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JOINT RELEASE: Trio of Bills to Support Veterans and Their Families Go Into Effect

Democrats championed a host of legislation during the 2025 legislative session to support military-connected Coloradans

DENVER, CO – Three laws spearheaded by Colorado Democrats to support Colorado’s veterans and their families will go into effect August 6, 2025.

HB25-1132, sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representatives Sean Camacho, D-Denver, and Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood, allows funding allocated through Proposition KK, approved by voters last 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. The bill also expands veterans’ access to complementary services, such as acupuncture and massage therapy, by directing available funds to providers. 

“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.”

“As a member of the Air Force, I have seen firsthand how military veterans and their families can struggle to access proper health care for their behavioral health issues,” said Camacho. “Voters approved Prop KK to boost funding for crime victim programs, public safety grants, and behavioral health crisis services just like the one this law funds. Military members and veterans need quality health care, and this law will boost lifesaving behavioral health support for Colorado heroes and their loved ones by implementing the will of the voters.”

“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 provides crucial support for our service members while implementing the will of the voters.”

“Far too many military members and veterans suffer from PTSD, anxiety, and other behavioral health struggles that impact their day-to-day life without the proper treatment,” said Stewart. “With this law going into effect, we can fund community behavioral health programs and other beneficial services, improving access to the behavioral health care that veterans and their families deserve.”

HB25-1132 follows a law passed by Colorado Democrats referring a ballot measure to voters in the November 2024 election to create a new excise tax on the sale of firearms sold by 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.

SB25-073, sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Rep. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, clarifies that Colorado students with disabilities who are children of active duty military members are entitled to the same rights to open enrollment and guaranteed matriculation as any student who lives in the public school district. It also requires school districts and charter schools to ensure those students receive the appropriate services.

“Changing schools and hopping from one military base to the next is difficult enough, and a lack of timely access to disability services exacerbates those difficulties tenfold,” said Marchman. “No child should be deprived of access to the educational pathways they need because of their background or ability. This law gives them the support they need to seize every opportunity available to them and ensure every student has the potential to succeed.”

“As a veteran and an educator, I’m excited that our new law is going into effect to break down barriers to education for students in military families,” said Martinez. “It’s very common for military families to move around every few years, and students suffer when unnecessary administrative delays prevent them from accessing the programs they need to succeed. I’m proud to have sponsored this bipartisan law that will streamline the process for military-connected children with disabilities to transition into Colorado schools to better support students and their families.”

SB25-282, sponsored by Senator Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Representative Lisa Feret, D-Arvada, protects veterans from unaccredited consultants, often called “claim sharks,” who charge money to help navigate the application process to receive benefits from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). 

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

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

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

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JOINT RELEASE: Law to Strengthen the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act Goes Into Effect

HB25-1239 will expand protections under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act

DENVER, CO - On August 6, legislation sponsored by Representative Yara Zokaie, Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker and Senators Lindsey Daugherty and Mike Weissman to strengthen Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws goes into effect.

“Under threat from the Trump Administration, it’s more important now than ever that we strengthen Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws,” said Rep. Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins. “When someone is wronged, we have a duty to create a pathway to justice. With this new law going into effect, we’re upholding our shared values of fairness, dignity, and equality under Colorado law and better protecting Coloradans who experience discrimination.”

“People with disabilities should have the same rights to seek damages after experiencing discrimination as any other protected group,” said Sen. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “This lawbill ensures that people with disabilities can be compensated for attorney fees, emotional distress, and other noneconomic harms if they experience discrimination or violation of their civil rights.”

“This law remedies unreasonable deadlines, barriers to financial compensation and other gaps in the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act to strengthen protections for Coloradans who experience discrimination,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “From housing discrimination to inaccessible building entrances, Coloradans with disabilities have faced barriers to access for far too long. This law provides crucial recourse to people with disabilities and other victims of discrimination to ensure they can receive the justice they deserve.”

“The cost of hiring an attorney prevents many Coloradans from pursuing justice after facing discrimination,” said Sen. Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. “People with disabilities who are denied housing or turned away from public spaces deserve a clear path to hold wrongdoers accountable and access the support they need to move forward.”

HB25-1239 will expand protections under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) to protect vulnerable communities, especially Coloradans with disabilities.

This law stems from a task force established by the legislature in 2023 to study the rights of Coloradans with disabilities and make recommendations. HB25-1239 is the largest expansion of CADA enforcement rights since CADA was passed nearly 70 years ago.

This new law will allow victims of discrimination to receive monetary compensation for unfair housing practices, discrimination in places of public accommodation, or a violation of their civil rights under the CADA for all protected classes. Under the law, victims will be able to recover attorney’s fees and costs, and either recovery of actual monetary damages, non-economic damages of up to $50,000, or a statutory fine of $5,000 per violation per aggrieved party.

Awards for damages for non-economic loss or injury will be limited to $50,000. A defendant will be entitled to a 50 percent reduction of the amount of the non-economic loss or injury if the defendant corrects the violation within 30 days of the complaint and did not knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly cause the violation.

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JOINT RELEASE: Colorado Voting Rights Act Goes Into Effect

New law will safeguard voting rights in Colorado amid federal uncertainty

DENVER, CO – The 2025 Colorado Voting Rights Act, sponsored by Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, and Representative Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, goes into effect on August 6, 2025. 

“The right to vote is under attack by a federal administration testing the limits of its power,” said Gonzales. “Generations of brave activists, women, and people of color have fought for the right to vote – and now, it’s our turn. This law will ensure that in Colorado, no matter your gender, race, or the language you speak, your sacred right to vote is protected.”

“With courage, conviction and sacrifice, generations of Black Americans fought for the Voting Rights Act, transforming democracy and ensuring equal access to the ballot for Black Americans and other minority groups,” said Bacon. “With voter suppression and voter dilution tactics being used throughout the country, we’re celebrating this law going into effect to protect the constitutional right to vote. This law makes it clear to Coloradans that, while the federal government continues to chip away at the Voting Rights Act, Colorado Democrats are committed to protecting voting rights.”

