Bipartisan Bill to Protect Families of Deceased Relatives Unanimously Passes Senate Committee

HB25-1108 would prevent landlords from going after family members when a tenant dies

DENVER, CO – Today, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, to prevent landlords from going after family members to collect rent when a tenant dies unanimously passed the Senate Local Government and Housing Committee. 

“In the aftermath of the sudden death of a loved one, the last thing their families should be worried about is paying fees and damages for terminating a lease early,” Bridges said. “This bill would ensure family members aren’t on the hook for covering unreasonable outstanding costs associated with the deceased’s rental agreement so they can grieve in peace.”

Cosponsored by Senator Barb Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, HB25-1108, known as “Letty’s Act,” would prohibit a rental agreement from requiring the payment of certain costs if a lease is terminated due to the death of a tenant. These costs include liquidated damages, rent payments for a period that is beyond the end of the month or more than ten business days after the landlord is provided notice the unit is vacated, or fees, damages, or penalties associated with an early termination of the rental agreement.

A 2024 CBS story reported that a family was charged over $4,000 in fees and rent after their loved one died in her apartment, claiming that the death of the tenant meant that she broke her lease early.

HB25-1108 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Bipartisan Bill to Identify Outstanding Warrants, Reduce Recidivism Passes Senate

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate unanimously approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Matt Ball, D-Denver, to identify outstanding warrants and help reduce recidivism. 

Cosponsored by Senator Rod Pelton, R-Cheyenne Wells, HB25-1116 would require the Department of Corrections (DOC) to search for and notify relevant parties of an outstanding warrant or pending Colorado court cases at certain points when a person is in custody.

“Right now, our process to search for and notify people of outstanding warrants is inefficient and wastes taxpayer money,” said Ball. “This bill is about increasing efficiency in these search processes to allow Coloradans to address their existing warrants – typically for low-level offenses – while they are already incarcerated. This will help reduce recidivism and ensure that Coloradans leaving the justice system and re-entering their communities are better equipped to do so successfully.”

The bill would require the DOC to search for these records upon initial evaluation of the Time Computation Unit and between three and eight months before a community corrections eligibility date.

The bill would also require the DOC to establish policies that address requests for additional searches by the public defender liaison to the department. If an outstanding warrant or pending case is discovered during a search, the DOC would be required to notify the offender, a public defender liaison, and the court that issued the warrant.

HB25-1116 now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Bipartisan Bill to Support Colorado Seniors Passes Committee

HB25-1184 would allow certain senior living facilities to offer community-based care to seniors awaiting admission

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to allow some senior living facilities to offer community-based programs and services to seniors who are waiting to be admitted unanimously passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee today. 

“The in-between time from knowing senior care is necessary and actually being admitted to care programs can be long and very difficult,” Roberts said. “Opportunities to socialize, access transportation and nutrition support are incredibly beneficial services that help older Coloradans lead healthier, fuller lives.”

HB25-1184, cosponsored by Senator John Carson, R-Douglas County, would allow for the expansion of community-based care services offered by senior living facilities to older Coloradans waiting to be admitted to these facilities.

Waitlists for life care institutions, especially in rural or underserved areas, can be long. This bill would support the well-being of those waiting to be admitted by expanding access to care services like transportation, social programs, and nutrition counseling. 

HB25-1184 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Bill to Protect Insurance Coverage for Preventive Health Care Passes Senate

SB25-196 would safeguard insurance coverage for preventive health care services in the event of federal action

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved legislation sponsored by Senator Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, and Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, to proactively protect insurance coverage for preventive health care in the event of federal action. 

“Regular check-ups, cancer screenings, and immunizations are life-saving care that must be protected,” Jodeh said. “In recent months, we’ve seen dangerous threats to cut fundamental departments at the federal level that protect patients and providers. This bill ensures that even if those cuts do happen, Coloradans’ health care remains protected. Preventative services today mean avoiding emergency events tomorrow—events that can leave families with crippling debt and devastating health outcomes.”

“As an emergency care nurse, I’ve seen the worst-case scenarios that happen when preventive care measures are not taken – often because they’re not covered by insurance,” Mullica said. “This bill will make life-saving preventive care more accessible and help more patients avoid those worst-case scenarios.”

