Senate Approves Bill to Develop Long-Term Property Tax Solutions

Legislation would create a bipartisan commission to identify long-term solutions to rising property taxes

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, that creates a commission to develop long-term solutions to rising property taxes in Colorado.

HB23B-1003 would create the Commission on Property Tax to outline plans for long and short-term property tax relief and to provide analysis regarding property tax ballot initiatives filings for the 2024 election. The bipartisan Commission would include legislators, county commissioners from across the state, a property tax administrator and different local government, business, and community leaders representing constituencies impacted by property tax revenue. The goal of HB23B-1003 is to map out potential long-term solutions to property taxes that have been rising since Coloradans voted to repeal the Gallagher Amendment in 2020.

“Steep property tax increases over the past several years have hit Colorado homeowners hard, especially economically vulnerable folks like seniors and those on fixed incomes,” Fenberg said. “The legislation we’re passing this special session delivers meaningful short-term relief, but this is not a short-term problem. We’re committed to working in a bipartisan way to find long-term, comprehensive solutions to address property taxes in Colorado, and this task force ensures we’ll do so hand in hand with partners across the state.”

“Democrats have worked hard to meet the moment and answer the Governor’s special session call by delivering short-term property tax relief to Coloradans,” said Mullica. “Steep property tax increases have stretched families’ budgets for several years now, and if we don’t find a long-term solution it’s only going to get worse. That’s why I’m working on legislation that will convene a bipartisan Commission made up of balanced representation to develop long-term, transformational solutions to rising property taxes that will make Colorado more affordable in the years to come.”

Under HB23B-1003, the Commission would convene by the week of December 18, 2023, and deliver an initial report to the General Assembly and Governor by March 15, 2024. 

HB23B-1003 now returns to the House for concurrence of amendments. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Support Renters and Reduce Evictions

HB23B-1001 would provide $30 million in additional funding to existing rental assistance programs

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, that would boost rental assistance and prevent evictions cleared the Senate today.

HB23B-1001 would allocate $30 million for rental assistance through the existing Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) administered by the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), increasing the statewide assistance to a total of $65 million, which includes $35 million from previously allocated federal funds. Under the bill, the program would serve individuals who are residential tenants living in Colorado, have a household income less than 80 percent of Area Median Income (AMI) and are at risk of eviction or displacement.

“The housing crisis is impacting us all, and we must utilize every opportunity to help out hardworking renters," said Gonzales. “We hear Coloradans loud and clear: we love our state, but the rising cost of living and housing is making it hard for working folks to get by — both for homeowners and renters. My bill directs $30 million in rental assistance to keep Coloradans housed and provides responsible relief to support Coloradans who need it most.”

“Renters in my district are struggling to keep up with the high cost of living and continual rent increases,” Buckner said. “Allocating additional funding for proven successful rental assistance programs means more Coloradans will stay housed. While we continue to work on long term solutions to lower housing costs and reduce evictions, this is a critical way we can get immediate relief directly to the families that need it most.”

Under ERAP, tenants who apply through DOLA are then connected to a nonprofit partner within their area that can provide direct assistance. Rental assistance dollars may be used to pay for: overdue past rent, rent presently owed, up to two months of future rent, utility bills, late fees, costs associated with preventing an eviction such as court costs and reasonable attorney fees, and relocation costs like security deposits if a tenant has already been evicted.

HB23B-1001 now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: Signed! Bill to Boost Colorado’s Earned Income Tax Credit

Legislation raises Colorado’s EITC federal match by 25 percent

DENVER, CO – Governor Polis today signed legislation sponsored by Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Representatives Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, and Mary Young, D-Greeley, that puts more money back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans by increasing the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for tax year 2023. 

HB23B-1002 expands the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for tax year 2023 to one of the highest state matches in the country. With the current state EITC at 25 percent, the average tax credit is $521. By increasing the EITC, families will see hundreds of additional dollars back in their wallets next year.

“During this special session, we were able to deliver critical assistance to the Coloradans that need it most,” said Kolker. “This targeted relief refunds $182 million in a more equitable way. I’m proud of our work to successfully double the Earned Income Tax Credit, which will ultimately help lower-income, working families put food on the table, pay rent, and take care of their essentials.”

“The Earned Income Tax Credit helps hardworking families that are the most at-risk for housing insecurity and poverty due to the rising cost of living in Colorado,” said Willford. “Boosting this credit will put more money back into the pockets of the people who need it most right now, who are disproportionately people of color, women, and people with a disability. Our legislation will bolster the economic security of the Coloradans feeling the brunt of our affordability crisis and make it easier for all Coloradans to call our state home.”

“Studies have shown us time and again that the Earned Income Tax Credit especially helps communities of color and renters – much like the communities I represent,” Fields said. “In my district alone, there are over 15,000 low-income, hardworking Coloradans who benefit from this credit – and I’m glad that we are able to deliver this relief in time for tax season.”

“This bill will boost the incomes of over 400,000 hardworking Colorado families, making it easier for them to afford rent, groceries, childcare, and other costs,” said Young. “Getting $182.5 million out to hardworking Coloradans will help grow our economy, support local business owners and enable more Coloradans to afford to live in Colorado.”

