JOINT RELEASE: Colorado Budget Squeezed by Federal Tariffs and H.R.1, Economy Facing Headwinds

Data challenges add to uncertainty driven by erratic federal policies 

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

“Today’s forecasts highlight the damage caused by Trump’s chaotic economic policies that have raised prices for Coloradans,” said JBC Chair Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “Consumer growth is being driven by the top 20-percent earners, while low income earners struggle to make ends meet and dig into their savings. While our legislative efforts have successfully reduced housing costs in Colorado, cuts to federal clean energy tax credits and rising tariffs are leading to higher bills. This will be a very challenging budget year, made even more difficult by the federal GOP budget and decisions in Washington. We will protect funding for our schools and core services and seek responsible solutions to address the shortfall.”

“We pulled a rabbit out of the hat with last year’s budget, cutting a billion dollars with minimal impact on the people of Colorado,” said JBC Vice Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “This year, we're all out of rabbits. Despite a growing economy, we'll have to cut another billion dollars from Colorado's budget because of TABOR's rationing cap, a financial relic of the 90s. We have a resilient state that can weather Washington's shutdowns and tariffs, but TABOR means cuts people will feel in their communities, clinics, and classrooms."

“Working people are facing headwinds from Trump’s tariffs and Congress’s failure to extend health care tax credits,” said JBC Member Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “Our efforts during the special session set Colorado on the right trajectory, but only Congress can stop skyrocketing health care premiums. This forecast also reaffirms that Medicaid costs are rising unsustainably and far faster than the state’s revenue caps under TABOR, and H.R 1 will only make it worse. With session around the corner, we know that painful budget decisions are ahead. Colorado Democrats have governed responsibly through difficult economic times before, and I know the JBC will meet the moment once again and responsibly balance our budget.”

“Every year we face difficult decisions about what we can and cannot fund – and these decisions keep getting harder,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Restraints caused by TABOR coupled with the chaos from the Trump Administration’s tariffs and reckless budget bill have squeezed our state budget even more than we initially anticipated, and Coloradans are feeling it. Faced with yet another budget deficit this year, we will do everything we can to protect essential funding for education, health care, and public safety.” 

The 43-day federal government shutdown in October and November disrupted the economic and inflation data collection, making some data unavailable or less reliable than normal. The data challenges combined with potential federal policy changes has led to uncertainty in the forecasts.  

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $16.9 billion in FY 2025-2026 – a $304 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the September revenue forecast. The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.0 billion for FY 2025-2026 – an $87 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the September revenue forecast. By the LCS forecast, Colorado’s revenue is now below the TABOR cap by $465 million for FY2025-2026. For the upcoming year (FY 2026-27), LCS forecasts General Fund revenue growing to $18.3 billion, above the TABOR cap by $501 million. 

Democrats’ housing policies have led to rent prices stabilizing in key markets. According to OSPB, an influx of multifamily apartment units in late 2024 led to decreased rent prices. In Colorado, inflation ticked down below the national average at 2.2 percent in the Denver area, compared to 2.7 percent nationally. Unemployment also decreased below the national average of 4.6 percent to 4.1 percent in Colorado.

While the economy is expanding, it is showing signs of slowing and recession risk remains high at 50 percent. Wage growth for low-income workers is lagging, real U.S. household savings are declining, and consumers are relying more on credit card debt. Economic policies spearheaded by the Trump Administration, including tariffs, continue to raise prices for consumers. Tariffs are expected to slow economic activity by weakening consumer demand and limiting business development, which will result in lower spending, falling business profits, and slower wage growth.

Medicaid costs, driven by increasing caseload, health care costs, and Colorado’s aging population, continue to rise faster than what Colorado’s budget is allowed to grow by under TABOR. Medicaid is the fastest-growing part of the state budget, and the latest forecast indicates an increase of $631 million in the next year if no action is taken to reduce costs. 

Legislation passed during August’s special session helped blunt some of the rising health care costs caused by H.R. 1. However, if Congress does not extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies by the end of the year, upwards of 75,000 Coloradans could lose their health insurance. Due to the corporate tax cuts in H.R.1, the Family Affordability Tax Credit (FATC), which boosts the incomes of hardworking families, will be fully turned off for Tax Year 2026, but LCS anticipates it will partially return in Tax Year 2027.

JOINT RELEASE: Trio of Bills to Improve Access to Affordable Health Care Go Into Effect

DENVER, CO – Three new laws to preserve access to affordable health care will go into effect on January 1, 2026. 

HB25-1222, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and Representative Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, will preserve rural access to independent pharmacies.

“Independent rural pharmacies are so important to the people who live in the rural and mountain communities that I represent. They rely on them for essential services like prescription refills, medical supplies, immunizations, and so much more,” Roberts said. “This bipartisan new law will ensure fair reimbursement rates and audit recovery practices so that drug delivery for independent and rural pharmacies are adequate enough to level the playing field against corporate health care giants and safeguard essential health services.”

“Health care access in rural communities is already limited, and this law works to preserve the local pharmacies that Coloradans rely on,” said Lukens. “From routine prescription refills to immunizations, our local and independent pharmacies are a lifeline for our communities. Our bipartisan law will protect and expand options for pharmacists and patients in the rural corners of our state by establishing fair reimbursement rates for our local pharmacies and expanding telehealth options.”

Cosponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Representative Ty Winter, R-Trinidad, beginning January 1, 2026, HB25-1222 will preserve access to rural health care by ensuring fair reimbursement rates that account for inflation for rural independent pharmacies. For Coloradans living in rural communities, these updates will help them maintain access to vital healthcare services close to home without having to travel long distances or face unnecessary delays.

HB25-1002, sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Representatives Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, and Lindsay Gilchrist, D-Denver, will save Coloradans money on behavioral, mental health, and substance use disorders care by ensuring coverage standards are based on clinical evidence, not profit margins. 

“Health care coverage decisions should be made using the best evidence-based recommendations from health care professionals, not on profit margins,” said Brown. “Right now, too many Coloradans struggle to afford the care they need while insurance companies continue to deny coverage for behavioral, mental health, and substance use disorder care. Our law, going into effect soon, aligns mental health care coverage with the best evidence so Coloradans can actually access the full spectrum of services they pay for.”

“Access to mental health care and substance abuse treatment is crucial to the health and well-being of Colorado families,” said Amabile. “Far too often, insurance companies deny medically necessary mental health claims with little to no justification, and Coloradans who are already struggling end up with huge costs or no care at all. This legislation will help Coloradans get the care they need at a price they can afford.”

“Health insurance companies should cover services for mental health care at the same level they do for all other care, but far too often they deny claims when the care is necessary,” said Gilchrist. “When insurance companies choose to deny coverage, it drives up costs and makes it harder for Coloradans across the state, especially young people, to access critical care. Too many Coloradans still don’t receive affordable care, and we have made major strides in recent years to invest in behavioral health care. This law takes another huge step forward by requiring every health insurance plan to cover medically necessary health care.” 