SB25-196 would give the Colorado Commissioner of Insurance within the Department of Regulatory Agencies the authority to reinstate recommendations on preventive care from federal agencies such as the United States Preventive Services Task Force, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or the Health Resources and Services Administration in the United States Department of Health and Human Services in the event that any of these agencies are repealed, dismantled, or disempowered. It would also permit the Commissioner to consult the Nurse Physician Advisory Task Force for Colorado Health Care in developing their recommendations. 

Since January, the Trump Administration has made devastating cuts to essential services for Americans. Recently, the administration cut billions of dollars from state health services, prompting measures such as this one to protect Coloradans’ access to health care.

SB25-196 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Legislation to Expand Housing Protections for Vulnerable Coloradans Passes Senate

HB25-1240 would bolster legal protections for Coloradans who use housing vouchers

DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed legislation that would bolster housing protections for Coloradans who receive support through housing vouchers and other housing subsidies.

HB25-1240, sponsored by Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Katie Wallace, D-Longmont, would ensure that tenants who use housing subsidies are afforded the same protections as other renters. 

“Eviction prevention is one of the most effective tools for maintaining housing stability and preventing homelessness,” said Winter. “Tenants who receive housing assistance - often seniors, veterans, young families, and people with disabilities - are particularly vulnerable to housing insecurity and they should be guaranteed the commonsense protections in this bill to prevent eviction and expand access to safe, stable housing.” 

“This bill is personal for me – I was raised by a single mom and my family lost our home in the Great Recession,” said Wallace. “I know what it’s like to experience housing instability and to need a little help to make ends meet. Coloradans who use housing vouchers should have the same protections as every other renter. This bill would help keep working families in their homes and prevent eviction.”

The bill would require a landlord who owns four or more units to comply with the 30-day eviction notice requirement under the federal CARES Act, safeguarding protections for Colorado renters even if this federal protection is repealed. The bill would also require landlords to respond to a tenant’s request for information needed for a rental assistance application and to cooperate with rental assistance administrators. Additionally, it would strengthen enforcement of measures to prevent discrimination against tenants who use housing assistance. 

Current law requires landlords to reimburse tenants for the difference between rent that they have paid and the fair rental value when the landlord has violated warranty of habitability laws. This bill would ensure that tenants who receive housing subsidies are also entitled to these reimbursements. 

HB25-1240 would also direct the Division of Housing to compile and publish a list of resources for landlords, including information to help determine if a landlord’s property is covered under the bill and financial resources available to them.

HB25-1240 now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE. 

Bipartisan Bill to Identify Outstanding Warrants, Reduce Recidivism Passes Committee

DENVER, CO – The Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Matt Ball, D-Denver, to identify outstanding warrants and help reduce recidivism. 

Cosponsored by Senator Rod Pelton, R-Cheyenne Wells, HB25-1116 would require the Department of Corrections (DOC) to search for and notify relevant parties of an outstanding warrant or pending Colorado court cases at certain points when a person is in custody.

“Right now, our process to search for and notify people of outstanding warrants is inefficient and wastes taxpayer money,” said Ball. “This bill is about increasing efficiency in these search processes to allow Coloradans to address their existing warrants – typically for low-level offenses – while they are already incarcerated. This will help reduce recidivism and ensure that Coloradans leaving the justice system and re-entering their communities are better equipped to do so successfully.”

The bill would require the DOC to search for these records upon initial evaluation of the Time Computation Unit and between three and eight months before a community corrections eligibility date.

The bill would also require the DOC to establish policies that address requests for additional searches by the public defender liaison to the department. If an outstanding warrant or pending case is discovered during a search, the DOC would be required to notify the offender, a public defender liaison, and the court that issued the warrant.

HB25-1116 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.

Senate Unanimously Passes Bill to Support and Identify Elementary Students with Dyslexia

SB25-200 would require universal dyslexia screening for early elementary students in Colorado

DENVER, CO – The Senate today unanimously passed legislation to ensure early identification, support, and clear communication with parents or guardians for elementary school students with dyslexia, adding to existing reading interventions in the Colorado READ Act.

SB25-200, sponsored by Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, would require schools to either adopt a universal dyslexia screening tool or develop a process to identify students in early elementary grades who exhibit characteristics of dyslexia.

