Signed! New Law Creates Path to Homeownership for Teachers

SB25-167 creates a down payment assistance program for public school employees

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Representatives Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, and Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, to create the Educator First Home Ownership Program to provide down payment assistance for public school employees. 

SB25-167, also sponsored by Senator Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, creates a Community Investment Portfolio within the Public School Fund to be used for a shared equity down payment assistance program and other community investments. The law unlocks at least $100 million by 2028 and $200 million by 2030 to assist public school employees in buying their first home. 

“SB25-167 uses financial tools already in our toolbox to help teachers and other public school employees afford a down payment,” said Amabile. “This new program will allow teachers, who give so much to our communities, to put down roots, build generational wealth, and have a safe and stable place to call home. It is a win-win, letting participants keep most of their equity if they sell, while sustaining the program and paying it forward for others."

“With this law, we’re making owning a home a reality for more Colorado teachers,” said Rep. Lukens. “The lack of affordable housing, especially in rural mountain communities like mine, can be a significant barrier for first-time homebuyers. By creating a new program to help public school teachers afford a down payment, more educators can afford to live in the communities where they teach.” 

“For first-time homebuyers, the initial down payment can be financially intimidating or seemingly impossible,” said Bird. “This law makes it easier for our teachers to afford to purchase their very first home, making it possible for them to build generational wealth and put down roots in the communities they teach in. Together, we’re investing in our teachers.”

The down payment assistance program will be managed by the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) who will establish criteria for participation, prioritizing first-time homebuyers using the home as their primary residence. The new law establishes reporting requirements to the House and Senate Education Committees, the Public School Fund Investment Board (PSFIB), and the Colorado Department of Education. 

The PSFIB will manage the portfolio. They may contract with investment advisors to provide support and expertise, and one member must have experience in community investments.

Right to Visitation, Family Connection Becomes Law

New law protects visitation rights for incarcerated Coloradans

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation into law to ensure that Coloradans who are incarcerated have visitation rights with their family and loved ones.

“This law is about treating incarcerated Coloradans as humans and making their re-entry into their communities more successful to reduce recidivism and improve safety across our state,” said Rep. Regina English, D-Colorado Springs. “From alleviating stress to fostering hope, human connection has proven to provide many benefits for incarcerated Coloradans and our communities. This law ensures that incarceration does not prevent Coloradans from accessing their support systems during some of the most traumatic times in their life.”

“Families are where we find strength, healing, and support,” said Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver. “But for too many families, the criminal justice system creates barriers that fracture these bonds. Regular visits, phone calls, and moments of connection empower families to support their loved ones’ journey toward rehabilitation. This new law helps to make our justice system a tool for repair and recovery, not a weapon of division.”

“Visitation is rehabilitation, and revoking visitation privileges should never be a tool to force justice-involved Coloradans to work or as a form of punishment,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “America abolished slavery in the 1800s, yet incarcerated Coloradans are being forced into labor just to be able to have a conversation with their friends and family. This law ensures that Coloradans, regardless of whether or not they are incarcerated, have the right to access their loved ones.”

“Ensuring that people who are incarcerated have the right to connect with their loved ones makes all Coloradans safer,” said Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs. “It reduces recidivism, supports rehabilitation, and eases the transition back into our communities after incarceration. Currently, people can lose family visitation rights – including contact with their children – as a form of punishment. Protecting the right to family connection leads to better outcomes for individuals, families, and communities across Colorado.”

HB25-1013 protects visitation rights for incarcerated Coloradans to ensure they can stay connected with their family, friends, and loved ones and be set up for success after they serve time and re-enter the community. Visitation includes in-person visits, family time visits, phone calls, and video calls.

A study found that visitation in prison results in a 26 percent decrease in post-release criminal activity as well as a 28 percent reduction in new convictions overall.

Governor Signs New Law to Support Workers on Public Construction Projects

HB25-1130 boosts labor protections for construction jobs by state agencies

DENVER, CO – The Governor yesterday signed legislation sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge, and Representative Michael Carter, D-Aurora, to allow public projects to use Project Labor Agreements to ensure worker protections. 

“The health of Colorado’s public sector depends on high-quality, well-paid jobs protected by Project Labor Agreements that work for both employers and workers,” Danielson said. “We’ve passed measures in recent years to expand apprenticeship opportunities and build a skilled, protected workforce, and this law will broaden these protections to the public construction sector.”

“This law allows public construction projects to use Project Labor Agreements to extend workplace protections and bargaining rights to workers on these projects,” Carter said. “Project Labor Agreements are similar to union contracts and offer workers better pay and safer conditions while leading to higher quality work and faster completion of public projects.”

“I am committed to ensuring that Colorado workers are paid fairly for their work and protected from unfair employer practices,” Kolker said. “This law simply extends existing worker protections to make Colorado law consistent across all sectors.”

“I have proudly passed laws in the energy and public sectors to create safer work conditions and ensure Coloradans are paid a fair wage for their work,” Duran said. “This law seeks to extend protections to Colorado workers on public projects, making Colorado law more consistent across all sectors to protect Colorado workers.”

HB25-1130 implements project labor provisions to ensure that state projects, like their energy sector counterparts, have the option and authorization to utilize this procurement method.

