Legislation to Create More Affordable Home Ownership Opportunities Passes Committee

SB26-040 would modernize the Prop 123 Affordable Homeownership Program to better meet families’ needs

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation to update the Affordable Homeownership Program created by voter-approved Proposition 123 passed the Senate Local Government and Housing Committee today.

SB26-040, sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, would expand eligibility for qualified buyers and make practical updates to better serve every Colorado community and meet the reality of the 2026 housing market.

“The Affordable Homeownership Program was designed in 2022, for a 2022 market with low interest rates and lower construction costs than what we see today,” said Amabile. “This bill updates the program to reflect today’s reality and provide the flexibility that Coloradans need. We’re taking a practical approach to make sure this program works as intended so more Colorado families can put down roots and achieve their dream of homeownership.”

The bill, also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would increase the allowable income threshold to qualify for the program to less than or equal to 120 percent of statewide Area Median Income (AMI) or the local AMI. This would allow more people to qualify for the program, particularly in rural communities.

Rising interest rates and insurance costs have also made it harder for Coloradans to meet the requirement that combined housing costs cannot exceed 35 percent of their income. This bill would create a process to allow some homeowners to spend more than 35 percent of their income on housing when a qualified buyer is not found after six months of advertising. 

Additionally, the bill would allow eligible organizations to temporarily rent units if they cannot be sold in a timely manner and create more flexibility in the program rules. These updates would help ensure that the program is working as intended and serving as many Coloradans as possible. 

SB26-040 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Legislation to Help Colorado Families Achieve Economic Mobility Clears Committee

SB26-080 would establish a grant program to support community-based Cradle-to-Career initiatives

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Local Government and Housing Committee approved legislation sponsored by Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, to create a Cradle-to-Career grant program supporting locally-led initiatives that offer education and workforce development training. 

“Cycles of generational poverty persist because, starting from birth, too many Coloradans are not afforded the resources they need to succeed,” Coleman said. “This new grant program would offer those resources to invest directly in communities, support housing and economic stability for Colorado families, and strengthen our state’s workforce by preparing young people for high-demand, family-sustaining careers.” 

SB26-080, cosponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, would create a Cradle-to-Career grant program within the Colorado Department of Human Services to fund community-based efforts that improve economic mobility from prenatal stages through workforce readiness. Eligible applicants include local governments, education providers including higher education institutions, tribes and tribal organizations, and nonprofit organizations. 

Program approvals will be overseen by an advisory board and will be funded by Harlem Children’s Zone, a national nonprofit specializing in Cradle-to-Career initiatives. Approved grants would support programs advancing goals like K-12 readiness and academic proficiency, enrollment in skills training and credential attainment, and employment at a good wage. 

SB26-080 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress here. 

Bill to Promote EV Battery Recycling Clears Committee

SB26-003 would improve responsible electric vehicle battery recycling, disposal, and storage

DENVER, CO – Legislation to promote responsible recycling, reusing, and managing of electric vehicle (EV) batteries at the end of a vehicle’s life passed the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee today.

SB26-003, sponsored by Senator Katie Wallace, D-Longmont, and Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, would improve end-of-life management for EV batteries.

“Coloradans who drive electric vehicles care about reducing their environmental footprint,” said Wallace. “But right now, Colorado lacks a clear framework to specify who is responsible for the battery at the end of a vehicle’s life, and that means batteries that could be re-used or recycled are needlessly going to waste. I’m proud to sponsor this legislation to promote the reuse of EV batteries and keep Colorado moving toward a more sustainable future.”

“Colorado is a leader in electric vehicle adoption. It's important that EV batteries are handled properly to ensure they are not a fire hazard, and ultimately recycled effectively," said Cutter. "This bill will help reduce reliance on newly mined minerals and improve the sustainability of electric vehicles. I have worked on sustainability, clean energy, and the circular economy for several years, so it's exciting to be part of this next big step for Colorado.” 

The bill would require EV manufacturers to collect and responsibly handle unwanted batteries, promoting the reuse and/or repurposing of viable batteries and ensuring responsible end-of-life management. Manufacturers would also be required to submit regular safety plans on EV battery management to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Hazardous Waste Division. Additionally, SB26-003 would put in place new environmental and safety guidelines and minimum mineral recovery rates for battery recycling, ensuring the use of best practices, reducing environmental impact from mining and smelting, and supporting Colorado’s manufacturing economy.