“Supporting students with dyslexia requires a different approach than supporting those with general reading challenges – they need specific tools to succeed,” said Kolker. “The vast majority of other states already require universal dyslexia screenings, and it’s time for Colorado to step up. Early intervention is everything, and every child deserves the opportunity to succeed with the right information and support.”

“My ‘why’ for this bill is my amazing daughter, who has dyslexia,” said Mullica. “Even as a family actively involved in her education, we struggled to get her the support she needed to thrive. The screenings schools currently use for reading challenges don’t go far enough, and one-size-fits-all interventions simply don’t work.  By implementing universal, early dyslexia screenings, we can ensure that no child – regardless of their background or circumstance – falls through the cracks.” 

According to the Colorado Department of Education, dyslexia affects about 15 to 20 percent of the population, making it the most commonly diagnosed learning disability. Early intervention for dyslexia significantly improves educational outcomes. Colorado is one of seven states that does not mandate screenings for dyslexia. 

SB25-200 now heads to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Protecting the Freedom to Marry Act Signed Into Law

SB25-014 repeals unenforceable language from Colorado Statute that states that a marriage is valid only if it is between a man and a woman

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law the Protecting the Freedom to Marry Act, implementing Amendment J and removing language from the Colorado Constitution banning same-sex marriage.

SB25-014, sponsored by Senator Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Representatives Brianna Titone, D-Arvada, and Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County, repeals the provision in Colorado statute that states that marriage is valid only if it is between a man and a woman. That provision has been unenforceable since the United States Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015 and is now in conflict with the State Constitution.

“The freedom to marry who we love is a fundamental right,” said Danielson. “I cannot sit back and allow Coloradans to have their marriages and families put at risk. It’s especially important now, as the Trump Administration attacks the LGBTQ community, to secure everyone’s right to live safely in our state, and marry whomever they love.”

“This law implements the will of the voters and protects marriage equality in Colorado,” said Titone. “As the Trump administration continues to blatantly attack and demonize the LGBTQ+ community, this law upholds marriage equality in Colorado. By implementing the will of the voters we're protecting the freedom to marry who we love.” 

“Colorado voters have spoken; they want marriage equality constitutionally protected in our state,” said García. “In an era where the Trump administration continues to take aim at critical protections and rights for the LGBTQ+ community, Colorado is standing up to protect marriage equality. With this law, we’re fulfilling the will of the voters and taking steps to protect marriage equality now and into the future.”

Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment J in the 2024 election.

Legislation to Bring Down Costs, Prohibit Price Gouging on Essentials Passes Senate

HB25-1010 would save Coloradans money by cracking down on corporate price gouging during emergencies

DENVER, CO – A bill that would bring down costs for Coloradans by cracking down on corporate price gouging on everyday necessities during a declared emergency passed the Senate today.

HB25-1010, sponsored by Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, would prohibit price gouging of essentials like groceries, diapers, and sanitary products during a disaster and empower the Colorado Attorney General to create and enforce rules to ensure compliance.

“This bill is about putting public welfare and consumer protection ahead of corporate greed,” said Weissman. “Time and time again, we have seen bad actors use disasters as an excuse to raise prices on necessities and line their own pockets. It’s time for us to step in and ensure that Colorado families can purchase the things they need – like groceries and diapers – at prices they can afford during times of crisis.”

Under the bill, price gouging would be defined as a price increase of 10 percent or above the average cost of the product that is not attributable to seasonal pricing. Necessities would include goods and services essential for the health, safety, and welfare of the public like groceries and toiletries.

A 2024 Federal Trade Commission report stated that the three largest grocers accelerated and distorted the negative effects associated with supply chain disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

HB25-1010 is one of several consumer protection bills that Senate Democrats have advanced in recent years, including a 2024 law to prevent price gouging on rent after a natural disaster and a 2021 law to limit price gouging of life-saving prescription drugs. 

The bill now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE. 

Bill to Increase Affordable Housing Passes Senate

HB25-1006 would allow school districts to pursue long-term leases for renewable energy or affordable housing projects

DENVER, CO – A bill to help meet Colorado’s climate goals, reduce energy costs, and increase affordable housing opportunities passed the Senate today.

HB25-1006, sponsored by Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, would provide school districts the flexibility to pursue long-term leases for affordable housing projects, solar fields, and energy storage systems.

"This bill continues our work to make Colorado more affordable and find innovative ways to bring down the cost of housing,” said Bridges. "It just makes sense to let schools use land they already own for housing that's affordable for their teachers and other hardworking people in their community."

