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Kipp Bill to Reduce Suicide, Prevent Firearm Deaths Passes Committee
SB25-034 would allow people to voluntarily waive their right to purchase a firearm
DENVER, CO – Senator Cathy Kipp’s, D-Fort Collins, bill to reduce suicide by establishing a process for allowing a person to voluntarily waive their own right to purchase a firearm passed the Senate State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee today.
SB25-034 would establish a process to enable a person to voluntarily waive their own right to purchase a firearm through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation in the Department of Public Safety. For a person at risk of suicide, the decision to voluntarily suspend access to a firearm can significantly decrease the probability of death.
“Mental health crises can impact anyone, and when they escalate to suicidal thoughts, they are often brief and impulsive. When attempted by means of a firearm, a second chance at life is rare,” said Kipp. “Approximately 90 percent of people who survive their first suicide attempt do not ultimately die by suicide – this bill is about giving people who are in crisis that second chance.”
In 2023, 70 percent of all firearm deaths in Colorado were suicides, and in the same year, the state had the 13th highest rate of firearm suicide. Research shows that delaying access to firearms significantly decreases gun suicides without increasing non-gun-related suicides.
The bill would also create a pathway for a person to revoke a waiver, upon which time the waiver would remain in effect for 30 days. This 30-day waiting period is intended to provide time for a mental health crisis to pass and a support system to be built.
SB25-034 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Senate Approves FY 24-25 Supplemental Budget Package
Package includes measures to support Colorado families, workers and students, fund behavioral and health care services, and build safer communities
DENVER, CO – The Colorado Senate today approved the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 supplemental budget package. The suite of bills includes measures to support Colorado families, workers and students, bolster behavioral and health care services, and build safer communities.
“Coloradans depend on programs and services that help them thrive, and this year’s supplemental budget package delivers those in a responsible, balanced way,” said Chair of the Joint Budget Committee Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Additionally, this package invests and relies on millions of dollars of critical federal funding that provide essential employment, health and behavioral health care, and safety services to families across the state.”
“It’s crucial that we take stock of where we are in the middle of the fiscal year to make sure our budget remains balanced,” said member of the Joint Budget Committee Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “This process allows us to continue to fund, at the correct amounts, the work that keeps Colorado running. This year, I am especially proud of our work to continue investments in behavioral health care, keep our communities safe, and support working families.”
Each year, the legislature adopts a supplemental budget package to make mid-year adjustments to the current fiscal year’s budget based on changes to caseload, pupil counts and other considerations.
Supporting Colorado Families, Workers, and Students
SB25-112 would invest $276,088 in state funding and $1,020,100 in federal funding to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation in the Department of Labor and Employment to assist individuals with disabilities in finding and keeping employment, as well as living independently.
SB25-095 would increase funds for the Relative Guardianship Assistance Program by $4.6 million. The program provides financial assistance to families that meet federal eligibility criteria for income or child medical needs that present a barrier to adoption or legal guardianship.
SB25-093 would allocate $17.6 million of federal funding to Medicaid-eligible Coloradans through school districts and Boards of Cooperative Education Services, who supply educational services to two or more school districts that alone cannot afford the service.
Funding Behavioral and Health Care Services
SB25-093 would:
Allow the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to utilize federal funds already received for Medicaid-eligible Coloradans to operate Mental Health Transitional Living Homes, which are a step-down from the state hospitals and a step-up from home and community-based services.
Provide $43.5 million for home- and community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Allocate $7.5 million for physical, dental and behavioral health services through the Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) and $13.9 million for benefits that mirror Medicaid and the CHP+ for children who would otherwise qualify, except for their immigration status.
SB25-089 includes funding for food services provided by the Pueblo’s Colorado Mental Health Hospital to the Youthful Offender System, San Carlos, and La Vista facilities.
SB25-113 would support equitable access to health, behavioral health and social health services for all Coloradans by extending appropriations for ongoing rural connectivity projects.
Building Safer Communities
SB25-105 would utilize $1.1 million of funding in the Multidisciplinary Crime Prevention and Crisis Intervention Grant Fund to better support community-based, multidisciplinary approaches to crime prevention and crisis intervention strategies, specifically in areas where crime is disproportionately high.
The FY24-25 supplemental budget package now moves to the House for further consideration.
ICYMI: Pair of Marchman Bills Clears Education Committee
Bills would improve the use of trauma-informed practices in schools
DENVER, CO – Yesterday a pair of bills sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, to improve the use of trauma-informed practices in schools cleared the Senate Education Committee.
"Every child deserves a supportive learning environment, especially when facing adversity," said Marchman. "These bills work together to ensure that both school safety drills and daily interactions prioritize student well-being while respecting and maintaining local control. By incorporating trauma-informed practices and the Handle-With-Care notice, we are creating a safer, more supportive space for all students to learn and thrive."
SB25-027 would establish a work group in the Office of School Safety within the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to develop recommendations on the use of trauma-informed practices in conducting school safety drills.
Trauma-informed practices equip school personnel with knowledge and strategies to make school safety drills less traumatic and anxiety-inducing for students. Under the bill, the work group would meet throughout 2025 and 2026, and would be required to submit a report to the DPS and the legislature containing their findings and recommendations.
The committee also advanced SB25-064 with bipartisan support, which would require the Safe2Tell program in the DPS and Department of Law to provide a handle-with-care notice to a school when an enrolled student has experienced a traumatic event that occurred at the student’s home.
