colorado State Fair here in Pueblo for generations to come.”

According to the Master Plan, the Fair generates over $29 million annually in economic impact to the surrounding area and provides, through its 101 acres of public lands, an affordable and accessible amenity for a diverse population. A historic asset of the state, the Fairgrounds are currently facing issues common to many state fairs, including aging facilities and a backlog of building deficiencies, limited funding, competing venues and operational losses.

Gov. Polis, Lieutenant Gov. Primavera, Higher-Ed Director Paccione, Community College Leaders, State Lawmakers Announce Launch of Program to Help Save Health Care Students Money

Free community college for aspiring health care professionals builds upon Polis Administration’s work to save Coloradans money while building the workforce for the future 

ENGLEWOOD — Today, Governor Polis, joined by Lieutenant Gov. Primavera, Dr. Angie Paccione, Department of Higher Education executive director, Joe Garcia, Colorado Community College System chancellor, Stephanie J. Fujii, Arapahoe Community College president, state legislators, and community leaders launched the Care Forward Colorado program, which makes community college free for aspiring health care professionals, saving Coloradans time and money while giving Colorado’s health care system the support it needs to continue providing quality care. Earlier this year, Governor Polis signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by state Senators Sonya Jaquez Lewis and Bob Rankin and State Rep. Kyle Mullica as part of Colorado’s Roadmap to Moving Forward to infuse funding into the development of the health care workforce, providing real support to Coloradans entering the health care industry in good-paying jobs.

“We are saving Coloradans money and making sure students can get the skills and training they need to build up our health care workforce for the future,” said Gov. Polis. “Colorado has one of the most highly educated and talented workforces in the country, and we are taking action to develop more talent right here at home.”

“The past few years have been difficult for all of us, but especially our health care heroes, and it’s up to us to support them any way we can,” said Sen. Jaquez Lewis. “The Care Forward Colorado program will ensure health care professionals can go to community college for free, making it easier for Coloradans to enter the medical field while supporting our health care workforce so we can provide the highest quality care for patients. Through this program, we’re saving people money while building a healthier Colorado for all.” 

“When I recovered from my injuries and returned to civilian life, Arapahoe Community College gave me my first shot at getting back into building a new career by serving student veterans,” said Rep. David Ortiz, D-Littleton. “Now, with the new Care Forward Colorado Program, aspiring health care providers will have an opportunity to launch the career of their dreams. Free community college saves people money, and this program will strengthen our health care provider workforce to ensure everyone has access to the care they need, when they need it.”

“It’s exciting to see this new law I sponsored being put into action,” said Rep. Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, an ER nurse. “The Care Forward Colorado Program at Arapahoe Community College will save Coloradans money as they pursue their careers in health care. I saw firsthand the burnout, stress, and anguish felt by so many of our first responders during the pandemic. SB22-226, and the free community college programs it’s creating, will boost our health care workforce and create new, free options for students to complete the degrees they need to build their careers.” 

Programs and training opportunities will be available at 19 community and technical colleges across Colorado, including the Colorado Community College System, Aims Community College, Colorado Mesa University, Colorado Mountain College, and Colorado's Area Technical Colleges. Starting in Fall 2022, students who enroll in one of the following health care certificate programs will be reimbursed for tuition, fees, and materials through 2024:

• Certified nursing assistant

• Emergency medical technician

• Phlebotomy technician

• Pharmacy technician

• Medical assistant

• Dental assistant

“Care Forward Colorado propels Colorado toward a health care system where students can get a free health care certificate from their local community college and then decide whether to enter the workforce or continue their education locally,” said Dr. Angie Paccione. “This zero-cost opportunity puts students on a pathway to a career in health care, not simply a job.”

“We have long been the partner of choice for Colorado’s health care industry and are proud to continue this legacy through Care Forward Colorado,” said Joe Garcia, chancellor of the Colorado Community College System (CCCS). “We are grateful to Gov. Polis and legislators for entrusting us with this generous investment and stand ready to train the next generation of health care professionals.”

Helping Coloradans get the skills they need to lead careers they love has been one of the Polis Administration’s top priorities, with a focus on skills development in key industries like education, child care, and health care. Care Forward Colorado is one of more than 100 ways the Polis Administration continues to save Coloradans money and connect Coloradans to good-paying jobs. 