Efficient recycling techniques reduce the environmental impact of electric vehicles and can help meet the demand for lithium, cobalt, and nickel for new EV batteries.

SB26-003 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

Senate Approves Bill to Protect the Dignity of Minors

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved legislation sponsored by Senators Katie Wallace, D-Longmont, and Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, to protect the dignity of minors by suppressing court records of petitioned name changes for petitioners under 18. 

"Minors change their names for many reasons including religious or cultural naming ceremonies, family changes like adoption, and gender transition. Because these court records are currently public, minors who have legal name changes can be easily identified, putting them at risk,” Wallace said. “This bill is about protecting these young people, and ensuring their privacy and dignity. Sen. Kolker and I thank the diligent and thoughtful advocates who mended fragments in the LGBTQ coalition to shed light on an issue impacting children from a wide variety of marginalized identities."

“Many of the parents in my district have expressed how much it matters to support, protect, and celebrate their child’s identities during their most formative years,” Kolker said. “I’m proud to sponsor this legislation to give kids and their families the power to protect their privacy.”

SB26-018 would require a court to automatically suppress records associated with name change petitions for petitioners under 18, unless the petitioner was previously convicted of a felony. These suppressed records can be accessed without a court order if they receive verbal consent from the petitioner to unseal those records. 

A 2024 study showed that 47 percent of trans and nonbinary young people in Colorado considered suicide in the past year. The use of a chosen name for transgender youth can improve mental health outcomes, and acceptance of trans and nonbinary youth’s gender identity has been shown to decrease suicide attempts. 

SB26-018 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Bill to Safeguard Constitutional Rights Passes Senate

SB26-005 would create legal remedies in state court for an individual harmed during a civil immigration enforcement action where constitutional rights were violated

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved legislation to strengthen constitutional protections by ensuring that those harmed by unconstitutional conduct by federal immigration enforcement officials have a pathway to justice in state court. 

SB26-005, sponsored by Senators Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would create a state law cause of action for violations of the United States Constitution that occur in the context of federal civil immigration enforcement. 

“People have long come to our country for the promise of a better life and the guarantee of equal treatment under the law,” said Weissman. “I’m proud to sponsor legislation to protect our constitutional rights and create legal remedies when those rights are violated. Senate Bill 5 stands for the basic principles that government agents must follow the law like everyone else and that there should be legal remedies when constitutional rights are violated. This legislation reaffirms the civil rights of all Coloradans.”

“Under the Trump Administration, we are witnessing the conflation of immigration status, dissent, and criminality,” said Gonzales. “Our government is telling us not to believe what we see with our own eyes. It is up to us to act boldly and bravely, create pathways of real accountability for those who violate our fundamental rights and freedoms, and ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect in Colorado.” 

This bill would allow Coloradans to pursue legal action against federal officers if their rights under the U.S. Constitution are violated during a civil immigration enforcement action. Those found responsible for such violations could be held liable to the injured party for appropriate legal or equitable relief.

SB26-005 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Committee Approves Bill to Safeguard Coloradans’ Privacy

SB26-070 aims to better protect Coloradans’ personal data collected by  Automated License Plate Reader technology

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee passed legislation sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, aimed at protecting Coloradans’ personal data collected by Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) from being indiscriminately shared and retained. 

“New technologies can serve as useful tools for law enforcement, and our goal is not to limit their use to keep Coloradans safe,” Amabile said. “However, keeping Coloradans safe also means ensuring their privacy is not being invaded, that their data is secure and not used by ICE or against people seeking reproductive health care. This bill will provide clear rules for law enforcement, safeguard privacy, and strengthen public trust without compromising public safety.” 

SB26-070, cosponsored by Senator Lynda Zamora Wilson, R-El Paso County, would establish a framework that preserves law enforcement’s ability to protect public safety while ensuring that access to historical location information collected by ALPRs complies with the Fourth Amendment.