HB25-1002, also sponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, will ensure that insurance companies use transparent, evidence-based criteria and programming when deciding whether mental health care should be covered under an insurance plan. This law requires insurance companies to provide the same level of coverage for mental health services as they do for physical health services, clarifying state law on mental health parity and limiting gaps in insurance coverage for Coloradans. 

SB25-010, sponsored by Brown and Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, will improve efficiency and accessibility in health insurance communications. 

“There are many benefits to making electronic communications the default for health insurance communications,” said Mullica. “This new law will provide consumers with information in real-time with technology they are already comfortable with, keep sensitive data safe, reduce waste, and lower administrative costs. This legislation is a win-win for Coloradans and health care providers alike.” 

“Many consumers prefer electronic communications from banks, utility companies, and other service providers; this should be an option for health insurance, too,” continued Brown. “This law helps provide timely health insurance information to patients, while keeping their personal data safe and protected. Our goal is to reduce administrative costs and modernize Coloradans' access to their health care information.”

SB25-010 mirrors the National Council of Insurance Legislators’ “E-Commerce Model Act,” which seeks to improve the quality of insurance regulation and oversight. Twenty other states have enacted similar legislation.

Under the new law, carriers would still be required to send paper communications to any individuals who do not have access to the internet, and consumers could elect to receive paper communications. 

JOINT RELEASE: New Law to Address the High Cost of Child Care Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Representatives Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, and Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County, to address the high cost of child care goes into effect January 1, 2026. 

SB25-004 requires application, deposit, or waitlist fees to be refundable after six months if a family is not given the chance to enroll their child in a child care program, minus a reasonable administrative fee. The law also requires private child care centers to provide a transparent fee schedule and refund process explanation upon registration, when joining a waitlist, or at the request of the family.  

“It’s expensive to raise children in 2025, and families shouldn’t have to shell out thousands of dollars on waitlist fees and deposits for child care centers that don’t even offer their child a spot,” said Willford. “This law allows families to recover some of the dollars associated with applying for child care so they can put that money towards the actual care itself, making our state more affordable.”
 
“The rising cost of child care is a significant hurdle for countless families across Colorado,” said Marchman. “By establishing clear guidelines for application and waitlist fees as well as deposits, we can provide tangible relief to working families. With application fees often exceeding $175 per child, these costs add up quickly and put unnecessary pressure on household budgets. I am proud to have worked with Senator Faith Winter on this law, which continues her legacy by making child care more affordable and empowering more families to find the care they need.”

“Families shouldn’t have to budget for thousands of dollars worth of child care deposit and waitlist fees, especially when those fees are non-refundable,” said Garcia. “With the uncertainty of whether or not their application will be accepted, some families are seeing application and deposit costs pile up. Our new law allows families to request a refund for certain fees and deposits if they are not offered enrollment within six months, allowing families to save more of their hard-earned money.”

These requirements apply to private child care programs outside the Universal Preschool Program, Colorado Child Care Assistance Program, and Head Start. A center may charge a deposit, but if admitted, the deposit must go towards the tuition of child care. 

SB25-004 was also sponsored by the late Senator Faith Winter, D-Broomfield.

JOINT RELEASE: Bill to Protect the Right to Reproductive Health Care Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO – On January 1, a new law will go into effect to implement the will of the voters to protect the right to reproductive health care in Colorado. 

SB25-183, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and Representative Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County, implements the will of Colorado voters by updating state statute to reflect changes necessitated by Amendment 79’s passage, including removing the prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care.

“Colorado voters have once again reaffirmed their support for freedom to make decisions about their bodies and their futures,” Rodriguez said. “Our state has a long history of standing up for reproductive health care freedoms, and this represents another chapter in that story. I am honored to sponsor this legislation that implements the will of the voters and ensures reproductive health care is protected in both our state law and our constitution.”

“Colorado voters made their voices loud and clear – abortion must remain legal, safe and protected in our state,” said McCluskie. “Given the uncertain future of abortion access in our nation, Colorado Democrats stepped up to protect reproductive health care in our state. This new law implements the will of the voters and reduces barriers so Coloradans can access the essential reproductive health care they need.”

“Coloradans deserve the freedom to make their own health care decisions and choices about when to start a family – full stop,” Daugherty said. “Amidst a dangerous national landscape, we have worked hard to ensure that Colorado is a beacon for access to safe and affordable reproductive health care. Last November, Coloradans resoundingly voted to build on that work and permanently protect the fundamental right to abortion care in our state’s constitution.”

“Despite the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle abortion access or restrict funding altogether, Coloradans believe it’s your constitutional right to access life-saving reproductive health care,” said Garcia. “This new law implements the will of the voters to ensure abortion care remains safe, legal, and protected. I’m proud to live in a state that has demonstrated time and time again that we overwhelmingly support protecting this freedom.” 

In November 2024, Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 79 to enshrine the right to abortion in the Colorado Constitution and remove the state’s prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care. The amendment was supported by a majority of voters in each of the state’s eight congressional districts.

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

JOINT RELEASE: Bills to Increase Price Transparency, Protect Colorado Renters and Consumers Go Into Effect

DENVER, CO – On January 1, 2026, a slate of consumer protection legislation goes into effect to crack down on surprise junk fees and increase access to stable housing for renters.

HB25-1090, sponsored by Representatives Emily Sirota, D-Denver and Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora, and Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, cracks down on ‘junk fees’ and requires price transparency.

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

“Hidden ‘junk fees’ often add up to hundreds of dollars in monthly expenses for Coloradans, and this new law cracks down on these surprise costs to save people money,” said Sirota. “Whatever the ‘junk fee’ is disguised as, the goal is to hike up prices and drain money out of the pockets of hardworking Coloradans to increase corporate profits. We’re putting an end to junk fees, so Coloradans know the upfront cost of products, goods and services.” 

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

“Junk fees are often not disclosed until a consumer is ready to check out or after they’ve paid a non-refundable security deposit, which means Coloradans end up paying higher prices than they are expecting,” said Ricks. “Addressing junk fees in our state has been one of my biggest priorities, and this law champions honest pricing so Coloradans can make buying decisions that fit their budget.” 

HB25-1090 standardizes transparent prices upfront, in many cases prohibiting pricing information from being advertised unless the final total price is disclosed. The law prohibits the misrepresentation of pricing information, requires the purpose of a fee that is not part of the total price to be disclosed, and restricts the fees landlords can charge for utilities and third-party services. To prevent excessive fee hikes, the law caps fee increases at 2 percent annually.

HB25-1236 is sponsored by Senators Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, and Weissman, and Representatives Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora, and Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins. It specifies that a prospective renter who receives a housing subsidy cannot be required to include a credit history report, a credit score, or an adverse credit event in their tenant screening reports.

“This law is just another step to making Colorado a more affordable, accessible, and equitable place to live and rent,” said Jodeh. “It’s part of our commitment to supporting women, people of color, and low-income Coloradans who have a weak or nonexistent credit history as they secure safe housing for themselves and their families.”