Community leaders voiced their support for the legislation signed by Gov. Polis to create the Care Forward Colorado program.

"Senate Bill 226 aligns with CDLE’s work to support a strong health care talent pipeline through investments in health care apprenticeships and other work-based learning models. We are committed to working with the Community College system and technical colleges to advance apprenticeships and work-based learning across health care professions," said Joe Barela, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.  

“SB 226 creates a pathway for current clinical health care providers to advance their knowledge and skills, as well as the opportunity for new Coloradoans to join our essential health care workforce,” said Dr. Robin Wittenstein, CEO of Denver Health. “This investment in people is critical not only for hospitals like Denver Health but for our employees and future employees as they work to advance their economic mobility. We were proud to support this legislation.”

“Even before the pandemic, Colorado faced shortages in critical entry-level health care positions, and our colleges are committed to filling these gaps through affordable, accessible training,” said Dr. Landon Pirius, Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at the Colorado Community College System. “We are grateful to Governor Polis and Senators Jaquez Lewis and Rankin and Representative Mullica for prioritizing legislation that makes historic investments in students and in our programs so we can bolster our work to transform lives and train the next generation of health care leaders.”

Senate President Fenberg Statement on Senator Kevin Priola Joining Democratic Caucus

BOULDER, CO – Colorado Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, released a statement today following news that Senator Kevin Priola, D-Henderson, is joining the Senate Democratic Caucus:

"Today, Senator Kevin Priola chose his constituents and Colorado’s future over partisan politics. Senator Priola has made it clear that the people of Colorado deserve leaders who will boldly take action against the most serious threats facing our country today. Instead of bowing to the pressure of corporate, special interests and right-wing conspiracies, we must continue to take aggressive action to protect the democracy of our nation and combat the climate crisis facing our planet. 

Over the past four years, Senate Democrats have taken bold, meaningful action to curb emissions, prepare for climate related disasters, - including wildfires - and invest in renewable energy. And despite consistent fierce opposition from his Republican colleagues, Senator Priola has been a tremendously valuable partner of ours almost every step of the way. 

Additionally, Senator Priola has been outspoken about the danger of the Republican Party’s embrace of conspiracy theories about the 2020 Election. This past session, Senator Priola teamed up with me to run SB22-153, which strengthened the security and integrity of our election system. At the same time, the Colorado Republican Party was largely silent about the election crimes Tina Peters had been accused of and not a single one of his Republican colleagues, in either Chamber, supported SB22-153.

It is unfortunate that the Colorado Republicans have become so extreme that moderate voices aren’t welcome. Though we don’t see eye to eye on every issue, the Senate Democrats are excited to embrace Senator Priola’s leadership and diversity of thought into our caucus. Countless members of our caucus, including myself, have worked alongside Senator Priola to champion legislation to make health care more affordable, improve our air quality, investing in teachers and workers, and making Colorado a safer, more affordable place to live.

Make no mistake: just as Senator Priola’s views haven’t changed, our caucus’s principles haven’t either. Senate Democrats, with the leadership of Senator Gonzales’s Reproductive Health Equity Act, secured and protected a woman’s right to reproductive health care this year. We will continue to fight to ensure that a woman’s right to choose is uninhibited in Colorado. Senate Democrats also led one of the most important expansions of workers' rights in Colorado’s history this year through legislation granting  county workers the right to unionize. We appreciate the tremendous contributions and sacrifices that working people have made over the past several years, and will continue to stand up for their rights. Where we’ve had disagreements with Senator Priola in the past, we have always maintained a respectful dialogue. That conversation will continue, only now we will be engaging him as a member of the Democratic Party. 

The Democratic Party has always been a broad tent. Especially in Colorado, we have consistently centered dialogue, and a commitment to finding solutions, in the policy making process–not political ideology. On behalf of the Senate Democratic Caucus, I welcome Senator Priola’s presence in our caucus and value his partnership in continuing to do good work for the people of Colorado."

JOINT RELEASE: Laws to Address Health Care Workforce Shortage, Expand Rural Access to Essential Health Care Services Go into Effect

DENVER, CO – Two new laws to create better pathways for students to enter the medical field and improve access to life-saving prescription drugs for rural Coloradans went into effect today. 

