Senate Democratic Leadership Statements on President Biden

DENVER, CO – Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, today released the following statements on President Biden’s decision not to seek reelection. 

Senate President Steve Fenberg:

“President Biden is a true public servant and deserves our immense gratitude for saving the country from a deepening crisis in the 2020 election. He brought steady leadership to the world’s biggest international health crisis, curbed the economic fallout of that crisis, and pivoted to pass historic legislation that no previous president was able to accomplish in the modern era. His unprecedented action on climate and infrastructure investments alone is worthy of a legacy that should be celebrated for generations.”

Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez:

“President Biden has been a champion for the American people. I’m deeply appreciative of his leadership over the past four years and excited for the work ahead to ensure we can continue to build on his successes. As we move forward together, Colorado Senate Democrats will remain focused on the shared priorities of the Biden administration and the people of Colorado - building a strong economy that works for all, investing in critical infrastructure projects, and creating good jobs.”

Legislation to Streamline Colorado's Competency System Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Representative Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, that aims to streamline complicated processes in the competency system to increase efficiency and effectiveness and reduce waitlists goes into effect on July 1.

"We must reform Colorado's competency system to get people the help they need to get better, which is why we passed this new law," said Amabile. "By streamlining our competency system, we can help provide crucial behavioral health services to Coloradans in need."

“Colorado’s competency system is overwhelmed and overcomplicated,” Fields said. “Folks are struggling with difficult mental health issues, and they need help now. It’s past time we make updates to our competency system to ensure more people are getting the behavioral health care support they need to stay out of the criminal justice system and live more whole lives.”

To help get people who are unlikely to be restored to competency into appropriate treatment, HB24-1034 imposes new time limits for when a defendant who has been deemed incompetent to proceed can remain in custody. Additionally, the bill directs when competency services may be provided on an outpatient basis.

Law to Create the Office of Rail Safety Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO – Legislation to establish the Office of Rail Safety which will study and implement rail safety measures in Colorado goes into effect today.

HB24-1030, sponsored by Senators Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, and Representatives Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, and Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo, creates the Office of Rail Safety within the Public Utilities Commission. The Office is 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 is required to submit their report to the General Assembly by December 1, 2024.

"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 Cutter. "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."

“As we work toward expanding passenger rail in Colorado, we need to ensure our railways are safe,” said Mabrey. “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.”

“As Colorado continues to grow, our rail-network will become even more critical to the sustainability of our state,” Exum 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.”

“We need to take steps now to improve rail safety and prevent dangerous derailments,” said Mauro. “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.”

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.

Hamrick, Hansen Bipartisan Law to Boost Educator Workforce Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO - Bipartisan legislation goes into effect today to boost Colorado’s education workforce. HB24-1044, sponsored by Representative Eliza Hamrick and Senator Chris Hansen, allows school districts to hire more Public Employee Retirement Association (PERA) retirees, without the risk of the retirees losing their retirement benefits.

“Colorado’s educator shortage is dire and our students deserve quality education,” said Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial. “To address our educator shortage, we need to use every tool available to us. With our new law going into effect, more retired educators and staff are able to return to the schools, without the risk of losing their PERA retirement benefits. This will encourage retired teachers to return to the classroom and help our schools and most importantly – our students.”

“Colorado schools are facing a critical shortage of teachers, which results in larger class sizes and fewer students getting the individualized attention they need,” Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, said. “Allowing more retirees to return to the classroom without jeopardizing their hard-earned PERA benefits will get more qualified teachers and staff into our schools and help more students get the quality education they deserve.”

HB24-1044, also sponsored by Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, expands the number of service retirees that school districts may hire while still being eligible for PERA benefits. Specifically, school districts can exceed the current 10 retiree cap by 1 retiree for every 1,000 students above 10,000 students.

Under current law, school districts may only hire retirees when a “critical shortage of qualified instructors” is established. This law aims to streamline placing educators in classrooms by instead allowing school districts to hire up to 10 retirees if the district identifies a “need” for additional instructors.

Legislation to Protect More Coloradans from Bias-Motivated Crimes Goes Into Effect

SB24-189 adds gender identity and gender expression to Colorado’s bias-motivated crimes and harassment laws

DENVER, CO – Legislation that will protect more Coloradans from bias-motivated crimes goes into effect on July 1.

SB24-189, sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Chris Hansen, D-Denver, as well as Representative Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, improves protections for Coloradans by adding gender identity and gender expression to the classes included in Colorado’s bias-motivated crimes and harassment laws. 

“Every Coloradan deserves to feel secure in their community, but far too many folks have been targeted because of who they are or how they identify,” Fields said. “As trans, nonbinary, and gender-expansive folks face increasing threats across the country, we will continue fighting to make our state safer for all Coloradans and provide better protections against bias-motivated crime and harassment.”

"Sadly hate crimes are on the rise in Colorado and the need for protections for LGBTQ+ Coloradans is very clear," Weissman said. "This new law bolsters protections for our transgender community by clarifying transgender identity as a protected class in our bias crime laws. We are working hard to protect all Coloradans from crimes that target them just because of who they are."

“Colorado has been a national leader when it comes to advancing equality and protections for our LGBTQ+ neighbors,” Hansen said. “This bill will help protect Coloradans from violence or harassment based on their gender identity or gender expression, and will help ensure perpetrators of bias-motivated crimes are held accountable for their actions. I’m pleased to champion this legislation that will help more Coloradans feel secure and keep people in our communities safe.”