Safe2Tell gives students, parents, and community members a safe, anonymous way to report any threats to their safety or the safety of someone else. Traumatic events include situations such as domestic violence, serious accidents, or abuse and neglect.
Both SB25-027 and SB25-064 now head to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration.
Colorado Democrats Introduce Pair of Bills to Strengthen Protections for Reproductive Health Care
SB25-129 and SB25-130 would protect patients and providers from hostile out-of-state action and ensure that emergency abortion and miscarriage care remain protected
DENVER, CO – Colorado Democrats today introduced two bills to protect Coloradans’ rights and freedoms by strengthening legal protections for reproductive health care.
SB25-129, sponsored by Senators Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Representatives Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, and Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, would strengthen Colorado’s shield law to protect patients and providers from out-of-state attacks on accessible reproductive health care.
“We have worked hard in Colorado to protect the freedom to decide what to do with our futures and our bodies, and we won’t allow anyone to put these freedoms in danger,” said Cutter. “As attacks on reproductive rights continue across the country, we are working to implement strong and responsive laws in Colorado to shield health care patients and providers from hostile out-of-state action.”
“We’re standing up to protect our patients and providers from far-reaching civil, out-of-state, and Trump administration threats to restrict abortion, and also health care for LGBTQ+ Coloradans,” said Representative McCormick. “New legislation will expand Colorado’s shield laws to include telehealth and prescription label privacy. Our bill will also strengthen Colorado’s ability to fight back legally against hostile attacks on reproductive freedoms and health care.”
“Colorado is a beacon for reproductive freedom and access to abortion in our region,” said Winter. “Strengthening our shield law would expand protections for patients, providers, and helpers against interstate criminal and civil threats. These measures, like prescription label privacy, telehealth protections, and robust legal safeguards, will ensure that Colorado remains a national leader for reproductive justice and freedom.”
“Colorado has consistently led the nation in protecting abortion rights. Now, we are taking further steps to safeguard our providers and patients from external threats that endanger reproductive freedom and access to essential health care,” said Representative Joseph. “By strengthening Colorado’s shield laws, we can enhance protections for both patients and providers, standing firm against any attempts to undermine bodily autonomy. I am proud to be spearheading this legislation to safeguard abortion access and LGBTQ+ rights for the people of Boulder and Colorado. This bill reaffirms our commitment to upholding reproductive health care rights amidst growing challenges.”
The bill protects providers by allowing a provider’s name to be excluded from a medication abortion label and requiring subpoena requests to include an affirmation that they do not pertain to legally protected health care. The bill would also prohibit attorneys, Colorado residents and entities, and local agencies from complying with hostile out-of-state investigations. Finally, the bill would protect patients using telehealth and strengthen enforcement and compliance mechanisms.
SB25-130, sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Representatives Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, and Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins, would ensure emergency access for pregnant people who need abortion or miscarriage care and create clarity for emergency patients and providers.
“The people of Colorado deserve safe and accessible access to abortion and miscarriage care without exception, especially when lives are at stake in emergency situations,” said Gonzales. “We owe it to all Coloradans, and particularly the Coloradans most negatively impacted by barriers to reproductive care – to ensure that emergency care is always granted, no questions asked.”
“The Trump administration continues to erode federal protections surrounding reproductive health care, and Colorado must protect life-saving emergency care for pregnant people,” said Representative Froelich. “Since Roe was overturned, hospitals and physicians around the county have been experiencing dangerous ambiguity when it comes to the type of life-saving care they’re legally allowed to provide, specifically for abortion and miscarriage care. In Colorado, we’re ensuring emergency providers have the clarity they need to do their job and save lives.”
“States with the most restrictive abortion bans have challenged and disrupted our federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, which has resulted in devastating loss of life,” said Weissman. “As a part of our efforts to protect Coloradans’ fundamental freedoms in volatile times, it is imperative that we clarify to patients and providers alike that emergency care in Colorado will remain comprehensive and accessible.”
“In states where reproductive health care is restricted, pregnant people are having a hard time receiving emergency abortion or miscarriage care until it’s too late – we cannot let this happen in Colorado,” said Representative Zokaie. “This bill eliminates any dangerous ambiguity around the physician and hospital duty to provide emergency care to patients so no one is denied life-saving care. Our state has been a long-time leader in abortion care because Coloradans understand that access to reproductive health care saves lives.”
The Federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) is a nearly 40-year-old law that requires hospitals to provide emergency medical treatment, including abortion and miscarriage care regardless of ability to pay. However, the Supreme Court is allowing states to deny pregnant people abortion care in life-threatening emergencies by sending cases back to lower courts. In response to threats to these federal protections, this bill would ensure that life-saving emergency care will be protected in Colorado.
Both bills have been assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee and will be scheduled for hearings in the coming weeks.
Senate Gives Initial Approval to FY 24-25 Supplemental Budget Package
Package includes measures to support Colorado families, workers and students, fund behavioral and health care services, and build safer communities
DENVER, CO – The Colorado Senate today advanced the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 supplemental budget package on a preliminary vote. The suite of bills includes measures to support Colorado families, workers and students, bolster behavioral and health care services, and build safer communities.