SB22-003, sponsored by Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, and Senate President Pro Tempore Kerry Donovan, D-Vail, as well as Representatives Kyle Mullica, D-Federal Heights, and Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, will allow community colleges to offer bachelor of science in nursing degrees (BSN) to a greater range of students to address the state’s health care provider shortage and connect students with in-demand jobs.

“We are facing a critical shortage of qualified, well-trained health care professionals, and the pandemic has only made things worse,” said Buckner. “This law will help more students pursue their dream and land a good-paying job in nursing while giving Colorado hospitals a larger and better-trained pool of employees to hire from. By expanding these opportunities for students, we will strengthen our workforce and improve health care outcomes for all Coloradans.”

“This law will boost Colorado’s health care workforce and build a healthier Colorado in the process,” said Mullica. “Getting more nurses from the classroom to the hospital will help ease some of the stress our health care workers have been facing. I’m proud of the work we’ve done to streamline the process for Coloradans to earn their BSN so we can get more talented, qualified nurses in the field.”

“Both rural and urban areas have felt the effects of our state’s shortage of nurses in hospitals,” said Donovan. “This law will be a step towards providing hospitals with the staffing they need while saving people money on their education.”

“Boosting our health care workforce is a top priority and this law paves the way,” said Exum. “Community colleges have always been leaders in preparing Colorado’s students for success, and now they’ll be able to prepare the next generation of nurses with a BSN program. This is a great step towards addressing Colorado’s health care workforce shortage head on by saving Coloradans money on earning their nursing degree and getting more qualified nurses in hospitals.”

SB22-173, championed by Senator Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, also went into effect today. The new law removes the restriction requiring telepharmacy outlets to be located more than twenty miles from the nearest prescription drug outlet or other telepharmacy outlet. It also requires the Colorado State Board of Pharmacy to take into consideration areas of need when determining locations for new remote pharmacy sites.

“During the pandemic, we saw a need for greater flexibility in accessing health care services in every corner of the state, and telepharmacy emerged as a way to bring high quality services directly to underserved areas," said Rodriguez. “By increasing the availability of telepharmacy outlets, we can ensure Coloradans, particularly in rural and remote areas, have access to the essential health care services they need to thrive.”

Learn more about the work Colorado Democrats did this year to improve health care access for Coloradans.

JOINT RELEASE: Wildfire Preparedness Law Championed by Story, Roberts Goes into Effect

New law will help communities better prepare for dangerous wildfires

DENVER, CO – A new law, championed by Senator Tammy Story, D-Conifer, and Representative Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, to ensure Colorado communities have the resources necessary to prepare for future wildfires, went into effect today.

Many remote communities in Colorado face wildfire risk, but lack the necessary resources to fight fires. As a result, some fire districts rely on local, remote ponds in emergencies to quickly refill water tanks and suppress small fires, but first responders are not always able to use remote ponds for firefighting.

SB22-114 preserves critical fire suppression ponds and ensures that communities at risk of dangerous wildfires are equipped with the resources necessary to suppress fires and keep residents safe.

“The threat of wildfires continues to grow, and it’s important that we’re as prepared as possible to handle them,” said Story. “We worked hard this year to help prevent wildfires while making sure our neighbors have the tools and resources they need to rebuild and recover. This new law is just one of many policies we passed that will help us prepare for future emergencies and keep our communities safe.” 

“These days in Colorado, wildfire season lasts year round, which means we have to be prepared to respond at any moment and give our brave first responders every possible tool they need to do their jobs,” said Roberts. “That is why I worked with Republicans and Democrats to pass this new law that will ensure firefighters have access to water to fight fires effectively and supported many efforts this year to add critical funding resources for wildfire prevention, mitigation, and response.” 

During the 2022 legislative session, Colorado Democrats passed several measures to support rebuilding efforts after disaster emergencies, improve insurance claims processes following wildfire disasters, and fund efforts to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires.

SB22-206 establishes two programs to help communities recover and rebuild following disasters. It allocates $15 million to provide loans and grants to homeowners, businesses, and local governments rebuilding after a disaster emergency, as well as $20 million to cover costs related to rebuilding more resilient and energy efficient homes and structures and $15.5 million for improved wildfire firefighting resources.