The bill also redefines "sexual orientation" as used in our bias-motivated crimes and harassment statutes.

Amabile, Roberts Suicide Prevention Bill Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO - On July 1, 2024, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Representative Judy Amabile and Senator Dylan Roberts goes into effect to prevent suicides by regulating sales of sodium nitrite products.

“Colorado is in a mental health crisis, and the growing frequency of suicide by sodium nitrite products indicates that these products are too easily accessible,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Some private online sellers are marketing concentrated sodium nitrite products as a way to complete suicide, profiting off of the mental health struggles of our loved ones and neighbors. This new law brings much-needed regulation to these products so we can keep it out of the hands of people most vulnerable to it and instead, focus on getting them help.”

“Colorado tragically has one of the highest rates of suicide in the country, with a particularly alarming high number of suicide deaths among Colorado’s youth,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Denver. “In recent years, we have seen a disturbing trend where people struggling with suicidal ideation and seeking help online are winding up in a web-based wasteland that offers advice on “how to” take one’s own life. This new law will restrict the availability of the extremely potent sodium nitrite chemical and appropriately highlight its lethality so that we can restrict this means of suicide and save lives.”

Sodium nitrite “suicide kits” are easily accessible online and have been reported to be used by Colorado residents, especially youth, in recent years. Websites that sell these kits often have step-by-step instructions on how to use sodium nitrite to complete suicide.

HB24-1081, also sponsored by Representative Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, and Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, prohibits the sale or transfer of products containing 10 percent or greater sodium nitrite to individuals. It can still be sold to businesses, though sellers will now be required to verify that businesses require the product before a transaction can be made, and records of sales or transfers must be kept for three years.

Violators will see $10,000 in civil penalties for a first violation, with up to $1 million for a second violation.

New Election Protection Laws By Colorado Democrats Go Into Effect

DENVER, CO - On July 1, 2024, legislation will go into effect to protect Colorado’s elections by punishing future attempts at “fake elector” schemes and adding protections against deepfake media that falsely depicts political candidates.

“In 2020, our country experienced an attack on democracy when the former president and his supporters tried to overturn the election results,” said Rep. Lorena Garcia, D-Unincorporated Adams County, sponsor of HB24-1150. "Donald Trump organized an effort to replace the electoral college voters with imposter electors who would cast their vote for him instead of Biden, the actual winner. This scheme ultimately failed, but we must be firm that these efforts can never materialize again. Our law is a proactive step to protect democracy in Colorado.”

“When I served in the Army I took an oath to defend our freedom and our democracy,” said Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, sponsor of HB24-1150. “‘Fake elector’ schemes and other attempts to overturn our free and fair elections aim to undermine our democracy, and are an insult to that oath and the millions of brave men and women like me who have fought on behalf of our country. This law will ensure that future efforts to create false slates of electors in an attempt to overturn a free and fair election will be punished, creating critical guardrails and protecting the integrity of Colorado’s votes.”

"Our nation has survived for centuries based on the people's faith in our democracy.  I took my first oath to protect and defend that democracy when I was 17 years old and I continue to honor that oath today," said Rep. Jennifer Parenti, D-Erie, sponsor of HB24-1150. “Schemes to undermine our presidential elections are a direct attack on that democracy and the values upon which our nation was founded. This law clarifies that those who participate in or conspire to create a false slate of electors are committing forgery and perjury and are therefore subject to prosecution under Colorado law.  The legislature has a duty to the people of Colorado to send a strong message that elections matter and we will do everything in our power to protect the integrity of their votes.”

HB24-1150 makes it a crime of perjury and forgery to create, serve, or conspire to create or serve in a false slate of presidential electors. Each crime is punishable by up to a $10,000 fine. A person who is convicted of these crimes will be disqualified from serving in the Colorado General Assembly or other public offices.

After the 2020 election, former President Trump and his Republican allies attempted to recruit fake electors in key swing states including Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin, Nevada, and New Mexico, in an attempt to overturn President Biden’s victory.

John Eastman, an attorney and advisor to Trump, was one of 18 people indicted with the former president for their alleged efforts to overturn Georgia’s election results in 2020. He is accused of attempting to pressure former Vice President Mike Pence to either delay Congress’ certification of electoral votes on January 6, 2021 or reject some states’ slate of electors to allow alternate electors who would support Trump.

HB24-1147 creates new regulations for people who use artificial intelligence and deepfake-generated content that includes candidates for elected office. Deepfake media that includes a candidate for elected office will be required to include a disclaimer that the content is not real or truthful.

“Deepfakes of candidates for elected office are created to spread misinformation and disrupt our fair election process,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB24-1147. "Coloradans deserve to know if the videos they are watching are fake so they can make accurate, informed decisions. Artificial intelligence poses a real threat to our elections, and our new law is crucial in protecting our democratic process.”

“Deepfake technology is a direct threat to our democracy, and I am proud to be focused on defending transparency in our elections,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, sponsor of HB24-1147. “Voters deserve to know which media they consume is real and which is manipulated so they can make informed decisions at the ballot box. These guardrails are essential to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure fair races for both candidates and voters.”

“Deepfakes can have a harmful effect on the election process and are a real threat to our democracy,” said Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada, sponsor of HB24-1147. "Our legislation safeguards our elections by requiring AI-generated deepfake content to include a disclaimer and establishing legal avenues for candidates who have been negatively impacted by deepfake technology. Colorado voters should know what candidates actually say and not be deceived by depictions of things they did not.”