The new law defines a project labor agreement as a collective bargaining agreement between a lead contractor for a public project and construction labor organizations to establish the terms and conditions of employment of the construction workforce on the public project. These agreements must include guarantees around strikes and lockouts, requirements to resolve disputes before project completion, and policy objectives regarding underrepresented minorities in the construction industry. 

This legislation builds on the Colorado Quality Apprenticeship Training Act of 2019, also sponsored by Senator Danielson and Majority Leader Duran, to establish apprenticeship protections for public projects and a 2023 law, also sponsored by Duran, to create clear and fair working standards for Colorado workers transitioning into the clean energy sector. 

Bill to Combat Predatory Vehicle Booting, Increase Consumer Protections Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed into law a bill to crack down on predatory vehicle booting, improve industry transparency, and ramp up consumer protections. 

HB25-1117, sponsored by Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, and Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, will improve oversight, transparency, and fairness surrounding vehicle immobilization, including booting. 

“Booting can be a useful tool for property owners, but it must be done fairly, with clear rules and oversight,” said Joseph. “This new law protects Coloradans from predatory booting practices while giving responsible companies the clarity they need to operate legally and transparently. By empowering the Public Utilities Commission to oversee booting, we’re making sure companies follow the rules and consumers are treated with respect.” 

“Lack of oversight has enabled predatory and abusive practices in the vehicle booting industry, and it’s time for Colorado law to catch up,” said Gonzales. “In previous years, we have made important progress to protect Coloradans from predatory towing practices, and this law is a step toward doing the same for vehicle booting. It establishes clear guidelines including prohibiting indiscriminate patrolling of parking lots and providing advanced notice before a car is immobilized, ensuring that no Coloradan unfairly loses access to their vehicle.” 

“Right now, vehicle booting companies are taking advantage of a lack of regulation to immobilize Coloradans’ vehicles for profit,” said Boesenecker. “Our law cracks down on booting companies that patrol parking lots and authorize their own booting practices that typically end up costing Coloradans money and time. To improve transparency and strengthen consumer protections, booting companies will be required to give consumers a fair warning and place a written notice on vehicles at least 24 hours before immobilizing them.”

“For most Coloradans, a car is not a convenience – it is a livelihood. Cars are how Coloradans get to work, buy groceries and medicine, and take their kids to school,” said Weissman. “This new law is about preventing abuse by the vehicle booting industry, which currently operates with very little oversight, and establishing basic protections for Colorado drivers like clear signage and access to a payment plan. These protections prevent predatory booting and ensure that hardworking Coloradans can quickly restore access to their cars.” 

The law gives the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) additional oversight to deny, suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a permit to a vehicle booting company if the company is violating specific guidelines. 

Under the law, vehicle booting companies will be required to:

• Document a vehicle’s condition and the reason for immobilization before they immobilize it, 

• Display the name of the company, the permit number, and a phone number of the company on each company vehicle used for immobilization,

• Not charge more than once for the removal of more than one immobilization device, and

• Remove an immobilization device if at least $60 of the total amount owed is paid.

Additionally, vehicle booting companies must refrain from immobilizing a vehicle if: 

• It has already been immobilized by another company,

• It is on private property, unless given appropriate permission,

• There is inadequate signage posted by the property owner, or

• Less than 24 hours notice has been given for a vehicle in a parking space or common parking area, with certain exceptions including if a vehicle is in a spot reserved for people with disabilities, is blocking a fire hydrant or roadway, or is in a spot designated for a specific individual. 

In recent years, Colorado Democrats have passed landmark legislation to protect consumers against predatory towing practices, including HB21-1283, HB22-1314, and HB24-1051.

Signed! New Law Establishes Statewide Black History Education Standards

HB25-1149 standardizes Black American history taught in Colorado’s public schools

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law legislation to establish statewide Black history education standards in Colorado’s public K-12 schools. 

HB25-1149, sponsored by Representative Regina English, D-Colorado Springs, and Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, requires the Colorado Department of Education to develop a standard K-12 curriculum for Black history and cultural studies with support from a 17-member advisory committee.

“Black history is American history, and without a comprehensive Black history curriculum in our public schools, students aren’t receiving the full scope of achievements and contributions of Black Americans,” said English. “We can help our students achieve a well-rounded education by developing and standardizing a comprehensive Black history curriculum in Colorado’s public schools. From politics to engineering, Black Americans’ contributions to society are vast. Our law helps ensure that students learn about the influential Black leaders who changed the course of history and our nation.”

“Here in Colorado, we understand the importance of teaching a full, honest history – one that recognizes the achievements, contributions, and experiences of Black Americans,” said Exum. “Implementing a standardized Black history curriculum in our public schools ensures that students of all races and backgrounds receive a more complete education that prepares them to be informed, engaged citizens and honors the extensive contributions of Black Americans in shaping our state and nation.”

Once approved by the Colorado Board of Education, public K-12 schools will have to adopt the new Black history education standards into their curriculum as part of the state’s social studies standards revision cycle, which concludes in 2028.

Bill to Continue Healthy School Meals for All Program Becomes Law

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed legislation into law to refer two ballot measures to Colorado voters regarding the continuation of the Healthy School Meals for All program.