“Our new law, going into effect in the new year, will make the process of home hunting more affordable for Colorado renters,” said Lindsay. “Colorado Democrats are committed to protecting renters and making Colorado a more affordable place to live. This law saves renters money on application fees and helps low-income renters find safe and stable housing.”

“Renters who are already struggling should not be forced to reveal irrelevant information to potential landlords and blow their budgets on application fees before they’re even approved,” said Weissman. “This legislation would make safe and stable housing for low-income renters more accessible and affordable by protecting their personal information and limiting duplicative fees.”

“This law supports Coloradans who have no credit score or a weakened credit history by helping them secure safe and affordable housing without paying duplicative fees,” said Zokaie. “Searching for housing shouldn't be expensive. With this new law, we’re allowing tenants to receive and share their screening reports and expanding protections for Coloradans on housing subsidies."

The law also removes a requirement that screening reports be given directly to landlords from reporting agencies, since reporting agencies are often unable to do so.

SB25-079, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and Representative Jamie Jackson, D-Aurora, also goes into effect January 1, 2026. The law protects Coloradans from scams involving cryptocurrency kiosks which target the elderly and other vulnerable populations. The bill requires an owner or operator of a virtual currency kiosk to list certain disclosures, provide an electronic receipt, and fully refund a customer’s first transaction if it is international and determined by law enforcement to be fraudulent. The law also establishes a maximum transaction limit of $2,000 per day for new customers and $10,500 for existing customers.

JOINT RELEASE: Bill to Improve Building Accessibility for Coloradans with Disabilities Takes Effect

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

DENVER, CO – Legislation to improve accessibility standards for Coloradans with disabilities sponsored by Representatives Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood, and Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, takes effect on January 1.

“Coloradans with disabilities deserve the opportunity to move about freely and fully participate in society,” said Cutter. “They deserve equal access to public buildings and services. This bill moves us closer to making these things a reality, and to complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was signed into law nearly 35 years ago. It was my honor to carry this legislation alongside Senator Faith Winter, who dedicated her career in public service to ensuring everyone is able to live with dignity and respect.”

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

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

Beginning January 1, 2026, HB25-1030 will require local governments to ensure that new or substantially amended building codes meet or exceed national and international accessibility standards. It also requires the Division of Fire Prevention and Control to ensure building codes for public schools and health facilities meet these standards. For hotels, motels and multiple dwellings in jurisdictions with no local building code, the State Housing Board is responsible for meeting or exceeding these standards. 

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

HB25-1030 was also sponsored by the late Senator Faith Winter, D-Broomfield.

Statement from Senate Democratic Caucus Leadership on the Passing of Senator Faith Winter

DENVER, CO – Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, and Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, today released a statement on the passing of Senator Faith Winter, D-Broomfield:

“We are devastated to learn of the passing of our colleague and friend, Senator Faith Winter. Today, our caucus grieves the loss of a dedicated public servant whose commitment to the people of Colorado never wavered.

Senator Winter served our state with compassion and an unwavering belief in the power of public service to improve lives. Whether fighting for legislation to support mothers and families, championing groundbreaking transit policy, or simply supporting constituents in moments of need, she brought thoughtfulness, innovation, and humility to every aspect of her work.

Senator Winter was a colleague whose presence brought warmth and an invaluable perspective to the Capitol. We will miss her leadership, her partnership, and her deep commitment to a brighter Colorado.

Our hearts are with Senator Winter’s family and friends as they navigate this unimaginable loss. We ask that the public respect their privacy during this difficult time.”

JBC Members Swiftly Approve Emergency Funding to Boost Food Banks and Pantries During GOP Government Shutdown

DENVER, CO – Lawmakers on the Joint Budget Committee today approved two budget requests from Governor Jared Polis to fund critical food access programs during Republicans’ federal government shutdown. The first budget request allocates $10 million to support Colorado food banks and pantries in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) directive to suspend the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) starting November 1. The second budget request extends previously approved funding for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) nutrition access through November.

“The Republican shutdown is hurting Colorado families,” said JBC Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Regardless of what’s happening in Washington, Colorado is stepping up to keep families fed and kids healthy. This is what responsible budgeting looks like. Focusing on results, not rhetoric, and doing what’s right for the people we represent. For the sake of families across our state and nation, I wish DC would act a bit more like Colorado.”

“While Congressional Republicans and the Trump Administration play political games with Coloradans’ health care, hundreds of thousands of people in our state are now at risk of losing their SNAP benefits as a result,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “Today, Colorado Democrats stepped up to fill the gap and ensure that hardworking families in our communities receive the support they need to put food on the table. Half of the 600,000 Coloradans who benefit from SNAP are children; this emergency budget request pushes past the dysfunction in Washington to help families access food pantries and food banks.” 

“The JBC’s approval of an additional $10 million to food banks and pantries, plus an extension of funding for WIC, was a no-brainer,” said JBC Member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “We’re talking about hundreds of thousands of children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities who have lost their lifeline to afford groceries this month because of chaos in Washington. Regardless of your circumstance, everyone should have the basic right to feed themselves and their families.” 

“The federal SNAP program keeps children from going hungry, which is why we’re stepping up to protect hardworking families from the GOP Congress and Trump Administration’s cuts,” said JBC Member Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “We are boosting funding for our food pantries and food banks as well as extending WIC because with SNAP benefits ending, families are depending on us. Unfortunately, kids in our communities are suffering from the fallout of the Congressional Republicans’ government shutdown. In Colorado, we’re acting now to ensure families can put dinner on the table.” 

SNAP is fully funded by the federal government and administered by the state. On October 10, the USDA informed regional and state SNAP directors that if the federal government shutdown continues, states are to pause funding for November. This means the Colorado Department of Human Services will be unable to issue approximately $120 million of November SNAP benefits. 

To help families that rely on nutrition assistance, the JBC voted to direct additional funding to food banks and food pantries so they can fill some of the need communities will see when the federal government stops SNAP payments. On Tuesday, Colorado joined 22 other states in a lawsuit to force the Trump Administration to restore SNAP benefits by tapping into an emergency reserve.

SNAP provides food assistance to more than 600,000 Coloradans across 330,000 households; more than half of the recipients are children. Additionally, 10-percent of SNAP recipients are older Coloradans and 15-percent are Coloradans living with a disability. WIC supports food access for nearly 100,000 pregnant women, new mothers, and young children in Colorado.

JOINT RELEASE: Water & Ag Interim Committee Advances Bipartisan Bills to Boost Colorado Farmers and Ranchers

DENVER, CO – The Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee today advanced bipartisan legislation to save small farmers and ranchers money and prevent out-of-state producers from falsely advertising products with Colorado branding.

Bill 1, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, and Representative Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, would save Colorado farmers and ranchers money on their property taxes. It would broaden the definition of "ranch" and “farm” in statute so that small and family-owned ranches and farms can benefit from existing property tax exemptions.