The bill builds on legislation passed by Colorado Democrats in recent years to make Colorado more affordable for working-class families. The General Assembly passed HB20-1420 and HB21-1311, which more than doubled the state's EITC and funded the Child Tax Credit for the first time in Colorado, saving hundreds of thousands of Colorado families money.

Additionally, Colorado Democrats passed HB23-1112 last session to increase the Colorado EITC from 25 percent to 38 percent of the federal EITC for tax year 2024. The bill’s demographic note showed that EITC recipients were more likely to be women, people of color, and people living with disabilities.

Signed! Bill to Reduce Property Taxes, Protect Funding for Schools and Local Services

SB23B-001 provides $434 million in property tax relief for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for local services

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation to cut property taxes for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for essential local services like schools, fire districts, and ambulance and health districts.

SB23B-001, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Representative Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, increases the property value exemption for multifamily and single family residential properties from $15,000 to $55,000, and decreases the residential assessment rate from 6.765 percent to 6.7 percent for the 2023 tax year. 

“We have an obligation as the majority party to govern responsibly, which means making tough decisions to solve problems and deliver solutions responsive to the moment that we’re living in,” said Fenberg. “The property tax relief that we passed delivers urgent, responsible relief that gives local governments time to implement the tax cuts by their deadlines. I’m proud of the work we have accomplished to cut property taxes, protect local services, and provide relief to Coloradans.”

“Hardworking Coloradans deserve real solutions that ease the affordability crisis, which is why we delivered urgent property tax cuts while protecting funding for schools, fire departments and critical services like our first responders,” McCluskie said. “This responsible package delivers real results for the people who need it the most – hardworking families, Coloradans on fixed incomes and the people feeling the greatest impacts of our affordability crisis – without jeopardizing our state’s reserves or impacting Coloradans’ TABOR refunds.”

“Our legislation provides nearly half a billion dollars of additional property tax reduction; significant relief for Colorado homeowners,” said Hansen. “With the limited tools available to us, we were able to develop a responsible plan that stretches funding as far as we possibly can to support Coloradans that need it most. And thanks to the hard work of so many, we were able to provide critical relief while protecting funding for essential local services like schools, fire districts, and ambulance services.”

“I’m proud that we have passed this legislation to responsibly provide property tax reductions for the hardworking Colorado families who need it the most,” deGruy Kennedy said. “This short-term solution will reduce upcoming property tax bills and offer Coloradans some support while local governments look into how they can better tackle property tax increases at the local level. This legislation, alongside the entire package of bills we passed in this special session, will help Coloradans stay afloat amidst the impacts of the housing crisis.”

To offset revenue loss resulting from property tax reductions, SB23B-001 transfers $146 million of general fund dollars to the State Education Fund to be used to backfill school districts’ budgets, and appropriates $54 million of general fund dollars to be used to backfill local governments and services.

Appropriations Committee Advances Bill to Support Renters and Reduce Evictions

HB23B-1001 would provide $30 million in additional funding to existing rental assistance programs

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, that would boost rental assistance and prevent evictions cleared the Senate Appropriations Committee today.

HB23B-1001 would allocate $30 million for rental assistance through the existing Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) administered by the Department of Local Affairs, increasing the statewide assistance to a total of $65 million, which includes $35 million from previously allocated federal funds. Under the bill, the program would serve individuals who are residential tenants living in Colorado, have a household income less than 80 percent of Area Median Income (AMI) and are at risk of eviction or displacement.

“The housing crisis is impacting us all, and we must utilize every opportunity to help out hardworking renters," said Gonzales. “We hear Coloradans loud and clear: we love our state, but the rising cost of living and housing is making it hard for working folks to get by — both for homeowners and renters. My bill directs $30 million in rental assistance to keep Coloradans housed and provides responsible relief to support Coloradans who need it most.”

“Renters in my district are struggling to keep up with the high cost of living and continual rent increases,” Buckner said. “Allocating additional funding for proven successful rental assistance programs means more Coloradans will stay housed. While we continue to work on long term solutions to lower housing costs and reduce evictions, this is a critical way we can get immediate relief directly to the families that need it most.”

Under ERAP, tenants who apply through DOLA are then connected to a nonprofit partner within their area that can provide direct assistance. Rental assistance dollars may be used to pay for: overdue past rent, rent presently owed, up to two months of future rent, utility bills, late fees, costs associated with preventing an eviction such as court costs and reasonable attorney fees, and relocation costs like security deposits if a tenant has already been evicted.

HB23B-1001 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bill to Reduce Property Taxes, Protect Funding for Schools and Local Services Clears Senate

SB23B-001 would provide property tax relief for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for local services

DENVER, CO – The Senate today gave final approval to legislation to cut property taxes for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for essential local services like schools, fire districts, and ambulance and health districts.

SB23B-001, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, would increase the property value exemption for multifamily and single family residential properties from $15,000 to $55,000, and decrease the residential assessment rate from 6.765 percent to 6.7 percent for the 2023 tax year. 

