SIGNED! Bill to Increase Use of Transit

Legislation extends the popular Ozone Season Free Transit Grant Program and establishes a free transit program for youth

WESTMINSTER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Kevin Priola, D-Henderson, and Senate Assistant Majority Leader Faith Winter, D-Westminster, and Representatives Stephanie Vigil, D-Colorado Springs, and Julia Marvin, D-Thornton, to increase the use of transit was signed into law by Governor Jared Polis today.

SB24-032 offers flexible state support for public transit agencies to expand service in a way that works best for their community. Under this new law, transit agencies can apply for funding for either fare-free year-round transit services for youth (ages 19 and younger), or a continuation of the successful Ozone Season Free Transit Grant Program, which funds Colorado’s free transit rides during peak ozone season and was set to expire without further legislative action. 

“During my time in elected office, Colorado has taken leaps and bounds forward when it comes to smart, successful transportation policy,” said Priola. “As I concluded my final year in the General Assembly, I’m proud to have sponsored legislation that will improve upon our past work while continuing to innovate. I’m excited for Senate Bill 32 to streamline a statewide transit system that encourages usage and saves people money.”

“As a multi-modal traveler in a city on the rise, I'm so proud of the progress that Colorado has made in recent years to expand transit options, and to pass this law that will boost and expand our efforts,” said Vigil. “We’re building on our existing zero fare program to cover either zero fare for all riders during the summer months or year-round free transit for Colorado youth. Transportation choice means more freedom and opportunities for Coloradans, less traffic, and cleaner air."

“Making it easier for Coloradans to opt for a bus or train instead of a car is critical to helping us reach our climate goals and reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions,” Winter said. “The Ozone Season Grant Program and the Youth Fare Free Transit Grant Program will help lower costs for working families, while the tax credit will help Colorado businesses offer their employees reliable and discounted transportation.”

“During my time as a local elected official, my community expressed a great need for more transit options in the Northern Corridor to get to work, school, and appointments,” said Marvin. “Our law looks to address barriers to public transportation ridership, increase connectivity between local and regional transit agencies, and create more multi-modal travel opportunities for our communities. I know this law will have a significant impact on hardworking Coloradans and will reaffirm our commitment to reaching our air quality goals.”

Finally, the law creates a statewide transit pass exploratory committee within the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to produce a proposal for implementing a statewide transit pass. The committee will be created by October 1, 2024, and offer a proposal by July 1, 2026. The committee members will be appointed by the executive director of CDOT and must include representatives of transit agencies from across the state.

RTD data revealed a significant increase in the use of services, particularly buses within the district, during RTD’s 30-day Zero Fare for Better Air program.

RTD also experienced a 36 percent ridership increase between August 2021 and August 2022 as well as a 21 percent ridership increase between July 2022 and August 2022. There was also a significant increase in ridership in Pueblo, Colorado Springs and mountain communities.

Governor Signs Landmark Package of Bills to Improve Colorado’s Air Quality and Boost Transit

WESTMINSTER, CO – Today Governor Jared Polis signed a pair of bills to make near-term progress on air quality, ozone, and climate goals while focusing on an economy-wide transition that will support Colorado’s future for generations to come.

SB24-229, sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, Senator Kevin Priola, D-Henderson, House Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, and Representative Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, establishes more permitting and enforcement authority for the state to lower emissions, improve air quality and reduce pollution in Colorado communities. The law: 

• Requires the latest strategies to minimize pollution to be incorporated in newly permitted oil and gas locations. 

• Expands enforcement actions and develops new approaches to prevent repeat violations and preempt future violations. 

• Establishes additional transparency around complaints and enforcement actions by the Air Pollution Control Division, including establishing an annual report and opt-in distribution list to provide the public with information about investigations and enforcement actions.

• Codifies the Governor’s directive to reduce ozone-causing NOx from oil and gas operations by 50 percent by 2030, which will be achieved through methods established in Air Quality Control Commission rules promulgated by August 31, 2026.

• Provides additional protections for Disproportionately Impacted Communities (DICs), including expanding the mission of the orphaned wells mitigation enterprise to also include marginal wells, focusing funding on plugging marginal wells in DICs and near population centers, and establishing new dedicated community liaisons at the Energy and Carbon Management Commission.

“Exposure to dangerously unhealthy ozone levels is an unfortunately common occurrence in our state, and it's impacting far too many Coloradans' health, leading to higher risk of shortness of breath, asthma attacks, increased risk for respiratory diseases, and lower birth weights for children born in high-ozone areas," said Winter. “While Colorado has worked hard to address the ozone problem, we need to do even more to reduce harmful emissions and keep our communities safe. This law is a great first step, and is particularly exciting because of how it came together: through real, honest discussion towards a shared goal. It’ll help get our air quality crisis under control, and create a healthier future for our kids and our grandkids."

“Breathing shouldn’t be dangerous, yet the air quality in many Colorado neighborhoods triggers asthma attacks and nosebleeds,” Bacon said. “We need to act now to clean up Colorado’s air quality that for more than a decade has disproportionately impacted low-income communities and people of color. After years of conversations with industry, environmental organizations and state agencies – our plan will improve air quality by having stricter permitting guidelines, increased accountability for bad emitters, plugging wells, and investing in transportation efficiencies.”

“Communities across our state, and especially like those I represent on the Front Range, have been forced to bear the consequences of unhealthy ozone levels for far too long, which is why I am so excited to be a part of this landmark policy,” said Priola. “We must take action now to improve our air quality and mitigate the harmful impacts of ozone on our communities. This law is a critical step towards reducing emissions and air pollution that puts Colorado on a path to securing a healthier future for us all."