“As the first Black person elected to represent my area, I know I stand on the shoulders of those who fought for the Voting Rights Act of 1965,” said Joseph. “Without the protections secured by that landmark legislation, my path to public office might never have been possible. I am proud to sponsor our own Colorado Voting Rights Act to expand on the foundation laid in 1965 and ensure that all Coloradans – especially those in historically marginalized communities – can access the ballot box freely and fairly. At a time when federal protections are under threat, it is more important than ever that Colorado leads in safeguarding our democracy and protecting the voting rights of LGBTQ+ people, tribal members, and our most vulnerable communities.”

In anticipation of efforts to dismantle the national Voting Rights Act of 1986, which prohibits discriminatory election practices, SB25-001 protects and strengthens the right to vote in Colorado. This law codifies stronger voter protections, expands access to voting information for historically excluded communities, and prohibits discriminatory election practices, even if federal protections are rolled back.

The law protects access for eligible voters confined in local jails, requires residential facilities that house people with disabilities to provide nonpartisan voter information, and empowers the Attorney General to enforce voting rights. It also prohibits impairing an individual’s right to vote based on their gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation and creates a publicly available, statewide database of election information without compromising any personal voter data. The law also gives municipalities until January 2027 to expand access to multilingual ballots in certain local elections. 

In April, the US House of Representatives passed the SAVE Act that would require in-person proof of citizenship to register to vote, threatening the future of voter registration by mail and disenfranchising millions of eligible voters, especially the almost 70 million Americans who have changed their name. This would make it impossible for many Americans who do not have a passport, REAL ID, or access to their birth certificates to vote.

Colorado is a national role model for administering secure, accessible, and fair elections. Colorado Democrats have passed legislation to reduce barriers to voting access for Native Americans, incarcerated Coloradans, and college students. In 2021, Colorado Democrats also passed a law to expand multilingual ballot access beyond federal requirements.

Colorado has one of the highest voter registration and turnout rates in the country. Over 93-percent of eligible Coloradans are registered to vote, which is nearly 10-percent higher than the national average.

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JOINT RELEASE: House GOP Passes Megabill to Slash Medicaid & SNAP, Kick Coloradans Off their Health Care

DENVER, CO – Democratic Leadership and members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after Republicans Gabe Evans and Jeff Hurd cast the deciding votes to pass the GOP megabill, which will kick Coloradans off their health insurance, increase costs and jeopardize services for the most vulnerable people.

“Congressional Republicans’ megabill benefits billionaires on the backs of hardworking Coloradans and Americans,” said President James Coleman, D-Denver. “Millions of Coloradans rely on Medicaid and Medicare, and the drastic cuts to these programs passed in the bill will have devastating impacts from the Western Slope to the Eastern Plains. The legislature will have to respond to these cuts and attempt to blunt the harm, but the budget hole caused by Washington’s recklessness will make it extremely difficult to fund our priorities, from health care to K-12 education and beyond.”

“The GOP megabill is dangerous and reckless and will have a ripple effect on the health and success of Coloradans for generations to come,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “The billion-dollar impact on our state budget will force the legislature to consider pausing the important progress we’ve made on priorities like education funding, tax credits for working families and efforts to reduce health care premiums. Businesses, rural hospitals, STEM research, food pantries and many others will lose the support that they rely on to serve our communities. This is a disastrous outcome for our state, and it will impact people in every corner of Colorado.”

“The GOP megabill bill prioritizes the interests of the wealthiest Americans and powerful corporations over working families,” said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “While we’re fighting to lower costs for Coloradans, Gabe Evans and Jeff Hurd are kicking people off their health care, slashing food assistance for children and families, cutting clean energy tax credits and jobs, and increasing the cost of student loans. The bill reflects a consistent pattern: advancing the agenda of billionaires and other special interests at the expense of consumer protections and public wellbeing."

“The GOP Megabill has far-reaching impacts on Colorado and it goes against everything that we stand for as Democrats,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “From hundreds of thousands of the most vulnerable Coloradans losing access to health care to draconian cuts to food assistance programs and tax credits for seniors and working families, the destruction caused by the GOP Megabill will be felt by everyone. Rural hospitals and health care providers could close under this budget, and rural Coloradans will lose health care coverage while Republicans in the state legislature continue to turn a blind eye to what’s happening in Washington. Years of work to make Colorado more affordable and support the low- and middle-class, families, people of color, seniors, veterans and other Coloradans will be at risk now that the GOP has passed this regressive tax policy that favors the ultra-wealthy.”

“Here in Colorado, we know what it’s like to make difficult decisions to balance our state budget,” said JBC Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Every year, the Joint Budget Committee works across the aisle to do so carefully, thoughtfully, and with the best interests of Colorado families in mind. Gabe Evans and Jeff Hurd just cast the deciding votes on a budget that will hurt Coloradans. This bill slashes Medicaid, hurting families today and shifting costs to people with insurance. We will all pay more for health insurance because of this bill. Finally, this bill will almost certainly force us into a special session to make deep cuts to Colorado’s already tight budget, and those cuts rest entirely at the feet of Gabe Evans, Jeff Hurd, and Donald Trump.”

“The GOP’s cruel megabill will have devastating impacts on our state, and we will do our best to shield Coloradans from as much pain as we can,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “In addition to slashing Medicaid and food assistance, this bill will create a massive hole in our budget and force cuts to other critical programs Coloradans rely on. By passing this bill, Gabe Evans and his GOP colleagues are increasing costs on middle class families and closing the doors of opportunity for hardworking people across our state.”

“Republicans in Congress are hellbent on making it harder for everyday Coloradans to stay on Medicaid,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Millions of Coloradans rely on Medicaid and Medicare, and the drastic cuts to these programs in the newly-passed GOP megabill will have devastating impacts from the Western Slope to the Eastern Plains. This further compounds our state’s budgetary challenges and will force the Joint Budget Committee to make impossible decisions about the future of Medicaid funding in Colorado and our ability to provide core services to hardworking families.”

"The GOP megabill will drive up energy costs, force rural health clinics to shut their doors, and drive up the cost of health insurance for everyone,” said JBC Member Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. "In a tight budget year, we worked diligently to protect the services Coloradans rely on, but Congressional Republicans are jeopardizing everything from food assistance to health care. Colorado’s state budget simply cannot absorb the $1 billion in Medicaid cuts, revenue reductions and other cost increases, which will put health care, food assistance and services for our most vulnerable at risk. The GOP’s priorities are clear – give massive tax breaks to billionaires at the expense of hungry kids and families.” 