“Coloradans depend on programs and services that help them thrive, and this year’s supplemental budget package delivers those in a responsible, balanced way,” said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Additionally, this package invests and relies on millions of dollars of critical federal funding that provide essential employment, health and behavioral health care, and safety services to families across the state.”
“It’s crucial that we take stock of where we are in the middle of the fiscal year to make sure our budget remains balanced,” said Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “This process allows us to continue to fund, at the correct amounts, the work that keeps Colorado running. This year, I am especially proud of our work to continue investments in behavioral health care, keep our communities safe, and support working families.”
Each year, the legislature adopts a supplemental budget package to make mid-year adjustments to the current fiscal year’s budget based on changes to caseload, pupil counts and other considerations.
Supporting Colorado Families, Workers, and Students
SB25-112 would invest $276,088 in state funding and $1,020,100 in federal funding to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation in the Department of Labor and Employment to assist individuals with disabilities in finding and keeping employment, as well as living independently.
SB25-095 would increase funds for the Relative Guardianship Assistance Program by $4.6 million. The program provides financial assistance to families that meet federal eligibility criteria for income or child medical needs that present a barrier to adoption or legal guardianship.
SB25-093 would allocate $17.6 million of federal funding to Medicaid-eligible Coloradans through school districts and Boards of Cooperative Education Services, who supply educational services to two or more school districts that alone cannot afford the service.
Funding Behavioral and Health Care Services
SB25-093 would:
Allow the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to utilize federal funds already received for Medicaid-eligible Coloradans to operate Mental Health Transitional Living Homes, which are a step-down from the state hospitals and a step-up from home and community-based services.
Provide $43.5 million for home- and community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Allocate $7.5 million for physical, dental and behavioral health services through the Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) and $13.9 million for benefits that mirror Medicaid and the CHP+ for children who would otherwise qualify, except for their immigration status.
SB25-089 includes funding for food services provided by the Pueblo’s Colorado Mental Health Hospital to the Youthful Offender System, San Carlos, and La Vista facilities.
SB25-113 would support equitable access to health, behavioral health and social health services for all Coloradans by extending appropriations for ongoing rural connectivity projects.
Building Safer Communities
SB25-105 would utilize $1.1 million of funding in the Multidisciplinary Crime Prevention and Crisis Intervention Grant Fund to better support community-based, multidisciplinary approaches to crime prevention and crisis intervention strategies, specifically in areas where crime is disproportionately high.
The FY24-25 supplemental budget package will be heard on third reading in the Senate before moving to further consideration by the House.
Protect the Freedom to Marry Act Passes Senate
SB25-014 would repeal unenforceable language from Colorado Statute that states that a marriage is valid only if it is between a man and a woman
DENVER, CO – Following voter approval of Amendment J, which removed language from the Colorado Constitution banning same-sex marriage, legislation seeking to make that same language change in Colorado statute passed the Senate today.
SB25-014, sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Lakewood, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, would repeal the provision in Colorado statute that states that marriage is valid only if it is between a man and a woman. That provision has been unenforceable since the United States Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015 and is now in conflict with the State Constitution.
“The freedom to marry who we love is a fundamental right,” said Danielson. “I cannot sit back and allow Coloradans to have their marriages and families put at risk. It’s especially important now, as the Trump Administration attacks the LGBTQ community, to secure everyone’s right to live safely in our state, and marry whomever they love.”
"I helped lead some of the first Gay Pride marches in the South and I saw and felt discrimination and hatred then,” said Jaquez Lewis. “Sadly, I am seeing and feeling it now towards my LGBTQ community, in particular, my trans friends and family. As the only LGBTQ Senator in the state, I introduced this bill to protect the ability for any Coloradan to love who they want to love and marry who they want to marry. SB25-014 reaffirms marriage equality in our Colorado state statutes and protects the freedom to marry."
SB25-014 now heads to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Senate Passes Bipartisan Bill to Increase Affordable For-Sale Housing
SB25-006 would invest up to $50 million to activate development of affordable for-sale housing
DENVER, CO – Today, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to unlock Colorado’s ability to invest in affordable for-sale housing passed the Senate.
SB25-006 would allow the state treasurer to invest up to $50 million in Colorado Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) bonds to buy down the construction and mortgage costs of affordable for-sale housing that would otherwise not be built. These funds would give low rates to builders in exchange for long-term affordability restrictions and low mortgage rates to first-time buyers to ease their way into the housing market.
“We know that affordable and attainable housing is a challenge facing our whole state,” said Roberts. “This bill will allow us to use existing resources to help build more ‘starter homes’ which is key to giving hardworking Coloradans the opportunity to own a home and accumulate generational wealth. I’m grateful this bipartisan bill that doesn’t require new spending is moving forward.”
The $50 million would finance homeownership for 175-200 new low- and middle-income residents. The program would be funded through the treasurer’s investment portfolio and there would be no impact to the state’s general fund.
SB25-006 will now head to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Senate Approves Bipartisan Bill to Improve Efficiency & Accessibility in Health Insurance Communications
SB25-010 would allow consumers to opt in to receive and respond to electronic communications from their health insurance provider
DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, to improve efficiency and accessibility in health insurance communications passed the Senate today.
Cosponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, SB25-010 would allow consumers to opt in to receive and respond to electronic communications from health insurance providers. Additionally, the bill would allow employers providing insurance coverage to opt their employees in to receive electronic communications, in which case employees would be given an opportunity to opt out.