Colorado Democrats also passed HB22-1379, which invests $20 million in federal pandemic relief funds to prevent wildfires and conserve Colorado’s watersheds through mitigation, watershed restoration and flood mitigation grants. 

Learn more about the work Colorado Democrats did this year to support wildfire preparedness.

Protecting Consumers and Saving People Money: Bipartisan Hospital Transparency Law to Take Effect Across Colorado on August 10th

DENVER - Beginning on August 10th, bipartisan legislation HB22-1285 signed into law by Governor Polis and sponsored by House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar and Representative Patrick Neville and Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno and Senator John Cooke will take effect across the state. This transformative initiative protects consumers and ensures hospitals in Colorado are complying with the federal hospital transparency law, improving surprise medical billing protections, and saving people money. 

“People deserve to know what all their medical bills will look like and finally we will have better price transparency which is needed for the market to work better in health care and empower patients to take control of their own healthcare needs,” said Gov. Polis. “This is a great step in improving the healthcare system to ensure affordable, high-quality care for all Coloradans And saving people money.”

HB22-1285 ensures Colorado hospitals are in compliance with federal transparency laws and prohibits hospitals that were not in compliance at the time of treatment from collecting debts from patients. 

"Our law puts patients over profits and puts us one step closer to a health care system that is open and honest about medical costs," said Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. "Under our law, Coloradans will save money on health care because they'll know the costs upfront and hospitals will be required to follow the rules when it comes to their billing—which means more protections for patients. I'm proud to stand behind this important hospital price transparency law because it's a powerful tool for patients and keeps our health care system in check." 

The bipartisan law allows patients who believe a hospital was not in compliance with federal laws to file a lawsuit to have their debt forgiven and other fees covered. The law also requires hospitals to post standard prices on a public website to increase transparency and accountability. 

"With our price transparency law, patients will be more protected from surprise medical bills that can cost them hundreds if not thousands of dollars," said Rep. Patrick Neville, R-Castle Rock. "Improving price transparency protects patients, cuts costs and limits the ways hospitals not in compliance with federal law can collect medical debt. Our bipartisan law is common sense and puts patients first." 

“According to federal law, hospitals are required to be transparent about the price of services they provide their patients,” said Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City. “We passed a bipartisan bill that prevents Colorado's hospitals from sending medical debt to collections if they are out of compliance with these requirements, and I’m proud to see this law go into effect so Coloradans can make the best healthcare decisions for themselves and their families.”

Governor Polis is committed to saving people money and lowering the cost of healthcare. In the previous legislative session, Governor Polis signed HB22-1370 which requires medical insurers to use prescription drug discounts and rebates to save consumers and employers money. The reinsurance program signed into law by Governor Polis cuts insurance premiums and brings down the cost of healthcare, saving people money across the state. The Polis Administration also created the prescription drug affordability review board that may take action to lower certain prescription drug costs for consumers. Governor Polis is committed to saving people money and expanding affordable high-quality health care for all Coloradans. 

Community leaders praised the signing of this new bipartisan law earlier this year. 

“Today, Governor Polis and Colorado legislators delivered critical healthcare price transparency protections to Coloradans. Patients’ right to see and compare upfront prices in healthcare is truly transformative — it will lead to a better quality of care at a much lower cost, and will finally empower Coloradans to take control of their physical and financial health. Today is a great day for Colorado.”- Cynthia A. Fisher, Founder, and Chairman, PatientRightsAdvocate.org

“Rising healthcare costs and associated surprise fees create barriers to entrepreneurship. This is why we are happy that Governor Jared Polis has signed HB22-1284 Health Insurance Surprise Billing Protections and HB22-1285 Prohibit Collection Hospital Not Disclosing Prices into law to increase price transparency, stop surprise hospital billing, and limit debt collections. Increasing transparency in the healthcare system is important for the Colorado small business community and their employees who struggle to afford their healthcare costs. These new laws will help boost accountability and confidence in the healthcare system while also supporting a vibrant business ecosystem.” - Lindsey Vigoda, Colorado Director, Small Business Majority.