“After over a year of work to get the language just right, I'm excited we're moving this bill forward to make sure our laws work for farmers and ranchers of all sizes,” said Roberts. “Small and family-owned operations are the heart of Colorado’s agricultural communities and too many of them struggle with high property tax costs. With this legislation, we are finding every opportunity to put money back in their pockets and keep their farming and ranching operations going.”

“For generations, family farms and smaller ranches in my district have shaped Colorado’s ag economy, supported rural communities and fed Coloradans,” said McCluskie. “This bill cuts property taxes for local farmers and ranchers by including smaller operations that use their land for grazing in existing property tax exemptions. As the Trump Administration threatens to flood our markets with Argentinian beef and undercut Colorado ranchers, this bill steps in to save our farmers and ranchers money.” 

“Family farms and ranches are the backbone of Colorado’s rural economy,” said McCormick. “While the Trump Administration continues to choose trade wars over Colorado farmers and undercut our ranchers, we’re stepping up to put more money back in their pockets. This bill prioritizes local farmers and ranchers by cutting property taxes for smaller operations that use their land for grazing.” 

This bill would modify the definitions used to classify land as agricultural for property tax purposes. It would specify that a farm is primarily used to produce agricultural products, while a ranch is primarily used for grazing livestock through pasture-based operations. Agricultural land is generally valued lower than other property classifications.

Bill 4, sponsored by Representatives Matt Martinez, D-Monte Vista and Matt Soper, R-Delta, and Senators Roberts and Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, would protect the integrity of the “Colorado Proud” label and support local producers by cracking down on false advertising of products originating outside of Colorado. 

“When shoppers purchase Palisade peaches or San Luis Valley potatoes, they expect to receive products actually grown and produced in those regions of our state,” said Martinez. “To protect the integrity of Colorado-grown products and foods, this cracks down on mislabeling and false advertising of Colorado products. Colorado’s farmers, ranchers and small businesses work hard to produce the famous, high-quality products and foods that we’re known for around the world. This bill upholds the integrity of the iconic Colorado foods we all love.”

“Colorado is known for its delicious produce, high-quality meat, and creative products made by our small businesses and artists,” said Roberts. “Consumers want to purchase made-in-Colorado products and should be able to trust the Colorado Proud label. This bill is about supporting Colorado farmers, ranchers, and businesses who make the real deal, right here at home.” 

Bill 4 would prohibit identifying an agricultural product as being produced in Colorado when selling, marketing, advertising, or distributing the product unless the product is grown in the state. It would also prohibit using the Colorado Proud designation or logo unless authorized by the Department of Agriculture. A violation of these prohibitions would constitute a deceptive trade practice.

The committee also advanced House Joint Resolution 2, sponsored by Representative Martinez and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, to recognize the importance of farmers’ markets to Colorado communities, small businesses, and agriculture and encourage the Colorado Department of Agriculture to continue to support and promote farmers’ markets.

“Farmers’ markets are hubs of activity that create community and provide opportunities for Coloradans to support farmers, ranchers, and small businesses,” said Marchman. “I’m proud to sponsor this resolution to recognize the importance of farmers’ markets to our communities’ health, wellbeing, and economic prosperity and encourage the Colorado Department of Agriculture to continue to support them.” 

All three bills will now be considered by the Legislative Council. If approved, they will be introduced during the 2026 legislative session and advance through the regular legislative process.

JOINT RELEASE: GOP Congress Causes Health Premiums to Double, 75,000 Could Lose Coverage

Increase would have been much higher without Colorado Democrats special session legislation which preserved coverage for nearly 30,000 Coloradans

DENVER, CO – Representative Kyle Brown and Senator Kyle Mullica, chairs of the House and Senate Health & Human Services committees, today released the following statements after the Division of Insurance announced that 2026 health care premium rates will increase by 101-percent due to Congress’s failure to continue the enhanced premium tax credits.

“Congressional Republicans’ refusal to extend the enhanced premium tax credits is doubling health insurance costs for hundreds of thousands of Coloradans,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, Chair of the House Health & Human Services Committee. “Costs are rising for everyone, and 75,000 Coloradans will lose their health care coverage because Gabe Evans, Jeff Hurd, Jeff Crank and Lauren Boebert failed to act. Our legislation during the special session is helping to blunt these rate hikes and prevent tens of thousands of Coloradans from losing their health care, but Congress must act now to extend the tax credits or hardworking families will pay thousands of dollars more for health care next year.”

“Congressional Republicans’ failure to extend enhanced premium tax credits means everyday Coloradans will pay the price,” said Sen. Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, Chair of the Senate Health & Human Services Committee. “Hundreds of thousands of Coloradans will soon be forced to spend more of their paycheck on essential health care, with thousands expected to lose their coverage altogether. Earlier this year, Colorado lawmakers acted swiftly to shield families from the worst of the unaffordable premium increases, but it is not enough to cover the Division of Insurance’s projected 101 percent rate increase. I renew my call for Congress to act now to prevent these massive price increases and protect coverage for Coloradans.”

Statewide health care rates for individuals who purchase their own insurance are expected to increase by 101-percent due to Congressional Republicans’ failure to extend the tax credits. Open enrollment begins this Saturday, and Coloradans who want coverage in 2026 must choose their plan before December 15. If Congressional Republicans don’t act now, a family of four in the Denver metro area with an annual income of around $128,000 will see their health insurance premiums increase by approximately $14,000. If that family lives on the Western Slope, in southwest Colorado, in the San Luis Valley or on the Eastern Plains, their premium bill will increase by $16,000-$21,000.

Democrats have repeatedly urged Congress to extend the tax credits, which help make health care more affordable for around 225,000 Coloradans. The expiration of these tax credits on December 31 will lead to fewer people having health insurance and higher health insurance costs for everyone, including small businesses and Coloradans with employer-sponsored health insurance. If Congress extended the enhanced premium tax credits, the average premium increase would be 16-percent, instead of 101-percent, and some Coloradans would see no increase. In August, General Assembly Democrats sent a letter to Colorado’s congressional delegation urging them to extend the enhanced premium tax credits that were intentionally omitted from the GOP’s H.R. 1.

Colorado Democrats have significantly lowered health care costs with the state’s reinsurance program, which has saved consumers over $2 billion, and Colorado Option health care plan, which offers the lowest or second lowest cost plan in 90-percent of Colorado counties. A recent study by Brown University found that the Colorado Option reduced monthly premiums by $101, even for non-Colorado Option plans.

Earlier this year, the Colorado General Assembly returned to the Capitol to combat some of the harm caused by Trump’s Megabill and Congress’s failure to extend the ePTCs. Colorado Democrats passed a law that will invest in Colorado’s reinsurance program and blunt some of the most severe cost increases from the expiring tax credits. This law reduces the statewide average premium increase from 174-percent to 101-percent, saving Coloradans $220 million on health care next year and preventing 28,000 Coloradans from being kicked off their health coverage. The law also stabilizes Colorado’s reinsurance program, resulting in over 21-percent in premium savings, with reductions up to nearly 40-percent on the Western Slope.

JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Democrats Condemn Rising Antisemitism

DENVER, CO – Democrats in the General Assembly today condemned the recent rise in antisemitism in Colorado and across the country.

In an open letter, the General Assembly Democrats wrote:

We are deeply concerned by the rising prevalence of antisemitism and hatred toward Jews in Colorado and nationally. From the streets of Boulder and the side of a mountain in Jefferson County to private group texts and AI chatbots, attacks on Jews are becoming far too common. We condemn this increase in antisemitism, and we must all do more to stop it.

These incidents are all part of a disturbing trend that cannot be brushed off or ignored. As elected officials, we have a responsibility to unequivocally condemn this rise in antisemitism. We are proud that Colorado was recently recognized by the Anti-Defamation League for being a policy leader in combating antisemitism. We must continue this work, and we are committed to doing more to protect all communities in our state. 

We stand united against hate. 

The full text of the letter is below:
 

To Our Communities:

We are deeply concerned by the rising prevalence of antisemitism and hatred toward Jews in Colorado and nationally. From the streets of Boulder and the side of a mountain in Jefferson County to private group texts and AI chatbots, attacks on Jews are becoming far too common. We condemn this increase in antisemitism, and we must all do more to stop it. 

Earlier this year, an assailant murdered a woman and injured fifteen people in an anti-Jewish firebombing attack in Boulder during a march calling for the release of hostages held by Hamas. This month, a giant swastika was displayed on the side of a mountain along I-70 for thousands of people to see. Since January alone, there have been several acts of antisemitic vandalism where people either drew or displayed swastikas in public spaces, including in Denver, Jefferson County and Elizabeth. 

In July, the Anti-Defamation League flagged a social media account to the FBI due to concerns about comments that mimicked neo-Nazi extremist groups. Two months later, the teenager behind those posts opened fire at Evergreen High School and injured two of his classmates before dying of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. In a private Young Republicans group chat, elected officials made racist comments and sent antisemitic messages that included pro-Hitler statements and “jokes” about putting opponents in gas chambers. Instead of speaking out against this, Vice President JD Vance downplayed it. A Colorado Libertarian Party leader and candidate for Secretary of State baselessly accused Israel of assassinating Charlie Kirk and President Kennedy and created an antisemitic website and social media account. One of President Trump’s nominees sent several racist texts and bragged that, “I do have a Nazi streak in me from time to time.”

These incidents are all part of a disturbing trend that cannot be brushed off or ignored. As elected officials, we have a responsibility to unequivocally condemn this rise in antisemitism. We are proud that Colorado was recently recognized by the Anti-Defamation League for being a policy leader in combating antisemitism. We must continue this work, and we are committed to doing more to protect all communities in our state. 

We stand united against hate. 

Sincerely,

Representative Emily Sirota
Representative Steven Woodrow
Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet
Senator Matt Ball
Senator Mike Weissman

Speaker Julie McCluskie
President James Coleman 
House Majority Leader Monica Duran
Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez
Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker
House Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon
Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter

Senator Judy Amabile 
Senator Jeff Bridges
Senator Jessie Danielson
Senator Lindsey Daugherty
Senator Tony Exum, Sr.
Senator Julie Gonzales
Senator Nick Hinrichsen
Senator Cathy Kipp
Senator Chris Kolker
Senator Iman Jodeh
Senator Janice Marchman
Senator Kyle Mullica
Senator Dylan Roberts 
Senator Marc Snyder
Senator Tom Sullivan
Senator Katie Wallace
Senator Faith Winter

Representative Shannon Bird
Representative Kyle Brown
Representative Sean Camacho
Representative Michael Carter
Representative Chad Clifford
Representative Cecelia Espenoza
Representative Lisa Feret
Representative Meg Froelich
Representative Lorena Garcia
Representative Lindsay Gilchrist
Representative Eliza Hamrick
Representative Jamie Jackson
Representative Junie Joseph
Representative Sheila Lieder
Representative Mandy Lindsay
Representative William Lindstedt
Representative Meghan Lukens
Representative Javier Mabrey
Representative Bob Marshall
Representative Matthew Martinez
Representative Tisha Mauro
Representative Karen McCormick
Representative Amy Paschal
Representative Jacque Phillips
Representative Manny Rutinel
Representative Gretchen Rydin 
Representative Lesley Smith
Representative Katie Stewart
Representative Rebekah Stewart
Representative Tammy Story
Representative Brianna Titone
Representative Elizabeth Velasco
Representative Jenny Willford
Representative Yara Zokaie

Transportation Interim Committee Advances Two Bills

DENVER, CO – The Transportation Legislation Review Committee yesterday advanced legislation to update fleet vehicles to zero- or low-emission vehicles and ease the car buying and selling process by allowing digital titles to be used.

“Keeping Colorado’s air and water clean well into the future is only possible with collaboration and drive between the public and private sectors,” said Sen. Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, sponsor of Bill 3. “This bipartisan bill will strengthen that collaboration and empower the Clean Fleet Enterprise to get cleaner, safer trucks on the streets and tangibly improve air quality for generations of Coloradans to come.”

“We’re making electric and low-emission fleet vehicles more accessible to improve Colorado’s air,” said Rep. Amy Paschal, D-Colorado Springs, sponsor of Bill 3. “Fleet vehicles help companies run their business throughout the state, but they often have terrible gas mileage that worsens our air and pumps CO2 into the atmosphere. Our bipartisan legislation would save businesses money on replacing these gas-guzzling vehicles with zero- or low-emission fleets, reducing our state’s carbon emissions and promoting healthier air for all Coloradans.”

Bill 3, sponsored by Senators Kyle Mullica and Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa and Reps. Amy Paschal and Carlos Barron, R-Fort Lupton, would expand the authority of the Clean Fleet Enterprise (enterprise) and repeal funding restrictions to better support fleet operators with clean vehicle updates. The bill would direct funding to organizations that replace diesel trucks with new heavy-duty trucks that meet all state and federal emissions standards. The bill would sunset after five years.

The Clean Fleet Enterprise was created by Colorado Democrats in 2021 to incentivize and support the adoption of electric vehicles and other low- or zero-emission fleet vehicles to help meet the state’s climate goals and save businesses money. Since the launch of the enterprise’s grant program, nearly $35 million in awards have been approved for private and public organizations.

Currently, Colorado law allows electronic certificates of title to be used in nearly all vehicle transactions, only excluding those in which a party is located outside of Colorado or the purchaser buys a vehicle entirely with cash.

“Electronic documentation is easier to access and keep track of than physical paperwork, which is why we’re passing this bill to allow electronic records during vehicle transactions,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of Bill 2. “By updating the options that we have, more Coloradans will have an easier time buying and selling vehicles.”

“This legislation would help transfer ownership of cars by allowing the use of electronic records for all transactions,” continued Paschal, sponsor of Bill 2. “It’s 2025, and we should utilize the technology we have to make life easier for everyone. This bill would allow Coloradans to use digital titles to reduce barriers to the vehicle buying and selling process.”