“There are many benefits to making electronic communications the default for health insurance communications,” said Mullica. “This bill would provide consumers with information in real-time with technology they are already comfortable with, keep sensitive data safe, reduce waste, and lower administrative costs. This bill is a win-win for Coloradans and health care providers alike.”
SB25-010 would mirror the National Council of Insurance Legislators’ “E-Commerce Model Act,” which seeks to improve the quality of insurance regulation and oversight. Twenty other states have enacted similar legislation.
Under the bill, carriers would still be required to send paper communications to any individuals that do not have access to the internet, and consumers could elect to receive paper communications.
SB25-010 now heads to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Bipartisan Bill to Increase Affordable For-Sale Housing Passes Committee
SB25-006 would invest up to $50 million to spur development of affordable for-sale housing
DENVER, CO – Today, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to unlock Colorado’s ability to invest in affordable for-sale housing passed the Senate Local Government and Housing Committee.
SB25-006 would allow the state treasurer to invest up to $50 million in Colorado Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) bonds to buy down the construction and mortgage costs of affordable for-sale housing that would otherwise not be built. These funds would give low rates to builders in exchange for long-term affordability restrictions and low mortgage rates to first-time buyers to ease their way into the housing market.
“We know that affordable and attainable housing is a challenge facing our whole state,” said Roberts. “This bill will allow us to use existing resources to help build more ‘starter homes’ which is key to giving hardworking Coloradans the opportunity to own a home and accumulate generational wealth. I’m grateful this bipartisan bill that doesn’t require new spending is moving forward.”
The $50 million would finance homeownership for 175-200 new low- and middle-income residents. The program would be funded through the treasurer’s investment portfolio and there would be no impact to the state’s general fund.
SB25-006 will now head to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Marchman, Jaquez Lewis Bill to Analyze a Statewide Single-Payer Health Care System Advances
DENVER, CO – Senators Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis’, D-Longmont, bill to analyze model legislation for a statewide universal single-payer health care system passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee today.
SB25-045 would require the School of Public Health at the University of Colorado to create a report on the model legislation and would establish the Statewide Health Care Analysis Collaborative in the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to assist the school in developing its report.
“Colorado faces significant health care affordability issues, especially in rural areas,” said Marchman. “Senate Bill 45 is a fact-finding and data-driven approach to analyze the potential for a single-payer, publicly financed health care payment system in Colorado. This important bill will ensure we get the facts straight with a thorough, independent review of costs, funding sources, and feasibility of such a system before we take legislative action on major health care reform.”
“The high costs of health care continue to burden Colorado families and small businesses,” Jaquez Lewis said. “The study will analyze costs, revenue sources, reimbursement rates, and overall economic impacts to help guide future health care policymaking. Additionally, the task force will incorporate input from patients, providers, business leaders, and policy experts, ensuring a balanced analysis. We are committed to exploring practical options to make health care affordable and accessible.”
By December 31, 2026, the school would be required to acquire model legislation developed by a nonprofit to enact a universal single-payer health care system and submit a report on the legislation that analyzes costs and connections to federal law, identifies possible revenue sources to cover costs, and evaluates the feasibility of other models.
Under the bill, funding for the study is dependent on receipt of sufficient gifts, grants, or donations.
SB25-045 now moves to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.
Protect the Freedom to Marry Act Passes Committee
SB25-014 would repeal unenforceable language from Colorado Statute that states that a marriage is valid only if it is between a man and a woman
DENVER, CO - Following voter approval of Amendment J, which removed language from the Colorado Constitution banning same-sex marriage, legislation seeking to make that same language change in Colorado Statute passed the Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today.
SB25-014, sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Lakewood, and Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Longmont, would repeal the provision in Colorado Statute that states that marriage is valid only if it is between a man and a woman. That provision has been unenforceable since the United States Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015 and is now in conflict with the State Constitution.
"The freedom to marry who we love is a fundamental right," said Danielson. "I cannot sit back and allow Coloradans to have their marriages and families put at risk. It’s especially important now, as the Trump Administration attacks the LGBTQ community, to secure everyone’s right to live safely in our state, and marry whomever they love."
"I helped lead some of the first Gay Pride marches in the South and I saw and felt discrimination and hatred then,” said Jaquez Lewis. "Sadly, I am seeing and feeling it now towards my LGBTQ community, in particular, my trans friends and family. As the only LGBTQ Senator in the state, I introduced this bill to protect the ability for any Coloradan to love who they want to love and marry who they want to marry. SB25-014 reaffirms marriage equality in our Colorado state statutes and protects the freedom to marry."
SB25-014 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Bipartisan Bill to Improve Efficiency & Accessibility in Health Insurance Communications Unanimously Passes Committee
SB25-010 would allow consumers to opt in to receive electronic communications from their health insurance provider
DENVER, CO – Today, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, to improve efficiency and accessibility in health insurance communications unanimously passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.
Cosponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, SB25-010 would allow consumers to opt in to receive electronic communications from health insurance providers. The bill would also allow employers providing insurance coverage to opt their employees in to receive electronic communications, in which case employees would be given an opportunity to opt out.
“There are many benefits to making electronic communications the default for health insurance communications,” said Mullica. “This bill would provide consumers with information in real-time with technology they are already comfortable with, keep sensitive data safe, reduce waste, and lower administrative costs. This bill is a win-win for Coloradans and health care providers alike.”