“Colorado’s poor air quality is leading to long-term health risks for our community – we need to take steps now to reduce air pollution and keep our neighbors safe,” Willford said. “This landmark law enables us to crack down on repeat violators, improve our air quality and establish important timelines for new pollution reduction measures. To achieve our climate goals, we need to reduce emissions and this law helps us get there.”

Governor Polis also signed SB24-230, sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Representative Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, which generates significant new funding for transit and rail, as well as land and wildlife habitat conservation and restoration, with modest fees on oil and gas production in Colorado. 

Oil and gas development is among the largest contributors in Colorado to both greenhouse gas emissions and ozone pollution. Reducing vehicle trips by supporting reliable transit and rail service statewide can offset these impacts by lowering ozone-forming and greenhouse gas vehicle emissions while improving quality of life, supporting the construction of new housing, and alleviating traffic. 

"Forging consensus on an issue like this is hard, which is what makes these new laws all the more exciting," said Fenberg. “It's taken a lot of hard work to get to this point, and I am grateful to everyone, especially the members of my caucus who have come to the table willing to work and, more importantly, listen to each other in the pursuit of policy we can all get behind. I am incredibly excited to see the benefits these laws will bring to our air quality, our transit system, and our public lands for generations to come."

“With this legislative package, we’ve achieved an agreement that puts Colorado’s land, water, and air first,” McCluskie said. “I’d like to thank the Governor, bill sponsors and all the groups that worked together to reach an agreement that will increase transit options for everyone in the state, including our rural and mountain communities. Taking steps now to improve our air quality, restore our lands, and boost transportation options will preserve the Colorado way of life for generations to come.”

“Our geography in Colorado – and especially along the Front Range – makes us uniquely susceptible to unhealthy ozone levels and poor air quality,” said Cutter. “This results in short and long term health impacts that affect entire communities. We’ve worked hard on policies to improve our air quality, especially during months where ozone levels are the worst. These laws give us the opportunity to take significant action that will reduce air pollution, protect Colorado’s environment, and build a healthier Colorado.”

“Destructive wildfires, floods and other extreme climate events are disproportionately impacting communities like mine, which is why we need policy changes that protect our environment,” Velasco said. “We’ve made important progress over the years to clean up our air and the harmful effects of oil and gas production has been consequential on my community. However, this law is a monumental agreement that will increase transit options, advance conservation efforts, and reduce harmful pollution that threatens our Colorado way of life.”

The law creates a new fee tied to oil and gas production with 80 percent of the revenues dedicated to transit and administered by the Clean Transit Enterprise and 20 percent to natural lands and wildlife conservation. Of the 80 percent dedicated to transit, the majority will bolster local transit operations while 20 percent is dedicated to the expansion of passenger and commuter rail in Colorado. These funds will support RTD in providing new services including the Northwest and North rail lines.

To address impacts on wildlife from oil and gas production, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will provide remediation services by conducting a range of badly needed conservation work, including restoring lands and improving ecosystem health, improving wildlife connectivity, and even creating new state parks and wildlife areas, with a focus on supporting native biodiversity impacted by oil and gas operations.

Gov Signs Legislation to Reduce Gun Thefts from Vehicles

Legislation will promoe responsible gun ownership, safe storage of firearms in vehicles

CENTENNIAL, CO - Governor Polis today signed legislation into law to help prevent firearms from being stolen from vehicles by requiring them to be secured while unattended in a vehicle.

“As a Western Slope legislator, I know how important responsible and safe gun ownership is for our rural communities and our way of life," said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs. "This commonsense law helps reduce gun thefts from vehicles while respecting the 2nd Amendment rights of gun owners across the state.”  

“Safe storage of firearms in vehicles or at home is an effective way to keep guns out of the hands of the wrong people and create safer communities,” said Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont. “Last year, there were 1,221 guns reported stolen in Denver. This law represents one of this year’s many efforts to reduce gun violence in Colorado and I’m proud to see it signed today.”

“When someone steals a firearm, they bypass the protections we’ve put in place that consider factors like mental health struggles and a history of domestic violence before they’re handed a gun," said Rep. Lorena Garcia, D-Unincorporated Adams County. "Gun thefts from vehicles are on the rise, putting our communities at risk of preventable gun crimes. By requiring guns to be securely stored in vehicles when they are unattended, this law will prevent gun owners from losing their weapons to prevent guns from getting into the wrong hands and keep our neighborhood kids safe.”

“We have seen alarming rates of firearms being stolen from vehicles in Colorado, including one instance here at the Capitol,” said Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora. “It’s on gun owners to responsibly and safely store their firearms – whether that’s in their home or their vehicle. This important law promotes a commonsense gun safety practice that will help reduce theft and make our communities safer.”

HB24-1348 requires handguns in unattended vehicles to be stored in a locked, hard-sided container that is out of plain view to help prevent them from being stolen. Other firearms must be stored in a hard or soft-sided container. The law also requires the Office of Suicide Prevention to include information for vehicle safe storage on its website and include vehicle safe storage information that must be displayed at gun stores.

There are exclusions such as antique firearms, peace officers, military service members, and people engaged in hunting activities. Recreational vehicles and non-handgun firearms in a vehicle on a person’s private farm or ranch are also exempt.

According to the Denver Police Department, 846 of the 1,221 guns that were reported as being stolen were stolen from vehicles in 2023. Of those stolen firearms, 61% were stolen without stealing the vehicle itself. Data from 2020 found that Grand Junction, Pueblo, and Colorado Springs had the highest rates of gun thefts from cars in Colorado.