The most recent nonpartisan CBO analysis estimates that the GOP megabill will kick nearly 12 million Americans off their health care. It places a tax on energy, drives up utility costs, cuts food assistance and will force deep cuts to Medicaid and services for Colorado’s most vulnerable people, including veterans and many lower income families. Colorado Democrats—alongside health care providers, conservationists, and community leaders—have repeatedly asserted that this bill would be devastating to the American people and urged Congress not to pass it. 

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting estimated that the GOP megabill will decrease state revenues by as much as $500 million and increase costs to the state by around $500 million. Even without passage of the GOP megabill or an economic downturn, nonpartisan economic forecasters estimate the state will face a nearly $700 million deficit and that revenues could drop below the TABOR cap in each of the three years in the forecast window. Under these conditions, the state will not be able to replace the loss of federal funding under the GOP megabill and will be forced to consider difficult trade offs and cuts to core services.

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JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Save Coloradans Money on Housing by Eliminating Parking Mandates Takes Effect

Legislation puts ‘people over parking’ to lower the cost of building new homes, increase Colorado’s housing supply, and reduce harmful air pollution

COLORADO - Legislation goes into effect today to make housing in Colorado more affordable and reduce traffic congestion. HB24-1304, also sponsored by Former Rep. Steph Vigil and Former Senator Kevin Priola, eliminates parking mandates that drive up the cost of building new housing, especially multi-family developments.

“Parking minimums add to building costs that then get passed down to potential homebuyers and renters, increasing housing costs for everyone,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver. “Each parking space can add tens of thousands of dollars and reduce the number of units that we can build—restricting supply and driving up costs. This law going into effect, coupled with the other housing legislation that Colorado Democrats passed in recent years, will help alleviate our affordability crisis.”

“Parking spots cost tens of thousands of dollars each to build - an unacceptable amount at a time when too many Coloradans are struggling to find housing they can afford,” Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, said. “We must do more to encourage the construction of new housing in our state, including for Pueblo which has a large amount of land devoted to parking that could be redeveloped as housing and businesses. I am incredibly proud of our new law that will make it easier to do just that while reducing traffic, bolstering economic development, and freeing up valuable space for our communities while enhancing our downtowns.”

Beginning June 30, 2025, HB24-1304 prohibits a county or municipality within a metropolitan planning organization (MPO) from enacting or enforcing minimum parking requirements for most new multifamily residential properties that are within a quarter mile of a transit stop or station.

The law still allows a local government to impose a parking minimum of up to one space per unit on proposed housing developments with more than 20 units or that include any units classified as affordable housing. To impose this mandate, they must show that the parking minimum is required to avoid a substantial negative impact.

HB24-1304 does not allow a county or municipality to decrease required parking spaces for people with disabilities and does not prevent a local government from enacting or enforcing a maximum parking requirement or requiring a number of spaces for temporary loading purposes.

Lastly, the law required the Colorado Department of Transportation and other state agencies to publish a map of the applicable transit services area and technical assistance materials and best practices for optimal parking supply and management policies by the end of 2024.

Parking minimums increase home prices and rents by requiring developers to use valuable space for cars that may not be fully utilized and could instead be dedicated to more housing units. In 2020, new structured parking spaces in Denver cost $25,000 each.

The city of Minneapolis, which eliminated parking minimums in 2021 and has enacted a suite of other land use reforms, saw rents increase by just one percent between 2017 and 2022, while rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Denver increased by almost 25 percent over the same time period. Research attributes the significant expansion of the housing supply in Minneapolis, leading to lower rent increases, to the elimination of parking minimums.

The oversupply of parking is also directly linked to higher vehicle miles traveled. The transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas pollution in Colorado, with passenger vehicles such as cars and light-duty trucks contributing nearly 60 percent of the sector’s greenhouse gas emissions.

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joint release: Legislation to Streamline Crisis Response Services, Expand Access to Behavioral Health Care Takes Effect

SB25-236 improves efficiency and expands access to crisis response services by consolidating the Colorado Crisis Line and the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line

DENVER, CO – Legislation to streamline access to crisis response services and expand access to behavioral health care will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Sponsored by Senators Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Representatives Emily Sirota, D-Denver, and Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, SB25-236 consolidates crisis response services by moving the Colorado Crisis Services Line under the 988 Crisis Hotline Enterprise. Starting July 1, 2025, any time someone calls or texts the Colorado Crisis Services line at 1-844-493-8255 or 38255, they will be connected to the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line for support and services, just as if they had called or texted 988 directly. 

“Streamlining access to mental health care will help save more lives,” said Amabile. “Colorado has amazing crisis response services that help people during their difficult times, and this legislation makes them even stronger. Combining the two separate lines into one will make it that much easier for Coloradans to access quick, supportive services that help them get back on their feet.”

“In Colorado, we’re taking steps to improve the efficiency of our crisis response, not tear it down,” said Sirota. “At a time when our youth are experiencing a worsening mental health crisis, the Trump administration plans to cut funding for the 988 crisis hotline, eliminating counselors specifically suited to help LGBTQ+ youth. This law streamlines access to crisis response services so that everyone in Colorado can receive the support they need during a behavioral health emergency.” 

“In Colorado, efficient government means cutting red tape, not cutting support,”
said Bridges. “While lawmakers in Washington slash suicide prevention funding in pursuit of ‘efficiency,’ we’re taking steps to streamline our services and make sure every Coloradan is able to access the help they need in moments of crisis.”

The Colorado Crisis Line was created by SB13-266 to respond to and assist individuals who are in a behavioral health emergency. The 988 Crisis Hotline is a national network of local crisis contact centers designated by Congress in 2020. Earlier this month, the Trump administration eliminated funding for specialized support on the 988 Crisis Hotline for young LGBTQ+ callers

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Bill to Improve Youth Justice System Goes Into Effect

HB25-1146 increases the emergency detention bed cap and funds deflection programs

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation to allocate $10 million to support youth justice sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Representative Shannon Bird, D-Westminster, goes into effect on July 1, 2025. 

“This new law funds crucial programs to help kids get on the right path after a mistake and get connected to a community of support,” said Amabile. “The grant program aims to address the underlying causes of juvenile crime and treat them effectively – which is good for young people, their families, and our state. HB25-1146 is a balanced approach to keep Colorado communities safe while holistically supporting our youth.”

