ICYMI: Bill to Crack Down on ‘Junk Fees’ Passes Senate Committee

HB25-1090 would bring down costs for Coloradans by cracking down on unpopular, surprise ‘junk fees’

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, to crack down on ‘junk fees’ and improve price transparency passed the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday. 

“Unexpected, undisclosed fees cost consumers hundreds of dollars every month,” Cutter said. “These ‘junk fees’ can make informed budgeting decisions feel impossible for consumers. Our legislation will increase transparency for consumers, helping them make informed purchase decisions and ultimately save more of their hard earned money.”

“Opaque or dishonest fees cost Americans up to $90 billion per year, taking an average of $650 annually out of the pockets of working families that could be better spent on household essentials like health care and child care,” Weissman said. “Honest, upfront business owners deserve a fair playing field and consumers deserve price transparency in order to make informed financial decisions.”

HB25-1090 would standardize transparent prices upfront, in many cases prohibiting pricing information from being offered or advertised unless the final total price is disclosed. Additionally, the bill would prohibit the misrepresentation of pricing information, require the purpose of a fee that is not part of the total price to be disclosed, and restrict the fees landlords can charge for utilities and third-party services to ensure tenants are not charged additional fees. 

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. Shortly thereafter, the FTC and the Colorado Attorney General 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.

HB25-1090 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

joint release: Lawmakers Spotlight State-Driven Solutions to Affordability Issues

Witnesses highlight devastating impact of Trump Administration actions to dismantle consumer protections and let corporations reap record profits by ripping off hardworking people

DENVER, CO – The House and Senate Judiciary Committees today held a joint hearing to examine the Trump Administration’s efforts to protect corporate profits and monopolies at the expense of hardworking Coloradans. 

As the federal government abandons efforts to save consumers money by holding corporations accountable, states like Colorado are leading the way to lower costs for working families by cracking down on rent algorithms, junk fees, and price gouging that drive up prices on critical necessities like housing, groceries and everyday purchases. 

“We are living in a time where corporate profits go unchecked while hardworking people struggle to live paycheck to paycheck,” said Senate Judiciary Chair Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “All this while federal agencies meant to protect everyday Americans are being gutted at the whim of an unelected billionaire and a President more interested in his own bottom line than the well-being of the people. This is why the Colorado legislature’s work to hold corporations accountable and shore up consumer protections is so critically important. We will continue to strengthen protections for Coloradans and level the playing field for all.”

“While the Trump Administration is helping the wealthiest corporate monopolies rip off the American People by dismantling essential worker and consumer protections, we’re saving Coloradans money and boosting wages,” said House Judiciary Chair Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “Colorado Democrats are making our state more affordable by cracking down on price gouging, junk fees and rent algorithms that drive up housing prices. The testimony we heard today makes it clear that if Elon Musk,Trump and DOGE succeed, corporations will raise prices further and more easily scam Americans out of their hard earned money while preying on the most vulnerable among us.”

The committee heard testimony from Federal Trade Commissioner Alvaro Bedoya, who was illegally fired by Trump yesterday, and Seth Frotman, the former General Counsel and Senior Advisor for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The witnesses highlighted how dismantling CFPB and FTC efforts to protect consumers will take money out of the pockets of the people who can least afford it while shielding corporations from accountability.

In the few months since Trump took office, the administration has halted critical efforts to protect consumers from junk fees and rent algorithms. Elon Musk and DOGE have tried to shut down the CFPB, which was established after the Great Recession to crack down on predatory financial products and practices. Both the FTC and CFPB had been actively engaged on policies to make life more affordable for working people  and address these critical issues, but when Trump took office, he stopped those efforts, leaving states like Colorado to fill the gaps. 

Bill to Support Families with Newborns in the NICU Passes Senate

SB25-144 would extend the paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance program up to an additional 12 weeks for parents of children in neonatal intensive care

DENVER, CO – Today, legislation sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, to extend the Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Insurance program passed the Senate.