SB25-010 would mirror the National Council of Insurance Legislators’ “E-Commerce Model Act,” which seeks to improve the quality of insurance regulation and oversight. Twenty other states have enacted similar legislation.
Under the bill, carriers would still be required to send paper communications to any individuals that do not have access to the internet, and consumers could elect to receive paper communications.
SB25-010 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
JOINT RELEASE: Bipartisan Lawmakers, Attorney General Weiser Highlight Legislation to Create Healthier Learning Environments for Students
DENVER, CO – Representative Meghan Lukens, Senator Janice Marchman, Attorney General Phil Weiser, Representative Mary Bradfield, R-El Paso County and Senator Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock today highlighted legislation to limit student distraction caused by cell phones and foster a healthier learning environment.
“As an educator, I know limiting distractions in the classroom is essential to fostering a strong learning environment where students are engaged and asking questions,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. “New, bipartisan legislation I’m sponsoring will help limit distractions caused by cell phones and keep the focus on learning in our classrooms.”
"As a middle school teacher, I know how important it is to set our students up for success. An important aspect of that is limiting distractions,” said Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland. “This bill ensures that every district has a cell phone policy crafted by and for them, providing clarity and consistency. Cell phones are great tools, but in the hands of students during class, can easily be a distraction from learning. This important bill will help Colorado's students thrive.”
“As a committed advocate for youth mental health, I strongly support this bipartisan legislation, which empowers schools to address the growing challenges posed by smartphones in the classroom,” said Attorney General Phil Weiser. “By encouraging healthier cell phone habits and more focused learning environments, this bill is a critical step toward improving student well-being and academic success across Colorado.”
The legislation will be introduced later today and aims to reduce cell phone-related distractions in classroom settings while promoting mental health among Colorado students.
This bill encourages local control by allowing districts to consider their own guidelines when creating their district level policy. This bill would not impose a statewide ban on student cell phone use in schools.
Under this bill, school districts would create their own policy for student cell phone use in a K-12 setting. Policies must accommodate students with disabilities, and those who rely on those who rely on phones for healthcare needs or learning purposes.
Research shows that student use of cell phones in schools can have negative effects on performance, including lower test scores and smaller learning gains. Additionally, cell phone use is associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety.
From Florida to Ohio, at least 19 states have laws or policies that prohibit or limit the use of student cell phone use in schools or encourage districts to create their own policies as a best practice.
State Affairs Committee Advances Bill to Fully Implement and Enforce Colorado’s High-Capacity Magazine Prohibition
DENVER, CO – The Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today voted to advance Senators Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial, and Julie Gonzales’, D-Denver, legislation to fully implement and enforce Colorado’s existing high-capacity magazine prohibition.
In 2013, Colorado Democrats passed legislation that prohibited the sale and transfer of magazines that hold more than 15 rounds of ammunition. Currently, those intent on evading existing law are able to cross state lines to legally buy magazines in neighboring states and attach them to high-powered, military-style firearms.
SB25-003 would fully implement and enforce Colorado’s existing law by prohibiting the manufacture, distribution, transfer, sale, or purchase of high-powered firearms that accept detachable magazines. The bill would not impact possession of currently-owned firearms.
“High-capacity magazines are what put the ‘mass’ into mass shootings, which is why over a decade ago Colorado Democrats passed legislation to prohibit magazines that hold over 15 rounds of ammunition,” said Sullivan. “This legislation is another in the list of policies I have worked on to develop evidence-based solutions and reduce gun violence of all types. The people of Colorado have mandated that we do something about the public health crisis that is gun violence, so that’s what we’re going to do.”
“Gun violence continues to have devastating effects on Colorado communities, and we must do more to protect lives,” said Gonzales. “The firearm industry’s profits come, time and again, at the expense of public safety and something has to change. Senate Bill 3 is about holding firearm manufacturers to account, ending the industry’s profit motivation, and enforcing the law we have had on the books for more than a decade. I’m honored to join Senator Sullivan on this legislation and in his work to reduce gun violence in Colorado.”
The bill would also prohibit the purchase and sale of after-market accessories that increase the rate of fire of a semi-automatic firearm, like binary triggers.
SB25-003 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
JOINT RELEASE: Democratic Leadership, JBC Members Release Statement on Trump’s Federal Funding Freeze
DENVER, CO – Democratic Leadership and Joint Budget Committee members today responded to the Trump Administration’s immediate freeze of federal funding.
Statement from Speaker Julie McCluskie, President James Coleman, House Majority Leader Monica Duran, Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, Senators Jeff Bridges and Judy Amabile, and Representatives Shannon Bird and Emily Sirota:
“Today’s freeze on federal funding is a reckless decision that is already causing immediate and far reaching harm to Coloradans across the state. We are still working to understand the breadth of the impacts, but we know that critical food, housing, health and behavioral health care, child care, and anti-poverty services are currently in limbo, causing chaos and uncertainty for Coloradans, safety net service providers, and state and local governments, including law enforcement.
Republicans and Democrats must be clear-eyed in this moment that this funding freeze is a brazen abuse of power that will likely have significant economic impacts and cause irreparable harm to Colorado kids, families, seniors, and everyone who calls our state home. We are proud that Colorado will be joining states from across the nation in a lawsuit that will attempt to blunt the impact of this funding freeze on people’s lives. We stand ready to assist in any way we can to prevent further harm.”