“This bill is a targeted update to give school districts the opportunity to pursue long-term projects that serve our communities, like providing affordable housing for their own educators or creating a community solar garden,” said Kolker. “It provides the flexibility school districts need to meet their communities’ housing and renewable energy needs.”

Under current law, school districts can only lease their land for up to ten years, which can hinder bids from investors or developers looking for longer-term leases. This bill would eliminate the ten year limit so school districts have more opportunities to lease their land for long-term, community-focused renewable energy or housing projects.

HB25-1006 now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE.

Bill to Increase Mental Health Funding for Veterans and Their Families Passes Senate

HB25-1132 would fund community-based programming for military members and their families

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved legislation sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, to authorize existing funds to cover community-based behavioral health services for veterans and their families. 

“Since my time in the Army, I’ve become intimately familiar with the critical need for community-focused mental health services for veterans,” Hinrichsen said. “Our veterans and their families gave everything they had to protect and serve our country, and they deserve all the life-saving support we can give in return.”

“Too many of our state’s veterans struggle with PTSD, anxiety, and other life-altering mental health conditions without access to proper treatment,” Bridges said. “Voters approved Prop KK, which boosts funding for crime victim programs, public safety grants, and behavioral health services like the ones supported by this bill. This legislation would provide crucial support for our service members while implementing the will of the voters.”

HB25-1132 would allow funding allocated through Proposition KK, which passed in November, to fund eligible non-profit organizations that offer community-based mental health services to veterans and their families. To be eligible, organizations must offer evidence-based practices, provide proper competency training to staff and have established verifiable community partnerships. 

Colorado Democrats passed a law referring a ballot measure to voters in the November 2024 election that would create a new excise tax on gun dealers, gun manufacturers, and ammunition vendors to fund the Colorado Crime Victim Services Fund, Behavioral Health Administration, and school safety efforts. Nearly 54.5 percent of Colorado voters approved Prop KK to bolster crime victim support and behavioral health programs.

HB25-1132 now heads to the Governor for his signature. Track its progress HERE. 

Bipartisan Bill to Require Cell Phone Policies in Schools Passes Senate

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, to create healthier learning environments by requiring schools to implement policies concerning cell phone use during the school day passed the Senate today. 

“Many teachers already work hard to limit phone use in class, but they need backup,” said Marchman. “This bill gives local schools the support to set clear, consistent policies – so students can focus, learn, and take a real break from the pressures of constant connectivity."

Cosponsored by Senator Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, HB25-1135 would require school districts and the Charter School Institute to adopt policies concerning cell phone use during the school day no later than July 1, 2026. The bill does not specify what the policy should say, only that it must not interfere with disability standards, special education programs, or students’ ability to monitor a medical condition.

Research shows that student use of cell phones in schools can have negative effects on performance, including lower test scores and smaller learning gains. Additionally, excessive cell phone use is associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety.

From Florida to Ohio, at least 19 states have laws or policies that address the use of student cell phone use in schools or encourage districts to create their own policies as a best practice.

HB25-1135 now moves back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE. 

Pair of Weissman Bills to Protect Rights of Sexual Violence Survivors Pass Senate

Bills expand housing protections, voluntary parental relinquishment rights for survivors

DENVER, CO – Two bills sponsored by Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, to protect the rights of survivors of sexual violence and domestic abuse passed the Senate today. 

“Survivors of sexual violence deserve systems that respect their agency and reduce, rather than compound, their trauma,” said Weissman. “When it comes to parental rights, survivors should be able to live in peace without maintaining a relationship with their perpetrator. And if a survivor chooses to relinquish their own parental rights, they should not be forced to navigate hurdles like mandatory counseling, court fees, or child support payments that only make a terrible situation worse. These bills ensure that survivors can make the best choice for themselves and their families without facing additional barriers.” 

HB25-1185 would establish a clearer process for a parent of a child conceived by sexual assault to voluntarily relinquish their rights while protecting the child's best interest.

Between 17,000 to 32,000 rape-related pregnancies occur in the US each year, leaving many survivors legally bound to their assailant. Colorado previously enacted SB13-227 and HB14-1162, which established a process for survivors to more easily terminate their assailant’s parental rights. HB25-1185 remedies gaps and barriers in the implementation of these laws.