To establish these standards, the bill would: 

• Require law enforcement to attain a valid warrant to access historical location information, except for limited exceptions like emergency situations where a warrant is deemed impractical;

• Prevent data sharing with out-of-state agencies, except under clearly defined circumstances or court order;

• Prohibit the sale of historical location data;

• Mandate the creation of a detailed data access record as well as routine audits and public reports;

• Limit the length of time historical information may be retained to 30 days, unless a warrant or active investigation justifies longer retention; and

• Authorize the Attorney General to seek injunctive relief for intentional violations.

ALPR technologies, like Flock cameras, have raised concerns in recent years, and their use in immigration enforcement operations has sparked outrage in Denver and cities across Colorado. Flock currently operates in 75 communities in Colorado. 

SB26-070 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Senate Democrats Elect Senator Cathy Kipp To Serve as President Pro Tempore

DENVER, CO –Senate Democrats today elected Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, to serve as President Pro Tempore. 

“I send a heartfelt congratulations to Senator Cathy Kipp for her election as Senate President Pro Tempore,” said Senate President Coleman, D-Denver. “In leadership, our role is to govern the chamber effectively and fairly, build relationships, and serve with good conscience and a strong moral compass. I’m supremely confident in the leadership of Senator Kipp and look forward to working closely together to deliver for the people of Colorado.”

“I’m honored to be selected by my colleagues in the Senate to serve as President Pro Tempore,” said Kipp. “In recent years, our caucus has passed legislation to improve the lives of Coloradans, and, this year, we continue our commitment to putting working families first. I look forward to serving the caucus in a new position to be an extra set of eyes and ears, fill in for the President when necessary, and ensure that everyone – legislators, staff, visitors, and constituents – is treated with dignity and respect.” 

The Pro Tempore position was left vacant by the resignation of Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City. Senator Kipp will hold this position for the remainder of the 75th General Assembly. 

Senate Advances FY25-26 Supplemental Budget Package on Preliminary Vote

Supplemental package implements cuts necessitated by H.R. 1

DENVER, CO – The Senate today advanced the FY 2025-2026 supplemental budget package on a preliminary vote. The bills, HB26-1150 through HB26-1179, are sponsored by Joint Budget Committee (JBC) members including Vice Chair Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, and Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. The package will be heard on third reading in the Senate tomorrow.

“Today’s supplemental budget cuts come in response to Trump’s Big Whatever Bill, which caused a massive reduction in revenue resulting in cuts to Medicaid, higher education, and housing,” said Bridges. “Today’s bills take a responsible approach to the difficult task of balancing our budget, preserving core services while making hard choices caused by Trump’s cuts and TABOR’s cap.”

“H.R. 1 funded tax cuts for the wealthy at the expense of working families, and now it’s up to us to re-balance our budget,” said Amabile. “Though painful, the cuts in this package put Colorado on a more sustainable path to preserve funding for core priorities in future years while protecting funding for Medicaid eligibility. I remain focused on mitigating harm, protecting the critical services that Colorado families rely on, and finding solutions to responsibly manage our budget.” 

In July 2025, Congressional Republicans passed H.R. 1, which gave tax breaks to wealthy individuals and corporations. Because Colorado’s tax code mirrors the federal tax code, the cuts in H.R. 1 impacted state revenue by roughly $1.2 billion for the 2025-26 fiscal year. During August’s special session, Colorado Democrats spearheaded a responsible plan to close corporate tax loopholes, authorize the Governor to reduce some spending, and modestly dip into Colorado’s reserves to put our budget back in balance. 

This supplemental budget package implements spending reductions proposed by Governor Jared Polis to balance the 2025-2026 budget. As a result, the supplemental package contains significant reductions as compared to a typical year, totaling approximately $140 million in general fund cuts across state departments, even as Medicaid utilization and caseload costs grew by approximately $220 million from the general fund.

Legislation to Protect Children Online, Improve Public Safety Passes Senate

SB26-011 would ensure timely, reliable compliance with search warrants

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation to protect children online and improve public safety passed the Senate today.

SB26-011, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, would establish precise requirements for how large online social media platforms must receive, acknowledge, and respond to search warrants issued by Colorado courts.