“We have an obligation as the majority party to govern responsibly, which means making tough decisions to solve problems and deliver solutions responsive to the moment that we’re living in,” said Fenberg. “With the limited tools available to us, we’ve now set our sights on providing immediate property tax relief to those who are most vulnerable to the rising cost of living, while ensuring local governments – especially schools and fire districts – don’t face budget cuts. With this bill – as well as others moving forward – we’re committed to providing the support Coloradans need.”

“Colorado homeowners are facing steep property tax increases that are unaffordable for many working families and folks on fixed incomes,” Hansen said. “Over the past week we’ve worked hard to maximize the amount of property tax relief we can offer, given the resources we have. While we continue to work on a long term solution, our short term bill is a responsible path forward that prioritizes relief for those who need it most while protecting funding for schools and fire districts.”

To offset revenue loss resulting from property tax reductions, SB23B-001 would transfer $146 million of general fund dollars to the State Education Fund to be used to backfill school districts’ budgets, and would appropriate $54 million of general fund dollars to be used to backfill local governments and services.

SB23B-001 heads to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Passes Bill to Provide Equal TABOR Refunds

New law would benefit Colorado’s working families

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed legislation sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, that creates a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will equalize refunds for thousands of working Colorado families.

SB23B-003 puts more money back into the pockets of Coloradans, and would increase TABOR refunds by about $500 for the majority of working families by creating a new temporary refund mechanism - identical to what Democrats provided last year - that replaces the sales tax refund mechanism for FY 22-23. Every Colorado taxpayer will receive an identical refund payment, making our tax code more equitable and providing enhanced support for working families.

“Middle class folks in Colorado get hit particularly hard when it comes to taxes, which is why I am fighting to make our state’s tax code more just and equitable, because working folks deserve a break,” said Hinrichsen. “I am excited to deliver this badly-needed relief that will put money directly back into Coloradans’ wallets and make it easier for them to afford everyday necessities like rent and groceries.” 

“Making life easier and Colorado more affordable is one of my top priorities at the Capitol, and equalizing TABOR refunds will do just that for our working families,” Marchman said. “This measure delivers relief for Colorado taxpayers and will make refunds more equitable while ensuring more support goes to the folks who need it most. 

Almost 90 percent of single filers and nearly half of joint filers will benefit from higher TABOR refunds under this proposal. In 2022, Hinrichsen sponsored SB23-233 which provided urgently-needed relief through flat TABOR refunds. 

SB23B-003 will now head to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Senate Passes Bill to Double Colorado’s Earned Income Tax Credit

Legislation raises Colorado’s EITC federal match by 25 percent

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed Senators Chris Kolker, D-Littleton, and Rhonda Fields’, D-Aurora, bill to boost the Colorado Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and deliver significant economic assistance to lower-income Coloradans. 

HB23B-1002 proposes increasing Colorado’s EITC for the 2023 tax year to 50 percent of the federal credit. The EITC increases after-tax income for lower-income households, which decreases economic disparities and helps make Colorado more affordable. The bill aims to refund $185 million in TABOR surplus in a more equitable way that helps Coloradans who are struggling to make ends meet. The increased EITC match would boost the incomes of working individuals and families by hundreds and in some cases over $1,000 for the 2023 tax year.

“Coloradans' budgets are stretched thin due to inflation and rising costs, with low-income earners being the most vulnerable to poverty and homelessness,” said Kolker. “The Earned Income Tax Credit is proven to put money back into the pockets of hardworking families and lift people out of poverty. With this bill, we can provide critical benefits to help those who need them most.” 

“Expanding these tax credits will put $185 million back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans,” Fields said. “Colorado’s Earned Income Tax Credit especially helps families of color and renters – like those in communities I represent – so they can afford necessities like rent and groceries. This bill will improve equity and help those who are struggling to make ends meet.”

Over the last four years, Colorado Democrats have closed tax loopholes for the very wealthy in order to increase the state EITC from 10 percent of the federal credit to its current 25 percent. Analyses suggest that lower-income Black, Hispanic, multiracial individuals, women, and those living with a disability are more likely to benefit from the EITC. 

HB23B-1002 now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Bill to Double Colorado’s Earned Income Tax Credit Clears Committee

Proposed plan raises Colorado’s EITC federal match by 25 percent

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Finance Committee approved Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Rhonda Fields’, D-Aurora, bill to boost the Colorado Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and deliver significant economic assistance to lower-income Coloradans. 

HB23B-1002 proposes increasing Colorado’s EITC for the 2023 tax year to 50 percent of the federal credit. The EITC increases after-tax income for lower-income households, which decreases economic disparities and helps make Colorado more affordable. The bill aims to refund $185 million in TABOR surplus in a more equitable way that helps Coloradans who are struggling to make ends meet. The increased EITC match would boost the incomes of working individuals and families by hundreds and in some cases over $1,000 for the 2023 tax year.

“Coloradans budgets are stretched thin due to inflation and rising costs, with low-income earners being the most vulnerable to poverty and homelessness,” said Kolker. “The Earned Income Tax Credit is proven to put money back into the pockets of hardworking families and lift people out of poverty. With this bill, we can provide critical benefits to help those who need them most.” 