“Colorado children should never have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” said Rep. Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County. “The Healthy School Meals for All program has improved the health and educational success of Colorado students. Now, Colorado voters will be able to decide if we continue this program to reduce childhood hunger or will have to scale it back. At a time when Congressional Republicans are considering deep cuts to nutrition assistance, we should be doing all we can to make sure our students have food to eat in school.”

“Kids in school should be thinking about their next math test – not worrying about going hungry,” said Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City. “In 2022, voters approved the Healthy School Meals for All program, which made a significant positive impact on Colorado students and their families. This law will allow the voters to reaffirm their support for our state’s children and their educational success.”

“Every single Colorado kid, regardless of their income, should be able to eat a healthy, filling breakfast and lunch without worrying about the cost,” said Senator Katie Wallace, D-Longmont. “The Healthy School Meals for All program has been extremely successful in Colorado – it has reduced the stigma associated with free and reduced lunch, helped Colorado kids succeed, and allowed families breathe a little easier with less strain on their budgets. This law empowers Colorado voters to decide on the future of this beneficial program.”

HB25-1274 will refer two ballot measures to Colorado voters in the November 2025 election to determine whether or not to continue funding the program as is, increase funding for the program or scale it back. One ballot measure asks voters if they want the state to be able to retain and spend state revenue on the Healthy School Meals for All Program above the original estimate, which will otherwise need to be refunded to taxpayers who earn over $300,000 a year. The second ballot measure asks voters if they want to expand the program by further limiting tax deductions for those who earn over $300,000 a year.

If at least one of the two measures is approved by Colorado voters, the law will extend the local school purchasing program, which is set to repeal after FY 2025-2026.

In 2022, Colorado voters approved Proposition FF, creating the Healthy School Meals for All program to provide all Colorado students free breakfast and lunch. The program was funded by limiting income tax reductions for taxpayers who have a federal adjusted gross income of $300,000 or more. The 2025-2026 budget, approved by the Colorado General Assembly in April 2025, fully funds the Healthy School Meals for All program through the end of the year.

As Colorado works to expand access to healthy school meals for children, Congress is considering the GOP budget proposal that would significantly pare back SNAP benefits for children and families. Under this proposal, state and county costs across Colorado are expected to increase by approximately $260 million annually. The GOP budget proposal also heightens eligibility requirements for food assistance programs, making it more difficult for Coloradans over 55 and families with children between 8 and 18 years old to receive the support they need.

Signed! HVAC Bill to Support Schools and Skilled Workers

ENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed legislation to improve public K-12 schools' indoor air quality by creating funding pathways for energy-efficient upgrades and partnering with highly skilled local contractors.

“There are many HVAC contractors throughout the state, and this bill ensures they’re considered when public schools update their heating and cooling systems,” said Rep. Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton. “This law is good for workers and small businesses because it helps them secure HVAC maintenance contracts while creating safer air to breathe for Colorado students and educators.”

“I served on my local school board for seven years, and I know firsthand how challenging it is to fund essential school infrastructure – especially HVAC systems that provide heating, cooling, and clean air,” said Sen. Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins. “Students deserve to learn in classrooms with healthy air quality and comfortable temperatures. This law gives school districts the ability to apply for funding for HVAC improvements, ensuring they can access the resources they need to create safe and productive learning environments.”

“This law helps schools access previously unavailable funds to update their HVAC systems to help create healthier learning environments for students and teachers," said Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial. “Our students and educators deserve heating and cooling that works – and this law helps ensure that HVAC maintenance is conducted by highly skilled workers, saving schools money in the long run. If a school decides to use federal or state dollars to pay for their HVAC installation or upgrades, they’ll need to consider contractors from the state-certified list, which helps prioritize locally sourced labor.” 

“Students and teachers need clean, healthy air and reliable heating and air conditioning to learn, focus, and teach to the best of their ability,” said Sen. Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge. “This new law is a step toward dignity in the classroom and safer, healthier schools for Colorado while supporting local HVAC workers and small businesses.”

HB25-1245 helps ensure Colorado’s public K-12 schools have adequate temperature control for students. This law outlines new requirements for the installation, inspection, and maintenance of heating, cooling and ventilation systems, also known as HVAC, in public schools. Specifically, if a school utilizes funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act cash fund, it is required to hire only from a certified list maintained by the state to perform the installation or maintenance of HVAC systems. By hiring skilled workers, the HVAC systems are likely to be more efficient and last longer, saving schools money in the long run. 

To encourage transparency and accountability, a certified contractor must prepare a detailed HVAC verification report within 30 days of completing any work and the school must retain the report for five years and make it available to the public upon request.

This law only applies when schools or school districts utilize state or federal funding to install or maintain their HVAC systems. HB25-1245 prioritizes local HVAC contractors and supports small businesses. 

Miranda Gordon Justice For Survivors Act of 2025 Becomes Law to Address CBI Backlog

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed a bill into law to address the backlog in DNA tests collected in sexual assault investigations by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

"CBI’s backlog exceeding 550 days is unacceptable,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn. “There are over 1,300 survivors waiting for their results, and each number is a real person who is seeking the answers they need to pursue accountability and justice. Survivors deserve better, and this law shows them that Colorado stands with them in their fight.”

