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SIGNED! Bill to Develop Long-Term Property Tax Solutions

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

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Representative Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, that creates a bipartisan commission to develop long-term solutions to rising property taxes in Colorado.

HB23B-1003 creates the Commission on Property Tax to outline plans for long and short-term property tax relief and to evaluate property tax ballot initiatives filings for the 2024 election. The bipartisan Commission includes 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 passed during the 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.”

“I’m proud of the responsible property tax relief we delivered for Coloradans this special session and look forward to more long-term solutions that will make our state more affordable,”
said Snyder. “The task force, outlined in my legislation, will be composed of bipartisan local and statewide leaders and will develop ongoing short-term and long-term solutions to rising property taxes. Everyone deserves to thrive in their communities, and this law is an important step forward in our mission to create a Colorado everyone can afford.”

“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 will convene by the week of December 18, 2023, and deliver an initial report to the General Assembly and Governor by March 15, 2024. 

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Senate Democrats Senate Democrats

SIGNED! Bill to Support Renters and Reduce Evictions Becomes Law

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

DENVER, CO – Legislation that will boost rental assistance and prevent evictions for Coloradans was signed into law today. 

Sponsored by Reps. Leslie Herod, D-Denver, and Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora, and Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, HB23B-1001 allocates $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. 

The program will serve individuals who are residential tenants living in Colorado, have a household income less than 80 percent of Area Median Income and are at risk of eviction or displacement.

“Rental assistance keeps Coloradans housed, landlords paid, and helps combat cycles of poverty, homelessness and family disruption,” said Herod. “Coloradans need help now, and I’m beyond proud of this legislation that will prevent thousands of evictions across our state. This law invests an additional $30 million in emergency rental assistance, bringing the statewide total to $65 million to keep renters housed. We’re doing more to protect our most vulnerable families as we work toward more long-term affordability solutions.”   

“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. I am proud to see my bill to direct $30 million in rental assistance to keep Coloradans housed and provide responsible relief to support Coloradans who need it most get signed into law.”

“Everyone deserves a safe and stable place to call home, and this law will help thousands of renters avoid eviction and get back on their feet,” said Lindsay. “The need for rental assistance is clear as evictions rise in our state. This law takes action today to provide an additional $30 million total emergency rental assistance, bringing the statewide total to $65 million. More than 34-percent of those living in our state are renters, and this law steps in to provide assistance and keep Coloradans housed in the communities where they live, play and work.” 

“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.”

Evictions are on the rise in Colorado. This year alone, 43,899 evictions have been filed according to state courts and Denver County court filing data, threatening the housing of more than 100,000 people across the state. 

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.

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SIGNED! Bill to Reduce Child Hunger, Support Working Families

Colorado became one of the first states in the nation to implement new federal Summer EBT Program

DENVER, CO – Today, Governor Jared Polis signed Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representatives Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, and Lorena Garcia’s, D-Unincorporated Adams 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 – which passed with bipartisan support – 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.

“In Colorado, far too many children, through no fault of their own, face nutritional challenges—a problem that becomes exacerbated in the summer when they are not in school and they don’t have access to free and reduced meals,” said Zenzinger. “I’m proud of our bipartisan work to deliver these federal funds, making Colorado a national leader on this issue.”

“Today, we’re taking an important step to combat childhood hunger,” said Bird. “This law utilizes federal funds to feed more children during the summer months when child hunger rises. We’re working to make it easier for hardworking Coloradans to make ends meet and feed their children.” 

“Ensuring kids have access to meals all year round is a great thing, full stop,”
said Bridges. “Passing this legislation now means more than 300,000 Colorado kids will get meals for next summer, when they’re not receiving meals at school. Our bipartisan bill means Colorado will be a national leader in utilizing the federal funding available to us, and I’m proud to see it get signed into law.”

“No child in Colorado should go hungry, and we’re taking significant steps to combat child hunger during the summer,”
said Garcia. “This law will help feed more children and provide some much needed breathing room in the grocery budgets of thousands of families. Taking advantage of federal funding to feed our kids during the summer upholds the dignity of families and protects the health of the over 300,000 children in Colorado."

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. After California, Colorado is the next state to opt into the program for the 2024 year. Sixteen 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. 

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JOINT RELEASE: Signed! New Law to Provide Equal TABOR Refunds and Support Working-Class Coloradans

New law benefits Colorado’s working families

DENVER, CO – Today, Governor Jared Polis signed legislation sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Representatives Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, and Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial, that creates a flat TABOR refund mechanism to provide an equal refund of $800 for all taxpayers.

SB23B-003 puts more money back into the pockets of Coloradans, and increases 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.

“This special session, I fought to bring relief to middle-income earners, a group that gets hit particularly hard when it comes to taxes,” said Hinrichsen. “My bill to equalize TABOR refunds for all Coloradans will make our tax code more fair, and as a result, more than 60 percent of Coloradans – and even a larger share of Puebloans – will see an increase in their refunds.” 