SB25-144 would allow parents of children who are receiving inpatient care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to receive paid family and medical insurance benefits for up to an additional twelve weeks while the child is receiving care. 

“I know firsthand how terrifying and consuming it can be for a parent of a newborn in intensive care,” said Bridges. “It is so important for a child's development to be with their parents in those first few months of life. We need to make it easier for parents with kids in the NICU to have access to that quality time, which is why we’re expanding FAMLI in a way that doesn’t raise premiums for employees or employers.”  

“We know that children are more likely to come home faster from the NICU if their parents can be with them,” said Winter. “Because of the good work and the existing resources of the FAMLI Insurance program, expanding benefits for additional time allows the state to provide additional help to families going through incredibly taxing times.”  

The bill would also modify the premiums for the FAMLI program to extend the current rate of 0.9 percent of wages per employee through the end of the year and change the premium-setting process to reflect the solvency of the program and create more stability for businesses. 

SB25-144 will now head to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Improve Statewide Emergency Alert Systems

SB25-031 would develop a single point of contact to improve statewide emergency alert coverage

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed Senator Dylan Roberts’, D-Frisco, bill to expand access to emergency alert systems. 

SB25-031 would require the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management in the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to develop a single point of contact to improve statewide access to critical emergency alert information, recommend improvements for local governments who administer alert systems to address language needs, provide technical assistance to local communities, and offer recommendations to improve emergency alert systems. 

“In the event of an emergency, every Coloradan deserves access to alerts, no matter where they live. It could literally be the difference between life and death,” said Roberts. “This bill will upgrade several aspects of our emergency communications infrastructure to improve public safety and standardize access for all.”

In addition to improving emergency communications in DPS, SB25-031 would expand the scope of Colorado’s Broadband Office in the Office of Information Technology to include promoting access to wireless service. 

SB25-031 is one of three bills to advance out of the bipartisan Cell Phone Connectivity Interim Study Committee, tasked with identifying gaps in cell phone coverage and connectivity in Colorado. 

SB25-031 now heads to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Bill to Protect HOA Homeowners Passes Senate

The bill would help keep Coloradans housed by strengthening protections against HOA enforcement and foreclosure

DENVER, CO –  The Senate today passed a bill that would strengthen safeguards for homeowners in homeowners associations (HOAs) to help them stay housed and recoup their property’s equity if they are forced to sell.

HB25-1043, sponsored by Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, would add several new requirements to HOAs’ enforcement and foreclosure procedures to protect homeowners. 

“Homeowners deserve the certainty and stability of knowing that their home will not be sold out from under them without an opportunity to retain their equity - regardless of whether or not they have an HOA,” said Exum. “Becoming a homeowner is a way to build generational wealth and secure housing stability for the long haul. By adding measures to increase transparency, strengthen homeowner protections, and prevent hasty enforcement and foreclosure actions from an HOA, we can keep Colorado families in their homes.”

Under the bill, an HOA would be required to comply with its own bylaws and all applicable state laws before collecting money through enforcement actions. In cases where an HOA pursues a foreclosure against an owner, HB25-1043 would allow an owner to file a court motion to delay the sale of their home at auction for up to nine months, during which they could sell their own home at market value instead of losing it at auction. 

The bill would also strengthen and clarify existing notification guidelines, require an HOA to provide owners with a notice regarding their right to credit counseling at least 30 days before initiating foreclosure, and add new reporting requirements to HOAs’ annual registration with the Department of Regulatory Agencies. 

HB25-1043 now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Pair of Bills to Create Safeguards on Ammunition Purchases, Improve Security at Gun Shows Pass Committee

DENVER, CO – Two bills to raise the minimum age to purchase ammunition for rifles and shotguns to 21 years old and improve security at gun shows passed the Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee today. 