JOINT RELEASE: Lawmakers Step Up to Protect Environment, Sangre De Cristo Land Grants
DENVER, CO – Representative Matthew Martinez and Senators Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Julie Gonzales today hosted a press conference to discuss new legislation to strengthen local fence construction laws in the San Luis Valley.
“This legislation is necessary to fight back against the negative impacts of unauthorized fence construction on our community, to protect our environment and Colorado Way of Life," said Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista. “When I visited the newly constructed fence, I was appalled by the negative impact on our environment and our local community. Many San Luis Valley residents have land rights beyond the fence dating back to before Colorado’s statehood. This bill will boost local control and require individuals to submit an application before construction – further prioritizing local and environmental protections.”
“As Co-Chair of the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus, I am so proud to sponsor HB1023,” said Sen. Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “Ensuring local governments have a say in how San Luis Valley communities are able to access their land is simply the right thing to do. I want to uplift the leadership of Representative Martinez on this important issue and I look forward to carrying this policy when it reaches the Senate."
HB25-1023, would require individuals to submit an application to local government officials before constructing or installing a contiguous fence of a certain size in the Sangre de Cristo Land Grant lands. Under the bill, local governments would be responsible for determining if the benefits of a fencing project outweigh the harms. Additionally, local governments may pass an ordinance or resolution opting out of these requirements altogether.
Recent fence construction on one of the Sangre de Cristo land grant properties has caused environmental damage, including land erosion and limiting wildlife movement, and kept out local residents with legal access to the land grant. This bill takes aim at future, unauthorized fencing construction projects to protect the natural habitats in the San Luis Valley.
JOINT RELEASE: Colorado Democrats to Crack Down on Junk Fees, Price Gouging, and Rent Algorithms to Save Coloradans Money
DENVER, CO - Colorado Democrats today highlighted three bills that would bring down costs for Coloradans by cracking down on price gouging for necessities, ‘junk fees’ that add hidden costs, and rent algorithms that drive up housing prices.
“These bills get at the heart of the concerns Coloradans bring to their kitchen table. As lawmakers, we are not putting paychecks first or saving coloradans money unless we take on the greedy corporations who openly brag about lining their pockets with record profits while regular people struggle to get by. Well we are here to say enough is enough,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, sponsor of HB25-1004 and cosponsor of HB25-1090. “As an eviction defense attorney, I’ve seen how algorithms can increase rents by thousands of dollars a year while price gouging and hidden fees drive up costs on housing and everyday items. Colorado Democrats are taking action to push back against corporate greed and strengthen consumer protections to save people money. Our legislation will require transparency about the true cost of products and crack down on unfair practices that inflate rent and grocery costs so working people can hold on to more of their hard-earned money."
Lawmakers today unveiled new legislation that will be introduced later today to crack down on junk fees.
“Pest control, garbage collection, and payment method fees can add hundreds of dollars in monthly costs for renters, yet they are often not disclosed upfront, especially in rental agreements,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver, sponsor of HB25-1090. “Too many Coloradans are blindsided by these ‘junk fees’ and only find out about these mandatory fees when they’re checking out online or paying their first rental payment. I’m proud to announce that we’re introducing this bill after years of hard work to make prices more transparent, crack down on excessive fees, and save Coloradans money.”
“This bill will save Coloradans money by requiring transparency, allowing consumers to compare prices, shop around, and make informed decisions about how to spend their hard-earned money,” said Sen. Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, sponsor of HB25-1090. “It's not okay for consumers to expect to pay one price, only to be hit with hidden fees at checkout. Addressing deceptive pricing practices protects consumers, builds trust, and puts money back in Coloradans’ pockets.”
“Tackling the issue of ‘junk fees’ has been a top priority for me at the Capitol, and I am proud to sponsor this legislation to improve price transparency and help small businesses compete against major corporations,” said Rep. Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB25-1090. “This year, we’re cracking down on arbitrary ‘junk fees’ that inflate prices far exceeding the price as it was advertised. This bill will help both consumers and small businesses, saving Coloradans hundreds of dollars a month and making business owners who act in good faith more competitive in the market.”
“COVID reminded us that sometimes corporate bad actors hide behind economic disruptions to jack up prices and rip off consumers,” said Sen. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, sponsor of HB25-1090 and HB25-1010. “The years since COVID have illustrated that Coloradans deserve transparency about their purchases and protections beyond just declared disaster emergencies. That’s why I’m proud to sponsor legislation to protect working Coloradans by cracking down on surprise ‘junk fees’ that add hidden costs and empowering the Colorado Attorney General to take action against corporations who hike up prices beyond what economic realities justify.”
HB25-1090 would improve transparency in pricing and save Coloradans money by:
Prohibiting pricing information for a good, service, of property being offered, displayed, or advertised unless the total price is disclosed, with the exception of a government or shipping charge,
Prohibiting the misrepresentation of the nature or purpose of pricing information,
Requiring the nature or purpose of pricing information to be disclosed for a good, service, or property that is not part of the total price, and
Prohibiting a landlord for requiring a tenant to pay certain fees, charges, or amounts.
On January 15, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent a letter to Governor Polis to provide information about the efforts they have made to address junk fees and called for the passage of legislation like HB25-1090, that works to combat these unforeseen costs. The FTC and the Colorado Attorney General have announced they are taking action against the nation’s largest multi-family rental property managers for using deceptive advertising and failing to disclose recurring fees.