“AI is already affecting our electoral process, and it is vital we add protections in time for upcoming elections,” said Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB24-1147. “This law safeguards our elections by requiring a disclaimer on artificially altered media, so Coloradans can know what's true and not be deceived by bad actors.”

Under the law, a candidate who is the subject of an undisclosed deepfake communication can pursue civil action and file a complaint with the office of the Secretary of State.

In February 2024, deepfake audio of President Biden was sent via robocall in New Hampshire to discourage voters from participating in the primary election.

Law to Make Housing More Affordable, Remove Unnecessary Occupancy Limits Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO - On July 1, 2024, legislation goes into effect to prohibit local governments from implementing or enforcing residential occupancy limits except for health and safety reasons.

“Colorado has a housing shortage across the state, forcing people to live paycheck to paycheck just to have a roof over their head,”  said Rep. Manny Rutinel, D-Commerce City. “Discriminatory housing limits often prevent Coloradans from living with friends or distant family members, reducing housing options and pushing people out of their communities. Now, we’re allowing more Coloradans to legally share living spaces, which will make housing more affordable and help ensure that more Coloradans have a place to call home.”

“Ending discriminatory occupancy limits is a great way to break down housing barriers and create a more equitable market,” said Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “These limits disproportionately affect historically marginalized communities that may have diverse family structures. It’s time we lift outdated occupancy limits and give Coloradans a wider range of housing options.”

“Occupancy limits that are not genuinely necessary for health and safety limit the ability of Coloradans struggling to get by to find affordable housing,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “At a time when Coloradans face a shortage of housing supply, our governments should not be limiting the supply of housing. This legislation will expand housing options for all and allow people to make their own housing choices that benefit their families and save them money.”

“Strict occupancy limits can reduce housing options and push folks out of their communities,” said Senator Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs. “Prohibiting occupancy limits would give residents the freedom to choose their living situations and who they live with. With this bill, we can allow families to live in a structure that’s best for them – without the interference of occupancy limits.”

HB24-1007 prohibits local governments from limiting the number of people who can live together based on family status. Limits are only permitted if they are based on affordable housing program guidelines or demonstrated health and safety standards, such as fire code regulations, wastewater and water quality standards, or international building code standards.

Occupancy limits typically cap the number of people that can live in a residence based on whether or not they are not related, even if the residence has more bedrooms than the occupancy limit standard. In 2023, there were over 14,000 Coloradans experiencing homelessness. More than 50 percent of renters in the Denver Metro Area, as well as counties like Boulder, El Paso, Larimer, Pueblo, Summit, Eagle, and Mesa, are cost burdened.

Economic Outlook Shows Continued Economic Growth in Colorado

DENVER, CO – Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) today released the following statements after the Legislative Council Staff and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered the June quarterly economic forecasts.

“Our economy continues to do better than the rest of the country, and slowing prices, lower taxes, and increased wages mean Coloradans can keep more of their hard-earned money,” said JBC Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “I’m proud that teacher pay is reaching all time highs from our work to increase funding for our public schools and eliminate the budget stabilization factor. Additionally, we’re seeing a faster decrease in our inflation rate than most other states across the nation. We will continue responsible budget decisions to make Colorado more affordable, boost our economy and reduce the cost of housing, health care and child care.”

“Colorado’s economy continues to outperform the nation’s with a strong labor market and low inflation rate,” said JBC Vice Chair Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada. “I’m proud that this year we were able to take bold action to set Colorado up for success by eliminating the budget stabilization factor, expanding access to behavioral health resources, and building safer communities. Going forward, however, the JBC will have to work carefully within the predicted constrained budget to ensure we continue to live within our fiscal means and deliver the essential services Coloradans rely on.”

“I’m encouraged by Colorado’s promising economic outlook, and I am excited to continue our work to make our state more affordable and build an economy that works for all families in our state,” said JBC Member Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “While housing costs and price increases are slowing, they are still too high. This year, we passed breakthrough legislation to reduce the cost of housing and boosted tax refunds and credits for hardworking people and families by thousands of dollars. I remain concerned that irresponsible property tax cuts being proposed will require enormous state backfill and will put these and other critical investments, like education funding, at risk. I look forward to crafting a responsible budget that addresses the needs of our most vulnerable Coloradans and makes Colorado more affordable.”

Today’s economic outlook shows a sustained, strong Colorado economy with low unemployment rates, job growth, and slowing price increases,” said JBC Member Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “However, the forecast also contains a cautionary prediction of a challenging budgetary landscape for the 2025 legislative session. The JBC will have its work cut out for it to deliver results for Coloradans while ensuring our state remains on strong financial footing in the years to come.”

Colorado’s economy continues to grow and outperform the nation’s economy. Colorado’s unemployment rate of 3.7 percent remains lower than the national average of 4 percent. Wage growth for the mountain region, which includes Colorado, is at 5.9 percent compared to 5.2 percent nationwide. The national inflation rate has stabilized at 3.3 percent, down from a peak of 8.2 percent in March 2023.

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17 billion in FY 2024-2025 and $18.37 billion in FY 2025-2026 – a $1.64 billion decrease for FY 2024-2025 and a $1.28 billion decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the earlier March revenue forecast.

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.4 billion for FY 2024-2025 and $18.1 for FY 2025-2026 – a $677 million decrease for FY 2024-2025 and a $1.05 billion decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the March revenue forecast.