“This bipartisan law will make Colorado a safer place,”
said Bird. “We know that many youth who commit violent crime often lack the support and guidance that they need to build a bright future for themselves. This law invests in programs to reduce recidivism and keep youth out of the justice system in the first place while also protecting our communities from harm by allowing more flexibility in the use emergency beds in detention centers.”

HB25-1146 is also sponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, and Representative Dan Woog, R-Erie. The new law increases the number of emergency detention beds available under the statewide juvenile detention bed cap from 22 to 39, and allows more flexibility on when the beds may be used. It enhances transparency by requiring the Colorado Department of Human Services to publish a monthly report including the number of youth in detention and the number awaiting services. 

To address concerns about staff interactions with detained youth, the law also establishes a pilot program for Department of Youth Services (DYS) staff at one facility to wear body-worn cameras during interactions with youth.

Additionally, the new law allocates over $3 million for deflection and community programs. The law creates the Deflection and Community Investment Grant Program in the Colorado Department of Public Safety to provide grants to eligible applicants to implement trauma-informed health and development deflection programs for youth, including Native American youth.

Finally, the law makes procedural changes to the juvenile justice system to repeal infrequently-used provisions and streamline case dismissal for some low-level charges, improving efficiency and fairness. 

DYS operates 14 secure youth centers serving youth between the ages of 10 to 21. DYS also administers juvenile parole services. In 2023, HB23-1307 allowed DYS to administer 22 temporary emergency beds that did not count toward the detention cap of 215 beds.

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Legislation to Streamline Access to Youth Behavioral and Complex Health Care Takes Effect

DENVER, CO - On July 1, 2025, a bipartisan law goes into effect to combine two waiver programs to create the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver. This will help streamline 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 legislation is near and dear to my heart, and I am excited that this new law is going into effect to 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.

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Bipartisan Lukens, Daugherty Bill to Strengthen Civil Rape Shield Law Goes Into Effect

COLORADO - On July 1, 2025, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Representative Meghan Lukens and Senator Lindsey Daugherty goes into effect to strengthen protections for survivors of sexual misconduct by expanding the Civil Rape Shield Law.


“Too many times, victims have been blamed for an assault based on what they wear and how they live their lives,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs.“The unfortunate reality is that survivors of sexual misconduct have been hesitant to pursue legal action against their assailant because irrelevant details about their past sexual history, lifestyle, and clothing could be used against them. In Colorado, we stand by victims of sexual assault. With this bipartisan law going into effect, we’re preventing lawyers from using these unrelated details in a civil case to protect survivors so they can hold their stalker, harasser, or assaulter accountable.”

“This legislation ensures that survivors of sexual violence are treated with dignity and fairness in civil court,” said Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. “Survivors who bravely come forward deserve to know that irrelevant details – like their clothing, hair style, or past sexual history – will not be used against them. By preventing the use of these unrelated details in civil cases, we can protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.”

HB25-1138, also sponsored by Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, R-Colorado Springs, and Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, will protect victims of sexual assault in civil cases by making hairstyle, speech, lifestyle, and clothing related to an alleged sexual offense inadmissible as evidence of consent, credibility, or harm. Except for the source or origin of semen, pregnancy, disease, or proving someone else committed the assault, past sexual history cannot be discussed unless permitted by a judge after privately reviewing the evidence.


Prior to this law going into effect, Colorado statutes deemed sexual activity as irrelevant and inadmissible in a civil proceeding unless that sexual activity was between a victim and a defendant. HB25-1138 eliminates that exception. This law applies to court proceedings occurring on or after July 1, 2025.

Colorado Democrats passed a 2024 law that expanded the Criminal Rape Shield Law to prohibit the admission of evidence of a victim’s clothing or the victim’s past sexual history with a defendant to prove consent.

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Bill to Increase Judges and Boost Access to Justice Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO – On July 1, 2025, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and Representative Michael Carter, D-Aurora, goes into effect. SB25-024 adds 15 judges across Colorado to decrease wait times for court cases.

“As a former deputy district attorney, I know how important it is to have an adequate number of judges serving our communities,” said Roberts. “Over and over again, we’ve heard from judges, attorneys, victims, and litigants who are hurting from an overburdened court system. Adding 15 new judges to Colorado’s judicial system is a major step forward that will help Colorado fulfill its fundamental duty to provide timely access to justice.”

“The right to a speedy trial is guaranteed in our constitution, but the shortage of judges and other judicial staff makes it unrealistic to schedule cases in a reasonable timeframe,” said Carter. “When cases are continuously pushed back, justice for victims and their families is delayed, while potentially innocent Coloradans sit in jail awaiting trial. Our new law increases the number of judges, attorneys and other staff to cut down on wait times, protect the autonomy of judicial actors and improve access to justice.”

SB25-024, also sponsored by Sen. Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, and Rep. Matt Soper, R-Delta, increases the number of district and county judges by 15 judges for criminal and civil court cases over the next two years. Beginning on July 1, 2025 and spread over the next two years, specific districts will be allocated the funding to hire more district and county judges.

The new law also allocates funds for courts to hire public defenders, deputy district attorneys, sheriff deputies, behavioral health court professionals and support staff. Judicial Districts 4, 7, 13, 17, 18, 19 and 23 and Larimer, Douglas, La Plata, Mesa and Eagle counties will see at least one additional judge. 

Governor Polis and Lieutenant Governor Primavera have already made several appointments to fill the new judgeships, effective July 1, 2025. These include:

  • Kelly J. McPherson to the 4th Judicial District Court,

  • Sara S. Price to the 17th Judicial District Court,

  • Stacy K. Guillon to the 23rd Judicial District Court,

  • James X. Quinn to the 18th Judicial District Court,

  • Kimbra L. Killin to the 13th Judicial District Court, and

  • Richard E. Schmittel, Jr., to the La Plata County Court in the 6th Judicial District. 

In early 2025, Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Monica Márquez made a plea to the Colorado General Assembly to add judges during the annual State of the Judiciary address.

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Bill to Expand Substance Use Disorder Treatment Options Takes Effect

DENVER, CO – On July 1, 2025, legislation sponsored by Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, to expand treatment options for Coloradans with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) will fully take effect.