“Expanding these tax credits will put $185 million back into the pockets of hard-working Coloradans,” Fields said. “Colorado’s Earned Income Tax Credit especially helps families of color and renters – like those in communities I represent – so they can afford necessities like rent and groceries. This bill will improve equity and help those who are struggling to make ends meet.”

Over the last four years, Colorado Democrats have closed tax loopholes for the very wealthy in order to increase the state EITC from 10 percent of the federal credit to its current 25 percent. Analyses suggest that lower-income Black, Hispanic, multiracial individuals, women, and those living with a disability are more likely to benefit from the EITC. 

HB23B-1002 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Bill to Reduce Property Taxes, Protect Funding for Schools and Local Services Earns Initial Senate Sign Off

SB23B-001 would provide property tax relief for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for local services

DENVER, CO – The Senate today gave initial approval on second reading to legislation to cut property taxes for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for essential local services like schools, fire districts, and ambulance and health districts.

SB23B-001, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, would increase the property value exemption for multifamily and single family residential properties from $15,000 to $55,000, and decrease the residential assessment rate from 6.765 percent to 6.7 percent for the 2023 tax year. 

“We have an obligation as the majority party to govern responsibly, which means making tough decisions to solve problems and deliver solutions responsive to the moment that we’re living in,” said Fenberg. “With the limited tools available to us, we’ve now set our sights on providing immediate property tax relief to those who are most vulnerable to the rising cost of living, while ensuring local governments – especially schools and fire districts – don’t face budget cuts. With this bill – as well as others moving forward – we’re committed to providing the support Coloradans need.”

“Colorado homeowners are facing steep property tax increases that are unaffordable for many working families and folks on fixed incomes,” Hansen said. “Over the past week we’ve worked hard to maximize the amount of property tax relief we can offer, given the resources we have. While we continue to work on a long term solution, our short term bill is a responsible path forward that prioritizes relief for those who need it most while protecting funding for schools and fire districts.”

To offset revenue loss resulting from property tax reductions, SB23B-001 would transfer $146 million of general fund dollars to the State Education Fund to be used to backfill school districts’ budgets, and would appropriate $54 million of general fund dollars to be used to backfill local governments and services.

SB23B-001 will next be heard on third and final reading before moving to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Advances Bill to Provide Equal TABOR Refunds

New law would benefit Colorado’s working families

DENVER, CO – The Senate today advanced legislation sponsored by Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, that creates a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will equalize refunds for thousands of working Colorado families.

SB23B-003 would put more money back into the pockets of Coloradans, and would increase TABOR refunds by about $500 for the majority of working families by creating a new temporary refund mechanism - identical to what Democrats provided last year - that replaces the sales tax refund mechanism for FY 22-23. Every Colorado taxpayer will receive an identical refund payment, making our tax code more equitable and providing enhanced support for working families.

“Middle class folks in Colorado get hit particularly hard when it comes to taxes, which is why I am fighting to make our state’s tax code more just and equitable, because working folks deserve a break,” said Hinrichsen. “I am excited to deliver this badly-needed relief that will put money directly back into Coloradans’ wallets and make it easier for them to afford everyday necessities like rent and groceries.” 

“Making life easier and Colorado more affordable is one of my top priorities at the Capitol, and equalizing TABOR refunds will do just that for our working families,” Marchman said. “This measure delivers relief for Colorado taxpayers and will make refunds more equitable while ensuring more support goes to the folks who need it most." 

Almost 90 percent of single filers and nearly half of joint filers will benefit from higher TABOR refunds under this proposal. In 2022, Hinrichsen sponsored SB23-233 which provided urgently-needed relief through flat TABOR refunds. 

SB23B-003 will now be heard on third and final reading before moving to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Bill to Reduce Child Hunger Passes Senate with Bipartisan Support

Colorado on path to become one of the first states in the nation to implement new federal Summer EBT Program

DENVER, CO – Today, with bipartisan support, the Senate passed Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Jeff Bridges’, D-Arapahoe County, legislation to take advantage of the federal Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Program and provide students with nutrition assistance during summer break. 

Under SB23B-002, Colorado children will receive an estimated $35 million to help their families purchase groceries while school is out for summer – a time when child hunger typically spikes. The Summer EBT benefits can be used to purchase food from SNAP retailers. Families will receive $40 a month per eligible child for the summer benefit in 2024, to be adjusted for inflation in following years.

“Far too many Colorado children, through no fault of their own, face nutritional challenges every day,” said Zenzinger. “The hunger becomes exacerbated in the summer when they are not in school and they don’t have access to free and reduced meals. We owe it to those children to leverage any resources we can on their behalf, and these federal funds provide a step in the right direction.”

“More hungry kids getting more food is a good thing, full stop," Bridges said. "This bipartisan legislation will allow us to lead the nation in giving 300,000 kids meals during their summer break from school, with the federal government paying the bill. More food for more Colorado kids at almost no cost to Coloradans. What’s not to love?”