The forecast anticipates continued modest growth and that the risk of a near-term recession has decreased. Factors that could improve the forecast include a fast resolution to inflationary pressures, more accommodative monetary policy from the Federal Reserve, and a resolution to international conflicts that impact our country and state’s economy. Risks that could negatively impact the forecast include deteriorating household finances hurting consumer consumption, high borrowing costs discouraging investment, accelerating unemployment, and poor global economy impacts on U.S. growth.

ICYMI: Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Rural Health Care Becomes Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed legislation into law administratively to improve health care in rural Colorado by designating funding to train, recruit and grow Colorado’s health care workforce.

“Folks who live in rural communities like those I represent on the Western Slope face unique challenges with the cost of and lack of access to health care,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “In the legislature, I’ve worked to boost our rural health care workforce, and this new law will expand that successful program and support our rural hospitals with much needed supplemental funding so that they can keep their doors open and continue to serve their communities."

“Coloradans living in rural and mountain communities, like mine, deserve access to high-quality health care – including mental and behavioral health care,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. “We’re taking steps to support Colorado’s rural health care workforce by driving funding toward rural hospitals and expanding mental health care support for our farmers and ranchers. I’m beyond proud to carry these bills at the Capitol because health care in every community and corner of the state matters.”

SB24-221, also sponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, and Representative Marc Caitlin, R-Montrose, builds upon previous legislation that established the Colorado Rural Health Care Workforce Initiative to expand the number of health care professionals practicing in rural areas. This law would designate additional funding for institutions of higher education to establish or expand an existing rural health care provider training track, as well as provide over $1.7 million in direct assistance for rural hospitals.

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SIGNED! Bipartisan Bill to Support Colorado's Workforce Becomes Law

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – Governor Polis today signed a bipartisan bill to support workforce development in Colorado. HB24-1365, sponsored by Representative Meghan Lukens, and Senator Jeff Bridges would help communities address workforce shortages and create connections for Coloradans seeking high-paying, skilled careers.

“Over the years, Opportunity Now grants have sparked job growth and supported rural and mountain communities like in Northwestern Colorado,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. “As we build new roads, bridges, businesses, and affordable housing – the demand for highly-skilled construction only increases. This bipartisan law outlines the final round of grant funding while addressing the need in the construction and building trades as they strengthen our communities. Our new law will save Coloradans money as they pursue good-paying jobs in the construction industry and fill critical workforce shortages.”

“Opportunity is a core Colorado value, and every Coloradan should have the opportunity to earn a good life," said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. "That opportunity often starts with a good education, one that's aligned with good-paying jobs in a person's community. Making sure what schools teach matches what businesses need is exactly what the Opportunity Now grant does, leading to better wages for workers, a well-trained workforce for our employers, and a stronger Colorado economy for everyone."

HB24-1365, also sponsored by Representative Matt Soper, R-Delta, and Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle, supports the fourth and final round of the successful Opportunity Now Colorado grants. The goal of this law is to connect more Coloradans with in-demand, high-wage careers, specifically in the construction, infrastructure and building trades.  

This law also creates the Regional Talent Summit Grant Program that connects Coloradans to in-demand careers in their communities and offers a workforce shortage tax credit to upgrade training facilities and equipment. By leveraging federal investments outlined in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, CHIPS and Science Act, and others, it provides the opportunity to train workers in new, emerging fields.

The Opportunity Now grant program has awarded $27 million to 46 grantees representing 145 businesses and 78 education partners in 38 different industries.

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Signed! New Laws Will Save Seniors, Coloradans with Disabilities Money

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed three bills into law to save seniors and Coloradans with disabilities money by allowing them to deduct all federally taxed social security income on their state taxes, reinstate a refundable tax credit to save older Coloradans money on housing, and expand a refundable tax credit for seniors with disabilities.

“The rising cost of living has been tough on our seniors with fixed incomes and those planning to retire soon,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB24-1142. “This bipartisan law saves eligible seniors and retired veterans with disabilities money by allowing them to deduct all federally taxed social security income on their state taxes. By increasing the cap of non-taxable social security income, we’re helping ensure eligible seniors receive more of their hard-earned benefits and have more money in their pockets to pay for groceries, rent and other necessities.”

“Older Coloradans on fixed incomes and those living with a disability are especially impacted by high costs of living,” Senator Faith Winter, D-Westminster, said, sponsor of HB24-1142. “HB-1142 removes the current cap of social security incomes that qualifying individuals can deduct on their taxes, which will keep money in the pockets of those who need it most.”

HB24-1142, also sponsored by Representative Richard Holtorf, R-Akron, and Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, saves seniors money on their taxes. Under current law, taxpayers ages 55 to 64 may deduct up to $20,000 of pension and annuity income, which includes federally taxable social security income, when calculating their taxable income. For taxpayers 55 to 64 years of age and making $75,000 or less starting in 2025, this law allows all federally taxed social security income to be deductible in Colorado.

Taxpayers over the age of 65 may already deduct the full amount of federally taxable social security income, or other forms of pension and annuity income up to $24,000. This bill would lower the age to ensure eligible Coloradans aged 55 to 64 can benefit from the full deduction. The current cap still applies to all other forms of pension and annuity income, and the cap may only be exceeded when social security income specifically is higher than the cap.

HB24-1052 reinstates a refundable income tax credit for Coloradans aged 65 or older with incomes under $75,000 (or $125,000 if filing jointly) who have not claimed a homestead property tax exemption for the 2024 property tax year. The income tax credit was initially created by HB22-1205.