HB25-1010 would prohibit price gouging of goods or services necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of Coloradans, like groceries and toiletries. In this bill, price gouging is defined as a price increase by 10 percent or above the average cost of the product or good within 90 days.
“Corporations have used inflation and market conditions as an excuse to increase profits for food, diapers, and other household necessities that are essential in Coloradans' day-to-day life,” said Rep. Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB25-1010. “We must prioritize people over profits. Corporate greed is hurting families in every corner of our state, which is why I’m sponsoring this bill to safeguard our families and ensure our groceries remain affordable.”
“Everyone has noticed that grocery prices have gone up while inflation has cooled, which is deeply affecting Colorado families who are just trying to provide everyday necessities for their families,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, sponsor of HB25-1010. “Food, diapers, and toothpaste are non-negotiables on the shopping list, and it’s immoral for bad actors to take advantage of rising costs due to inflation to significantly increase their profits and stock prices. Colorado Democrats will not stand by as bad actors profiteer off hardworking Coloradans and drive up costs for families.”
A 2024 Federal Trade Commission report stated that the three largest grocers accelerated and distorted the negative effects associated with supply chain disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Food prices have increased by 28 percent since 2019, outpacing inflation.
HB25-1004 would save Coloradans money by regulating how algorithms are used in establishing rent prices, including prohibiting consciously parallel pricing coordination between two or more landlords. Rent algorithms have been shown to add an average of $130 per month to rental rates in the Metro Denver area.
“There is clear evidence that corporations are using algorithmic pricing schemes and collusion to jack up rent prices and line their pockets while hardworking people struggle to find affordable places to live,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver, sponsor of HB25-1004. “Our communities sent us to the Capitol to solve the most pressing issues, and that means cracking down on egregious strategies that manipulate the market to charge renters more. This bill aims to prevent corporations from unjustly colluding to increase their profits on the backs of hardworking Coloradans that need every dollar in their paycheck to pay for groceries, medication, and child care.”
“Coloradans are burdened by high rents, which make it harder to make ends meet and puts families at risk of losing their housing,” said Sen. Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, sponsor of HB25-1004. “This bill will put an end to the algorithms that corporations use to artificially increase rents, allowing us to create a more equitable market and ensure more Colorado families can afford a safe place to call home.”
“Colorado families are tired of paying an arm and a leg for rent, and third party companies selling algorithmic price setting products that enable corporate landlords to form a monopolistic trust are making the problem worse, to the tune of $1,300 per year,” said Sen. Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, sponsor of HB25-1004. “We’re working hard this session to protect renters and address Colorado’s housing crisis. This bill will prevent landlords from using systems that lead to price fixing, and will help save Coloradans money on housing.”
A recent report found that coordinated rents from algorithmic pricing increase rent prices by $136 per month for Denver renters.
In January 2025, Colorado joined a federal lawsuit to sue six of the largest landlords in the US for participating in algorithmic pricing schemes that harm renters. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser also joined a federal lawsuit in August 2024 against RealPage, Inc. for allegedly using illegal agreements with landlords to carry out a price-fixing scheme that has cost Coloradans millions of dollars in rent payments.
Legislators Commit to Reproductive Freedom on Roe Anniversary
Senate Democrats pass resolution to designate January 22 as
“Reproductive Rights and Justice Day”
DENVER, CO – Today, Colorado Senate Democrats passed a resolution commemorating reproductive rights and justice on what would have been the 52nd anniversary of the landmark Roe v. Wade decision.
SJR25-004, sponsored by Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, designates January 22nd as “Reproductive Rights and Justice Day” in Colorado. The resolution reaffirms Colorado’s commitment to protecting reproductive rights and access to essential medical care, including abortion care, in the midst of ongoing national headwinds.
Since the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022, millions of Americans now live in states where abortion is either banned outright or severely restricted. Colorado leads as a beacon and a safe haven for care, ensuring that safe and legal reproductive health care remains accessible.
“Coloradans just voted to enshrine the right to abortion care in our state constitution. Today we honor the past and the landmark decision in Roe v. Wade while looking to the future, and our vision of true bodily autonomy, including abortion care access for all,” said Cutter, Co-Chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus. “We will continue to fight to protect abortion providers and those seeking health care in Colorado.”
“I have personal experience with the need for abortion care. I lost my baby, but kept bleeding, and decided with the help of my family and support networks to end my pregnancy via abortion,” said Michaelson Jenet. “I understand deeply how laws that deny access to abortion care put women’s lives in danger, and I will do everything I can as a legislator to protect this fundamental right that saved my life.”
In 2022, Colorado Democrats passed the Reproductive Health Equity Act, which enshrined the right to abortion care in Colorado law and ensured that regardless of what happens in Washington, reproductive freedom remains protected in Colorado.
In 2023, Democrats passed the Safe Access to Protected Health Care Package which protects the rights of patients, providers, future health care professionals and those assisting patients; prohibits deliberate misinformation in our communities; and makes care more affordable and accessible by closing gaps in insurance coverage.
Most recently, in November 2024, Colorado voters enshrined the right to reproductive health care in the state constitution through Amendment 79. As attacks on reproductive rights continue across the country, Colorado Democrats remain steadfast in their commitment to reproductive freedom.