The Summer EBT Program was established in December 2022 as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, with the program beginning in the summer of 2024. By taking action now, Colorado is a national leader on this issue. Ten other states indicated to the U.S. Department of Agriculture that they intend to do so next year, which would postpone their program’s start until 2025. 

SB23B-002 now heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Appropriations Committee Moves Forward Bill to Reduce Child Hunger with Unanimous Support

Colorado on path to become one of the first states in the nation to implement new federal Summer EBT Program

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Appropriations Committee unanimously passed Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Jeff Bridges’, D-Arapahoe County, legislation to take advantage of the federal Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Program and provide students with nutrition assistance during summer break. 

Under SB23B-002, Colorado children will receive an estimated $35 million to help their families purchase groceries while school is out for summer – a time when child hunger typically spikes. The Summer EBT benefits can be used to purchase food from SNAP retailers. Families will receive $40 a month per eligible child for the summer benefit in 2024, to be adjusted for inflation in following years.

“Far too many Colorado children, through no fault of their own, face nutritional challenges every day,” said Zenzinger. “The hunger becomes exacerbated in the summer when they are not in school and they don’t have access to free and reduced meals. We owe it to those children to leverage any resources we can on their behalf, and these federal funds provide a step in the right direction.”

“More hungry kids getting more food is a good thing, full stop," Bridges said. "This bipartisan legislation will allow us to lead the nation in giving 300,000 kids meals during their summer break from school, with the federal government paying the bill. More food for more Colorado kids at almost no cost to Coloradans. What’s not to love?”

The Summer EBT Program was established in December 2022 as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, with the program beginning in the summer of 2024. By taking action now, Colorado is a national leader on this issue. Ten other states indicated to the U.S. Department of Agriculture that they intend to do so next year, which would postpone their program’s start until 2025. 

SB23B-002 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.

Bill to Reduce Property Taxes, Protect Funding for Schools and Local Services Clears Committee

SB23B-001 would provide property tax relief for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for local services

DENVER, CO – The Senate Finance Committee today voted to advance legislation to cut property taxes for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for essential local services like schools and fire districts.

SB23B-001, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, would increase the property value exemption for multifamily and single family residential properties from $15,000 to $50,000, and decrease the residential assessment rate from 6.765 percent to 6.7 percent for the 2023 tax year. 

“We have an obligation as the majority party to govern responsibly, which means making tough decisions to solve problems and deliver solutions responsive to the moment that we’re living in,” said Fenberg. “With the limited tools available to us, we’ve now set our sights on providing immediate property tax relief to those who are most vulnerable to the rising cost of living, while ensuring local governments – especially schools and fire districts – don’t face budget cuts. With this bill – as well as others moving forward – we’re committed to providing the support Coloradans need.”

“Colorado homeowners are facing steep property tax increases that are unaffordable for many working families and folks on fixed incomes,” Hansen said. “Over the past week we’ve worked hard to maximize the amount of property tax relief we can offer, given the resources we have. While we continue to work on a long term solution, our short term bill is a responsible path forward that prioritizes relief for those who need it most while protecting funding for schools and fire districts.”

To offset revenue loss resulting from property tax reductions, SB23B-001 would transfer $135 million of general fund dollars to the State Education Fund to be used to backfill school districts’ budgets, and would appropriate $65 million of general fund dollars to be used to backfill local governments and services.

SB23B-001 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Hinrichsen, Marchman Bill to Provide Equal TABOR Refunds Clears Committee

New law would benefit Colorado’s working families

DENVER, CO – The Senate State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, that creates a flat TABOR refund mechanism that will equalize refunds for thousands of working Colorado families.

SB23B-003 puts more money back into the pockets of Coloradans, and would increase TABOR refunds by about $500 for the majority of working families by creating a new temporary refund mechanism - identical to what Democrats provided last year - that replaces the sales tax refund mechanism for FY 22-23. Every Colorado taxpayer will receive an identical refund payment, making our tax code more equitable and providing enhanced support for working families.

“Middle class folks in Colorado get hit particularly hard when it comes to taxes, which is why I am fighting to make our state’s tax code more just and equitable, because working folks deserve a break,” said Hinrichsen. “I am excited to deliver this badly-needed relief that will put money directly back into Coloradans’ wallets and make it easier for them to afford everyday necessities like rent and groceries.” 

“Making life easier and Colorado more affordable is one of my top priorities at the Capitol, and equalizing TABOR refunds will do just that for our working families,” Marchman said. “This measure delivers relief for Colorado taxpayers and will make refunds more equitable while ensuring more support goes to the folks who need it most."

Almost 90 percent of single filers and nearly half of joint filers will benefit from higher TABOR refunds under this proposal. In 2022, Hinrichsen sponsored SB23-233 which provided urgently-needed relief through flat TABOR refunds. 

SB23B-003 will now move to further consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Legislative Leadership Statements on Call for Special Session

DENVER, CO – Legislative leaders in the House and Senate released statements following Governor Polis’ call for a special session to address property tax relief for Coloradans:

“We always knew that if Proposition HH failed, property taxes would rise dramatically for thousands of Coloradans, which would make Colorado’s cost of living even more out of reach for so many,” said Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “The voters had their say about a long-term, comprehensive approach. Our caucus will now be laser-focused on providing short-term relief to those who are most vulnerable to the rising cost of living – which means working families, renters, and those on fixed incomes – while protecting our schools and fire districts.”