“Amidst our statewide housing crisis, seniors on fixed incomes need additional relief to afford their rent and stay in their homes,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, sponsor of HB24-1052. “While we’ve worked hard to extend housing support through property tax relief and a portable homestead property tax exemption, we must do more to help seniors who rent. This refundable tax credit will help even more lower and fixed income seniors remain in the homes and communities they love.”

“The senior homestead property tax exemption is a helpful tool for seniors, who largely survive on a fixed income, to afford housing, but senior renters also deserve assistance,” said Rep. Bob Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch, sponsor of HB24-1052. “Renters are especially vulnerable to rising costs, with nearly 35 percent of Colorado seniors concerned over paying next month’s rent. Our new law works to ensure that all Colorado seniors, regardless of if they rent or own their home, can benefit from tax relief.”

“We’ve been working hard to support Colorado seniors, and especially those living on a low fixed income while renting, or who are not eligible for the senior homestead exemption, which is why I am so proud to champion this important legislation,” Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, sponsor of HB24-1052 said. “This measure will save older Coloradans millions of dollars on housing, make our state a more affordable place to live, and ensure seniors can remain in the communities they have called home for years to come.”

“Housing affordability is a priority for Colorado Democrats, which is why we passed these laws to save our seniors, especially those with disabilities, money,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB24-1052 and HB24-1268. “Housing prices have skyrocketed in the last few years, making it nearly impossible for those with fixed incomes, such as seniors and people with a disability, to keep up which is why we’re reinstating an impactful housing tax credit for our seniors and improving a financial assistance program for those most in need. By converting the PTC to a streamlined, refundable income tax credit we’ll make it easier for eligible taxpayers to get the benefits they deserve so they can continue to afford to call our state home.”

HB24-1268 converts the Property Tax, Heat & Rent rebate, known as the PTC,  for persons with a disability to a new refundable income tax credit to expand financial support. This law will make it easier to claim the credit and increase utilization by integrating it into the tax filing system. The maximum credit amount is $1,200 for eligible single filers making less than $10,000 ($16,000 if filing jointly).

“Benefiting from the tax credits you’re eligible for should be easy, which is why we passed this law to ensure people with disabilities can more easily receive the financial support that is available to them,” said Rep. David Ortiz, D-Centennial, sponsor of HB24-1268. “I’m proud to have sponsored this important law that will help people with disabilities better afford expenses like property tax, rent, and utilities.”

“Currently, many eligible Coloradans may not know that the Property Tax, Heat & Rent Rebate is available to them,” said Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB24-1268. “HB-1268 will expand the rebate to more Coloradans living with disabilities, with a projected utilization increase of 1000 percent! This is a great win for communities most vulnerable to housing instability.”

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SIGNED! Bipartisan Legislation to Reduce Competency Waitlist Becomes Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Polis today signed into law bipartisan legislation that will reduce Colorado’s competency waitlist and improve efficiency and effectiveness in the competency system.

Last year, Colorado had 448 people who were deemed to be incompetent to proceed by a court and were waiting to receive competency restoration services before proceeding to trial, with an average wait time of 66 days. HB24-1355, sponsored by Representatives Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, and Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Senators Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, aims to reduce this competency waitlist through the creation of the Bridges Wraparound Care Program, which will refer eligible individuals with mental health struggles from the criminal justice system into wraparound care services.

“The waitlist for competency services is so long that people who have not yet been found guilty of a crime are in jail longer than people who have been convicted,” said Mabrey. “This legislation will help address Colorado’s broken competency system so we can provide mental health services to people who need them. Not only will this better serve our most vulnerable, but it will also make our communities safer.”

“Colorado’s exorbitantly long competency waitlist is a long-standing issue, and I’m proud that this year we’re advancing policy to start addressing the problem,” said Michaelson Jenet. “When individuals languish on the competency waitlist, they’re not receiving the treatment they need and their likelihood to reenter the criminal justice system greatly increases. The Bridges Wraparound Care Program offers folks a path forward that ensures their needs are being met while helping break the cycle of reoffense and reentry in our criminal justice system.”

“People with mental health struggles are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system, and they desperately need services,” said Amabile. “When a mental health disorder is left untreated, Coloradans are often sent to jail for a relatively low offense, limiting their ability to rehabilitate. Routing people to diversion programs instead of the competency system connects them to mental health services that can help prevent a crisis and reduce recidivism.”

A defendant is deemed eligible for the Bridges Wraparound Care Program if a district attorney and defense counsel agree that there is reasonable cause to believe the defendant will be found incompetent and if the defendant does not pose a risk to public safety. Allowing eligible defendants to participate in the program will give them access to critical behavioral health services while helping reduce Colorado’s recidivism rates. 

Under HB24-1355, if a defendant in the Program complies with their individualized care plan for a specified amount of time, the court must dismiss the charges against the defendant.

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Bipartisan Bill to Expand Bilingual Early Childhood Programs Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis signed into law today a bipartisan bill to make early childhood education in Colorado more inclusive and accessible.

HB24-1009, sponsored by Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango, and Senator Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins, expands bilingual early childhood programs and facilities with a new bilingual licensing unit in the Department of Early Childhood.

“Coloradans across our state are searching for high-quality, affordable bilingual early childhood programs and this law will help more Spanish-speaking providers get licensed,” said Joseph. “This law improves bilingual outreach within the Department of Early Childhood Education to better support Spanish-speaking providers seeking professional licensure. Bilingual early childhood programs make education more accessible, inclusive, and culturally-centered for some of our youngest learners.”