Colorado Democrats passed a 2021 law that promotes responsible gun ownership by requiring gun owners to properly store their firearms when they are not in use, especially when children are present. The law also requires licensed firearms dealers to provide a locking device at the time of sale or transfer of all firearms. Federal law already requires that handguns sold by licensed dealers be sold with locking devices. Finally, the 2021 law created the charge “unlawful storage of a firearm” when a firearm is not stored safely and a juvenile or someone who is ineligible to possess a firearm is present, making it a class 2 misdemeanor.

Gun Violence Prevention Bill to Improve Investigations of Illegal Firearm Activity Signed Into Law

New law improves the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s ability to address illegal firearm activity

CENTENNIAL, CO - Governor Polis today signed gun violence prevention legislation into law to improve investigations of illegal firearm activity.

“Though our background check system, InstaCheck, is working as intended, follow-up investigations are rarely conducted at the local or federal level due to resource limitations,” Senator Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial, said. “By giving CBI statutory authority, they will be able to more effectively investigate illegal firearms purchases and transfers, purchases of illegal components and ghost guns, information obtained through tip lines such as suspected straw purchases, and other violations – all while improving safety in communities across Colorado.”

“From safe storage laws to waiting periods, we’ve passed significant gun violence prevention legislation that will have a real impact on the safety of our communities,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “Current gaps in authority and resources make it difficult for law enforcement officials to enforce our laws to the fullest extent. Our new law gives CBI the authority and resources to work with local law enforcement agencies on life-saving investigations of illegal firearms.”

“We all share a common goal of keeping illegal guns out of our communities, which is why I’m proud that our legislation is now law to ensure the safety of our loved ones and neighbors,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “We should be proud of the significant progress that we’ve made to tackle gun violence. This legislation uplifts our past work and reflects our commitment to keeping our communities safe by ensuring law enforcement agencies have the resources they need to investigate illegal firearm activity.”

SB24-003 would give the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) the ability to investigate illegal activity involving firearms. It would appropriate $1.7 million to the Department of Public Safety to create a team that investigates individuals convicted of felonies who are attempting to illegally purchase a firearm, and other illegal firearm crimes such as possession of a ghost gun.

Sine Die! General Assembly Democrats Conclude Breakthrough Session by Delivering Major Wins for Colorado Communities

DENVER, CO – The second regular session of the 74th General Assembly concludes today, with Democratic lawmakers securing breakthrough victories on the issues that matter most to Colorado families: saving people money on housing, increasing education funding to historic levels by eliminating the budget stabilization factor, and addressing the climate crisis and boosting transit options.

“This legislative session has been nothing short of transformational for our families and communities,” said Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “Coloradans demanded that we take bold action to address the issues that matter most to them, and I am pleased to say we delivered. Democrats passed legislation that will boost Colorado’s transit system and protect our clean air and water, make housing more affordable, and finally fully fund our schools for the first time in over a decade. I am proud of all we’ve accomplished together.”

“This was a breakthrough session on affordability, housing, transit, water, education, transit and so much more,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “I’m so proud of our bipartisan efforts to increase funding for Colorado public schools by over $500 million and modernize the school finance formula for the first time in a generation to better support vulnerable students and rural schools. New laws will save Coloradans money on housing and property taxes, better protect renters and slash childhood poverty by increasing tax credits for hardworking people and families. From protecting our rivers, streams and wetlands to boosting rural economies and Colorado agriculture, we came together the Colorado way to deliver lasting results for every community in our state.”

“This year we set out to make Colorado a more affordable place to live, work and raise a family,” Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “Today, I’m proud to say that the legislation we passed this year achieves that goal and then some. From passing transformational tax credits that deliver hundreds of millions of dollars in relief to low and middle income families to implementing new protections for gig workers to boosting our workforce across industries, I’m extremely proud of the work that Democrats put in over the last 120 days to build on our progress and set Colorado on a path to a more prosperous future.”

“This session was huge. On issue after issue, lawmakers came together and passed policies that were years in the making,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “From preventing gun violence and protecting workers to boosting the incomes of hardworking people and preventing evictions, we made Colorado safer and more affordable for all. I’m particularly proud of the work of our Black and Latino Caucuses who passed critical legislation to support vulnerable people, improve maternal health and make Colorado a welcoming place for everyone who calls our state home.”

This year, lawmakers passed bills to save people money on housing and protect renters, increase access to health care and behavioral health care, invest in our students and our schools, expand Colorado’s workforce and improve access to higher education, protect our clean air and water, reduce gun violence, and cut poverty while boosting incomes for hardworking Colorado families.

SIGNED! Bill to Reduce Childhood Poverty

Tax credit will combat childhood poverty, boost incomes of middle and lower-income Coloradans, and save families money

DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed legislation into law to expand the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit to boost the incomes of hardworking families.

"Our regressive tax structures means ultra wealthy individuals often end up receiving more, proportional tax breaks than hardworking families," said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “Colorado’s tax code should work for families, which is why we are putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of the people who are most impacted by rising costs. Our law would make our tax code fairer by boosting tax refunds for low and middle-income taxpayers and helping to reduce childhood poverty.”

“Our tax code is skewed towards benefitting earners at the top, which is why I am fighting to pass measures like this that shift the balance towards all Coloradans,” Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, said. “This legislation will provide significant relief for the folks who need it most, and make it easier for Colorado’s working families to get by.”

“Growing up, the Earned Income Tax Credit rescued my family from the worst consequences of poverty. The EITC is one of the most important anti-poverty tools to help Colorado families make ends meet, pay for the car repairs that help them get to school and work, pay off their credit cards, and keep a roof over their heads,” said Rep. Manny Rutinel, D-Commerce City, sponsor of HB24-1134. “With this law, we’re providing financial relief to hardworking Coloradans by expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, increasing the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, and closing corporate tax loopholes so parents can provide a more stable life for their families.”