“We have a responsibility to deliver real results on the issues that matter most to Coloradans, and that’s what we’ll do in this special session as we continue working to address the rising cost of living,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “With rising property values leading to unaffordable tax increases, our goal is to responsibly provide real relief to the people who need it most while protecting schools, fire districts and libraries. In this special session, we will work to boost support for renters and working people and deliver urgent property tax relief for Coloradans.”

“The cost of living in our state is a top concern for Colorado homeowners and renters alike, and steep property tax increases are stretching budgets even further,” said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “As we continue our work to make Colorado more affordable and consider the options available to us, we must now determine if a path forward exists that can provide relief while protecting funding for schools and essential community services.”

“We have an opportunity to deliver urgent property tax relief and support for working families, especially renters,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “Rising property taxes threaten the lifelong investments many lower-income Coloradans and people of color have made to achieve the dream of owning a home. Despite our limited options, we are committed to working with stakeholders to craft a responsible package that protects schools and makes Colorado more affordable. I encourage everyone to come to the table and work with us to provide relief for Coloradans.”

Majority Leader Rodriguez Announces Updated Senate Committee Assignments

DENVER, CO – Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, today announced updated Senate committee assignments for the upcoming 2024 legislative session. The updates were necessitated by the departure of former Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, and the subsequent changes to Senate membership and leadership that followed. 

“Our caucus members have been hard at work over the interim preparing to tackle the challenges that matter most to our communities and build on the progress we made last year,” Rodriguez said. “I am excited for our members to dive into the issues, have informed and thoughtful deliberations, and create lasting results for the people of Colorado."

Updated committee assignments are below, with new committee members italicized. Members taking on a new role within a committee upon which they already serve are indicated by an *. 

Agriculture & Natural Resources, 7 members (4-3)

Senator Dylan Roberts, Chair
Senator Jessie Danielson, Vice Chair
Senator Janice Marchman
Senator Kevin Priola

Appropriations, 9 members (6-3)

Senator Jeff Bridges, Chair
Senator Rachel Zenzinger, Vice Chair
President Pro Tempore James Coleman
Majority Whip Julie Gonzales
Senator Kevin Priola
Senator Chris Hansen

Business, Labor, & Technology, 7 members (5-2)

Senator Jessie Danielson, Chair*
Senator Nick Hinrichsen, Vice Chair*
President Pro Tempore James Coleman
Senator Joann Ginal
Senator Tom Sullivan

Education, 7 members (4-3)

Majority Caucus Chair Janet Buckner, Chair
Senator Janice Marchman, Vice Chair
Senator Rhonda Fields
Senator Chris Kolker

Finance, 7 members (4-3)

Senator Kyle Mullica, Chair
Senator Chris Kolker, Vice Chair
Majority Caucus Chair Janet Buckner
Senator Chris Hansen

Health & Human Services, 9 members (6-3)

Senator Rhonda Fields, Chair
Senator Joann Ginal, Vice Chair
Senator Lisa Cutter
Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis
Senator Kyle Mullica
Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet

Judiciary, 5 members (3-2)

Majority Whip Julie Gonzales, Chair
Senator Dylan Roberts, Vice Chair*
Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet

Local Government & Housing, 7 members (4-3)

Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, Chair
Senator Tony Exum, Sr., Vice Chair
Majority Whip Julie Gonzales
Assistant Majority Leader Faith Winter

State, Veterans, & Military Affairs, 5 members (3-2)

President Pro Tempore James Coleman, Chair
Senator Tom Sullivan, Vice Chair
Senator Chris Hansen

Transportation & Energy, 7 members (5-2)

Assistant Majority Leader Faith Winter, Chair
Senator Kevin Priola, Vice Chair
Senator Tony Exum, Sr.
Senator Lisa Cutter
Senator Nick Hinrichsen

Wildfire Matters Review Committee Advances Bills to Better Prepare Colorado for Wildfires

DENVER, CO - The Wildfire Matters Review Committee today advanced five bills to improve wildfire mitigation, bolster the forestry workforce, and increase wildfire awareness.

Biochar is a type of charcoal produced from plant matter and stored in soil as a means of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Bill 1, sponsored by Vice Chair Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, Chair Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, and Rep. Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial, directs Colorado State University (CSU) to study the use of biochar in wildfire mitigation efforts. The study would evaluate beneficial uses for biochar, its impacts on forest health and best practices in creating it, with a report due on its findings by July 1, 2026.

“Coloradans are counting on us to help reduce wildfire-risk in their backyard, and these bills put us on a path forward to improving statewide mitigation efforts and education,” said Chair Velasco, sponsor of Bills 1, 2, 5 and 9. “Colorado rural and mountain communities like mine are some of the most at-risk for wildfire damage and are especially vulnerable to high workforce shortages and a lack of resources needed to prevent and combat wildfires. Today, we passed five bills to support communities in boosting their wildfire mitigation efforts, creating emergency preparedness plans, and increasing awareness surrounding residential mitigation efforts.”