"Colorado has struggled for years to quickly test evidence related to sexual assault offenses, leaving survivors of these crimes without justice and the broader community without safety," said Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora.  "This session, bipartisan majorities in the legislature supported additional funding to catch up on the backlog of evidence requiring testing and heightened transparency requirements so the public can be more fully aware of how this work is progressing. SB304 builds on this work by requiring better communication about evidence test status to survivors of sexual assault offenses, increased reporting, and investment in a new board to improve communication and coordination across state and local forensic labs. This law is part of our ongoing commitment to do better for survivors of these horrible offenses."

"The CBI backlog has had devastating consequences on survivors and victims, and this new law helps to create a system that puts them at the forefront,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “I have proudly sponsored numerous laws to bolster how Colorado handles and processes sexual assault kits, including allowing victims to track the status of their case. This law will improve accountability and address the backlog so survivors can seek the justice they deserve."

SB25-304, titled the “Miranda Gordon Justice For Survivors Act of 2025”,  creates the Colorado Sexual Assault Forensic Medical Evidence Review Board, whose mission mirrors that of the existing Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board. Under the law, the board will review and evaluate the effectiveness of current protocols, standards, and training practices in the criminal legal system's response to sexual assault. The law also requires making victim-centered recommendations for improvement in accordance with the federal Violence Against Women Act of 1994 to the General Assembly by November 1, 2026.

Additionally, the law will:

• Create a notification requirement under the Victim Rights Act that a law enforcement agency must notify victims at least once every 90 days if they have not received DNA test results for their case;

• Directs crime labs to analyze test kits and upload the information within 60 days, when appropriate, and subject to available resources;

• Instruct CBI to create a public-facing dashboard that provides reports on the forensic medical evidence and DNA evidence backlog at least every thirty days; and

• Expand existing reporting rules to require that CBI send each member of the General Assembly the dashboard data and updates on lab contracting issues affecting CBI’s testing capacity or timeline projections, at least every thirty days.

  Earlier this year, a former CBI forensic scientist - Missy Woods - was charged with manipulating and mishandling data in the DNA testing process of more than1,000 criminal casesdating back as far back as 2014. This has contributed to the554-day waitto receive results for a sexual assault kit. SB25-304 andHB25-1275are a direct response to CBI crime laboratory misconduct and will help uphold the integrity of Colorado’s forensic system.

Signed! Pair of New Laws Will Support Veterans and Their Families

DENVER, CO – Governor Polis today signed two bills into law to support veterans and their families seeking government services. 

SB25-282, sponsored by Senator Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Representative Lisa Feret, D-Arvada, will protect veterans from paying too much for veterans’ services from unaccredited bad actors. 

“Too often, those who have bravely served our country are misled into paying thousands of dollars in fees and even going into debt for services they receive for free from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs,” Ball said. “Without preventing honest consultants in the industry from doing business, this law will address the backlog in claims from the DMVA while cracking down on bad actors who mislead and defraud our nation’s veterans.” 

"My fellow veterans deserve fair and safe access to services that help them get benefits they earned through their service and sacrifice for our country,” said Feret. “‘Claim sharks’ rake in millions of dollars each year from excessive fees on service members' disability claims, sometimes even when they don't even win. Our law helps create guidelines in this unregulated space to protect disabled veterans while allowing companies address the backlog of disability claims. I will not back down as dark money groups try to scam veterans who put their life on their line for our country."

Cosponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, and Representative Ryan Armagost, R-Berthoud, SB25-282 protects veterans from unaccredited consultants, often called “claim sharks,” who charge money to help navigate the application process to receive benefits from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). 

The new law mirrors the regulations the federal government uses to regulate social security benefits from the Social Security Administration. It requires that businesses must unambiguously notify veterans that they can receive the same services for free from the DMVA, clearly state that they are not affiliated with the DMVA, and limit the amount of money consultants can receive from veterans’ back pay.

HB25-1083, sponsored by Senators Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, and Representatives Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial, and Mary Bradfield, R-El Paso County, supports military families by expanding driver license extensions to dependents of active duty members.

“Veterans’ families make some of the same sacrifices and difficult choices to serve our country that the service members in their families do,” said Michaelson Jenet. “I’m proud to sponsor this new law that extends some of the same critical benefits to them as a way to honor those sacrifices.”

“As a former military spouse, I understand the importance of supporting and honoring military members and their families,” said Hamrick. “Current law allows service members outside of Colorado to extend their expired license for up to three years, and this new law expands this benefit to dependents of military service members. I’m proud to sponsor this law to better support Colorado military families and recognize the sacrifices they make for our state and country.”

Currently, if a Coloradan’s driver’s license expires while they are on active duty outside of Colorado, state law allows the expiration date to be extended for three years. Beginning January 1, 2027, HB25-1083 will also allow dependents of these service members to benefit from this three-year extension.

Gov Signs Duran, Hinrichsen Bill to Crack Down on Gun Theft

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed a bipartisan bill into law to help reduce the number of stolen guns in Colorado communities by increasing the penalty for certain firearm thefts.

“Whether a gun costs $100 or $10,000, it can cause tragic, irreversible loss, and the penalty for firearm theft should be the same across the board,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “Colorado Democrats have passed numerous bills to prevent firearms from getting into the wrong hands, but firearm theft acts as a loophole to these gun violence prevention measures and threatens the safety of our communities. Our bipartisan law ensures that the price of the weapon does not dictate the penalty of the crime, helping drive down gun violence and address the epidemic of firearm theft.”