HB25-1133, sponsored by Senators Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, and Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, would raise the minimum age to purchase firearm ammunition to 21 years old, with some exceptions, and require that sellers verify the buyer’s age using government-issued photo identification. 

“Colorado has suffered a disproportionate number of tragic shootings and we must do whatever we can to prevent future acts of senseless violence,” said Kipp, sponsor of both bills. “Both of these bills are commonsense measures to help ensure dangerous firearms don’t get into the wrong hands and that Colorado state law is being followed wherever firearms are sold.”

“Differing requirements for purchasing firearms and ammunition create dangerously lax conditions for at-risk youth,” Amabile said. “This bill would increase the age to purchase ammunition and strengthen display and delivery requirements to prevent theft and keep ammunition out of the hands of those intent on doing harm to themselves or others.”

Additionally, HB25-1133 would require sellers to take basic safety measures to prevent theft of ammunition in stores by requiring ammunition be stored in locked cases or behind a counter so that it cannot be accessed without a store associate. Delivery providers must also verify the person receiving the package is 21 or older.

HB25-1238, sponsored by Kipp and Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, would strengthen security and safety measures at gun shows. It would require that gun show promoters maintain liability insurance and submit detailed security plans, including information about vendors, an estimated number of attendees, the number of security personnel secured for the show, and a layout of the event that includes entrances and exits and locations of video camera security to local law enforcement before an event. 

“This bill is another in a long line of measures I’ve supported during my time in the Colorado legislature to prevent gun violence,” Danielson said. “House Bill 1238 will increase safety in our communities by ensuring gun laws are followed at gun shows, where thousands of firearms and rounds of ammunition are on display and available to the public.”

Additionally, the bill would strengthen implementation of other gun violence prevention laws, like age requirements and the three-day waiting period, as well as requiring that firearms and ammunition are appropriately tagged, stored, and displayed at gun shows to prevent theft. 

HB25-1133 and HB25-1238 now head to the Senate floor for further consideration. 

Bill to Streamline Health Care for Colorado Children Passes Senate

HB25-1003 would combine two Medicaid waiver programs to better support children with complex health needs

DENVER, CO – A bill to revise state law to align with a recent change in the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing and streamline health care services for children passed the Senate today. 

HB25-1003, sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, would combine two existing Medicaid waiver programs into one, creating the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver program. 

“We owe it to our children to provide the support they need in their early years. That is not only the right thing to do, but an important investment in our future,” said Cutter. “This bill helps protect and streamline children’s health care and early intervention services to make sure every child in Colorado has the opportunity to thrive.”

This new program would help streamline waivers to better support Colorado youth with behavioral health conditions or complex needs and protect access to in-home services and treatments, including respite care and pain management.

The bill now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track its progress HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: Recession Risk Increases, Tight Budget Conditions Persist

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

“The Joint Budget Committee faces an extraordinarily challenging budget process this year because of the rationing equation in TABOR. Uncertainty at the federal level also poses very real threats to our work at the state level,” said JBC Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “However, unlike Washington, we have combed through the budget to make thoughtful, strategic, and bipartisan cuts. Even tougher decisions lie ahead that will impact everyday services Coloradans rely on. Despite these challenges, we’ll wrap up our work later this week to pass a responsible, balanced budget.”

“Today’s forecast is a reminder that looming trade wars, federal cuts to Medicaid, and sweeping federal layoffs, will significantly harm Colorado’s economy, drive up prices and worsen our budget crisis,” said JBC Member Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “Coloradans are counting on us to responsibly balance our budget, which means we will need to make cuts in places no one wants in order to protect essential services and our most vulnerable community members. Our tight budget condition is the result of increased Medicaid costs and fiscal constraints, and that means we will need to make tradeoffs to deliver on the services Coloradans rely on.”  

“This economic forecast highlights the uncertainty driven by federal decision-making and the concerns many Coloradans share about the nation’s economy,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “These challenges compound an already difficult budgeting process that the Joint Budget Committee has been working through and presents new challenges as we think long term about the state’s budget and economy. As we approach the end of our budgeting process, I will work hard to protect critical funding for services like education and behavioral health care – investments that will build stronger, healthier communities for years to come.”