“I represent many communities on the wildland-urban interface, and they are at an increased risk of wildfires as we continue to feel the impacts of climate change,” Vice Chair Cutter said, sponsor of all five bills. “I'm excited about the bills we advanced today, which will look at innovative ways to remove and utilize biomass, help homeowners with costly slash and debris removal, protect pets, help rural communities apply for grants and raise community awareness about what actions people can take to mitigate their risk. As Vice Chair and longtime member of the Wildfire Matters interim committee, I'm always thrilled to work with stakeholders and colleagues to forward policy to help protect our forests and our communities.”

Bill 2, sponsored by Reps. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, and Velasco, and Sens. Cutter and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, would encourage agencies to address the needs of Coloradans with animals during an emergency, and also include provisions for the evacuation, shelter, and transport of these individuals and their pets. Beginning January 2025, local governments would also be strongly encouraged to make information for animal emergency preparedness available. 

“Preventing destructive wildfires and protecting our communities begins with good mitigation methods and resources at the local level,” said Snyder, sponsor of Bills 2, 5 and 6. “The bills we advanced today would establish programs to aid local governments with wildfire mitigation, better connect rural communities with grant money to close the gap in their wildfire mitigation and response efforts, and encourage cities and counties to provide pet-friendly emergency shelters and emergency resources. Wildfires are a very serious risk in our state, and these policies will save lives, prevent devastating damage, and protect Coloradans from wildfire threats.”

“I saw first hand as the Senator for Louisville during the Marshall Fire, how important responding to the threat of wildfires really is, which is why I am sponsoring two bills to help Colorado families and communities be better prepared,” said Jaquez Lewis, sponsor of Bills 2 and 6. “These bills will provide resources to help folks make plans to ensure that everyone in their families, including their pets, are safe during an emergency, and will improve the aftermath for victims in the cleanup process. I promised I would be there for my community then, and I will continue to work to reduce the risks from wildfires."

Sponsored by Reps. Velasco and Snyder, and Sens. Cutter and Will, Bill 5 aims to help rural communities obtain wildfire-related grants. The bill requires that the Rural Opportunity Office provide assistance to rural communities to identify and apply for state and federal grants related to wildfire mitigation, prevention, response, and risk-management efforts. Additionally, the Office of Economic Development and International Trade would maintain a list of government grant programs on its website to further ease the process.

The committee also approved Bill 9, sponsored by Reps. Velasco and Tammy Story, D-Conifer, and Sen. Cutter. The bill would require the Colorado State Forest Service to continue its enhanced wildfire outreach campaign through 2027, as well as other outreach efforts that increase awareness of wildfire risk mitigation in the wildland-urban interface. 

“When it comes to reducing wildfire risk, we need every Coloradan living in the foothills and forested areas to know how they can protect their homes,” said Story, sponsor of Bill 9. “Living in the wildland-urban interface means we need to take extra precautions to protect our personal property and our neighbors. This includes reducing vegetation and fire fuels within 5 feet of our homes and keeping gutters clean. This legislation ensures communities receive information on effective wildfire mitigation strategies that will keep our beloved communities safer in the wake of a wildfire event. The bill also continues the Colorado State Forest Service’s efforts to educate Coloradans about these science-based strategies, which are our strongest barrier against wildfires.”

Bill 6, sponsored by Sens. Cutter and Jaquez Lewis, and Reps. Snyder and Dickson, would create two programs to support local governments in wildfire risk mitigation. The first program would support county efforts to remove slash, which is a residue created by wildfire mitigation efforts. If passed, the Department of Natural Resources would select counties to participate in the program, and provide information and resources to facilitate slash removal.

The second program would help local governments with post-disaster debris removal for residences. Under this bill, the Department of Public Safety would be in charge of providing guidance to local governments to facilitate debris removal.

“We’re dedicated to keeping Coloradans safe from the risk of wildfire, and today we advanced bills that will do just that,” said Dickson, sponsor of Bills 1 and 6. “Our bills will help prevent wildfires by keeping our forests healthy and delivering data on the use of biochar to sustainably protect our communities. We'll also help local governments to deal with the aftermath of wildfires, including streamlining cleanup and coordinating federal disaster assistance. I am so pleased these evidence-focused policies will move forward to keep our communities and our forests safe.”

The bills will now go to the Legislative Council for approval before being introduced next session. Once introduced in the 2024 session, interim bills will follow the legislative process in the same manner as all other bills.

Democratic Leadership on Governor’s Budget Proposal

DENVER, CO – Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, today released the following statements on Governor Polis’ FY 2024-2025 budget proposal:

Statement from Speaker McCluskie:

“After years of delivering historic increases in public school funding and making steady progress, the General Assembly this year is poised to eliminate the public school funding deficit (the Budget Stabilization Factor) in Colorado for the first time since 2009. This is the moment that parents, students and teachers have been waiting for, and I’m proud that our responsible budgets and consistent investment in our students have paved the way to make it a reality. The Governor’s budget proposal will build on our collaborative efforts with the JBC and Education Committee Chair Rep. McLachlan to boost per pupil funding to record levels, increase teacher pay, and reduce class sizes to set up our students to thrive. I appreciate Governor Polis’ budget proposal, and I look forward to working with him and the JBC to improve education, support working families and make Colorado a more affordable place to live.”