“Every Colorado family deserves access to high-quality, affordable early childhood education, but those resources aren’t available to every family who needs them,” Ginal said. “This new law will help improve bilingual outreach to help Spanish-speaking providers get licensed, which will make our early childhood system more accessible and inclusive. Bilingual early childhood programs will help children grow and learn, and give more families access to the early childhood services they deserve.”

“Early childhood education is the foundation to preparing our students for a lifetime of success,” said McLachlan. “This important law makes bilingual early childhood programs more accessible in Colorado by improving outreach and connection with Spanish-speaking providers. When children have access to education in their primary language, they can grow, learn and succeed, and this law helps address some of the accessibility issues our state has when it comes to bilingual early childhood programs.”

Also sponsored by Senator Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction, the new law expands licensed child care options across the state by improving outreach and helping Spanish-speaking providers get licensed, while providing more linguistically relevant child care options for children and families.

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Gov. Polis Signs Bipartisan Bill to Expand SUD Treatment

DENVER, CO – Colorado Governor Jared Polis today signed a bipartisan bill to expand treatment options for Coloradans with Substance Use Disorder (SUD).

“Too many of our neighbors are dying from preventable overdoses, this law expands treatment options in our state so more people struggling with substance use disorder can receive the care they need,” said Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “During the interim last year, I worked alongside a bipartisan group of legislators to identify important policy changes that would help us address our state’s growing opioid overdose crisis. As a result, we’ve crafted this law to streamline treatment options for Coloradans who need it the most, including in the rural corners of our state and those in jail or prison. The demand for substance use disorder treatment has outpaced what is available in our state – expanding treatment options will undoubtedly save lives.”

"More than 1,500 of our neighbors died from a drug overdose here in Colorado last year, a heartbreaking number we must work hard to reduce," said Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton. "This year we’ve advanced a number of policies to tackle this crisis, including this bill to expand treatment options for folks struggling with substance use disorders. I am proud of the work we've done, and I look forward to helping more Coloradans get the help and support they need to get their lives back on track."

HB24-1045, also sponsored by Representative Ryan Armagost, R-Berthoud and Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle will:
·        Direct the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to apply for federal Medicaid waivers (1115) to cover health care services for people in jail or prison and to cover a partial-hospitalization level of care in our communities
·        Reduce insurance barriers to accessing substance use disorder treatment
·        Expand the treatment workforce by increasing clinical supervision opportunities for addiction counselors under qualified licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed marriage and family therapists
·        Authorize pharmacists to prescribe medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
·        Create a contingency management grant program, funding the best evidence-based practices to help people with stimulant use disorders stay sober
·        Invest in behavioral health diversion programs to provide adults charged with a minor offense a substance use treatment option
·        Continue the Opioid and Other Substance Use Disorders Study Committee during the 2025 interim session

During the 2023 interim, ten bipartisan lawmakers served on the Opioid and Other Substance Use Disorders Study Committee. This interim committee advanced four bills, including HB24-1045, for the general assembly to consider this year. These bills will bolster prevention efforts, improve treatment programs, promote harm reduction strategies, and support Coloradans in recovery to prevent overdose deaths and save lives.

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Gov. Signs Bipartisan Bills to Support Rural Health Care

HUGO / DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed two bipartisan bills into law to boost support for rural health care. SB24-121 will create a new licensing process for critical access hospitals and SB24-055 will boost behavioral and mental health care services for farmers and ranchers.

“Throughout my district Coloradans living in rural areas rely on critical access hospitals for life-saving care,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, sponsor of SB24-121. “This important, bipartisan law saves critical access hospitals money and gives them more opportunities to obtain essential federal and state grant funding, ensuring rural communities continue to have access to the high-quality health care services they deserve.”

“Critical access hospitals are a health care lifeline for our rural and frontier communities,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley, sponsor of SB24-121. “This law updates the licensing process for critical access hospitals by eliminating expensive, duplicative fees so they can continue to serve their communities and make our lives safer, healthier and happier.”

SB24-121, also sponsored by Senator Rod Pelton, R-Cheyenne Wells, and Representative Richard Holtorf, R-Akron, will create a new licensure process for critical access hospitals, primarily rural and remote hospitals. This new law will save critical access hospitals money, allow them to apply for federal and state grants more easily and will ensure critical access hospitals are not registered as general hospitals.

“Colorado’s farmers, ranchers, and their families are struggling to get the behavioral health care they urgently need, and the results have been disastrous,” said Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, sponsor of SB24-055. “Everyone deserves to have behavioral health care created by and for their own communities. This new law will bolster our ongoing efforts to close the rural mental health gap, and ultimately help save lives across our state.”

“Coloradans living in rural and mountain communities, like mine, deserve access to high-quality health care – including mental and behavioral health care,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, sponsor of SB24-055. “We’re taking steps to expand mental health care support for our farmers and ranchers in their communities. Mental health matters in every corner of our state, and this new law will improve access, outreach and connection for our farmers and ranchers to receive the behavioral health care they need.”

SB24-055, also sponsored by Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle and Representative Anthony Hartsook, R-Parker, will improve access to behavioral health care in rural Colorado by creating a new Agricultural and Rural Community Behavioral Health program that would work to better connect farmers, ranchers, and their families to behavioral health care. The program will partner with the Colorado Department of Agriculture, health care providers, and directly with agriculture communities throughout Colorado to provide care and support.

The new law also establishes a working group and centralizes existing grant programs within the Colorado Department of Agriculture to better address the root causes of behavioral health issues in rural and agricultural communities.