The bill would also ensure that a victim who became pregnant from a sexual assault who wants to voluntarily relinquish their own parental rights is exempt from additional costs and burdens including required counseling, court fees, and child support payments. 

HB25-1168, also sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would expand housing protections for victims of domestic violence, domestic abuse, unlawful sexual behavior, and stalking. 

"Too often, survivors of domestic violence are forced to choose between their safety and their housing," said Gonzales. "No one should be stuck in a dangerous situation because they can’t afford to break a lease or are left with damages they didn’t cause. This bill gives survivors the legal protections they need to reclaim their safety and move forward with dignity."

The bill would require landlords to offer a repayment plan to survivors for unpaid rent, prevent survivors from being held responsible for property damage caused by their perpetrator, and limit the penalties for terminating a lease early, among other protections.

HB25-1168 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments and HB25-1185 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. 

Senate Approves Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Property Insurance Costs

HB25-1182 would improve accountability from insurance companies who use risk management models to assess price

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to improve transparency and accountability from property insurance companies passed the Senate today. 

“I frequently hear from constituents that they are being denied insurance or their premiums have increased dramatically. It has always concerned me that we incentivize and encourage mitigation, but there’s no way to tie these efforts directly to insurance,” Cutter said. “This bill addresses that, requiring insurers to consider mitigation efforts, provide transparency to homeowners on the wildfire risk models they use, and give them the opportunity to appeal directly.”

HB25-1182, cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would require that insurance companies who use risk management models to assess price according to risk of wildfires and other catastrophic events to provide thorough information about how the models impact an individual’s insurance policy with policyholders and the Division of Insurance in the Department of Regulatory Agencies.

Insurance companies must also accurately consider mitigation efforts from policyholders when assessing risk, implement and publicize discounts and rewards programs for mitigating risk, and clear a path for policyholders to appeal their risk classification data if they believe it’s inaccurate. Insurers would be required to respond to an appeal with a decision within 30 days. 

The bill is another example of Democrat-led bills to prevent big companies from gouging consumers for profit in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. HB25-1010, which is moving through the Senate now, would crack down on corporate price gouging during emergency situations. 

HB25-1182 now moves back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE. 

Senate Approves Bipartisan FY 25-26 Budget that Protects Investments in K-12 Education, Medicaid

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 bipartisan state budget which protects critical investments in K-12 education and Medicaid, caps tuition for higher education, and makes responsible reductions across programs and agencies to achieve a balanced budget. The budget now moves to the House for further consideration.

“This is a budget that no one is happy with but that everyone can be proud of,” said Joint Budget Committee Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Thanks to the rationing equation in TABOR, the Joint Budget Committee faced difficult decisions that resulted in painful tradeoffs. But unlike Washington, we made these cuts thoughtfully, strategically, and with bipartisan support. We eliminated dozens of programs and invested those savings in public education, and public safety, and public lands. It’s not a perfect budget, but it’s responsible and responsive to our TABOR constraints while keeping our commitment to the people of Colorado.”

“After months of precise and careful decision-making to minimize the impact of $1.2 billion in cuts to the state budget, we have crafted a responsible budget that invests in the well-being of every Coloradan by protecting funding for Medicaid, K-12 education, and food stamps,” said Joint Budget Committee member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Despite a challenging budget situation exacerbated by federal uncertainty, we remain committed to creating every possible opportunity for Colorado communities and families to thrive.”

The state’s $43.9 billion budget contains a $16.7 billion general fund. This year’s budget, SB25-206, is accompanied by 63 “orbital bills,” which move through the legislative process alongside the budget and make statutory changes to balance the budget.

Protecting Investments in K-12 and Higher Education

• Protecting K-12 Funding: In just the last few years, we have increased total funding for our schools by nearly $3 billion. Per pupil funding has increased from $8,000 to over $11,000, and will increase again next year. This year’s budget builds on steady progress to increase the resources going to our classrooms by directing an additional $150 million more from the General Fund into schools as compared to the FY24-25 budget.

• Capping Tuition Rates for Higher Education: In recent years, Colorado Democrats have limited tuition increases by boosting funding for higher education and financial aid. This year’s budget includes a 3.5 percent cap on tuition increases for in-state students.