“As we get closer to delivering a balanced budget for Coloradans, federally-fueled economic uncertainty is creating alarming risks to our economy and new pressures on our budget process,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “While we have difficult, painful budget decisions still before us, we’ve worked hard to prioritize the investments that Coloradans rely on in education, health care and public safety. Colorado has a long history of passing bipartisan budgets, and I’d like to recognize the JBC’s diligent, thoughtful work to find responsible cuts that, while still painful, will help us finalize a balanced and responsible budget in these difficult circumstances.”

Despite headwinds exacerbated by federal policies, Colorado’s economy remains strong. Driven by lower housing inflation, headline inflation in the Denver area is lower than the nation, and inflation in Colorado has been measured at much lower levels than nationally. The LCS forecast anticipates Colorado’s economy will continue to grow, however “rapidly shifting federal policy” has resulted in downward revisions to the economic forecasts. According to LCS, “over the forecast period, increased tariffs are expected to reduce trade volumes, put upward pressure on prices, and dampen business investment in structures and equipment.” Tariffs will “put upward pressure on retail gasoline prices.”

Given the uncertainty surrounding consequential economic decisions made by the Trump administration, including tariffs, freezing federal funds and promised extensive changes to federal economic and tax policy, Colorado’s recession risk has been elevated. President Trump's tariff policies have resulted in more business volatility and uncertainty for consumers, and LCS staff believes there are now more risks to the forecast that could worsen budget conditions (downside risks) as a result of these federal policies. For example, tariffs on the import of crude oil from Canada could raise prices for Colorado consumers. 

Colorado has a large number of federal employees, some of whom have been subject to mass layoffs by the Trump administration at the USDA, NOAA, IRS and other federal departments.

Colorado’s budget conditions remain constrained as costs grow. Medicaid costs have increased in Colorado, mainly due to aging demographics and higher demand for more expensive services, such as long term care. Colorado is facing a budget deficit of more than $1 billion, however, increased costs in Medicaid make up nearly 60 percent of this deficit.

Colorado’s Medicaid funding could further be jeopardized if Congress adopts a plan to drastically reduce Medicaid spending. This federal funding cut to Medicaid has the potential to impact Colorado's ability to provide health care to nearly 400,000 Coloradans.  

The state is also required to fulfill voter-approved investments that further reduce the amount available in a capped budget and require legislative trade offs. 

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.89 billion in FY 2025-2026, adding to an opening balance of $2.20 billion in reserves, and $18.78 billion in FY in 2026-2027 – a 6.5 percent decrease in total funds available when compared year over year. 

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.2 billion for FY 2024-2025 and $18.0 billion for FY 2025-2026 – a $344.6 million decrease for FY 2024-2025 and a $108.5 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the December revenue forecast.

Legislation to Recognize Tribal Court Orders, Improve Public Safety Passes Committee Unanimously

SB25-009 would affirm tribal sovereignty by ensuring state agencies recognize Tribal arrest warrants, court orders, and civil commitments

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to require Colorado state agencies to recognize and enforce Tribal court decisions passed the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously today.

SB25-009 would ensure that state entities like courts, law enforcement, hospitals, and behavioral health facilities give full faith and credit to an arrest warrant or civil commitment issued by a Tribal court of a federally recognized Tribe. 

“It is important to honor Tribal orders in all Colorado jurisdictions,” said Danielson. “When a Tribal court issues an arrest warrant, that decision should be the law of the land – full stop. The existing gap in enforcement prevents victims, especially in indigenous communities, from accessing justice. This bill authorizes changes to better serve the American Indian community in our state.” 