“As a former Deputy District Attorney, I saw firsthand how critical digital evidence can be in serious criminal investigations,” said Roberts. “Increasingly, warrants are being disregarded or not treated with the seriousness they deserve by social media platforms, and delays in accessing evidence can have real consequences. SB26-011 helps ensure that court-approved warrants are respected so investigators can move quickly and responsibly.”

Also sponsored by Senator Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, the bill would cover social media websites, online services, or mobile applications that have at least one million monthly users, allow users to create profiles, and allow users to create or share content. 

Under the bill, covered platforms must have a clear process for communication with law enforcement, provide a staffed hotline available to law enforcement 24/7, acknowledge receipt of a search warrant within eight hours and comply within 72 hours in most cases, provide status updates on warrant compliance, and prominently post contact information for search warrant compliance on their homepage. The bill would be enforced by the Attorney General or local district attorneys.

SB26-011 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

JOINT RELEASE: Colorado Democrats to Create Tax Code that Puts Hardworking Coloradans First

Four bills would close corporate tax loopholes to lower taxes for hardworking people

DENVER, CO - Colorado Democrats today unveiled four new bills to rebalance Colorado’s tax code and put working people first after Congress passed H.R. 1, which granted massive tax breaks to corporations and the ultra-wealthy that cut off tax relief for families. The bills would create a new tax credit, modeled after the highly successful Family Affordability Tax Credit, to boost the incomes of hardworking Colorado families.

In recent years, Democrats in Colorado have expanded the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) and created the Family Affordability Tax Credit (FATC) to boost the incomes of hardworking Colorado families and lift children out of poverty. A 2026 report found that the EITC, CTC and FATC cut child poverty by 37-percent and family poverty by 32-percent. These tax credits were turned off for the next two tax years due to H.R. 1.

“We have a choice– we can give taxpayer-funded handouts to mega-corporations and the Jeff Bezos’ of the world or we can update Colorado’s tax code to benefit the hardworking people of our state,” said Rep. Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County. “When the federal GOP passed H.R. 1 last year, most of the tax breaks went to corporations and the ultra-wealthy. This eliminated Colorado’s state tax breaks for working people, which have slashed child poverty by nearly 40-percent. Colorado Democrats are now closing special interest corporate tax breaks and handouts to boost the incomes of hardworking Coloradans.”

“Colorado’s tax code should work for the people of Colorado, not provide special treatment for monied interests that aren’t effective in advancing state goals,” said Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “Recent tax and other law changes at the federal level have been devastating. We must use this moment as an opportunity to examine our tax code and re-balance the scales toward working people. Cleaning up our tax code is a critical way we can mitigate the harms taking place in Washington and put Coloradans first.” 

Beginning for 2026 taxes, the three bills that will be introduced today would create a new Family Affordability Credit that could be taken in addition to the CTC, EITC and FATC. The credit is revenue neutral – it will adjust based on available revenue, so that families receive all the benefits from modernizing the tax code.

Three bills that will be introduced today will create the new credit. The first bill prioritizes working families and ensures corporations and high-earners pay their fair share by closing tax loopholes that offer deductions for top executives’ salaries. A second bill mitigates the harm of H.R. 1 and would decouple Colorado’s tax code from four new federal tax deductions to rein in these corporate tax breaks, especially for out-of-state investments. A third bill would tax software the same, regardless of how it is acquired. 

Additionally, a fourth bill will be introduced in the coming days and would modernize and simplify the tax code by repealing ineffective or unnecessary special tax exemptions and deductions to expand and extend tax credits for wildfire and beetle kill mitigation, job creators, and investments in clean energy.

Prioritizing Working Families, Reps. Yara Zokaie and Emily Sirota, Sens. Judy Amabile and Katie Wallace: This bill would close a tax loophole that allows corporations to deduct the salaries of their CEO, CFO and the next eight highest-paid executives—up to $1 million each—as ‘operating expenses,’ even if the executive doesn’t reside in Colorado. 

“We’re closing tax loopholes for the ultra-wealthy and corporations so we can create a more fair tax code that puts money back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans and lifts families out of poverty,” said Rep. Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins. “When people are struggling to juggle their rent, groceries and utility bills, Trump’s corporate tax breaks for million-dollar salaries are a slap in the face for hardworking Coloradans. With this bill, Colorado Democrats are cracking down on taxpayer funded corporate giveaways to restore the balance toward middle and lower income people.”