“Colorado’s working families deserve a break,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “These critical tax credits will put more money in their pockets, and make it easier to pay for necessities like groceries and rent. I’m proud to champion this new law that will lift folks out of poverty and will make life easier for Colorado families.”

Currently, the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is 38 percent of the federal EITC for tax year 2024, 25 percent for tax year 2025, and 20 percent for tax years beginning 2026.  HB24-1134 would permanently expand the state EITC by setting it to a baseline of 50 percent of the federal EITC for tax year 2024, 35 percent for tax year 2025, and at least 25 percent for tax years beginning 2026, and allowing it to increase up to 50 percent in years of strong economic growth in 2025 and beyond.

In addition to permanently expanding the EITC for Colorado families, the law would merge the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and the Low-income Child Care Expenses Tax Credit to create the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) to help individuals with an adjusted gross income cap of $60,000 meet the high cost of child and dependent care. HB24-1134 would expand the scope of qualified dependents to match the federal definition, by including dependents in addition to children under the age of 13. It would also increase the CDCTC to 70 percent of the federal credit. Additionally, the law would modernize Colorado’s corporate tax laws, making them more consistent with other states’ laws.

More than 133,000 Colorado children currently live in poverty. This law, combined with other key legislative efforts, will help improve outcomes for low and middle income families.

SIGNED! Bills to Save Coloradans Money on Housing Become Law

ENVER, CO – Governor Polis today signed a pair of bills into law that will save Colorado families millions of dollars a year on housing.

SB24-233, sponsored by the Chair of the bipartisan Commission on Property Tax Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Senator Barb Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, as well as House Speaker Pro Tempore Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood, and Representative Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, ensures that Colorado homeowners won’t see an increase in their property taxes for tax year 2024 and reduces statewide local taxes by more than $1 billion.

"Coloradans are depending on us to meet the moment and provide responsible relief that works for them and their families," Hansen said. "These bills will help save Coloradans money by responsibly reducing property tax rates in a way that balances the needs of homeowners with protecting critical funding for schools, and by making the senior homestead exemption portable and giving older Coloradans the freedom to downsize or sell their homes without paying a tax penalty. I am excited about this opportunity to deliver relief for those who need it most."

“After months of hard work on the Commission on Property Tax, I’m proud that our long-term, bipartisan solution will be signed into law to save Colorado homeowners and small businesses money on property taxes,” said deGruy Kennedy. “This law will responsibly reduce property taxes in a meaningful way to save people money while protecting school funding. We delivered meaningful results for Coloradans and there is no reason for deep-pocketed special interests to move forward with ballot measures that would devastate our communities, school funding, and public safety resources.”

In 2025 and beyond, SB24-233 will reduce property taxes by seven to 10 percent compared to current law for homes valued at $700,000 or less. Annual savings will equal $300-$400 for a home valued at $700,000. Savings depend on local mills and any changes in assessed home values. SB24-233 also reduces the commercial property assessment rate to 25 percent by 2026.

To offset revenue loss resulting from property tax reductions, SB24-233 directs nearly $380 million from the State Education Fund to backfill school districts, ensuring public schools remain fully funded.

Finally, SB24-233 provides protection against future spikes in property taxes by capping an increase in local property taxes at 5.5 percent starting in 2025, creating more certainty for homeowners and businesses.

Polis also signed SB24-111, sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen and Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, alongside Representatives Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton, and Mary Young, D-Greeley, which saves older Coloradans money on their property taxes by making the savings from the senior homestead property tax exemption portable.

For 2025 and 2026, SB24-111 creates a new subclass of property, the "qualified-senior primary residence real property", for an individual that has previously qualified for a senior homestead exemption but has moved to a new home.

“Spiking housing prices are hitting Coloradans hard - and it’s particularly tough for seniors on fixed incomes,” Kolker said. “Our state is number one in the nation for housing instability among people over the age of 65. Allowing seniors to carry this important benefit with them when they move will save older Coloradans thousands of dollars on their property taxes and help them age in place with the dignity they deserve.”

“The Senior Homestead Exemption helps seniors, Gold Star families, and veterans afford housing on their fixed income, and our law would expand eligibility so more people save money,” said Lieder. “We’re making the savings from this exemption portable so seniors have the freedom to move or downsize – without losing these important cost-saving benefits. This law is a major priority of mine and I am proud to pass this law that will help address the housing affordability crisis and make larger homes available for new families.”

“Seniors want to age at home, and this bill empowers them to do so in space that works for them,” said Young. “This is a straightforward, commonsense law that saves seniors money and makes the benefits from the senior tax exemption portable, giving seniors the freedom to move closer to family or downsize without losing eligibility for tax relief.”

Starting in 2025, For this new subclass of property—qualified-senior primary residence real property—the bill sets the assessed value of the property as the actual value minus 50 percent of the first $200,000 of that actual value, which is consistent with the exemption under the senior homestead exemption. Under this law, eligible seniors will benefit from this relief during the 2025 and 2026 property tax years.

SIGNED! Mullica’s Bipartisan Legislation to Create New TABOR Refund Mechanism

DENVER, CO – Today, Governor Jared Polis signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, that restructures the refund mechanisms for state revenue collected above the TABOR cap and ensures Colorado is able to meet its commitment to fund critical services and schools.

SB24-228, also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, temporarily lowers income tax rates and creates a new formula to determine future refund amounts through a six-tier refund mechanism and income tax rate reduction, and sales and use tax reductions in years with higher surpluses. 

"Making sure Colorado's tax code works for all Coloradans is one of my top priorities, which is why this new law is so important,” Mullica said. "This measure will put more money into the pockets of working Colorado families and help make ends meet. I’m proud to see this important legislation be signed into law today."