“Decisions made in Tribal courts should be enforced throughout the state of Colorado,” said Roberts. “This bill is about sovereignty and safety. By ensuring the state recognizes decisions by Tribal courts, we can honor Tribal sovereignty, improve public safety, and ensure consistency and accountability across our justice system.”

Current law does not expressly allow for the state to recognize an arrest warrant or civil commitment from a Tribal court. Civil commitment orders include orders from law enforcement agencies, behavioral health facilities, and health care providers.

SB25-009 is one of three bills advanced by the bipartisan American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee last year. 

The bill now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Bill to Protect HOA Homeowners Passes Committee

The bill would help keep Coloradans housed by strengthening protections against HOA enforcement and foreclosure

DENVER, CO – The Senate Local Government and Housing Committee today passed a bill that would strengthen safeguards for homeowners in homeowners associations (HOAs) to help them stay housed and recoup their property’s equity if they are forced to sell.

HB25-1043, sponsored by Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, would add several new requirements to HOAs’ enforcement and foreclosure procedures to protect homeowners. 

“Homeowners deserve the certainty and stability of knowing that their home will not be sold out from under them without an opportunity to retain their equity - regardless of whether or not they have an HOA,” said Exum. “Becoming a homeowner is a way to build generational wealth and secure housing stability for the long haul. By adding measures to increase transparency, strengthen homeowner protections, and prevent hasty enforcement and foreclosure actions from an HOA, we can keep Colorado families in their homes.”

Under the bill, an HOA would be required to comply with its own bylaws and all applicable state laws before collecting money through enforcement actions. In cases where an HOA pursues a foreclosure against an owner, HB25-1043 would allow an owner to file a court motion to delay the sale of their home at auction for up to nine months, during which they could sell their own home at market value instead of losing it at auction. 

The bill would also strengthen and clarify existing notification guidelines, require an HOA to provide owners with a notice regarding their right to credit counseling at least 30 days before initiating foreclosure, and add new reporting requirements to HOAs’ annual registration with the Department of Regulatory Agencies. 

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

ICYMI: Bill to Encourage Increased Transportation Options Passes Committee

SB25-030 would encourage alternative modes of transportation

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee approved legislation sponsored by Senators Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, to encourage increased transportation options to make sustainable transportation more accessible, convenient, and reliable. 

“This bill is a bold step to give Coloradans freedom and choice in how they move and access transit. It helps connect different modes of transportation like biking, walking, taking transit, or driving, to ensure everyone can get to where they need to go," Winter said. “A third of Coloradans don't drive due to economic circumstances, disability, age or choice – this bill increases equity in access. Eighty nine percent of Coloradans want an increase in choice on mobility and this bill is an important step forward.”

“This bill is a practical, long-term solution to a host of different issues – from traffic congestion to climate change,” Hinrichsen said. “We all love shorter commute times and more options to get to school, work, and community spaces. Senate Bill 30 would help give us a clear, practical path to make sure the state’s transit agencies are partners in achieving that goal.”

SB25-030 would establish “Transit and Active Transportation Project Inventories” to allow the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and local governments to efficiently identify gaps in transit, bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure in state and regional transit systems. Inventories would be utilized to inform future planning of multimodal infrastructure projects and allow CDOT to better identify funding gaps and opportunities. 

The transportation sector is one of Colorado’s largest air polluters. This bill would build on past efforts by Senate Democrats to support multimodal transit infrastructure, such as last year’s SB24-036, also sponsored by Senator Winter, which funded bicycle and pedestrian safety infrastructure.

SB25-030 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Bill to Make it Easier for Consumers to End Automatic Contract Renewals Passes Committee

SB25-145 would require sellers to offer simple, online cancellation of automatic renewal contracts or trial periods

DENVER, CO – A bill to protect consumers from burdensome automatic renewal contract cancellations passed the Senate Business, Labor and Technology Committee today. 

Sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, SB25-145 would require sellers of goods and services to implement simple mechanisms for consumers to cancel automatic renewal contracts and trial periods either online or in-person. Failure to do so would constitute a deceptive trade practice under the Colorado Consumer Protection Act.