Bill 2, sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, Rep. Amy Paschal and Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, would allow electronic certificates of title to be used in all vehicle transactions.

The bills will now go to the Legislative Council for approval before being introduced next session. Once introduced in the 2026 session, interim bills will follow the standard legislative process. 

JOINT RELEASE: Jefferson County Lawmakers Statement on Lookout Mountain Swastika

DENVER, CO – Lawmakers from Jefferson County today released the following joint statement:

“We, the legislative delegation from Jeffco, are horrified and deeply saddened by the hateful display of a giant swastika along I-70 near Lookout Mountain. This appalling act is more than vandalism,  it is an attempt to spread fear and division in a community that stands for respect, inclusion, and human dignity.

“We strongly stand against hate in all its forms. Every person, regardless of race, creed, or religion, deserves the freedom to live without fear. Staining our beautiful open spaces with symbols of antisemitic hate and Nazi propaganda is not who we are and it will never define Jefferson County.

“We thank the Jeffco Open Space Rangers, local law enforcement, and community members who acted swiftly to remove the symbol and restore peace. But our work cannot stop there. When hate shows its face, we must respond not only with outrage but with unity, education, and courage.

“Let this serve as a reminder that the forces of hate and division have no place here and when they rise, we will meet them together, with resolve and love for one another.

“Jefferson County is, and must remain, a place where all people are welcome and safe. We will not be divided by hate. We will rise stronger together.”

The following lawmakers represent Jefferson County: 

House Majority Leader Monica Duran 

Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter

Senator Jesse Danielson

Senator Lindsey Daugherty

Senator Chris Kolker

Representative Tammy Story

Representative Shannon Bird

Representative Lorena Garcia

Representative Lisa Feret

Representative Sheila Lieder

Representative Rebekah Stewart

Representative Brianna Titone 

JOINT RELEASE: Amabile, McCluskie to Lead Effort to Reform Bipartisan Competency Laws

DENVER, CO – Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, today released the following statement on Colorado’s competency to proceed statute: 

“Making our communities safer is a top priority for Colorado Democrats, and we’ve passed many laws in recent years that have helped reduce crime. We will sponsor legislation to reform Colorado’s bipartisan competency to proceed laws and address the unintended consequences we are seeing. In doing so, we must also grapple with a broken mental health system and shortage of treatment options for people with severe mental illnesses that force jails to function as the state’s largest mental health provider. 

“Too often, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or untreated mental illness are in jail not because it is the right place for them, but because there is nowhere else to go. We are committed to passing legislation that will improve public safety, protect Coloradans’ constitutional rights, and build a mental health system that works for all. We look forward to continuing our work with members of both parties, law enforcement, mental health providers and community leaders to craft this bill.”

Titone, Michaelson Jenet Release Statements on SCOTUS Conversion Therapy Hearing

DENVER, CO – Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet and Representative Brianna Titone today released the following statements as the United States Supreme Court begins hearing oral arguments in Chiles v. Salazar. 

Senator Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City: 

“In 2019, after years of work and repeated legislative attempts, I sponsored and successfully passed a law to prohibit the life-threatening and inhumane practice of conversion therapy. While writing the bill and fighting for its passage, my co-sponsors and I had meetings with parents, children, child psychology experts, and doctors. We heard gut-wrenching personal testimony, research and data about the lifelong consequences of conversion therapy, and even stories of suicide. The evidence was overwhelming: conversion therapy is deeply and often permanently harmful to youth.

“Now, the Supreme Court is taking up a case that challenges these fundamental protections in yet another attack against the LGBTQ+ community. No matter what happens in this case, I will always fight for Colorado youth to grow up happy, healthy, and with the freedom to be themselves.” 

Representative Brianna Titone, D-Arvada: 

“In Colorado, we trust the science and medical professionals. Conversion therapy is harmful and ostracizes our LGBTQ+ youth. The research is clear: conversion therapy does not work, and it leads to negative outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth that put their lives at risk. This SCOTUS case is another attempt by MAGA loyalists to demonize the LGBTQ+ community and harm LGBTQ+ youth. We strongly urge the Court to uphold this law and protect children across the country. ” 

In 2019, Colorado Democrats sponsored legislation to ban conversion therapy for minors. Conversion therapy is a debunked treatment intended to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity through harmful interventions. The vast majority of medical and mental health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, are opposed to conversion therapy. 

In 2009, a task force at the American Psychological Association published a report conducting a systematic review of conversion therapy and concluded that “...efforts to change sexual orientation are unlikely to be successful and involve some risk of harm, contrary to the claims of SOCE practitioners and advocates.” 

More than 20 states, including Colorado, New York and Utah, have banned conversion therapy for minors. 

JOINT RELEASE: General Assembly Dems Urge Colorado’s Congressional Delegation to Reinstate Funding for Minority-Serving Institutions

DENVER, CO - General Assembly Democrats today sent a letter to Colorado’s congressional delegation, calling on them to ensure that funds already appropriated by Congress for Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) programs are awarded as intended.

In the letter, the General Assembly Democrats wrote:

“We are writing with deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of Education’s September 10 decision to discontinue discretionary funding for several Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) programs. We urge you to take immediate action to ensure that funds already appropriated by Congress for the 2025 fiscal year are awarded as intended.”

“Cancelling these program funds, which benefit all students and provide a boost to these critical institutions, would greatly harm Colorado’s students, higher education institutions, and future workforce and amount to a significant setback in our longstanding efforts to better prepare young people for career and life.”

“We, the undersigned Colorado State Legislators, urge you to take action to ensure that previously appropriated funding for MSI programs is delivered to our colleges and universities without delay.”

The full text of the letter is below:

Esteemed Colorado Congressional Delegation Members:

We are writing with deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of Education’s September 10 decision to discontinue discretionary funding for several Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) programs. We urge you to take immediate action to ensure that funds already appropriated by Congress for the 2025 fiscal year are awarded as intended.

The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) has reported significant uncertainty and disruption for institutions and students across the state as a result of this announcement.

CCCS is the largest higher education system in Colorado, with 13 unique colleges and more than 35 locations across the state. CCCS educates over 124,000 students every year, offering low- to no-cost education and career training. Their programs focus on high-demand career paths that power Colorado’s economy and fill workforce shortages in essential industries like behavioral health care and early childhood education.

As of today, four CCCS colleges have received official notices of discontinuation, including three of seven Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designated colleges and Arapahoe Community College, which is not HSI-designated but holds a Title III grant that is also being discontinued.

If this decision holds, Morgan Community College will lose $1.6 million for a grant to support the creation of a career and transfer center, a new campus-wide advising system with added technology support, and assistance for English as a Second Language students. Planned initiatives will go unrealized and the Grant Director position will be eliminated.

Lamar Community College will lose $3 million for a grant that funds five full-time positions dedicated to serving first-generation, low-income, and Latino students.

Pueblo Community College will lose almost $600,000 for a grant to support the college’s Onboarding initiative, designed to provide a more in-depth and personal approach to helping new students transition to college. Funded activities include learning cohorts and mentoring, a laptop lending program, a financial literacy component, and professional development for faculty and staff.