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

Beginning July 1, 2025, HB24-1045 requires the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to provide the following reentry services to people immediately before they are released from the Division of Youth Services (DYS) in the CDHS or a Department of Corrections (DOC) facility:

  • Medicated-assisted treatment (MAT) medications, via an opioid treatment program;

  • A 30-day supply of additional medications, if needed; and

  • Case management services, which are assumed to include screening, brief intervention, and care coordination services. 

Additionally, the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) will begin to collect and share data on admission denials from withdrawal management facilities. BHA will also contract with a third-party entity to support behavioral health providers pursuing safety net status, offering assistance with billing, cost reporting, and payer enrollment.

During the 2023 interim, ten lawmakers served on the Opioid and Other Substance Use Disorders Study Committee. The committee advanced four bills, including HB24-1045, for the General Assembly to consider during the 2024 session. These bills bolster prevention efforts, improve treatment programs, promote harm reduction strategies, and support Coloradans in recovery to prevent overdose deaths and save lives.

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Western Slope Lawmakers Urge Congress to Oppose Selling Colorado’s Public Lands

WESTERN SLOPE, CO – A group of bipartisan lawmakers from the Western Slope today sent a letter to Colorado’s congressional delegation urging them to oppose the selling of Colorado’s public lands. 

In the letter, signed by House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, and Senator Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, lawmakers said, “We, the undersigned state legislators of Colorado, are writing to you today to express our unwavering opposition to any efforts within the federal budget reconciliation package that include the sale of public lands.”

In the letter, lawmakers stated, “Countless Coloradans have stood up in recent weeks to oppose public lands sell-off, and more voices are joining the opposition to this deeply misguided effort every day. The local voices are strong and clear; Coloradans do not support public land sell-off.”

 

“Public lands are vital to Colorado's economy and way of life. These lands drive our regional economy through outdoor recreation, hunting, tourism, and industries, like agriculture and ranching. They provide essential clean air and water, supporting the quality of life that attracts businesses and skilled workers. Colorado's outdoor recreation industry alone generated over $65.8 billion in 2023, supporting 404,000 jobs statewide. Selling off these lands would threaten this economic engine and betray the public trust.”

While the Senate parliamentarian ruled that the language to sell-off more than 2 million acres of public land must be stripped from the federal reconciliation bill, Western Slope lawmakers expressed concern about US Senator Mike Lee’s commitment to “...reintroducing new language, demonstrating a determination to push through this deeply unpopular agenda.” 

Earlier this year, this group of Colorado lawmakers sponsored a resolution to affirm the state's support for public lands and opposition to any efforts to sell-off public lands. SJR25-009 passed both chambers overwhelmingly with bipartisan support.

Read the full text of the letter below:

June 24, 2025 

To our esteemed Colorado Congressional Delegation Members: 

We, the undersigned state legislators of Colorado, are writing to you today to express our unwavering opposition to any efforts within the federal budget reconciliation package that include the sale of public lands. This letter builds upon our previous actions as legislators in opposing public land sell-off and we urge you to stand firmly against this deeply unpopular and misguided effort. 

Colorado has demonstrated a powerful and broadly bi-partisan stance against federal public land sell-offs. This spring, the Colorado General Assembly overwhelmingly passed bipartisan Senate Joint Resolution 25-009, "Concerning the Protection of Colorado's Public Lands," with near-unanimous support. This resounding legislative statement underscores the statewide consensus on safeguarding these invaluable resources. Following this, multiple counties and municipalities have echoed this sentiment, including Pueblo County, La Plata County, Chaffee County, Routt County, and San Miguel County, among others.  

Furthermore, over 160 elected leaders from across our state have signed onto a letter publicly opposing public land sell-off. Countless Coloradans have stood up in recent weeks to oppose public lands sell-off, and more voices are joining the opposition to this deeply misguided effort every day. The local voices are strong and clear; Coloradans do not support public land sell-off.  

Public lands are vital to Colorado's economy and way of life. These lands drive our regional economy through outdoor recreation, hunting, tourism, and industries, like agriculture and ranching. They provide essential clean air and water, supporting the quality of life that attracts businesses and skilled workers. Colorado's outdoor recreation industry alone generated over $65.8 billion in 2023, supporting 404,000 jobs statewide. Selling off these lands would threaten this economic engine and betray the public trust. 

From the state of Utah’s failed effort in the fall of 2024 to seize 18.5 million acres of public lands through the Supreme Court to the failed House measure earlier this year in the budget reconciliation process and to two failed language attempts in the Senate thus far, the public has repeatedly rejected these proposals. Just recently, the Senate Parliamentarian ruled that the sell-off language in the budget reconciliation package violates the Byrd Rule and must be stripped. Despite this, Senator Lee has already committed to reintroducing new language, demonstrating a determination to push through this deeply unpopular agenda. This lack of transparency and repeated attempts to bypass public input are unacceptable.

Therefore, we, the undersigned Colorado State Legislators, urge you, our federal delegation members, to strongly oppose any and all provisions in the budget reconciliation package, or any other legislation, that seeks to sell off our public lands. 

Thank you for your dedication to our state and for standing with Coloradans to protect our shared public lands for current and future generations. 

 

Sincerely, 

Speaker Julie McCluskie, House District 13   

Senator Dylan Roberts, Senate District 8   

Representative Rick Taggart, House District 55 

Senator Marc Catlin, Senate District 5

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Colorado Democrats Protect Public Health, Safeguard Vaccine Recommendations Backed by Science

DENVER, CO – Colorado Democrats passed legislation this year to ensure the state’s science-backed vaccine recommendations are protected in the event that federal guidance is undermined or overhauled.

"As a health care professional, following the science is non-negotiable. Science-based decision making should never be political, but unfortunately in this day and age we’re seeing misinformation and debunked studies weaponized in order to advance a dangerous public health agenda," said Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton. "That’s why this year we worked proactively to ensure that here in Colorado, we’re using well-informed recommendations about immunizations that keep our kids and communities protected. With this bill, we’re expanding CDPHE’s ability to incorporate recommendations from a broad group of trusted organizations that rely on science, not whoever happens to be in office."

"Secretary Kennedy’s circulation of medical misinformation and the promotion of false information about vaccines has left many physicians and health care experts concerned about the long-term safety of our communities,"
 said Rep. Lindsay Gilchrist, D-Denver. "For years, I worked in the public health space, and I can say with confidence that vaccines are one of the best tools we have to fight disease and save lives. In the shadow of federal uncertainty, we stepped up to protect the health of our kids and community members, and under our law, Colorado can utilize vaccine recommendations from trusted organizations that follow the science."