“One of my top priorities as an elected official has been to pass legislation that ensures every Coloradan can live in a safe and thriving community,” said Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo. “Firearm theft of any kind increases the risk of violent crime for everyone, and we must do more to prevent such crimes before they occur. This bipartisan policy has been a multi-year effort, and I’m proud that this year we were able to get it across the finish line and see HB1062 signed into law.”

Currently, the penalty for firearm theft can range from a petty offense to a class 2 felony, depending on the value of the stolen firearm. HB25-1062, also sponsored by Representative Ryan Armagost, R-Berthoud, and Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, will make theft of any firearm a class 6 felony.

Over 3,500 firearms were stolen in Colorado between 2019 and 2023. It is reported that 70-percent of those firearms were recovered, and criminal charges were filed.

Colorado Democrats have passed numerous laws to keep firearms out of the wrong hands, including laws to require gun owners to report when their firearm has been lost or stolen and properly store their firearms when not in use, including in their vehicles. The legislature also cracked down on “ghost guns” to keep unregulated, untraceable firearms out of our communities. This year, Colorado Democrats passed a law to help firearm dealers identify firearms that have been reported lost or stolen or involved in a criminal investigation.

Signed! Bill to Improve Law Enforcement Training Becomes Law

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed a bill into law to implement voter-approved Proposition 130 and direct significant new resources to public safety and law enforcement training, recruitment and retention.

“Colorado voters made it clear with Proposition 130 they want real investments in public safety,” said Sen. Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “This bill delivers on that promise by responsibly investing in law enforcement recruitment, retention, and training over the next several years. Even in a tough budget year, made worse by federal chaos and uncertainty, Colorado’s budget reflects our commitment to public education, public health, and public safety.”

"This law honors voter intent when they passed Prop 130 and increases the state’s investment in public safety,” said Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “Our law will invest $350 million to recruit, retain and train local law enforcement officers and ensure that families of first responders receive death benefits in the event their family member’s life is taken while in the line of duty. Our law ensures that the state is a partner in protecting the safety of every Coloradan and makes certain that local law enforcement agencies have the resources they need to do their jobs well."

SB25-310, also sponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, and Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, will implement the voter-approved Proposition 130 by creating a funding mechanism for the distribution of $350 million for local law enforcement officer recruitment, retention and training. It makes a one-time investment of $500 million of the general fund reserve in PERA and reduces future general fund payments to PERA by the amount of interest earned. It will then divert that amount to the new Peace Officer Training and Support Fund each year, which will be distributed to local police departments. 

It also implements the death benefit required in Proposition 130 of $1 million to the surviving spouse, family member, or designee of any first responder who died as a result of injuries or an occupational disease sustained while performing their job, and creates the Death Benefit Fund. 

JOINT RELEASE: New Law Will Improve Treatment of People with Behavioral Health Disorders in the Criminal Justice System

SB25-041 will refine competency restoration and sanity examinations while expanding supportive housing for incarcerated individuals

DENVER, CO – The Governor yesterday signed legislation sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Representative and Regina English, D-Colorado Springs, to improve services for people with behavioral health disorders in the criminal justice system.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and protected in their interactions with law enforcement and the justice system, especially people battling serious behavioral health issues,” said Michaelson Jenet. “This new law works to streamline and protect access to the resources that the most vulnerable people in the criminal justice system need to heal and eventually re-enter their communities feeling healthier, stronger and more productive.” 

“To create safer communities, we need to make sure Coloradans in the criminal justice system with behavioral health disorders receive the care they need to stand trial effectively,” said English. “Without consistent behavioral health care for these individuals, criminal trials are likely to be delayed, which hinders our justice system. This new law streamlines access to inpatient services for those in the criminal justice system to help reduce recidivism and prioritize justice for survivors.”

“Coloradans seeking support in the aftermath of mental health crises deserve comprehensive care and a system willing to treat them with dignity,” said Amabile. “Every American is owed the right to fair criminal trial, and we owe it to victims, defendants, their families and their communities to implement an equitable and dignified environment for proceedings to take place.”

SB25-041, cosponsored by Representative Mary Bradfield, R-El Paso County, will allow the Colorado Department of Human Services to continue providing inpatient services for up to 90 days after an individual’s case is dismissed because the person is deemed “incompetent to proceed.” It also allows the department to work with community organizations to provide permanent supportive housing for these individuals or those who complete the Bridges of Colorado program.

The new law was recommended by the Treatment of Persons with Behavioral Health Disorders in the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Systems Interim Committee, which is responsible for overseeing its associated task force and implementing recommendations regarding the treatment of people with behavioral health disorders in the criminal and juvenile justice systems.

JOINT RELEASE: New Law Helps Identify and Prevent the Sale of Stolen Firearms

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed a bill into law to help identify individuals who are trying to sell a firearm that has been reported lost or stolen or involved in a criminal investigation.

“This law allows federally licensed firearm dealers to request verification that they are not buying lost or stolen weapons,” said Rep. Cecelia Espenoza, D-Denver. “We’re establishing a procedure and expediting serial number checks so firearm dealers have better tools to help keep our communities safe by identifying guns that have been stolen or involved in an unsolved crime.”