Arapahoe Community College (ACC) received notice that its Title III block grant is being discontinued, a loss of over $400,000. This would be the final year of a five-year block grant that supports increasing student retention by strengthening advising, tutoring, closing achievement gaps, and expanding data analytics. The early loss of funds will directly affect four full-time staff positions.

CCCS is still awaiting clarity on whether the other HSI-designated colleges, including Community College of Aurora, Community College of Denver, Otero College, and Trinidad State College, will receive similar notices, which would push the total financial effect beyond the more than $5.6 million identified to date. Additionally, the two largest institutions within CCCS, Front Range Community College and Pikes Peak State College, are emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions preparing for future eligibility for these same federal supports.

We are also monitoring the status of federal TRIO programs such as Talent Search, Upward Bound, and Student Support Services. While Colorado’s TRIO programs have not yet been affected, institutions across the country are reporting uncertainty and disruptions. Any reductions or delays in TRIO funding would jeopardize critical support services that help students from low-income backgrounds, first-generation and under-resourced students, and students with disabilities.

As lawmakers who represent these institutions and who are committed to the success of all Colorado students, regardless of their income or background, we urge you to ensure that funds appropriated by Congress for MSI programs in the current 2025 fiscal year are awarded as intended.

Cancelling these program funds, which benefit all students and provide a boost to these critical institutions, would greatly harm Colorado’s students, higher education institutions, and future workforce and amount to a significant setback in our longstanding efforts to better prepare young people for career and life.

We, the undersigned Colorado State Legislators, urge you to take action to ensure that previously appropriated funding for MSI programs is delivered to our colleges and universities without delay.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to supporting Colorado’s students and protecting access to affordable, high-quality education for all.

Sincerely,

Senator James Coleman, President of the Senate

Representative Julie McCluskie, Speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives

Senator Robert Rodriguez, Majority Leader of the Senate

Representative Monica Duran, Majority Leader of the Colorado House of Representatives

Senator Chris Kolker

Senator Cathy Kipp

Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet, Senate President Pro Tempore

Senator Dylan Roberts, Majority Caucus Chair

Senator Faith Winter

Senator Iman Jodeh

Senator Janice Marchman

Senator Jeff Bridges, Joint Budget Committee Chair

Senator Jessie Danielson

Senator Judy Amabile, Joint Budget Committee Member

Senator Julie Gonzales

Senator Katie Wallace

Senator Lindsey Daugherty

Senator Lisa Cutter, Assistant Majority Leader

Senator Marc Snyder

Senator Matt Ball

Senator Mike Weissman

Senator Nick Hinrichsen, Majority Caucus Whip

Senator Tom Sullivan

Senator Tony Exum, Sr.

Representative Andy Boesenecker, Speaker Pro Tempore

Representative Brianna Titone

Representative Cecelia Espenoza

Representative Chad Clifford

Representative Elizabeth Velasco, Majority Caucus Co-Whip

Representative Emily Sirota, Joint Budget Committee Member

Representative Gretchen Rydin

Representative Jacque Phillips

Representative Jamie Jackson

Representative Javier Mabrey

Representative Jennifer Bacon, Assistant Majority Leader

Representative Junie Joseph, Majority Caucus Co-Chair

Representative Karen McCormick

Representative Katie Stewart

Representative Kyle Brown

Representative Lorena Garcia

Representative Mandy Lindsay, Majority Caucus Co-Chair

Representative Matthew Martinez, Majority Caucus Co-Whip

Representative Meg Froelich

Representative Meghan Lukens

Representative Naquetta Ricks

Representative Sean Camacho

Representative Sheila Lieder

Representative Steven Woodrow

Representative Tammy Story

Representative Tisha Mauro

JOINT RELEASE: Law Takes Effect to Protect Homeowners in HOA Communities

DENVER, CO - On October 1, legislation goes into effect to strengthen safeguards for homeowners with HOAs to help them retain the equity they built in their property and avoid HOA foreclosures.

“Homeownership is an important way to build generational wealth, but our current laws allow HOAs to strip away everything Coloradans worked hard for, which threatens the stability of hardworking families,” said Rep. Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora. “If a homeowner suffers from a medical emergency, loses their job, or experiences other financial hardships that impact their HOA payments, their home can be foreclosed and sold for just cents on the dollar, and the owner’s hard-earned equity disappears instantly. This law helps create critical safeguards to ensure better notice, transparency, and accountability around HOA foreclosures so Coloradans can stay safely housed and protect their equity.”

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

“Colorado HOA homeowners, especially in my district, have had their largest asset taken from them and sold at an auction for a fraction of its worth over sometimes very small amounts owed to the HOA,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “It can be difficult to recover after a foreclosure, especially with high housing costs and no equity to fall back on from the foreclosed property. With this law going into effect, we’re helping hardworking Coloradans from being senselessly displaced and ensuring that homeowners can recover some equity from the house they paid for.”

In cases where an HOA pursues a foreclosure against a unit owner, HB25-1043 allows an owner to file a motion with the court to delay the sale of their home at auction for up to nine months, during which time the owner could sell the home at market price. Currently, an HOA may sell the unit at auction for only the cost of unpaid assessments and attorneys’ fees, leaving the homeowner with little to no equity from the sale.

Before taking legal action or referring an HOA homeowner to a collection agency, the law strengthens the requirement that an HOA have a written policy of sending a unit owner the HOA’s ledger verifying the amount owed within seven business days after a homeowner requests it. Under HB25-1043, an HOA must also provide information from the HOA Information and Resource Center about its ability to foreclose and force a sale of a unit before taking legal action against a unit owner.

The law also requires an HOA to provide homeowners with a notice regarding the right to participate in credit counseling at least 30 days before initiating a foreclosure.

HOAs are now required to include additional information for the previous year when submitting their annual registration with the Department of Regulatory Affairs. This includes the number of unit owners who were late on payments of assessments, judgments obtained against unit owners, payment plans entered into with unit owners, and foreclosure actions filed by the HOA.

Reps. Ricks and Bacon have passed numerous laws to protect HOA homeowners, including protections to prevent HOAs from quickly foreclosing on homeowners because of late or unpaid HOA fines and fees. Rep. Bacon and Sen. Exum also passed a law to create safeguards against foreclosure and protect HOA residents from having to pay excessive attorney fees that can result from enforcement actions.

Homeowners in Colorado Springs are currently protesting an unexpected $20,000 special assessment fee from their HOA. Under HB25-1043, these homeowners would have additional protections if their HOA pursues foreclosure for nonpayment of the special assessment fee.

Forecast Shows Steady Economy with Strong Headwinds and Difficult Choices Ahead Due to Federal Economic Policies, Tariffs and H.R.1

Special session legislation puts Colorado’s finances in a better position, while impacts of H.R.1 and tariffs continue to put pressure on state budget and economy

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

”We’re no strangers to difficult budget decisions here in Colorado,” said JBC Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Years of thoughtful, bipartisan budgeting puts us on solid financial footing, but with the devastating impacts of H.R.1 along with tariffs continuing to create uncertainty and raise prices for Colorado families, more tough budget decisions are most certainly ahead.”