Continuing Medicaid Services for Vulnerable Populations

• Protecting Medicaid Services that Coloradans Rely On: This year, Colorado Democrats rejected proposed reductions to provider rates and instead secured a moderate 1.6 percent increase and protected Medicaid eligibility, mitigating the impact to Coloradans who rely on Medicaid services. However, the state’s budget outlook is still challenging, and this progress is further threatened by potential cuts to Medicaid from the federal government.

• Continuing Dental Services Provided Through Medicaid: This year’s budget protects funding for Coloradans on Medicaid to receive dental care.

Supporting Colorado Kids and Families

• Early Intervention Support for Colorado Children: The budget increases support for early intervention services that help bridge developmental gaps for infants and toddlers who were born premature or with other special needs. This year, Colorado Democrats acted swiftly to plug an unexpected gap in funding in FY24-25 by providing $4 million to halt planned service reductions, and are investing an additional $16.5 million to sustain the program in FY25-26.

• Bolstering Child Care Assistance: The budget invests $15 million in FY24-25 and $10 million in FY25-26 to increase support for the child care assistance program, a vital resource for low-income families to ensure access to quality child care which has been facing waitlists and frozen enrollment in many counties due to funding restrictions.

• Healthy School Meals for All: This budget fully funds the Healthy School Meals for All program through the end of the year, preserving what voters previously approved. This November, voters will decide whether to continue the program or scale it back. 

• Funding for Public Assistance Programs Administered by Local Governments: This year’s budget protects programs administered by local governments that serve the most vulnerable like TANF and SNAP.

• Supporting Hardworking State Employees: This budget provides a fair pay increase of 2.5 percent to the state workers responsible for providing essential services and caring for our most vulnerable. At the same time, the budget pushes state agencies to efficiently manage staff costs by reducing salary budgets by 1.5 percent, in line with typical savings due to vacancies during normal turnover.

Preserving Colorado’s Public Lands and Natural Resources

• Investing in State Parks: This budget utilizes TABOR-exempt revenue like the Keep Colorado Wild pass to preserve and improve Colorado’s state parks, including $52 million in investments to protect critical habitats, maintain park facilities, and reinforce parks infrastructure, and $6.6 million to support amenities and educational programming.

• Promoting Water Conservation: This year’s budget protects funding for water conservation and resource management projects, including exempting $17.1 million in interest earned in the Colorado Water Conservation Board cash fund and Water Plan Implementation Fund from a change in statewide policy to re-direct cash fund interest earnings into the general fund.

Safeguarding Colorado's Civil Liberties

• Maintaining Election Security: The Trump administration abruptly halted support for election security, including from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. This budget keeps Colorado’s elections safe and secure by providing $410,000 to ensure that robust security assessments will continue and that critical Endpoint Detection and Response technology is provided to all local elections systems. 

• Defending Against Unlawful Federal Actions: Amidst ongoing uncertainty from the Trump administration, the budget allocates an additional $604,000 for increased support in the Attorney General’s Office to fight dangerous, unlawful federal actions and protect federal funding streams.

Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Property Insurance Costs Unanimously Passes Senate Committee

HB25-1182 would improve accountability from insurance companies who use risk management models to assess price

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, to improve transparency and accountability from property insurance companies passed the Senate Business, Labor and Technology Committee unanimously today. 

“I frequently hear from constituents that they are being denied insurance or their premiums have increased dramatically. It has always concerned me that we incentivize and encourage mitigation, but there’s no way to tie these efforts directly to insurance,” Cutter said. “This bill addresses that, requiring insurers to consider mitigation efforts, provide transparency to homeowners on the wildfire risk models they use, and give them the opportunity to appeal directly.”

HB25-1182, cosponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would require that insurance companies who use risk management models to assess price according to risk of wildfires and other catastrophic events to provide thorough information about how the models impact an individual’s insurance policy with policyholders and the Division of Insurance in the Department of Regulatory Agencies.

Insurance companies must also accurately consider mitigation efforts from policyholders when assessing risk, implement and publicize discounts and rewards programs for mitigating risk, and clear a path for policyholders to appeal their risk classification data if they believe it’s inaccurate. Insurers would be required to respond to an appeal with a decision within 30 days. 

The bill is another example of Democrat-led bills to prevent big companies from gouging consumers for profit in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. HB25-1010, which is moving through the Senate now, would crack down on corporate price gouging during emergency situations. 