“Tax credits for working families and children are a lifeline, and they’re at risk because of the chaos from Washington,” said Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “H.R. 1 devastated our ability to fund tax credits that lift families out of poverty and give Colorado kids a chance to succeed. This bill is about setting Colorado’s tax code on Colorado’s terms, closing corporate tax loopholes, and putting everyday Coloradans first.” 

“Colorado is at a crossroads– we can build an economy where everyone has a fair shot or we can protect tax breaks for CEO salaries and loopholes that allow the very wealthy to avoid paying their fair share,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “The tax credits we created are helping families put food on the table, but if we don’t pass these bills, the largest corporations and wealthiest individuals will see their taxes cut while families pay more. This legislation is one of many steps that Colorado Democrats are taking to rebalance Colorado’s tax code toward working people so we can drive down child poverty and put more money back into families’ pockets.”

“Just because the federal government sold out working families for huge corporate tax breaks, it doesn’t mean Colorado should do the same,” said Senator Katie Wallace, D-Longmont. “This legislation closes tax loopholes to balance the scales back toward everyday Coloradans and ensure that corporations pay their fair share in our state. By doing so, we can mitigate the harms caused by H.R. 1 and uplift more of Colorado’s working families.”

The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) requires some high-income earners to pay a minimum amount of tax, regardless of how many deductions they are eligible for, but there is a state tax credit that reduces what they are required to pay under the AMT. The bill would repeal this credit, which only exists in three states.  The bill would also lower the percentage of net operating loss deductions that corporations can deduct from their Colorado taxable income and shorten the length of time that they can carry those losses forward before claiming them, a technique that corporations use to avoid paying taxes year after year, even while making significant profits.

Mitigating the Harm of H.R. 1, Reps. Lorena García and Karen McCormick and Sen. Cathy Kipp: This bill would de-couple Colorado’s tax code from four business tax breaks created or expanded by H.R. 1, including certain write-offs and deductions for interest expenses on debt, especially for multi-national corporations.

“Colorado Democrats are focused on building an economy that rewards hardworking people in Colorado, which is why we’re limiting corporate tax breaks so we can lower taxes for middle and lower income people,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont. “H.R. 1 has already had devastating impacts on our state, and Colorado Democrats are taking every step we can to undo the harm and put working families first. Our legislation would end corporate handouts paid for by Colorado taxpayers, especially for out-of-state investments, so that our tax code rewards hardworking people and uplifts families, not the largest corporations.”

“The Federal H.R. 1 – the big, bad billionaires bill – included tax deductions for corporations that were automatically placed into our state tax code, whether or not they benefit Colorado businesses and workers,” said Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins. “The changes proposed in this bill keep Colorado from spending our tax dollars on development outside of Colorado, instead putting those benefits toward the well-being of families and children in our communities.” 

Updating and Simplifying the Tax Code, Reps. Lorena García and Kyle Brown and Sen. Weissman: This bill, which will be introduced in the coming days, would repeal ineffective or unnecessary tax exemptions and deductions and modify others to make Colorado’s tax code more consistent and efficient.

“We’re updating Colorado’s tax code to prioritize hardworking Coloradans, create jobs and reduce costs,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “H.R. 1 rigged Colorado’s tax code in favor of corporations and the 1%, leaving us to pick up the pieces to lessen the blow on hardworking Coloradans. With this bill, we’re leaving no stone unturned by closing tax loopholes and eliminating ineffective tax breaks to extend and expand tax credits for small businesses, wildfire mitigation and renewable energy that create jobs, boost incomes and save people money.”

The bill would repeal ineffective tax exemptions for metal bullion, coins and purchases regarding space flight. It would also eliminate vendor discounts for cigarettes, nicotine and tobacco products.

It also makes changes to existing tax credits, including:

• Increasing access to the Community Food Access Tax Credit that offers small food retailers and family farms a refundable tax credit;

• Renewing the Renewable Energy Enterprise Zone Investment Tax Credit to reward businesses that invest in projects that generate renewable energy; and

• Expanding the Wildfire Mitigation Tax Credit by making it a refundable tax credit and increasing eligibility to boost wildfire mitigation efforts.