SB24-228 will ensure Colorado meets its funding obligations during a recession and, when paired with the new Family Affordability Tax Credit and expanded Earned Income Tax Credit, will support working Colorado families by reducing child poverty and boosting the incomes of hardworking people.

Legislation to Save Coloradans Money on Housing by Eliminating Parking Mandates Becomes Law

Legislation puts ‘people over parking’ to lower the cost of building new homes, increase Colorado’s housing supply, and reduce harmful air pollution

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO - Governor Polis today signed into law a bill to make housing in Colorado more affordable and reduce traffic congestion by eliminating parking mandates that drive up the cost of building new housing, especially multi-family developments.

"Minimum parking mandates drive up costs by forcing every builder to provide more spaces than the market demands. They can add hundreds of dollars to monthly rents and make many smaller scale developments completely impossible," said Rep. Stephanie Vigil, D-Colorado Springs. “These mandates, which are being challenged all over the country, have created to an abundance of asphalt, a shortage of housing and transportation choices, and higher greenhouse gas emissions. We have quite literally paved paradise to put up a parking lot. Our new law scales back this onerous regulation, allowing builders to right size parking supply based on the context and unique characteristics of every project.”

“Parking mandates drive up housing costs, increase traffic congestion, and make it harder for Colorado to hit its climate goals,” Senator Kevin Priola, D-Henderson, said. “Developers can always choose to include parking, but eliminating minimum requirements will increase the availability of housing, drive down prices, and help ensure more Coloradans have a place to call home.”

“The financial burden that comes with parking minimum requirements gets passed onto hardworking Coloradans through higher housing costs,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver. “Each parking space can add tens of thousands of dollars and reduce the number of units that we can build—restricting supply and driving up costs. This law, coupled with the other housing legislation that Colorado Democrats passed this year, will help alleviate our affordability crisis.”

“Parking spots cost tens of thousands of dollars each to build - an unacceptable amount at a time when too many Coloradans are struggling to find housing they can afford,” Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, said. “We must do more to encourage the construction of new housing in our state, including for Pueblo which has a large amount of land devoted to parking that could be redeveloped as housing and businesses. I am incredibly proud of our new law that will make it easier to do just that while reducing traffic, bolstering economic development, and freeing up valuable space for our communities while enhancing our downtowns.”

HB24-1304 prohibits a county or municipality from enacting or enforcing minimum parking requirements for most multifamily residential properties within a metropolitan planning organization (MPO) that are within a quarter mile of a transit stop or station.

The bill still allows a local government to impose a parking minimum of up to one space per unit on proposed housing developments with more than 20 units or that include any units classified as affordable housing. To impose this mandate, they must show that the parking minimum is required to avoid a substantial negative impact.

HB24-1304 does not allow a county or municipality to lower protections for people with disabilities and does not prevent a local government from enacting or enforcing a maximum parking requirement or requiring a number of spaces for temporary loading purposes.

Lastly, the bill requires the Colorado Department of Transportation and other state agencies to publish technical assistance materials and best practices for optimal parking supply and management policies by the end of 2024.

Parking minimums increase home prices and rents by requiring developers to use valuable space for cars that may not be fully utilized and could instead be dedicated to more housing units. In 2020, each new structured parking space in Denver cost $25,000 each.

Since the city of Minneapolis eliminated residential parking minimums in 2021, rents have only increased one percent, while Denver saw an average increase of nearly five percent in just the last two years. Research attributes the significant expansion of the housing supply in Minneapolis to the elimination of parking minimums.

The oversupply of parking is also directly linked to higher vehicle miles traveled. The transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas pollution in Colorado, with cars contributing nearly 60 percent of the sector’s greenhouse gas emissions.

JOINT RELEASE: Polis Signs Bill to Create the Office of Rail Safety

PUEBLO, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation to establish the Office of Rail Safety which will study and implement rail safety measures in Colorado.

“As we work toward expanding passenger rail in Colorado, we need to ensure our railways are safe,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “We know train derailments can be incredibly destructive and dangerous, which is why we’re working toward ways to ramp up Colorado's rail safety measures. This law establishes the Office of Rail Safety to oversee rail operations, collect data and create safer railways for us all.”

"Train derailments and obstruction accidents have increased and we must protect the safety of workers and our communities, particularly as we move to expand passenger rail," said Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. "Hazardous materials are frequently moved by rail through heavily forested areas near critical waterways, so an accident has the potential to be catastrophic. Our new Office of Rail Safety will oversee rail operations and collect data to help address the real safety issues we know are plaguing the rail industry."

“We need to take steps now to improve rail safety and prevent dangerous derailments,” said Rep. Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo. “This law creates the Office of Rail Safety to oversee rail operations across the state and requires them to file a report on critical safety information, such as train length, emergency response and clean up protocols.”

“As Colorado continues to grow, our rail-network will become even more critical to the sustainability of our state,” Senator Tony Exum Sr., D-Colorado Springs, said. “Train derailments can shut down critical transportation networks, cause major environmental harms, and threaten the health and safety of countless individuals. This new law will help ensure that the economic needs of our commercial rail system are met, without sacrificing the safety of our communities, our environment, or our transportation professionals.”

HB24-1030 will create the Office of Rail Safety within the Public Utilities Commission. The Office will be required to create a report including information to increase rail safety measures such as assessments of train length, emergency response and financial responsibility for cleanups of hazardous material incidents, and necessary staffing and equipment levels for implementation of safety measures. Under the law, the Office would be required to submit their report to the General Assembly by December 1, 2024.