HB25-1182 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: Bipartisan Legislative Vacancy Reform Bill Introduced

Bill aims to create more opportunities for Colorado voters to participate in vacancy elections

DENVER, CO – A bipartisan group of lawmakers yesterday introduced new legislation to reform Colorado’s vacancy process used to replace a senator or representative if they leave office before their term ends. HB25-1315 is sponsored by Representative Emily Sirota, House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, and Senators Mike Weissman and Barbara Kirkmeyer.

“This bipartisan legislation will democratize Colorado’s vacancy committee process to boost voter participation and efficiently fill vacancies so all communities maintain representation at the Capitol during the legislative session,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “As lawmaker resignations occur for a variety of reasons, we’ve heard the concerns about our current process and are taking action to increase campaign finance transparency for vacancy elections and limit the time someone can serve before facing an election.” 

“Vacancies in the General Assembly are an issue I heard about as I traveled the state as the Minority Leader,” said Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, R-El Paso. “The people want to preserve the vacancy committee process while also having the opportunity to vote for their legislators. This bill will do both. It addresses increased engagement with our grassroots while still allowing the people an opportunity to vote in a November odd-year primary election.”

"Increasing strains on legislators leading to more frequent resignations have illustrated the need and opportunity to modernize the vacancy process for the Colorado General Assembly," said Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. "This legislation represents a bipartisan way forward that is consistent with Colorado constitutional requirements, allows more input from voters, and does not excessively burden county clerks responsible for conducting elections. Critically, it will also capture raising and spending of campaign funds by candidates who seek vacancy appointments and run in vacancy elections so that voters can understand what influences may be operating in vacancy situations."

“For the past few years, voters have grown increasingly alarmed with our vacancy laws for important elected government offices,” said Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County. “A handful of political insiders should not determine who sits in a state legislative seat for years at a time without voters being able to express their will. I’m pleased to be part of a bipartisan coalition that brings impactful reform to this process. This is an important first step in reforming vacancies for important government offices in Colorado.”

HB25-1315 aims to increase transparency in the vacancy committee process and broaden participation amongst voters when a legislative vacancy occurs. Under current law, vacancies in the General Assembly are filled by vacancy committee selection until the next general election. Colorado’s approach offers voters more opportunities to participate in the vacancy process than many other states where governors or small commissions make the appointments.

The legislative session begins no later than the second Wednesday of January and wraps up 120 days later. HB25-1315 would affect vacancies in the General Assembly in the following ways: 

• If a lawmaker resigns during session or by July 31 in an even-year, the new vacancy committee process will take place and then the selected candidate would run in the normally scheduled general election that November. 

• If a lawmaker resigns after July 31 in an even-year, the vacancy would be filled first by the vacancy committee. Then there would be a vacancy election in the following odd-year November election. If the seat was already on cycle for that even-year, the general election held in November of that year would continue as normal. 

• If a lawmaker resigns during session or by July 31 in an odd-year, the new vacancy committee process would fill the seat until a vacancy election can occur in November of that year.

• If a lawmaker resigns after July 31 in an odd-year, the new vacancy committee process would take place and fill the seat until the next general election in the even-year.

In any scenario, lawmakers would only be able to serve one year before having to run in an election. 

To run for the vacancy, candidates could qualify by collecting signatures from 30 percent of the vacancy committee members or at least 200 same-party voters in their district. This process aims to improve ballot access for candidates. Unaffiliated voters and voters of the same party would be allowed to participate in the vacancy election. 

Vacancy candidates running in both the new vacancy committee process and the subsequent vacancy elections in November will be subject to campaign contribution limits and disclosure laws. Currently, candidates participating in the vacancy process are not subject to campaign finance laws. 

Under the bill, the number of precinct organizers serving on the vacancy committee would double and automatically include any county commissioners who are members of the political party and reside within the district. If a precinct committee person is appointed to fill an open position on the selection committee, they cannot participate in the process until 91 days after their appointment.

Legislation to Reduce Workplace Violence Against Health Care Workers Passes Senate

SB25-166 would bring stakeholders together to reduce workplace violence in hospitals

DENVER, CO – A bill to examine and reduce workplace violence against health care workers in Colorado passed the Senate today. 

SB25-166, sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, would add a workplace violence performance metric to the state’s quality incentive program and empower the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to consult with stakeholders to address workplace violence. 