“SB25-205 comes from concerns raised by firearm dealers in my district, and is a win for both public safety and responsible small businesses,” said Sen. Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo. “It ensures that when someone wants to trade in or sell a used firearm, dealers have a clear process and safeguards while they check if a gun is lost or stolen. By guaranteeing timely law enforcement checks, we keep firearm transactions aboveboard and help people buy and sell through safe, legitimate channels. This law also protects dealers from making costly, unintentional purchases that could hurt their business.” 

“We’ve created this law for the firearm dealers throughout Colorado who want to do their part to keep illegal guns off our streets,” said Rep. William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield. “Running serial number checks alerts firearm dealers when they come across lost, stolen or crime-involved firearms that they wouldn’t be able to sell anyway. This law helps firearm dealers protect themselves from bad purchases while making their communities safer from gun crimes.”

SB25-205 establishes a procedure to allow a federal firearms licensee to request a firearm serial number check before purchasing a firearm from an individual. Under the law, local county sheriff’s offices must complete the serial number check within three business days of the request. 

If a licensee has a reason to believe that a person sold or attempted to sell a firearm that is stolen, lost, or involved in an open criminal investigation, they will be required to report the information to law enforcement within 48 hours.

Colorado Democrats have passed numerous laws to keep firearms out of the wrong hands, including laws to require gun owners to report when their firearm has been lost or stolen and properly store their firearms when not in use, including in their vehicles. The legislature also cracked down on “ghost guns” to keep unregulated, untraceable firearms out of our communities.

Signed! Bills to Support Students and Improve Cell Phone Coverage

EDWARDS, CO – Governor Jared Polis on Friday signed legislation to support students and improve cell phone coverage across the state. HB25-1186 will encourage work-based learning opportunities for students. HB25-1080 will incentivize the expansion of cell phone infrastructure in rural and underserved areas. 

“To prepare our students for success after graduation, they need work-based learning opportunities to strengthen and sharpen their skills,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, sponsor of HB25-1186 and HB25-1080. “Our new law helps integrate more work-based learning in our schools, so our students can be prepared for good-paying, in-demand jobs after graduation. Another law I sponsored will help improve cell phone coverage in our rural communities because having reliable cell phone service improves safety for everyone.” 

“Every student takes a different path to success, and work-based learning is a powerful way to help them discover their strengths and prepare for their future,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, sponsor of HB25-1186. “This new law ensures our colleges and universities have the support they need to build strong workplace learning programs and strengthens our data and reporting requirements so we know what works. This law is about investing in our students, supporting innovative programs, and setting students up for success before and after graduation.”

“When students have hands-on learning, they can explore new career pathways and are better prepared for life after graduation,” said Rep. Matt Martinez, D-Monte Vista, sponsor of HB25-1186. “We’re taking steps today to encourage more work-based learning opportunities in our schools so that they can prepare for a career of their dreams.” 

HB25-1186, also sponsored by Senator Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction, will help create new pathways for students. This law creates a pilot program for work-based learning in the Department of Higher Education. This program will study the impact of industry-sponsored projects on learning outcomes and measure the impact on students who participate in work-based projects while enrolled in higher education.

“Colorado faces unique challenges with cell phone connectivity – especially in our rural communities,” said Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, sponsor of HB25-1080. “This affects everything from businesses to emergency services to hardworking families who need reliable service. This new law opens the door for grants and incentives to expand wireless infrastructure in the areas that need it most. In the 21st century, staying connected is essential to our success and our safety.”

HB25-1080, also sponsored by Rep. Matt Soper, R-Delta, will incentivize the expansion of cell phone infrastructure in rural and underserved areas. This law enables local governments and school districts to offer property tax relief, incentive payments, or credits to communication service providers, including broadband. This law was a result of the Cell Phone Connectivity Interim Study Committee, which convened last year to identify new ways to improve cell phone coverage in rural and underserved areas in Colorado. 

Governor Polis also signed HB25-1006 into law, sponsored by Representatives Lukens, Anthony Hartsook, R-Parker, Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. This law allows school districts to pursue long-term leases for renewable energy or affordable housing projects.

SIGNED! New Law Will Lower the Cost of Prescription Drugs

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – The Governor on Friday signed legislation sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Representative Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, to lower the cost of prescription drugs. 

“Colorado families are counting on us to put their health and safety first,” Michaelson Jenet said. “This new law will ensure that all Coloradans, especially those who rely on rural hospitals, pharmacies, and providers, don’t lose access to the services they depend on to stay safe and healthy.” 

“We must ensure that Coloradans in rural and underserved communities receive the prescription drugs they need to lead healthy lives,” said Martinez. “This bipartisan law ensures that pharmaceutical companies do not impose restrictions on the local pharmacies, clinics and safety net providers that are dependent on the federal 340B program and serve our rural communities.”

“The federal 340B program has needed additional transparency and accountability for some time, and pharmaceutical companies have continued to rake in profits,” said Chair of the House Health & Human Services Committee Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “At the legislature, we've taken steps to lower health care costs for Coloradans. By improving transparency and accountability, we are continuing to take steps to expand access so that more Coloradans can receive high-quality health care."

SB25-071, cosponsored by Senator Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction, and Representative Rick Taggart, D-Grand Junction, will ensure prescription drug manufacturers do not impose restrictions on facilities – such as pharmacies and clinics – that utilize the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program, and will require hospitals to include certain information in their annual reports. The new reporting requirements, including the hospitals' reported 340B savings and how they utilized those savings, aim to improve transparency. 