The law aims to improve safety requirements for railroads operating in Colorado by:
·        Improving emergency response procedures through preparation and coordination;
·        Initiating state oversight of critical wayside detector systems;
·        Requiring a train crossing to be clear when an emergency vehicle, such as an ambulance or police car, approaches;
·        Allowing relevant union representatives to request investigations from the Office of Rail Safety; and
·        Increasing penalties for safety violations, with increased emphasis on repeat or knowing violations.

Gov Signs Bipartisan Bill to Support Colorado’s Workforce

DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed a bipartisan bill into law that will create a refundable state income tax credit and grant programs to boost registered apprenticeship opportunities.

“Colorado has made a lot of progress in our efforts to expand apprenticeship opportunities, and this new law will help employers offset the costs of creating high-quality registered apprenticeships to connect Coloradans with on-the-job experience and address workforce shortages,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn. “By supporting businesses in new and emerging industries to create apprenticeship opportunities, more Coloradans can earn money while they learn the ropes of their chosen industry. This law will allow us to help local businesses keep their doors open and create a stronger workforce with in-demand skills to keep our communities running.”

“I’m committed to paving the way for equitable access to opportunity, so that all Coloradans have the chance to get ahead – and a key way we can do that is by investing in our workforce,” Senate President Pro Tempore James Coleman, D-Denver, said. “We’re bringing forward resources that will expand existing programs and increase the adoption of registered apprenticeships. These investments can create more than 8,000 new apprenticeships, and give Coloradans the opportunities they need to succeed.”

HB24-1439, also sponsored by Representative Ron Weinberg, R-Loveland, and Senator Mark Baisley, R-Sedalia, creates a refundable state income tax credit for eligible employers starting in tax year 2025. This income tax credit is available to businesses operating in a new and emerging industry with a registered apprenticeship program.

HB24-1439 also creates the Scale-Up Grant Program to start new or expand existing registered apprenticeship programs and the Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary Grant Program to connect employers or apprenticeship program participants to registered apprenticeship programs.

SIGNED! Legislation to Encourage More Housing Near Transit and Jobs Becomes Law

Law will help save Coloradans money on housing by encouraging housing near transit options, increasing housing options Coloradans can afford to help meet demand

DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed legislation into law that will encourage more housing near public transit, cycling and walking corridors, places of employment, and other centers of community. It also provides financial support to cities, counties, and municipalities that meet their housing goals.

“Colorado’s housing crisis is making it nearly impossible for Coloradans to buy their first home, which is why we have to prioritize building denser housing near transit and job centers so we can reduce the cost of housing,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver, sponsor of HB24-1313. “Our new law encourages local governments to build transit-oriented housing by providing financial support to help them meet their communities’ housing needs. By legalizing smart and attainable housing development, we can make it easier for our community members to afford housing.”

“The housing challenges plaguing our state are reaching a fever pitch, which is why Democrats are laser focused on providing solutions,” Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, sponsor of HB24-1313 said. “One of those solutions is to incentivize smart, strategic growth near jobs and transit. This law will do just that, while also reducing congestion on our roads, cutting air pollution, and increasing affordability, so that more Colorado families can find a place to call home that works for them.”

“The vast majority of Coloradans support legislation that makes it easier to build housing near jobs and transit hubs,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB24-1313. “This new law seeks to make housing more affordable near jobs and transit centers, protect vulnerable communities from displacement, reduce water use and traffic, and build the homes Coloradans want. Coloradans need us to act now so we can address our housing and climate crises.”

“Coloradans are begging for more housing, and there is no better place to build housing and increase density than near transit,” Assistant Senate Majority Leader Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, sponsor of HB24-1313 said. “This new law is important in multiple ways - it will increase housing options, reduce costs, and help our state reach its climate goals, all while protecting vulnerable communities from displacement. I am proud to champion this legislation, and I look forward to the benefits it will bring to our state.”

HB24-1313 empowers local governments to address Colorado’s housing needs and incentivizes them to build more housing by providing financial assistance to help meet their housing goals. It also aims to conserve Colorado’s natural resources and improve air quality to protect vulnerable communities from pollution-related health issues. Of the 31 jurisdictions that would qualify under this bill, most are along the I-25 corridor.

Communities that meet their Housing Opportunity Goals would benefit from the new $35 million Transit-Oriented Communities Infrastructure Fund to support their work to improve infrastructure within transit centers or neighborhood centers.

A recent poll found that 95 percent of Coloradans say the cost of renting or buying a home is a problem, with 70 percent saying that local governments aren’t doing enough to address this issue. Nearly 70 percent of Colorado voters also support a state law, like HB24-1313, to require cities and counties to allow more housing to be built near public transit and businesses and shopping areas while providing financial assistance for these projects.

SAVING Coloradans Money on Housing! Gov Signs Bill to Legalize ADUs

DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed into law a bill that will create more housing options Coloradans can afford by allowing more homeowners to build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

“Coloradans are relying on us to pass effective legislation to tackle the housing crisis, and this law gives homeowners the tools to create more housing opportunities,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB24-1152. “From housing aging relatives to renting out extra space, ADUs offer alternative housing options that can save Coloradans money on housing and legalize alternative home-care placements. This is an important bipartisan law that makes it easier for Coloradans to live near their jobs, schools, and loved ones.”

“Colorado families and communities are desperate for solutions to help address the housing crisis and build more homes for working Coloradans,” said Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, sponsor of HB24-1152. “Our bill will give more Coloradans the freedom and support they need to build ADUs on their property, allow more older Coloradans to age in place, and create more affordable housing options in our communities.”