“While we face strong economic headwinds and uncertainty driven by the chaos in Washington, Colorado is now in a better position, in a large part due to our special session efforts to fill a $1 billion gap caused by Congressional Republicans,” said JBC Vice Chair Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. “Trump’s tariff taxes are driving up costs for families and businesses, slowing the job market and increasing the risk of a recession. As we look ahead to next year’s budget, I remain steadfast in my commitment to prioritize the programs and services Colorado families, seniors and veterans count on.” 

“Today’s forecast confirms what we already know: the chaotic economic policies of the Trump administration are harming Colorado’s economy and the entire country,” said JBC member Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “Tariffs are driving up costs in critical industries like housing and increasing costs for consumers, while H.R.1 increased administrative costs and slashed federal assistance for programs like health care and food assistance. Our commitment to serve Colorado families remains steadfast. Presentations like today’s help us be ready for the tough budget conversations that we’ll need to have in the coming months.” 

“Today’s forecast indicates that closing corporate tax loopholes helped address some of the $1 billion budget shortfall caused by the Congressional Republicans,” said JBC Member Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “Colorado Democrats took a responsible approach to minimize the harm of the Congressional GOP budget to protect our schools, roads, health care and food assistance programs. Health care costs are rising faster than forecasted, which combined with federal cuts to Medicaid, means difficult decisions are ahead. But by closing corporate tax loopholes and putting people over profit, we spared some of the more severe cuts to life-saving community programs.” 

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $17.17 billion in FY 2025-2026 – a $400 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the June revenue forecast. The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $17.0 billion for FY 2025-2026 – a $756 million decrease for FY 2025-2026 as compared with the June revenue forecast. 

In July, Congressional Republicans’ H.R.1 created a $1 billion state budget deficit by allowing corporations to dodge taxes owed to Colorado. Following four consecutive years of corporate income tax revenue growth, corporate tax revenue is projected to decline by 30.1 percent, primarily due to H.R.1, which was partially offset by last month’s special session. This forecast shows that laws passed by Democrats during special session to close corporate tax loopholes closed one-third of the deficit, while additional bipartisan legislation closed another one-third of the deficit by using some of the state’s rainy day fund.
 
Medicaid costs, driven by increasing caseload, health care costs and Colorado’s aging population, are rising at a faster rate than previously forecasted. Medicaid is the fastest-growing part of the state budget, and the forecast indicates an increase of $350 million in the next year. As Medicaid caseloads continue to increase, H.R.1 will increase administrative costs for state and local governments. H.R.1 drastically cuts Medicaid, including limiting provider fee revenue and state-directed payments, which according to LCS, will result in a reduction of $575 million in provider fee revenue and between $900 million and $2.5 billion in federal funds over a five year period. Additionally, the various provisions of H.R.1 will jeopardize Medicaid coverage for about 377,000 Coloradans.

The Trump Administration’s economic policies continue to raise prices for consumers. Tariffs are expected to slow economic activity by weakening consumer demand and limiting business development, which will result in lower spending, falling business profits, and slower wage growth. According to LCS, tariffs paid soared to a near-century high of 8.2 percent in Q2. Additionally, inflation continues to rise, with the U.S. experiencing inflation of 2.9 percent and Denver experiencing 2.1 percent. Slowing price increases in the Denver housing market and lower housing costs are the leading contributors to lower inflation in Denver compared to nationally.

During the special session in August, Colorado Republicans sponsored legislation to balance the budget on the backs of working families by reducing a vital tax credit that puts money directly into the pockets of middle and low income families (Family Affordability Tax Credit). Due to the corporate tax cuts in H.R.1, LCS anticipates the credit will be fully turned off for Tax Year 2026, but will partially return in Tax Year 2027. 

JOINT RELEASE: Bipartisan Senate Leadership Condemns Escalation of Violence in America

DENVER, CO – Today, Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, and Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, issued a joint statement condemning the dangerous escalation of violence in America.

“Violence as a means of settling disagreements is incompatible with freedom and is fundamentally un-American. We must condemn it in all its forms. As elected officials, we carry a solemn responsibility to lead not only with conviction, but also with restraint. None of us are perfect, but we strive every day to be better human beings. We must remember that our words and actions shape the tone of our civic life and the harmful rhetoric that can lead to violence.

Even when we disagree, we believe in the freedom to voice opinions without fear of violence or retribution. Our duty is to uphold this freedom and ensure that every Coloradan can live freely without intimidation. Today, and every day to come, we recommit ourselves to preserving the promise of America and to a future where differences are decided by the power of argument, not the threat of violence.

We are united in our resolve to build a free and safe Colorado for all. That work begins with us.”

Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission Hosts First-Ever Community Listening Session

SB24-053 directed History Colorado to study systemic racism in Colorado

DENVER, CO – On Saturday, the Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission hosted their first community listening session at History Colorado. Participants learned about the study’s progress and provided input based on their own experiences.

Legislative members of the Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission, established by SB24-053, include Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, House Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, Senator Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, and Representative Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora.

“This work is all about community,” said Coleman. “Community members first came together to envision a study on the historical and current experiences of Black Coloradans, which led to the Legislature passing SB24-053. Black Coloradans have lived with the impacts of systemic and historic racism for decades. Now that the study is underway, it’s time to return to where we started by listening directly to our community, our families, and our stories.”

“Community made the Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission possible, and today’s listening session provided valuable insight, feedback and unforgettable oral histories,” said Bacon. “Community has been with us every step of the way as we dove deeper into the racial and systemic inequities that have negatively impacted Black Coloradans for decades. Today’s listening session was an important part of our work, and I will remember the community history shared with us today as we outline upcoming policy recommendations.”  

“We cannot understand the impacts of systemic racism in Colorado without hearing directly from the people most affected,” said Exum. “These listening sessions, which started today in Denver and will span across Colorado, are the very core of this study to uncover past harm and listen deeply to the lived experiences of Black Coloradans. This is a step toward healing and creating a more equitable future for all.”

“The idea for the Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission started in the community, and today’s listening session was another piece of our data-driven collective efforts,” said Ricks. “Thank you to every person who shared their story with the commission; your insights and perspectives are important to highlight the past and current racial inequities in Colorado. Today is only the start; community listening sessions across the state will help guide our future policy recommendations.”

SB24-053 established a commission to direct History Colorado to conduct historical research across areas like economic mobility, housing, K-12 education, health care, and the criminal justice system. The study is funded entirely by grants, gifts, and donations, and they have already secured more than $1 million. Over the span of two years, History Colorado will conduct evidence-based historical research, conduct community engagement sessions, and provide quarterly updates. 

At the conclusion of this research, the Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission will hire a third party to conduct an economic analysis based on the research conclusions. The final report will be made publicly accessible through the General Assembly’s website. 

Learn more about the Colorado Black Equity Study on their website.