SB25-071 aims to preserve access to affordable prescription drugs across Colorado, especially in Colorado’s rural and underserved communities. 89 percent of rural hospitals in Colorado are running on low or negative margins. In addition to lowering the cost of prescription drugs, this law will help preserve no-cost clinics and vaccines that help keep Coloradans healthy. To improve accountability and ensure 340B savings are passed down to the consumer, this law prohibits hospitals from spending the 340B savings on executive salaries, gifts, lobbying, and advertising.

The 340B Drug Pricing Program is a federal program that requires drug manufacturers participating in Medicaid to provide outpatient drugs to covered hospitals, clinics, or pharmacies at a discount. To qualify for these reduced drug prices, health care facilities must serve a high percentage of low-income patients.

In Colorado, an estimated 68 hospitals and 20 federally qualified health centers participate in the 340B program. There are currently no requirements on how covered entities must use savings or revenues generated by the purchase of discounted 340B drugs, beyond the federal guidelines of using savings to expand and lower the cost of health care for low-income individuals.

JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Incentivize Employee-Owned Businesses Signed Into Law​

HB25-1021 implements an income tax credit for employee-owned businesses

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representative William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield, to create tax incentives for employee-owned businesses was signed into law on Friday.

“Employee-owned businesses create a higher quality of life for workers, including higher wages, lower turnover, and better benefits and job security,” Bridges said. “Investing in employee ownership means investing in a more secure future for Colorado’s working families, and I’m proud to have championed this policy to encourage business owners to invest in their employees’ futures, too.”

“Employee-owned businesses are good for Colorado and make it easier for your favorite locally-owned businesses to stay in your neighborhood,” said Lindstedt. “This law creates new tax credits specifically for employee-owned businesses, saving them money and encouraging other businesses to convert to an employee-owned business model.” 

Transitioning to an employee-owned model helps small businesses focus on investing in their employees and serving their communities. Cosponsored by Senator Mark Baisley, R-Woodland Park, and Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, HB25-1021 creates several new tax deductions and credits for businesses with an employee ownership model. In addition to the new tax incentives, the legislation extends the existing Employee Ownership Tax Credit within the Office of Economic Development and International Trade through tax year 2031.

The Employee Ownership Tax Credit, created by HB21-1311, was previously equal to 50 percent of the conversion costs for a business that converts to a worker-owned cooperative, an employee stock ownership plan, or an employee ownership trust. HB25-1021 makes the tax credit equal to 75 percent of the conversion cost, up to $167,000. The income tax credit is fully refundable.

Senators Release Statements Following Boulder Attack

BOULDER, CO – Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, released the following statements in response to today’s attack in Boulder at the Run for Their Lives event.

“My prayers are with the victims, Boulder, and Colorado’s Jewish community following today’s horrific, violent attack at the Run for Their Lives event,” said Coleman. “Hate and violence have no place in Colorado – or anywhere. We must all do more to protect our neighbors, stand united for peace, and ensure every community can live in safety and without fear.”

“As an Israeli-born, American Jewish woman living in Colorado, I am devastated and heartbroken at the terrorist attack on my friends and colleagues at the Run for Their Lives event in Boulder,” said Michaelson Jenet. “This event is a weekly peaceful gathering of Israeli and American Jewish families working to bring attention to the hostages who are still being held in Gaza for almost two years following the massacre of the Israeli people on October 7th, 2023. All Jewish communities in Colorado and around the country are on edge as we enter into the Jewish holiday of Shavuot this evening. We live in America for the freedom it affords. Terrorism should never happen here. The violence must end.”

“My heart is broken following today’s attack on my home of Boulder and Colorado’s Jewish community,” said Amabile. “Divisive, hateful rhetoric must stop. We all must commit to peace and safety in both our words and our actions. My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those impacted by this tragedy. Boulder is resilient, and we will stand united against violence in all its forms.”

ICYMI: Legislation to Ensure Safe Housing and Strengthen Renter Protections Signed Into Law

SB25-020 will increase compliance with landlord-tenant laws and uphold housing standards statewide

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, Governor Jared Polis signed into law a bill to ensure safe housing and strengthen renter protections by expanding the Attorney General’s and local governments’ authority to enforce landlord-tenant laws.

SB25-020 is sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Representatives Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora, and Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. It allows the Colorado Attorney General to seek any penalties or use any enforcement mechanisms available under landlord-tenant laws to enforce housing protections for victims of unlawful sexual behavior, stalking, or domestic violence, as well as documentation requirements for housing agreements, and extends protections regarding bed bug infestations in residential homes. The bill gives counties and municipalities the ability to enforce these same landlord-tenant laws in addition to existing provisions the Attorney General may already enforce.

“In recent years, we have worked hard to strengthen renters’ protections and level the playing field between tenants and landlords,” said Gonzales. “When apartment buildings fall into disrepair because of neglect and mismanagement, it throws tenants’ lives into chaos, jeopardizes safe living conditions, and disrupts their ability to simply get through their day. This new law empowers local governments and the Attorney General to enforce the laws we already have on the books by holding neglectful management companies who have a pattern and practice of disregarding our safe housing laws to account, with the goal of ensuring that all Coloradans can live in safe and healthy housing.”