“Everyone deserves a safe and comfortable place to live, but too many families are struggling to afford the cost of housing in our state,” Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, sponsor of HB24-1313 said. “By giving folks the flexibility to build ADUs on their property, as well as providing grant funding to help cover construction costs, we can bring down housing prices and keep more Coloradans in the communities they call home.”

HB24-1152, also sponsored by Representative Ron Weinberg, R-Loveland, allows homeowners in subject jurisdictions to build an ADU with fewer obstacles and creates a new $5 million state grant program to help local governments implement policies to promote and streamline the construction of ADUs.

The grant program would enable local governments to support lower and middle-income Coloradans building an ADU, property owners renting their ADU at an affordable rate, and the construction of accessible ADUs.

Finally, HB24-1152 provides $8 million in funding through the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority to directly help homeowners in ADU-supportive jurisdictions build ADUs, including with down payment assistance, affordable loans, and buying down interest rates on loans for the conversion or construction of ADUs.

Recent polling found that 78 percent of Colorado voters support a law that allows ADUs to be built on single-family home properties.

Senate Approves Marchman, Danielson Bill to Create Access to HVAC Systems for Schools

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, that would help schools access infrastructure grants to improve their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems cleared the Senate yesterday.

HB24-1307 would require Colorado schools to follow technical specifications for the installation, inspection, maintenance, review and reporting of HVAC systems whenever improvements are made using federal money, which would allow schools to apply for state and federal grants to upgrade their HVAC systems.

“It’s hard to learn and teach in classrooms that are hot and have poor air quality. Across America, school districts are securing federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds to directly improve health and safety in public schools,” Marchman said. “But Colorado statute does not currently allow bipartisan IIJA funds to be distributed to school districts. Colorado has missed out on billions of federal dollars because without this bill, schools are ineligible for federal grant funding in Colorado. This bill will help Colorado school districts access critical federal funding that will allow them to install or update their heating and air conditioning systems.”

“Every year schools across our state cancel classes due to ‘heat days’ because far too many schools still lack access to basic air conditioning,” Danielson said. “Those are extremely valuable lost hours of learning that make a real impact on our students. This bill would help make schools more competitive for critical federal dollars that will help make our learning environments safer and more comfortable so students can focus on what matters most: learning.”

The bill would also require schools to only employ certified contractors to perform HVAC improvements.

HB24-1307 will now move to the House for consideration of Senate amendments. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Pair of Bills to Continue Wildfire Prevention Awareness, Improve Wildfire Mitigation Clears Senate

DENVER, CO – The Senate recently approved a pair of bills sponsored by Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to continue wildfire prevention awareness and improve wildfire mitigation in rural communities.

“We must use every tool available to protect our communities and prepare for the increased number and intensity of wildfires,” said Cutter. “The bills advanced today will help get these tools and valuable information into communities under threat of wildfire, including those in under-resourced rural communities.”

HB24-1024 would require the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) 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.

In 2022, Cutter sponsored legislation that directed CSFS to create a working group and implement an enhanced wildfire awareness month outreach campaign for 2023 and 2024.

The Senate also approved HB24-1006, cosponsored by Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, which would establish a grant program within CSFS to provide grant funds to nonprofits to aid rural communities in navigating and applying for state and federal wildfire prevention grants. The array of available resources can be complex to wade through, which is why navigation assistance is critical to help communities obtain the resources they need to combat wildfires through prevention tactics, response efforts, and risk management.

Both bills now head to the Governor for his signature. Track HB24-1024’s progress HERE and HB24-1006’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Legislation to Support New Immigrants

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate approved Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Lisa Cutter’s, D-Jefferson County, legislation to support new immigrants.

HB24-1280 would create the Statewide Welcome, Reception, and Integration Grant Program to direct funding to community-based organizations that provide services to new immigrants within their first year in the United States.

“Colorado’s immigrant communities make our state stronger,” said Fields. “With the recent increase of new immigrants to our state, community organizations and local governments are struggling to keep up with the high demand for services. Increasing access to resources like employment and housing services will help new immigrants build successful lives in Colorado.”

“Colorado has seen a recent influx of new immigrants, and they often arrive with very little and no knowledge or connections to help them integrate,” Cutter said. “This critical bill will better resource existing community-based organizations so they can support new immigrants and provide them with the tools they need to thrive in Colorado.”

Under the program, grant funding could be used for:

• Conducting an intake and assessment of needs;

• Providing cultural orientation and case management;

• Services or referrals to employment services, immigration legal assistance, housing-related services, transportation services, financial orientation, mental and physical health services, interpretation and translation services, and English as a second language courses;

• Distributing emergency and transitional supplies; and

• Assisting new immigrant parents to enroll their kids in public schools or summer programs.

HB24-1280 now heads to the Governor to be signed into law. Track its progress HERE.

Bill to Bolster Crime Victim Support, Behavioral Health Programs Passes Senate

New funds would go to crime victims grant programs, public safety grants, and behavioral health services

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate passed legislation to refer a measure to the ballot that would fund the Colorado Crime Victims Services Fund and behavioral health crisis response services by creating an excise tax on the firearm industry.

If approved by voters in the November 2024 election, HB24-1349, sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, would create a new excise tax on gun dealers, gun manufacturers, and ammunition vendors beginning April 1, 2025. As amended, this bill would generate approximately $39 million annually.

“Coloradans have shown time and again that they want to make our communities safer, and supporting crime victims is a critical part of that,” Hansen said. “With this measure, Coloradans would have the chance to vote to ensure victim services like youth behavioral health care and violence prevention are sustained for years to come. These programs are essential across the state and can help cut off the cycle of crime before it continues.”