"For months, physicians have been fearful about what vaccine recommendations will come down from the federal government," 
said Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. "Secretary Kennedy has been a longtime skeptic of vaccines and consistently chooses misinformation over science. Given his influence and the uncertainty in DC, we knew that we needed to take action to put science first and protect Colorado’s best interests. This legislation ensures that whatever happens federally, Colorado will continue to rely on scientific data that protects Colorado kids and builds healthier communities for us all."

"Choosing science-based information to keep our kids safe shouldn't be controversial, yet the Trump administration continues to unravel foundational health care tools trusted by doctors and public health experts,"
said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. "To protect the health and safety of Coloradans, our immunization policy must be driven by science, not misinformation. Under our law, Coloradans can rest assured knowing that their vaccine recommendations are coming from organizations that rely on fact-driven, scientific information to make their decisions." 

HB25-1027, sponsored by Senators Mullica and Daugherty, and Representatives Brown and Gilchrist, updates disease control statutes to direct the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to consider recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American College of Physicians, in addition to federal guidance from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Prior to this legislation, CDPHE only considered recommendations from the ACIP.

Earlier this month, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired every member of the ACIP, which advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on the safety, efficacy and clinical needs of vaccines. The newly-appointed ACIP is currently meeting to discuss the efficacy of several vaccines including: COVID-19, RSV, and Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella (MMRV). The advisory committee is scheduled to vote tomorrow on new recommendations regarding influenza and RSV vaccines. Secretary Kennedy has repeatedly spread widely-debunked misinformation linking vaccines with autism.

HB25-1027 also aims to improve health care outcomes by expanding patient access to testing for hepatitis C, which is currently difficult for many patients to obtain. Hepatitis C cases are on the rise nationally and in Colorado.

Democrats also passed SB25-196 to protect insurance coverage for preventive health care should the existing federal protections be repealed, dismantled, or disempowered. The new law gives state insurance agencies the authority to reinstate guidelines on preventive care from federal agencies that existed in January 2025, including from the ACIP.

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Bill to Improve Colorado Privacy Act, Protect Colorado Consumers Goes into Effect

DENVER, CO – On July 1, 2025, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, goes into effect to amend the Colorado Privacy Act to include protections for biometric data.

Biometric data is highly unique to an individual and includes fingerprints, facial recognition used to unlock smartphones, and iris scanning. HB24-1130 requires biometric data to be destroyed within two years of collection or when the data is no longer needed, whichever is earliest, and to be stored securely.

“From fingerprint scanners to the facial recognition that unlocks our smartphones, our biometric data is intertwined with current and emerging technology,” said Daugherty. “Biometric data is incredibly personal. This law ensures our biometric data is protected and stored safely, improving consumer protections and reducing the risk of our personal data being used improperly.” 

In 2021, legislators passed SB21-190 to enact the Colorado Privacy Act and make it a deceptive trade practice for entities who control the personal data of at least 25,000 people to process sensitive data without consent.

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Gun Violence Prevention Law Goes Into Effect

Law to require a permit to sell a firearm goes into effect

DENVER, CO – On July 1, 2025, legislation goes into effect to reduce gun violence, crack down on illegal firearm sales, and prevent crime by requiring firearm dealers to hold a state license.

“This law is crucial in setting up firearm dealers for success to help us reduce gun violence and crime in our communities, especially as the Trump Administration threatens to slash the number of federal gun sale inspectors by 67 percent,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “From hairdressers and auto dealers to liquor store owners, state licenses are required to conduct business, and we believe that people who sell firearms should be held to the same standard. This law establishes a state permitting system for firearm dealers, requires dealers and employees to undergo training to better identify suspicious activity, and ensures compliance with business standards to prevent illegal firearm sales. Dealers who violate state laws could lose their permit to sell firearms, preventing illegal guns from terrorizing our communities.”

“Liquor stores, restaurants, and hair dressers all need a state license to operate, and this bill says that gun stores should have one too,” said Sen. Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “This new licensing requirement shouldn’t have any negative impact on stores that follow state laws, which is nearly all of them. But it will ensure that every employee in every store knows what our state laws are, and that they follow them. It’s an important way to keep our communities safe, keep guns out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them, and give Colorado the basic oversight it needs over these stores.”

"This is an important gun violence prevention law that will equip Colorado firearm dealers and their employees with safety training and protocols that can save lives," said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. "Training requirements for the proper storage of firearms, background checks, and identifying potentially dangerous behavior will help keep guns out of the hands of people who may otherwise harm themselves or someone else. This new statewide permitting process for firearm sales allows the state to thoroughly vet and inspect firearm dealers, ensuring they have taken necessary steps to reduce crime and save lives.”

“Due to the nature of their business, firearm dealers must be held to very high standards,” said Sen. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City. “Requiring state licensure provides another check to make sure dealers are operating safely and in accordance with the law. I was proud to sponsor this legislation which sets new requirements like increased inspections and trainings to reduce gun violence and prevent crimes.”

Starting July 1, 2025, HB24-1353 requires firearm dealers in Colorado to hold a state firearms dealer permit in order to sell guns in Colorado. Operating without this permit is an unclassified felony punishable by a fine of up to $250,000.

Under the law, firearm dealers must apply through the Department of Revenue and must hold a valid federal firearm license to be eligible for a state firearms dealer permit. Applicants are ineligible for the permit if they have had an adverse licensing action taken for good cause by the federal government or any state within three years of applying. They are also ineligible if they have been convicted of a violation of any state or federal law regarding the possession or sale of firearms.

Other requirements for receiving a state firearms dealer permit include:

  • Fingerprint-based background checks for employees every three years;

  • Training on how to prevent theft and identify straw purchasers, fraudulent activities, and people at risk of self-harm. An exam on this training would also be required before an applicant is granted a permit;

  • Random and regular inspections to ensure firearm dealers are complying with state and federal law;

  • Firearm sales to only occur during business hours, except during a gun show; and

  • Contacting law enforcement to report a suspicious person who tried to unlawfully purchase a firearm within 48 hours of the incident.