“As an Aurora legislator, I’m proud to sponsor this new law to ensure renters don’t have to spend multiple years fighting corporate landlords for basic rights,” said Lindsay. “When negligent landlords allowed several properties in my community to fall into disrepair, the city had limited tools to address the issues. This law builds on past work Colorado Democrats have done to ensure renters can live in safe conditions by empowering counties and municipalities to enforce tenant protection laws. No one deserves to live among rodents or without functioning heat or cooling systems, and this law will help ensure Coloradans have a safe place to live.”

“For too long, bad actors in property management have ignored tenant complaints, neglected basic repairs, and left communities in crisis. This must end,” said Weissman. “Recent events in Aurora and Denver highlight the urgent need for stronger tools to protect renters. Violations of our state’s safe housing laws cannot be ignored – especially in a housing crisis where every rental unit matters. SB20 is narrowly focused on tackling cases of chronic neglect where tenants have been left without options for far too long.”

“This law will hold negligent landlords accountable when they illegally ignore dangerous living conditions,” said Mabrey. “By giving the Attorney General, counties, and municipalities more authority to enforce tenant protection laws, Colorado renters will have more advocates in their corner to fight for safe housing. Colorado Democrats are committed to not only making housing more affordable, but also ensuring that these affordable housing options are safe and healthy places to live.”

SB25-020 also establishes a process where, only in severe cases with a pattern of neglect, residential housing may be placed into receivership – a legal process where a court appoints a caretaker to oversee a neglected property to temporarily manage operations, make necessary repairs, and repay debts. The law outlines the process for receivership cases, including providing proper notice to parties, defining powers and responsibilities for entities appointed as receivers, and establishing the process for ending receiverships.

JOINT RELEASE: Governor Signs Law to Prevent Youth Overdoses

HB25-1293 will increase overdose prevention education and treatments in Colorado high schools

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, and Representative Jamie Jackson, D-Aurora, to prevent youth overdoses was signed into law today. 

“Opioid overdose is the third leading cause of deaths among young people in our nation, and we must be doing more to combat these tragedies,” Snyder said. “This new law outlines commonsense solutions to equip students with the tools they need to prevent overdoses and save lives.”

“Fatal overdoses are preventable, and we’re working to inform and educate Colorado high school students so lives can be saved,” said Jackson. “This bipartisan bill standardizes drug overdose education in our public schools so our high schoolers are better informed, now and into adulthood, and can act quickly during an overdose emergency. We’re fighting back against youth overdose deaths, and if this education requirement saves even one student, it will be worth it.”

Cosponsored by House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, R-Colorado Springs, and Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, HB25-1293 will add education standards for opioid overdose identification, risks, prevention, and response to high school curricula statewide. It will also allow public and non-public schools to seek gifts, grants, and donations to acquire and maintain a supply of Naloxone and other opioid antagonists on school campuses.

Colorado has the second highest rate of overdose deaths among adolescents nationwide. Overdose education and Naloxone distribution are proven to be crucial in preventing death due to opioid overdose. 

Last year, Colorado lawmakers championed a law that made opioid antagonists and drug testing strips available on school buses and in school buildings. 

Signed! Bill to Prevent Catastrophic Wildfires

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation into law to combat destructive wildfires through strategic prescribed burns. 

SB25-007, sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Representatives Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, and Ron Weinberg, R-Loveland, encourages the use of prescribed burns as a wildfire resilience tool. 

“Because of the real impacts of climate change, we are living with an unpredictable and increasing threat of devastating wildfires,” said Cutter. “As a longtime member of the Wildfire Matters Review Committee, I am committed to championing solutions that address all facets of this issue. Prescribed burning is an important tool in the toolbox to help protect Coloradans and our forests.”

“Wildfire season is year-round in Colorado, and our communities need all the wildfire mitigation tools available,” said Velasco. “This law will make it easier for communities to conduct prescribed burns, which are a cost-effective way to reduce the amount of fuel available for a wildfire. Fire is a natural part of our ecosystem, and with the guidance of a certified burn manager, Colorado communities can take steps today to reduce the size and intensity of destructive wildfires in the future.”

“We’ve learned so many lessons from the catastrophic wildfires of recent years, and among the most important of those is to be prepared,” said Marchman. “It is imperative that we strengthen our use of proactive, science-backed approaches like prescribed burns to address dangerous conditions and keep our forests healthy before we find ourselves in a disastrous situation.”

Low-intensity fire, applied through prescribed burns overseen by burn managers, can reduce fuel loads and restore fire-adapted ecosystems. SB25-007 will strengthen Colorado’s wildfire mitigation efforts by encouraging controlled, prescribed burns. To keep communities safe, plans for prescribed burns must be reviewed by the Division of Fire Prevention and Control. 

As recommended by the Wildfire Matters Review Committee, this new law will compensate Coloradans if their property is damaged during prescribed burns. It will also address workforce shortages that are a barrier to expanding the use of prescribed fires by allowing interstate reciprocity in the certified burner program, which certifies individuals to conduct prescribed burns.

Additionally, this law better allows utility companies to perform wildfire mitigation, broadening access to a financing mechanism that will reduce mitigation costs. To ensure state oversight, plans must be approved by the Public Utilities Commission.