“With federal funding for the Victims of Crime Act to decrease in Colorado by 40 to 50 percent in the next year, it is so important we pass this measure to support victims of crime,” said Buckner. “Many families in my community rely on services like housing support and legal advocacy as they navigate their painful ordeal – which is why I’m proud to sponsor this legislation to create consistent funding for them.” 

The funds would be allocated in the following manner:

• $30 million to the Colorado Crime Victims Services fund for crime victim services grants;

• $8 million to the Behavioral Health Administration to provide crisis resolution services to youth experiencing a behavioral health crisis, and to provide mental health services for veterans; 

• $1 million to support school safety; and

• Any remaining funds to the Crime Victim Services fund for additional grants to support crime victims and survivors.

Small businesses with less than $20,000 in annual retail sales and retail sales to peace officers, law enforcement agencies, and active duty military members are exempt from this bill.

The bill now heads back to the House for concurrence of amendments. Follow its progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Preserve Affordable Housing Stock

HB24-1175 would give local governments the right of first refusal to buy existing affordable housing when a building or complex is up for sale

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate approved legislation to give local governments the right of first refusal to purchase existing subsidized housing and preserve Colorado’s limited affordable housing stock.

Sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, HB24-1175 would also give local governments the right to make the first offer to purchase other multifamily properties with 15 to 100 units that are more than 30 years old, before the property is listed for sale to other parties.

“Whether it’s Broomfield or Berthoud, housing is a top concern for Coloradans,” Winter said. “This year, we’re tackling Colorado’s housing crisis from all angles. By giving local governments an additional tool to preserve affordable housing stock, Coloradans will be better positioned to find housing options that fit their budget.”

“Colorado is in the midst of a housing crisis and we must do everything we can to help renters and homeowners,” said Jaquez Lewis. “By giving local governments the chance to make the first offer and create new affordable housing stock, we can ensure more Coloradans – especially lower income families – have an affordable place they can call home.”

The right of first refusal would give local governments the right to purchase a multi-family residential or mixed-use rental property with at least five units, for existing affordable housing, if they match any offers that the seller receives and continue to use the property for long-term affordable housing.

For other multifamily properties, the bill gives local governments the right of first offer before the property is listed for sale. If interested, the local government must respond within seven days and may request additional information, with the seller having five days to comply and the local government another 14 days to make an offer. Accepted offers would lead to a 30-day negotiation period and a 60-day closing period. 

The right of first offer and right of first refusal would terminate on December 31, 2029.

HB24-1175 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Coleman’s Bill to Strengthen Colorado’s Workforce, Reduce Recidivism

DENVER, CO – The Senate yesterday approved legislation sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore James Coleman, D-Denver, that would strengthen Colorado’s workforce and reduce recidivism. 

HB24-1004 would ensure Coloradans who have served their time can re-enter the workforce, acquire professional credentials, support their families, and succeed in their careers. 

“Coloradans who have a criminal record face significant barriers to entry when looking for jobs, which makes it harder to break the cycle of incarceration and rebuild their lives,” Coleman said. “This bill aims to break down those barriers and make it easier for formerly incarcerated Coloradans to re-enter their communities and find a good-paying job that supports them and their families.”

HB24-1004 establishes a uniform process for considering criminal records in occupational registration, certification, and licensure applications. The bill includes a wide range of careers from the construction and banking industries to IT. The bill further prohibits regulators from automatically refusing to grant or renew a license based on an applicant’s criminal record unless the applicant’s conviction is directly related to a specific element that is still relevant at the time of an individual’s application.

HB24-1004 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Pair of Bills to Cut Child Poverty, Support Working Colorado Families

DENVER, CO – The Senate approved a pair of bills to better support working Colorado families.

HB24-1311, sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Senate President Pro Tempore James Coleman, D-Denver, would create the refundable Family Affordability Tax Credit (FATC). This credit would be available to parents with children aged 16 and younger, and the maximum credit amount would be $3,200 per child and would be adjusted for income, inflation, economic growth, and unemployment.

“Looking out for Colorado families means making sure they don’t have to choose between putting food on the table and paying rent or affording other necessities,” said Winter. “It’s no understatement to say that this is one of the more impactful pieces of legislation we’re going to see this session. I am extremely pleased to be a part of making this bill possible, because it will cut child poverty in half while making it that much easier for working families to get by in our state.”

“Working Coloradans need our support, and I am pleased to say that we have an opportunity to make a real, transformative difference for kids and families,” said Coleman. “This bill will provide direct relief for families in our community while making our tax code more equitable, and will help give more Colorado families the resources they need to thrive.”

The FATC is available to single tax filers with a federal adjusted gross income up to $75,000 or joint filers up to $85,000

The Senate also approved HB24-1134, sponsored by Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Chris Hansen, D-Denver, which would permanently expand the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) by setting it to a baseline of 50 percent of the federal EITC for tax year 2024, 35 percent for tax year 2025, and at least 25 percent for tax years beginning 2026, and allowing it to increase up to 50 percent in years of strong economic growth in 2025 and beyond.

“Our tax code is skewed towards benefitting earners at the top, which is why I am fighting to pass measures like this that shift the balance towards all Coloradans,” Hinrichsen said. “This legislation will provide significant relief for the folks who need it most, and make it easier for Colorado’s working families to get by.”

“Colorado’s working families deserve a break,” said Hansen. “These critical tax credits will put more money in their pockets, and make it easier to pay for necessities like groceries and rent. I’m proud to champion this legislation that will lift folks out of poverty and will make life easier for Colorado families.”

In addition to permanently expanding the EITC for Colorado families, HB24-1134 would merge the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and the Low-income Child Care Expenses Tax Credit to create the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of up to $60,000. 

Both bills will now return to the House for consideration of amendments. Track HB24-1311 HERE, and HB24-1134 HERE.