“There is nothing more frustrating than signing up for a free trial or a subscription only to have to jump through hoop after difficult hoop to try to cancel that subscription,” Kipp said. “This bill would help prevent deceptive practices and simplify the process for Coloradans to cancel their subscriptions online, saving them time and money in the long run.”

SB25-145 closes a loophole in Kipp’s HB21-1239, which provided transparency to consumers entering into automatic renewal contracts, to further shore up consumer protections.

This bill joins a host of other bills by Colorado Democrats to protect consumers this session, including SB25-157, which would prevent deceptive trade practices that mislead consumers into buying a product or service, HB25-1090, which would protect against junk fees, and HB25-1010, which would prevent price gouging. 

SB25-145 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Pair of Bills to Streamline Childhood Health Care Pass Committee

HB25-1003 and SB25-017 would improve state-supported measures to streamline children’s health care

DENVER, CO – Two bills sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to streamline state support for children’s health care passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee today. 

“We owe it to our children to provide the support they need in their early years. That is not only the right thing to do, but an important investment in our future,” Cutter said. “These bills help protect and streamline children’s health care and early intervention services to make sure every child in Colorado has the opportunity to thrive.”

HB25-1003 would combine two existing Medicaid waiver programs into one, creating the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver program. This new program would help streamline waivers to better support Colorado’s youth with behavioral health conditions or complex needs by providing in-home services and treatments for families with children with a complex health need, including respite care and pain management.

The committee also approved Cutter’s SB25-017, which aims to strengthen access to holistic primary health care for children in child care and learning environments.

HB25-1003 will move to the Senate floor for further consideration. SB25-017 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

Bipartisan Legislation to Encourage Cleaner Construction Passes Committee

The bill would leverage existing financing tools and tax incentives to increase low-carbon materials in construction

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation to advance Colorado’s climate goals by reducing embodied carbon emissions released during the production, transportation, and use of construction materials passed the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee today. 

SB25-182, sponsored by Senators Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would expand incentives for the private sector to use sustainable materials in construction and strengthen the emerging industry of low-carbon material innovators. 

“Colorado consistently ranks as one of the top ten states for population growth and new commercial real estate development, which is why we must take construction-related greenhouse gas emissions seriously,” said Ball. “We already lead the nation with innovative policies to cut emissions from buildings, and this legislation builds on that success by making it easier for private developers to use low-carbon materials. By expanding financing tools and incentives, we can ensure that Colorado’s dynamic construction sector drives progress towards our climate goals while creating demand for the highest quality, climate-positive materials – many of which are being developed and pioneered right here in the state.”

The bill would expand the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financing program to include low-carbon construction materials, which would reduce upfront cost for developers to buy sustainable materials, which are often more expensive than traditional building materials. The bill would also add embodied carbon improvements to the list of greenhouse gas reduction improvements that may qualify for the Industrial Clean Energy Tax Credit. 

SB25-182 would help ensure that the state’s rapidly expanding construction sector becomes a driver of clean economic growth rather than a roadblock to climate progress.

SB25-182 now heads to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Trio of Michaelson Jenet Bills to Improve Access to Physical & Behavioral Health Care Pass Senate

The bills would increase access to medical equipment, update regulations on psilocybin medicine, and implement new guidelines for electroconvulsive treatment

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed three pieces of legislation sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, to expand access to physical and behavioral health care. 

“I have always been a fierce advocate for ensuring Coloradans can access the care they need to live a full, healthy life,” said Michaelson Jenet. “Occupational therapists know what their patients need, and HB25-1016 will make a real difference in Coloradans’ lives by allowing them to prescribe critical medical equipment like crutches, oxygen tanks, and wheelchairs. My other two bills that passed today will ensure that Coloradans struggling with severe mental illness have access to innovative and life-saving treatments. These bills are about giving Coloradans the care they need, when they need it.” 