“Coloradans are counting on us to address the affordability crisis, and this bill is one of many steps we’re taking to uplift working-class families,”
Mabrey said. “Our bill will provide equal TABOR refunds next year, increasing incomes for lower- and middle-income Coloradans by hundreds of dollars. I’m proud that we were able to provide working families relief, and I will continue to fight to make Colorado more affordable for the people who need it most.”

“I’m proud to see my bill to equalize TABOR refunds and get money back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans be signed into law today,”
Marchman said. “With this law, every taxpayer will receive an identical TABOR refund – resulting in an increase for the majority of folks. At a time when workers, families and seniors are pinched by inflation, this will be hundreds of dollars more to help pay for necessities like groceries, gas and housing.”

“Equal TABOR refunds put hundreds of dollars back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans, benefiting millions of people throughout our state,”
Dickson said. “Making our state more affordable for everyone is a priority for Colorado Democrats. This bill establishes a flat tax refund for all taxpayers, boosting hardworking families and making it easier for them to keep pace with the rising cost of living.”

Over sixty percent of filers and everyone making under $100,000 per year will benefit from higher TABOR refunds under this proposal. This law builds on the work of SB23-233, which provided urgently-needed relief through flat TABOR refunds.

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Senate Democrats Senate Democrats

Democrats Reduce Property Taxes, Increase Support for Renters and Working People

With urgent property tax cuts, more rental assistance, and tax relief for working families, Democrats deliver results that make Colorado more affordable  

DENVER, CO – Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge, and Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, today released the following statements upon conclusion of the 2023 Extraordinary Session of the 74th General Assembly:

“I’m proud that Colorado Democrats stepped up to meet this moment and provide urgent property tax cuts, relief for working families and support for renters,”
said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “Coloradans all across the state are going to save money on their property taxes next year while schools continue to receive the increased funding they desperately need. This responsible package delivers for the Coloradans who are feeling the brunt of our affordability crisis and returns more money to the people who need it the most by boosting the incomes of hardworking families and making Colorado more affordable.”

“Over the past few days, Democrats were laser-focused on providing short-term relief to those 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,”
said Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “The legislation we passed provides responsible, much-needed relief to Coloradans who need it the most, while leaving room for more robust discussion on what a long-term fix looks like. I’m proud that we rose to meet the moment and passed legislation that will make our state more affordable and provide responsible relief to the folks who need it most.”

“With rising property taxes threatening to upend the lifelong investments seniors, veterans and people on fixed incomes have made in their homes and their American dream, we did everything we could to responsibly lower property taxes while protecting our schools and fire districts,”
said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “As a Latina, it was deeply important to me that all Coloradans, and especially lower-income people and people of color see relief from the rising cost of living in our state, and they will. There’s more work to do starting in January, but Coloradans can be sure that we hear them and are taking action to deliver real results.”

“Democrats worked hard to pass legislation to make our state more affordable and deliver targeted relief to some of our most vulnerable Coloradans,”
said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “The call for this special session gave us a clear directive for the past few days, but the policies we passed mark the start – not the finish line – for the progress we’ll make next session. In just a few short weeks we’ll be back at the Capitol to build on this work and continue taking bold action to improve the lives of all Coloradans.”

SB23B-001, sponsored by President Fenberg, Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, Speaker McCluskie, and Representative Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, provides over $430 million in property tax relief by increasing the property value exemption for multifamily and single family residential properties from $15,000 to $55,000 and decreasing the residential assessment rate from 6.765 percent to 6.7 percent for the 2023 tax year while protecting funding for locals services, like schools, fire districts and libraries.  

HB23B-1001, sponsored by Representatives Leslie Herod, D-Denver, and Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora, and Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, boosts statewide rental assistance to a total of $65 million, securing an additional $30 million on top of the $35 million from federal funds already allocated. The bill provides financial assistance for rent owed and other related costs for Colorado tenants making at or below 80 percent of the area median income.

SB23B-002, sponsored by Senators Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representatives Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, and Lorena Garcia, D-unincorporated Adams County, allocates an estimated $35 million in federal funds to expand Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) benefits, which will help families purchase groceries from SNAP retailers during the summer months when child hunger is most severe. Families with children eligible for the national free and reduced-price school meals program will receive $40 a month per eligible child for the summer benefit in 2024.

HB23B-1002, sponsored by Representatives Jenny Willford, D-Northglen, and Mary Young, D-Greeley, and Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, 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 to 50 percent, families will see hundreds of additional dollars back in their wallets next year.

SB23B-003, sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Representatives Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, and Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial, adjusts the TABOR refund mechanism for the 2023 tax year to provide an equal refund of $800 for all taxpayers, increasing TABOR refunds for the majority of filers and by hundreds of dollars for lower-income people.

HB23B-1003, sponsored by Representative Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, President Fenberg, and Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, creates the bipartisan Commission on Property Tax to provide recommendations for long and short term property tax relief and evaluate the impact of property tax related ballot measures filed at the title board this year. The goal of HB23B-1003 is to gather leaders from across the state and key constituencies impacted by property taxes to map out potential long-term solutions to property taxes that have been rising since Coloradans voted to repeal the Gallagher Amendment in 2020.

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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.

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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.

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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,” F
ields 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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Senate Democrats Senate Democrats

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.

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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

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