Worker Protection Act Clears Committee
DENVER, CO – Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Senator Jessie Danielson’s, D-Wheat Ridge, legislation to update Colorado’s labor law cleared the Senate Business, Labor, and Technology Committee today.
SB25-005, the “Worker Protection Act,” would update the Colorado Labor Peace Act by eliminating the requirement for employees to conduct a second election to negotiate a union security agreement clause in the collective bargaining process.
“Colorado is the only state that requires a second election to achieve union security, putting up an additional obstacle for workers who want the freedom to negotiate to put more money in the pockets of working families, decrease the wealth gap and increase worker safety,” said Rodriguez. “Aligning Colorado’s workers’ laws with most other states requiring only one election will empower workers to stand up to level the playing field with corporate employers.”
“We have an obligation to do right by hardworking Coloradans who are demanding we pass the Worker Protection Act,” said Danielson. “It is time we change the 80-year-old law that makes it hard for workers to unionize. Let’s make it easier for workers to get better pay, better benefits, and more safety on the job, and pass the Worker Protection Act.”
Currently, Colorado labor law requires two elections for workers seeking to form a union and collect dues: one that meets the federal standard set by the National Labor Relations Act and a second election which must be won by a supermajority approval of at least 75 percent of those who vote, or 50 percent plus one of all employees eligible to vote, whichever is greater. The proposed legislation would modernize the Colorado Labor Peace Act by repealing the requirement for the second election.
SB25-005 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Democrats Welcome Tribes for Annual Address
Colorado’s federally recognized tribes joined the state legislature for third annual address
Legislators welcoming Chairman Melvin J. Baker of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Chairman Manuel Heart of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe to the Colorado House of Representatives. Photo credit: Ryan Macoubrie
DENVER, CO – The Colorado General Assembly today was joined by the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and Southern Ute Indian Tribe for their annual State of the Tribes.
Chairman Melvin J. Baker of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Chairman Manuel Heart of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe spoke to the legislature about their priorities, successes and challenges, and the importance of Colorado’s strong partnership between the Tribes and the state legislature.
“We are honored to be joined by the leaders of Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes for the third annual State of the Tribes address,” said Senate President Coleman, D-Denver. “We are committed to partnering with the Tribes and following their lead on what is most needed in their communities. This address is a yearly reminder of our strong government-to-government relationship, and I look forward to working closely with Chairmen Manuel Heart and Melvin J. Baker during my time as Senate President.”
“The State of the Tribes is an important tradition in the legislature and a crucial reminder of the needs and priorities of our Tribal communities as we kick off the legislative session,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “I value collaboration with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe on many issues, most importantly on securing Colorado’s water future and uplifting the unique challenges of Tribal water access. I’m grateful for the leadership of Chairman Manuel Heart and Chairman Melvin J. Baker and I look forward to future conversations on how we can continue to collaborate on policies that impact the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes.”
“It is crucial that we as legislators listen to and take action on the priorities of our Tribal partners, always recognizing the foundational principles of mutual recognition and respect of sovereignty,” said Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “It is my honor to partner with the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes on legislation to strengthen our partnership. The Chairmen mentioned several bills that I am proud to lead on, including the Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Amendment, strengthening the Indian Child Welfare Act, and enforcing Tribal court orders. I am also sponsoring legislation to protect wild bison and make the Indian Affairs Interim Committee permanent. I look forward to our continued collaboration this year and in years ahead.”
"Today, we had the great privilege of welcoming back the leaders of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe to address the General Assembly,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder. “As we work to strengthen our government-to-government relationship, addresses like this one allow us to learn more about the issues faced by Tribal communities. This year, through the American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee, we created a dedicated space to elevate tribal concerns and seek solutions. Reflecting on this third annual address, I look forward to continuing our great work and keeping an open line of communication between the sovereignty of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and the state of Colorado.”
“The State of the Tribes, now three years running, has become a highlight of the start of the legislative session,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “It reaffirms our commitment to an open and collaborative relationship between the legislature and our Tribal partners and is a unique opportunity for us to celebrate, listen to, and learn from Colorado’s Native American communities. The legislation I’m sponsoring that was mentioned during today’s address, SB25-009, will ensure the state recognizes decisions by Tribal courts, helping to honor the sovereignty of Tribal Nations and improving public safety.”
“I’d like to thank the leaders of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe for joining us at the capitol today – their remarks provided valuable and important insight,” said Rep. Katie Stewart, D-Durango. “The annual address helps not only strengthen our relationship, but highlights the priorities of the Tribal communities. It’s important to remember, the Ute people were here long before Colorado’s statehood, and their voices and concerns deserve to be heard. I’d like to extend my gratitude to Chairman Melvin J. Baker and Chairman Manuel Heart for joining us for the third annual address as we foster a united pathway forward.”
This year, the bipartisan American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee advanced three bills to extend the interim committee for an additional five years, reclassify bison as big game, and recognize Tribal legal authority in arrest warrants and civil commitments.
SB25-009, sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, Ron Weinberg, R-Loveland, would change Colorado state law to ensure that a state court gives full faith and credit to an arrest warrant and civil commitment issued by a Tribal court of a federally recognized Tribe with a reservation within the exterior boundaries of the state. Civil commitment orders include orders from law enforcement agencies, behavioral health facilities and health care providers.
In 2022, SB22-105, sponsored by former Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail, and former Representative Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango, created the annual Tribal Governments address to the General Assembly.