HB25-1016 would allow occupational therapists to prescribe durable medical equipment, like ventilators and wheelchairs, without requiring a prescription from a licensed physician, leading to increased access, better health outcomes, and a higher quality of life for occupational therapy patients. 

HB25-1063 is a bipartisan bill that would make a prescription medication that includes crystalline polymorph psilocybin legal to prescribe, dispense, distribute, possess, use, and market in Colorado upon its approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This bill does not allow access to drugs that have not been FDA-approved.

Colorado became the second state in the nation to legalize psychedelic therapy when voters passed Proposition 122 in 2022. In June 2023, the FDA published guidance for researchers investigating the use of psychedelic therapy for medical treatment, stating that psilocybin and other psychedelic drugs have shown promising results when used to treat mood, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and substance use disorders. A Johns Hopkins study found that psilocybin-assisted therapy can relieve major depressive disorder symptoms in some adults for at least a year.

HB25-1070 is a bipartisan bill that would allow minors to receive electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) from trained providers only if less invasive treatments have failed, two psychiatrists approve the treatment (one of whom must be trained in child and adolescent health), and the minor’s parent/guardian consents. 

Numerous case studies and extensive literature reviews demonstrate that ECT is effective and safe in both typically-developing youth and youth with developmental disabilities, including those under 16 years of age, and can drastically improve the quality of life for those with certain severe mental health disorders. 

HB25-1016 now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. HB25-1063 and HB25-1070 now move to the Governor’s desk to be signed. 

Senate Approves Bill to Implement Voter-Approved Protections for Abortion Care & Pregnancy-Related Services

Legislation would update Colorado statute to reflect changes necessitated by the passage of Amendment 79

DENVER, CO – Legislation to implement voter-approved protections for abortion care and pregnancy-related services was approved by the Senate today.

In November 2024, Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 79 to enshrine the right to abortion in the Colorado Constitution and remove the state’s prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care.

Sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, SB25-183 would implement the will of the voters by updating Colorado statute to reflect changes necessitated by Amendment 79’s passage.

“Colorado voters have once again reaffirmed their support for freedom to make decisions about their bodies and their futures,” said Rodriguez. “Our state has a long history of standing up for reproductive health care freedoms, and this represents another chapter in that story. I am honored to sponsor this legislation that implements the will of the voters and ensures reproductive health care is protected in both our state law and our constitution.”
 
“Coloradans deserve the freedom to make their own health care decisions and choices about when to start a family – full stop,” said Daugherty. “Amidst a dangerous national landscape, we have worked hard to ensure that Colorado is a beacon for access to safe and affordable reproductive health care. Last November, Coloradans resoundingly voted to build on that work and permanently protect the fundamental right to abortion care in our state’s constitution.”

Beginning on January 1, 2026, the bill would ensure that state employee health insurance plans cover abortion care and require the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to authorize reimbursements for abortion care under publicly funded insurance, including community members with coverage through Health First Colorado, and the Reproductive Health Care Program.

SB25-183 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Signed! New Law Will Improve Building Accessibility for Coloradans with Disabilities

HB25-1030 will require local governments to ensure building codes incorporate accessibility standards in new and renovated buildings

DENVER, CO – Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera today signed a bill into law that will improve accessibility standards for Coloradans with disabilities, sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, Senator Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood.

“Coloradans with disabilities deserve the opportunity to move about freely and fully participate in society,” said Cutter. “They deserve equal access to public buildings and services. This law moves us closer to making these things a reality, and to complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was signed into law nearly 35 years ago.”

“Coloradans with disabilities rely on certain accessibility features in going about their daily lives, and it’s important that new and renovated buildings such as schools and health facilities meet or exceed the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act,” said Joseph. “With this law, we’re standing by our commitment to Colorado’s disability community by improving accessibility requirements in building codes throughout our state and supporting basic access to public buildings.”