Farmers, ranchers and those in the agriculture industry currently rank fourth in the state for the highest suicide rate. This bill aims to connect farmers and ranchers with tailored behavioral health care resources.

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ICYMI: Gov Signs Bills to Prevent HOA Homeowner Foreclosures, Price Gouging on Rent After a Disaster

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed two bills into law administratively to limit HOA-driven foreclosures and prevent excessive increases in rent in the wake of a disaster.

“Millions of Coloradans live in HOA communities, and although we have passed numerous laws to protect HOA homeowners, they are still at risk of losing their home over minor issues,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB24-1337. “No family should forego buying food, medicine, or other necessities just to keep up with ballooning charges from their HOA. This legislation creates safeguards against foreclosures initiated by HOAs and ensures that Coloradans in HOAs will not lose their homes due to fines, fees, and exorbitant attorney fees, keeping Coloradans safely housed.”

“No one should be at risk of losing their home for being in violation of minor HOA rules,” said Senate President Pro Tempore James Coleman, D-Denver, sponsor of HB24-1337. “In addition to ensuring Coloradans won’t have to pay sky–high attorney fees, this new law will give homeowners the right to purchase their property back before it's transferred, which creates more housing stability.”

“Housing affordability is a serious issue for Coloradans, and excessive HOA fees and collections threaten housing security for thousands of families,” said Rep. Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, sponsor of HB24-1337. “This law creates a pathway for homeowners to cure their debts and remain in their homes or allows affordable housing advocates to have an opportunity to buy the home before corporate developers. This change is crucial in keeping more Coloradans safely housed and preserving affordable housing.”

“Home ownership is supposed to create generational wealth, but right now the housing crisis is creating generational debt,” said Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, sponsor of HB24-1337. “This law helps ensure HOA foreclosure is a last resort while lowering legal costs and providing Coloradans with the opportunity to buy back their property and stay in their communities. It’s a great step to improving financial and housing stability in Colorado.”

Currently, HOAs can require a homeowner to reimburse the HOA for collection costs and attorney fees associated with collecting HOA fines and fees without starting a legal proceeding. HB24-1337 limits the reimbursement amount to 50 percent of the underlying payment owed or $5,000, whichever is less.

The law prohibits foreclosing on a lien if the homeowner is in compliance with a repayment plan for the owed amount and requires an HOA to take specific steps before foreclosing on a home, ensuring foreclosure is the last resort.

The law also creates a right of redemption for properties in an HOA that have been foreclosed on, which would allow unit owners, tenants, nonprofits, community land trusts, and other entities the opportunity to purchase the property before it’s transferred.

HB24-1259 prohibits rental price gouging for one year after a disaster declaration issued by the Governor or the U.S. President, where the declaration specifically declares a material decrease in housing. Rent increases are to be capped at the percentage of the rent increase for the prior year or 10 percent compared to the unit’s rent immediately before the disaster, whichever is greater.

“Many Coloradans saw rents skyrocket after the Marshall Fire, and those who had lost their homes were forced to juggle exorbitant rents while they tried to rebuild their lives,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, sponsor of HB24-1259. “We know disasters cause financial and emotional trauma, and no one deserves to be taken advantage of while they try to piece their life back together. This legislation adds essential protections for Coloradans so they don’t experience excessive rent increases in the aftermath of a disaster.”

“After the Marshall Fire, affected Coloradans saw their rents skyrocket, and those who lost their everything were thrown into a priced-gouged market that strained them even more,” said Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, sponsor of HB24-1259. “As our planet continues to warm, we know that wildfire season is a year-round threat and natural disasters like this one will become more frequent. This law will protect Coloradans from rental price gouging in the wake of disasters, and ease the burden of housing during already-difficult times.”

“After the Marshall Fire, hundreds of families suddenly had to find housing overnight because they lost everything they had, only to experience huge increases in rent because of the influx of renters in the market,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB24-1259. “Disasters devastate communities and have a ripple effect on neighboring communities that now must house Coloradans post-disaster. This consumer protection legislation reigns in price-gouging of rent for a one-year period after a declared disaster, preventing disaster survivors from being taken advantage of."

The law makes it a deceptive trade practice to price gouge when providing rental housing during the year following a disaster that materially reduces housing units, allowing the Attorney General or a district attorney to pursue enforcement actions, including civil penalties, under the Colorado Consumer Protection Act. Affected tenants are also able to pursue civil action for violations.

While homeowners insurance policies cover up to two years of rent for people whose homes are uninhabitable, people who were renting prior to a natural disaster don’t have this support. In the year after the devastating Marshall Fire, a report showed many impacted residents saw their rents increase 30 to 50 percent.

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ICYMI: Bill to Improve Gig Worker Rights, Boost Transparency Becomes Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed legislation into law administratively that will improve flexibility, fairness, safety, and transparency for gig transportation network company (TNC) workers and consumers.

“All workers deserve to know how much they get paid and what their job entails, but currently rideshare and delivery gig workers aren’t given that information,” said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “Our new law gives basic rights to TNC drivers and provides much-needed transparency for customers.”

“Gig workers deserve to know how much they will get paid before they accept a job, and this law will give them better clarity so they can make informed workplace decisions,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “Many gig workers rely on this industry as their main source of income, and providing better transparency in their workplace gives them more freedom and better support. This law improves gig workers’ rights while providing much-needed transparency and collecting data that will give us a better picture of the gig working industry to make future improvements for workers.”