Studies show that policies regulating firearm dealer licensing can lead to significant reductions in gun violence, including gun homicides and suicides. After Connecticut passed a similar law, its firearm homicide rate fell by 28 percent and firearm suicide rate decreased by 33 percent.

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Law to Improve Concealed Carry Training Takes Effect

DENVER, CO – On July 1, 2025, legislation goes into effect to improve concealed carry permit training to encourage responsible gun ownership, reduce gun violence and keep Coloradans safe.

“The data is clear - live-fire gun training can save lives,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. "States that have eliminated their live-fire training requirements to receive a concealed carry permit saw a 32 percent increase in gun assaults. With this lifesaving law going into effect, we’re ensuring that Coloradans with concealed carry permits are properly trained and educated on current laws, like Colorado's safe storage requirements, before they bring their firearm into their communities.”

“Responsible gun ownership takes work,” said Sen. Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton. “Creating minimum training requirements for safe handling of firearms, shooting fundamentals and more ensures we’re treating concealed carry permits with the seriousness they deserve. I’m proud to see this law go into effect to advance gun safety and help prevent gun violence.”

“When I received my concealed carry permit years ago, I was surprised to learn that Colorado law did not require live-fire training, a necessary skill to have before carrying a gun in public spaces," said Sen. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs. “This law creates a minimum requirement for concealed carry permit holders, including in-person live-fire training with a certified firearms instructor, to ensure that concealed carry permits are issued with appropriate training. Many dedicated and qualified firearm instructors already exceed these minimum requirements, and this law will close that gap to ensure that everyone with a concealed carry permit has the proper training and qualifications.” 

HB24-1174, sponsored by House Majority Leader Duran and Senators Snyder and Mullica, aims to reduce gun violence by improving concealed carry permit training requirements.

On August 7, 2024, portions of the law went into effect to set guidelines for handgun training, instructor qualifications and judicial review for the denial, suspension or revocation of instructor verification. This includes requiring handgun training classes to contain at least eight hours of instruction, including a live-fire exercise and a written exam with a minimum passing score. The law makes it a deceptive trade practice for a person to claim to be a verified firearms safety instructor unless they have been verified by a county sheriff. 

Under the law, handgun training classes must be held in-person and include training on the safe handling of firearms and ammunition, safe storage of firearms and child safety, safe firearms shooting fundamentals, federal and state firearm laws, state laws related to the use of deadly force for self-defense, interacting with law enforcement who are responding to emergencies, and techniques for conflict resolution and judgmental use of lethal force. 

Beginning July 1, 2025, portions of HB24-1174 go into effect that prohibit a person from being issued a permit if they have been convicted of certain misdemeanor offenses within five years of submitting a concealed carry permit application. Updates to the concealed carry permit renewal process also go into effect to ensure that current permit holders also meet the new training requirements under Colorado law. HB24-1174 protects law enforcement officers and agencies, medical staff and firearm instructors from liability for damages related to the issuance or denial of a permit.

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JOINT RELEASE: Trump Policies Increase Economic and Consumer Uncertainty

rump tariffs and budget bill lead to higher costs, inflation and economic turbulence

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 June quarterly economic forecasts.

“This forecast paints a picture of uncertainty, even as Colorado’s economy remains strong,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “In Colorado, teacher pay is on the rise and inflation is still below the national average. I am deeply concerned that Congressional Republicans and the Trump Administration are pursuing policies like tariffs and Medicaid cuts that will increase costs on families, hurt consumers and small businesses, and raise prices for everyone on everything from food and basic necessities to health care.” 

“The chaos and uncertainty caused by Washington looms large over today’s economic forecast,” said JBC Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “From unpredictable tariffs raising prices to the decimation of the federal workforce, these actions are elevating our risk of recession and they threaten to have a disastrous impact on Colorado’s economy. Despite this uncertainty, the forecast also shows the resilience of Colorado businesses and workers who continue to show up and move our economy forward. We’re no stranger to tough budgets. We will continue to make thoughtful and strategic decisions to minimize harm while investing in Colorado's future.”

“This forecast shows that policies coming from Washington Republicans are harming consumers, increasing costs, and hurting our economy,” said JBC Member Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “In a tight budget year, we protected the key services and programs Coloradans and their families rely on, but Colorado can simply not absorb the proposed federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. The economic forecasts, which have some good news when it comes to housing costs and Colorado's new tax credits for working families, also show that what’s happening in Washington will have a direct impact on our economy, our budget, and the safety net services Coloradans rely on.” 

“Today’s forecast shows that Colorado has tough budget decisions ahead, made worse by a federal administration whose erratic economic policies continue to do real harm to our country and state,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “With no regard to the damage that they’ve already caused, Congressional Republicans continue to push the budget reconciliation bill forward to make devastating funding cuts to Medicaid and food assistance programs and further throw the economy into chaos. Despite these challenges, we remain focused on bringing down costs for Colorado families and providing high-quality health care and education, and we will be ready to navigate the impacts of damaging federal policies to the best of our ability.”

Despite economic uncertainty caused by federal policy changes, Colorado’s economy remains strong. Until the recent tariffs, inflation had been slowing nationally, and Colorado’s inflation is still lower than the national average. This is largely driven by slower rent increases.

New tariff policies on imported goods from Canada, Mexico, China, and other major trading partners have caused business volatility and will likely raise prices, including tariffs on Canadian oil that will increase gas prices. Tariff policies are also hurting consumer confidence. In May, consumer inflation expectations were the highest they have been in 44 years. The trade war is also negatively impacting one of Colorado’s top exports, beef. 

Federal policies may slow job growth and lift unemployment rates. Mass federal layoffs are having ripple effects through Colorado’s leisure, hospitality and tourism industries and are increasing unemployment rates.

The OSPB forecast estimates that two new tax credits – the Earned Income Tax Credit and Family Affordability Tax Credit – will be fully implemented in the 2025 tax year, meaning low-and-middle income families will be able to keep more of their money.