“The heart of this new law is about letting all our neighbors live with dignity and respect. The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed 35 years ago, yet many buildings are still inaccessible,” said Winter. “One step forward to ensure that we're increasing accessibility is to have local governments update their building codes. Everyone should be able to fully participate in all aspects of society and not be limited by access to a building.”

“The Americans with Disabilities Act has been law for over 30 years, yet gaps in enforcing those accessibility requirements continue to act as a barrier to Coloradans with disabilities,” said Stewart. ”As a former local government official, I know this law will benefit our communities by creating a guideline for local governments to follow when it comes to accessibility updates, mitigating lawsuits and making our communities more accessible for all.”

Beginning January 1, 2026, HB25-1030 will require local governments to ensure that new or substantially amended building codes meet or exceed international accessibility standards. It also requires the Division of Fire Prevention and Control to ensure building codes for public school and health facilities meet these standards. 

For hotels, motels, and multiple dwellings in jurisdictions with no local building code, the State Housing Board will be responsible for meeting or exceeding these standards. 

This bill is another in a series of steps Colorado Democrats have taken in recent years to support Colorado’s disability community, including creating the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office to serve as an official resource for implementing a statewide strategy to promote successful economic, social, and community integration.

Legislation to Expand Access to Educator Pathways Passes Senate

SB25-154 would expand opportunities to obtain an educator license to address Colorado’s teacher shortage

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved legislation sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, to address Colorado’s teacher shortage by expanding access to educator pathways. 

“As a former school board member and district volunteer, I know that students and educators, especially in rural communities, are hurting as a result of a shortage of teachers,” said Kipp. “Giving aspiring educators more opportunities to pursue a career in teaching will help students and teachers alike succeed in Colorado schools.” 

SB25-154 would reduce excessive barriers to becoming an educator by amending and clarifying assessment requirements for early childhood special education, elementary education, and special education candidates and allowing candidates to demonstrate their qualifications in multiple ways. It would also allow currently licensed teachers to teach subjects that may face even steeper shortages, like special education, without extensive barriers. 

Additionally, the bill would require that state universities who offer courses through the Teacher Recruitment Education and Preparation (TREP) program, which provides concurrent enrollment opportunities for qualifying students seeking a career in education, only offer TREP courses at a community college tuition rate. This change would expand opportunities for low-income students to pursue a career in education. 

SB25-154 will now head to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Approves Bill to Reduce Wildfire Risk

HB25-1009 would mitigate fire risk by requiring removal of vegetation that fuels wildfires

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to mitigate wildfire risk passed the Senate today. 

“Climate change is driving more frequent and intense wildfires, so we must use all the tools at our disposal to protect our communities,” Cutter said. “Mitigation is an important tactic, and this bill would empower property owners and their local governments to remove dead vegetation that often serve as fuel for wildfires.”

HB25-1009 would allow districts that provide fire prevention services to establish programs to help property owners facilitate the removal of dead or dry plant material that fuels fires in accordance with codes adopted by the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code Board. 

HB25-1009 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments. Track the bill’s progress HERE. 

Legislation to Ensure Safe Housing and Strengthen Renter Protections Clears Committee

SB25-020 aims to ensure compliance with landlord-tenant laws and uphold housing standards statewide

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced legislation sponsored by Senators Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, and Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, to ensure safe housing and strengthen renter protections by expanding the Attorney General’s and local governments’ authority to initiate and enforce landlord-tenant laws.

SB25-020 would allow 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, documentation requirements for housing agreements, and protections regarding bed bugs in residential homes. The bill would give counties and municipalities the ability to initiate and 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,” Gonzales said. “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 bill 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.”

“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.”

SB25-020 would also establish a process where, only in severe cases, 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 bill outlines the process for receivership cases, including proper notice to parties, powers and responsibilities for entities appointed as receivers, and the process for ending receiverships.

SB25-020 now moves to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.