Statement from President Fenberg:

“Making sure our kids get the best education possible is one of the most important jobs we have, which is why I am thrilled to see Governor Polis’ budget request put such a strong emphasis on fully funding our schools and eliminating the Budget Stabilization Factor once and for all. Governor Polis’ budget request represents a thoughtful, responsible approach that will also save Colorado families money on urgent priorities like housing and health care, while providing badly-needed resources to help achieve our shared goal of making Colorado communities safer. I look forward to working closely with Governor Polis next session as we fight to create a healthier, safer, and stronger Colorado for us all.”

Bills to Save Seniors Money on Housing, Expand Wildfire Mitigation Efforts Advance

DENVER, CO - The Legislative Oversight Committee Concerning Tax Policy & Task Force today advanced bills to extend the senior housing income tax credit, exempt modular homes from sales and use taxes, and expand the wildfire mitigation tax credit and the health preceptor tax credit.

“These bills will put more money back into the pockets of Colorado seniors renting their homes, property owners trying to mitigate wildfire risk, and health care preceptors training the next generation of doctors,” said Chair Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of Bills 1 and 10. “By increasing the tax credit for wildfire mitigation costs, we’ll make it easier and cheaper for Coloradans to protect their homes. We’re also exempting modular homes from sales and use tax and reestablishing a housing tax credit for seniors, which together will help build more affordable places to live and save Coloradans money on housing.”

“Colorado’s working families deserve a break, and the bills we’re advancing today will do just that by making it more affordable to defend homes against wildfires, bolstering our health care workforce, and allowing more Colorado seniors to stay in their homes,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, sponsor of all five bills. “I’m proud to champion these bills that will save money on housing and will make life easier for Colorado families.”

Bill 1, sponsored by Representatives Mike Weissman and Lisa Frizell and Senators Chris Hansen and Chris Kolker, would modify various tax expenditures including increasing the wildfire mitigation tax credit, doubling the health care preceptors tax credit, and exempting modular homes from sales and use tax.

Under this bill, the Rural and Frontier Healthcare Preceptor Credit would increase from $1,000 to $2,000 and the maximum Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Expenses Tax Credit would increase from $625 to $1000.

Bill 10, sponsored by Representatives Mike Weissman and Bob Marshall and Senators Chris Hansen and Chris Kolker, reinstates a refundable income tax credit for seniors, created by HB22-1205, for the income tax year starting January 1, 2024. To qualify, you must be a Colorado resident who is 65 years old or older by the end of 2024, have a federal adjusted gross income (AGI) that is $75,000 or less for a single filer, or $150,000 or less for joint filers, and have not claimed the senior property tax exemption for the 2024 property tax year.

“This bill could save 130,000 Colorado seniors over $143 million dollars,” said Rep. Bob Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch, sponsor of Bill 10. “Seniors are particularly vulnerable when the cost of living rises because they are dependent on a set income, like their retirement savings, to cover all of their costs. Our bill ensures that seniors who cannot take advantage of the senior homestead property tax exemption because they rent their homes also receive some housing costs assistance as they age in place on fixed incomes. By advancing this bill, we’re one step closer to saving lower- and middle-income seniors thousands of dollars each, helping them combat the rising cost of living.”

“We’ve been working hard to support Colorado seniors, and especially those living on a low fixed income while renting, or who are not eligible for the senior homestead exemption, which is why I am so proud to champion this important legislation,” said Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, sponsor of Bill 10. “This measure would save older Coloradans millions of dollars on housing, make our state a more affordable place to live, and ensure seniors can remain in the communities they have called home for years to come.”

Single filers with a federal AGI of $25,000 or less will receive $1,000. Joint filers with a federal AGI that is $50,000 or less will also receive $1,000. For every $500 of income above the threshold, the amount of the credit is reduced by $10.

The committee also advanced three other bills. Bill 2, in response to the SCOTUS ruling of Tyler v Hennepin County, ensures that Colorado’s laws around the recovery of unpaid property taxes on real property and mobile homes align with the Constitution by changing requirements and process for the issuance of treasurer’s deeds.

Bill 6 modifies short-term rental definitions and directs the property tax administrator to establish and administer a program to develop a statewide database and uniform reporting system to track short-term rentals. Properties used as a residence, but only for short-term rentals, would be defined as a lodging property under the definition of hotels and motels.

Bill 7 changes procedures of the Office of the State Auditor (OSA) for evaluating state tax expenditures and directs OSA to review federal tax law changes that impact the state. The bill also permits the Legislative Oversight Committee Concerning Tax Policy & Task Force to request evaluation of specific tax expenditures and continue the oversight committee and task force until December 2031.

The bills will now go to the Legislative Council for approval before being introduced next session. Once introduced in the 2024 session, interim bills will follow the legislative process in the same manner as all other bills.