“As an ER nurse, I’ve been threatened and attacked while doing my job. And I’m not alone – health care workers across Colorado face workplace violence every day,” said Mullica. “This bill would protect Colorado’s health care workers by bringing experts together to create metrics, implement best practices, and ensure that hospitals keep those who provide life-saving care safe from violence.”

In consultation with stakeholders, HCPF would develop workplace violence performance metrics, explore funding opportunities, and provide legislative recommendations. The group would include Medicaid providers, hospital associations, nurse representatives, and relevant state agencies.

The bill would also empower HCPF to assess hospitals’ adoption of a formal workplace violence policy.

Health care and social service workers experience the highest rates of workplace violence-related injuries and are five times more likely to be injured on the job compared to other industries.

SB25-166 now heads to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Pair of Weissman Bills to Protect Rights of Sexual Violence Survivors Pass Committee

Bills expand housing protections, voluntary parental relinquishment rights for survivors

DENVER, CO – Two bills sponsored by Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, to protect the rights of survivors of sexual violence and domestic abuse passed the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday. 

“Survivors of sexual violence deserve systems that respect their agency and reduce, rather than compound, their trauma,” said Weissman. “When it comes to parental rights, survivors should be able to live in peace without maintaining a relationship with their perpetrator. And if a survivor chooses to relinquish their own parental rights, they should not be forced to navigate hurdles like mandatory counseling, court fees, or child support payments that only make a terrible situation worse. These bills ensure that survivors can make the best choice for themselves and their families without facing additional barriers.” 

HB25-1185 would establish a clearer process for a parent of a child conceived by sexual assault to voluntarily relinquish their rights while protecting the child's best interest.

Between 17,000 to 32,000 rape-related pregnancies occur in the US each year, leaving many survivors legally bound to their assailant. Colorado previously enacted SB13-227 and HB14-1162, which established a process for survivors to more easily terminate their assailant’s parental rights. HB25-1185 remedies gaps and barriers in the implementation of these laws.

The bill would also ensure that a victim who became pregnant from a sexual assault who wants to voluntarily relinquish their own parental rights is exempt from additional costs and burdens including required counseling, court fees, and child support payments. 

HB25-1168, also sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would expand housing protections for victims of domestic violence, domestic abuse, unlawful sexual behavior, and stalking. 

"Too often, survivors of domestic violence are forced to choose between their safety and their housing," said Gonzales. "No one should be stuck in a dangerous situation because they can’t afford to break a lease or are left with damages they didn’t cause. This bill gives survivors the legal protections they need to reclaim their safety and move forward with dignity."

The bill would require landlords to offer a repayment plan to survivors for unpaid rent, prevent survivors from being held responsible for property damage caused by their perpetrator, and limit the penalties for terminating a lease early, among other protections.

HB25-1168 and HB25-1185 now head to the Senate floor for further consideration.

JOINT RELEASE: Gov Signs Law to Streamline Access to Youth Behavioral and Complex Health Care

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation into law to combine two waiver programs to create the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver, streamlining access to services for behavioral health conditions or complex health needs.

“I’ve seen the positive impact that access to essential health care and services has on children with IDD, behavioral health, and long-term medical needs, which is why it's so important that we expand and streamline the process for receiving care,” said Rep. Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood. “This bill is near and dear to my heart, and I am excited that this new law will expand the services available to Colorado kids and families so they can enjoy life at home while receiving the health care they need and deserve.”

“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 Sen. Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. “This legislation helps 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, also sponsored by Rep. Max Brooks, R-Castle Rock, creates the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver by merging the Children’s Home and Community-Based Services (CHCBS) and the Children with Life Limiting Illness (CLLI) waivers. This helps streamline waivers to better support Colorado’s youth with behavioral health conditions or complex needs.

The CHCBS provides home and community-based services for families with children with significant medical needs so they can continue to live at home and prevent institutionalization. The CLLI provides in-home services and treatments for families with children with a complex health need, including respite care and pain management.

Colorado Democrats have passed legislation in recent years to improve access to behavioral health care, including creating the I Matter program to offer no-cost behavioral health services to students, training for first responders and community leaders to identify and respond to symptoms of mental health struggles or substance use disorders, and expanding behavioral health care coverage for Colorado youth.