Nearly all of the downside risks to the LCS forecast are due to policy decisions in Washington, which have caused slower hiring and caution among consumers and businesses. According to LCS, “Consumers and businesses are struggling to navigate the impact of current and potential federal policy shifts on prices, investment, markets, and monetary policy. Further strain on international relationships, backlash from international travelers, students, and other consumers, and retaliatory trade policy present additional downside risks. Along with trade policy, the Trump administration has made rapid changes regarding federal employment, contracts, and spending, indicating willingness to unwind various industry supports previously in place. In addition, proposed tax legislation currently making its way through Congress has raised bond market concerns about U.S. debt levels, placing upward pressure on interest rates and contributing to financial market turmoil. Consumers remain sensitive to price levels and sentiment has recently plummeted, signaling elevated uncertainty for the future.”

With lower-than-expected General Fund revenue, Colorado is at risk of falling below the Referendum C cap (TABOR cap). The LCS forecast estimates that the highest risk is in FY 2025-26 where revenue above the cap is only 0.4 percent above the cap. Under the LCS forecast, revenues above the TABOR cap are expected to be $142.2 million in FY 2024-2025, $83.3 million in FY 2025-2026 and $535.5 million in FY 2026-2027. Under the OSPB forecast, revenues above the TABOR cap are expected to be $224 million in FY 2024-2025, $289 million in FY 2025-2026 and $536.4 million in FY 2026-2027.

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.57 billion in FY 2025-2026, adding to an opening balance of $2.35 billion in reserves, for a 3.2 percent reduction in total funds available from 2024-2025. They forecast revenue growing by 4.0 percent to $18.27 billion in FY in 2026-2027. As costs and caseloads increase faster than the TABOR cap, LCS estimates the state will face a budget shortfall of $698 million in FY 2026-27.

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.1 billion for FY 2024-2025 and $17.8 billion for FY 2025-2026 – a $114 million decrease for FY 2024-2025 and a $178 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the March revenue forecast.

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Senate Democrats Recognized as Health Care Champions

Healthier Colorado celebrated Senators Kyle Mullica, Iman Jodeh, and Lisa Cutter for their leadership on health care legislation

DENVER, CO – On Thursday, Healthier Colorado celebrated legislators who prioritized the health of Coloradans during the 2025 legislative session. Healthier Colorado scored legislators based on their sponsorship and votes on the organization’s pro-health policy priorities across four categories: Care Access, Bridging the Gap, Healthy Communities, and Early Childhood.

Senate Democrats and their awards include: 

  • Care Access: Senator Kyle Mullica

  • Bridging the Gap: Senator Iman Jodeh

  • Healthy Communities: Senator Iman Jodeh

  • Early Childhood: Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter and Senator Iman Jodeh (tie)

Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, was recognized for his work to increase access to affordable, quality health care, including sponsoring legislation to support medical providers that serve low-income Coloradans (SB25-290) and legislation to protect patients from surprise ambulance billing (HB25-1088). 

“As an emergency nurse, expanding access to quality care will always be a top priority for me,” said Mullica. “Every Coloradan deserves to get the care they need, when and where they need it, without breaking the bank. I’m proud of our work this session to support safety net providers, protect preventive care coverage, and lower costs for families.” 

Senator Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, was recognized in three categories for her legislation to reduce health disparities, create healthy communities, and promote early childhood health. This year, she sponsored legislation to eliminate medical copayments for incarcerated individuals accessing health services (HB25-1026), safeguard coverage of preventative health care services regardless of federal action (SB25-196), expand the SNAP program to include certain restaurant meals (SB25-169), keep student athletes safe by ensuring access to defibrillators (SB25-191), and support early childhood health (SB25-017).

“Everyone needs access to health care, but too often structural inequities based on income, race, and zip code get in the way of every Coloradan accessing the care they need,” said Jodeh. “This legislative session I worked to safeguard coverage for preventative health care, expand access to care behind bars, keep our communities safe and healthy, and support Colorado kids and families. I’m honored to be recognized by Healthier Colorado and look forward to our continued partnership.” 

Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, also tied for the Early Childhood award for her leadership on legislation to strengthen and streamline access to health care for children (SB25-017). 

“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 year, I championed legislation to support children’s health care and early intervention services and expand access to affordable prescription medicine. I’m grateful to be recognized for my work to make sure every child and family has the opportunity to thrive in Colorado.” 

Senators Judy Amabile, Dafna Michaelson Jenet, Dylan Roberts, and Jeff Bridges were also recognized for their work on health care this legislative session.

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JOINT RELEASE: Democratic Leadership Release Statements on Assassination and Targeted Attack on Minnesota Elected Officials

DENVER, CO – Colorado General Assembly Democratic Leadership today released statements following the assassination and targeted attack on Minnesota elected officials and their families.

“Melissa was a cherished colleague and words cannot express how deeply saddened I am,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “She was a brilliant public servant, a champion for her state, and simply a wonderful person. My heart is with her family, her caucus and the state of Minnesota who I know are grieving alongside an entire nation that is in shock, and I am praying for the recovery of Senator Hoffman and his wife. Our democracy is based on the idea that we resolve our differences through peaceful debate and in courts, elected bodies, state legislatures and the halls of Congress. There is no place in our country, ever, for the targeting of elected officials and political violence, and those responsible must be brought to justice.”

“Under no circumstances is political violence acceptable in America. There is room for healthy disagreement and debate, but we must never turn to violence against our political opponents,” said Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver. “The targeted attacks in Minnesota are a dark example of how violent rhetoric can devolve into violent actions. I share in the grief of losing Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and I am praying for a full and speedy recovery for Senator John Hoffman and his wife.”

“These acts of targeted violence in Minnesota have shaken us all to the core and are a direct attack on the democratic values we hold dear,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “I never thought I'd see the day when a state legislator would be assassinated in their home. No one who runs for office signs up to lose their life in their service to their community and standing up for what they believe in. We must all speak up and say unambiguously that violence is not the answer and work toward a future where something like this is never possible. The entire Colorado legislature is praying for the speedy recovery of Senator Hoffman and his wife, and our hearts are with the families of Speaker Emeritus Hortman and her husband.”


“Retaliation and violence against public servants must never be tolerated,” said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “Americans across the country sacrifice their time and energy to run for office and serve their communities – they should never fear that in doing so they sacrifice their safety as well. We all must unequivocally condemn this horrific act of violence and commit to respectful and peaceful means of settling our political differences. My thoughts are with the families of Speaker Emerita Hartman and her husband, and I am hopeful for complete recovery for Senator Hoffman and his wife.”

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Signed! New Law Creates Path to Homeownership for Teachers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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