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done to craft this legislation, which increases transparency for drivers and the public as it relates to TNCs,” Senator Kevin Priola, D-Henderson, said. “SB 75 will provide essential details, like pay, destination, and direction, that all app-based drivers deserve.”

“The gig economy has exploded in recent years, and we must address the lack of worker protections and consumer transparency to ensure fair wages and autonomy,” said Rep. Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora. “This new law aims to address these issues by requiring companies to disclose the distance, direction, and fare of a ride to drivers before they accept it and share fare information with customers so they know how much of their rideshare fee is going to their driver. Without this information, drivers and customers are left in the dark and are vulnerable to being over-charged or underpaid.”

Gig work has risen over the last decade, but many workers struggle to make ends meet or plan for their financial future due to the volatile nature of their earnings and unjust terminations. SB24-075 addresses a number of issues gig workers and consumers face by requiring the following:
·        Companies must disclose terms and grounds for termination or deactivation of drivers and communicate their reconsideration process;
·        Companies must disclose the fare, distance, and direction to all drivers before they accept a ride, which can prevent last-minute ride cancellations initiated by drivers;
·        Companies must disclose fare information to customers, including the total amount paid and  the amount the driver received; and
·        Companies must disclose some ride and app activity-related information to the state of Colorado, such as total mileage driven, deactivations and reconsideration results, and more.

The law aims to provide TNC drivers with transparent information about tasks and earnings while providing customers with the information needed to make decisions about how much to tip. Additionally, it protects drivers by giving them a basic level of transparency about how deactivations are considered and can be appealed.

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ICYMI: SIGNED! Bill to Improve Health Insurance Transparency Becomes Law

SB24-080 ensures insurance compliance with federal regulations in Colorado

DENVER, CO – Governor Polis yesterday signed into law legislation sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, and Representatives Mary Young, D-Greeley, and Julia Marvin, D-Thornton, that will enhance transparency in health care coverage. 

Currently, insurers are required to disclose and post pricing details and submit prescription drug spending information to the federal government. However, this information is not easily accessible to Coloradans. SB24-080 will ensure transparency for consumers so they can make informed decisions about their health care. 

“Coloradans deserve to have easy access to information on health insurance costs,” said Fields. “Right now, too many health insurance carriers aren’t complying with federal price transparency laws. By addressing the problem at the state level, we can hold these companies accountable and help save Coloradans money on health care.”

“We’re committed to saving Coloradans money on their health care, and this legislation ensures that statewide insurance companies are complying with federal price transparency laws,” said Young. “To improve health outcomes for every Coloradan, we must make health care more affordable and accessible. This law gives consumers a clear view of their health care costs and ultimately saves them money.” 

“I’m proud of our work to make health care coverage more affordable for Coloradans. This new law is the next step forward in that process,” Jaquez Lewis said. “Folks would have a digital tool to compare rates, covered items and services, and get real time responses on questions so they can find an option that works best for them and their family.”

“To save Coloradans money on health care they need tools at hand to compare the rates of procedures and medical services,” said Marvin. “This new law ensures that our health care companies are complying with federal price transparency laws. We’ve made important progress to bring down the cost of health care, and this law makes sure consumers have a better understanding of the cost associated with health care for themselves and their families.”

The new law requires carriers to submit information on their negotiated rates and prescription drug trends to the Division of Insurance (DOI) in an easy-to-read, accessible format. DOI will have the ability to ensure compliance from insurers by creating a consumer price comparison tool that insurers use to input data so that Coloradans can easily access cost sharing information on all items and services.

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ICYMI: Bill to Bolster Crime Victim Support, Behavioral Health Programs Becomes Law

New law funds crime victims grant programs, public safety grants, and behavioral health services

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed legislation into law administratively to refer a measure to the ballot that would fund the Colorado Crime Victim Services Fund and behavioral health crisis response system services by creating an excise tax on the firearm industry.

“When I was a young and homeless single mother, victim support services played a significant role in helping me navigate the judicial system so I could safely escape my abuser,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “With funding for victim services significantly reducing in the coming years, Colorado victims will lose access to essential resources that will help keep them safe and healthy. Our law allows Colorado voters to decide if we should create an excise tax on guns and ammunition so we can continue to fund victim services. I would not be where I am today without these services, and by creating this excise tax, we can ensure that other survivors will have the resources they need to put their lives back together.”

“Coloradans have shown time and again that they want to make our communities safer, and supporting crime victims is a critical part of that,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “With this measure, Coloradans will 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.”

“Survivors of domestic abuse face the challenges of navigating the legal system to seek justice, beginning the healing process, and obtaining safe housing and financial security,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “Unfortunately the safety net services for survivors are desperately underfunded and facing drastic cuts in federal funding. Firearms play a significant role in these crimes. So we’re giving Colorado voters the option to create a small tax on the firearm industry that will boost funding for life-saving victim services.”

“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 Senator Janet Buckner, D-Aurora. “Many families in my community rely on services like housing support and legal advocacy as they navigate their painful ordeal – which is why I was proud to sponsor this legislation to create consistent funding for them.”

If approved by voters in the November 2024 election, HB24-1349 would create a new excise tax on gun dealers, gun manufacturers, and ammunition vendors beginning April 1, 2025. Revenue from the excise tax would be allocated in the following manner:
·        $30 million to the Colorado Crime Victim Services Fund to provide grant funding for services such as: counseling, legal advocacy, and emergency hotel, utility, rental, and attorney expenses,
·        $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, and
·        $1 million to support school safety.

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 would be exempt from the tax.

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