• Expanding a tax credit for businesses that rehabilitate vacant properties. 

Downloadable Software, Rep. Steven Woodrow, Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker and Sen. Matt Ball: This bill would repeal the downloadable software exemption to ensure taxes on these products are consistent, no matter how or where they are purchased.

“We’re creating a more equitable tax code for Coloradans,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver. “This tax exemption on downloadable software has been inconsistently applied, so we’re bringing this legislation to prevent Coloradans from being taxed differently due to the way the product is being delivered. Our legislation equally applies sales tax across the board to modernize Colorado’s tax code and prioritize tax relief for working people.”

“After Congress changed our tax code to favor the wealthy, we’re stepping in to support working families with a new Family Affordability Credit,” said Senator Matt Ball, D-Denver. “This legislation will also modernize our tax code to treat downloadable software the same as software you’d purchase in store, which will enable us to put money back into the hands of families who need it.”

“Our bill would ensure sales tax on software isn’t being applied arbitrarily,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “Whether someone purchases Microsoft Word online or in person, they should not be taxed differently. This bill would ensure that Coloradans could expect to pay the same taxes, no matter what zip code or manner in which they purchase software.”

The Colorado Office of the State Auditor reported that the antiquated sales tax exemption for certain downloadable software was being applied unevenly across the state, with 14-percent of vendors not applying the exemption at all.

JOINT RELEASE: Bill to Make it Easier for Consumers to End Automatic Contract Renewals Fully Goes Into Effect

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

DENVER, CO – Legislation to protect consumers from burdensome automatic renewal contract cancellations fully goes into effect Monday, February 16, 2026.

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

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

“While companies make it simple to start a subscription online, they often add extra steps to cancel, and we do not think that is fair for Colorado consumers,” said Lindsay. “Our new law is going into effect, requiring businesses to make the cancellation process straightforward for consumers. This will save Coloradans time cancelling unwanted subscriptions and money on services or products they don’t need.”

“Too many companies are using complicated cancellation processes to trap consumers into contracts with costly charges. We passed a law last year to simplify the cancellation process for Coloradans,” said Zokaie. “From Netflix and Amazon Prime to gym memberships, subscription services are prevalent in our daily lives. Our new law requires the option to cancel online, saving Coloradans money on services they no longer find useful.”

SB25-145 builds upon HB21-1239, also sponsored by Kipp, which provided transparency to consumers entering into automatic renewal contracts, to further shore up consumer protections.

Legislation to Protect Children Online, Improve Public Safety Passes Committee Unanimously

SB26-011 would ensure timely, reliable compliance with search warrants

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation to protect children online and improve public safety passed the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously today.

SB26-011, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, would establish precise requirements for how large online social media platforms must receive, acknowledge, and respond to search warrants issued by Colorado courts.

“As a former Deputy District Attorney, I saw firsthand how critical digital evidence can be in serious criminal investigations,” said Roberts. “Increasingly, warrants are being disregarded or not treated with the seriousness they deserve by social media platforms, and delays in accessing evidence can have real consequences. SB26-011 helps ensure that court-approved warrants are respected so investigators can move quickly and responsibly.”

Also sponsored by Senator Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, the bill would cover social media websites, online services, or mobile applications that have at least one million monthly users, allow users to create profiles, and allow users to create or share content. 

Under the bill, covered platforms must have a clear process for communication with law enforcement, provide a staffed hotline available to law enforcement 24/7, acknowledge receipt of a search warrant within eight hours and comply within 72 hours in most cases, provide status updates on warrant compliance, and prominently post contact information for search warrant compliance on their homepage. The bill would be enforced by the Attorney General or local district attorneys.

SB26-011 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

FROM THE OFFICE OF SENATOR DAFNA MICHAELSON JENET: Senate President Pro Tem Dafna Michaelson Jenet Releases Statement

DENVER, CO – Senate President Pro Tempore Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, issued a statement today following the submission of her letter of resignation from the Colorado Senate:

“Today it is with gratitude and a heavy heart that I announce my resignation from the Colorado Senate. Serving the people of Senate District 21, and previously House District 32, has been the honor of a lifetime, and I reflect on more than nine years of public service with immense pride. 

Each and every day, I pushed hard to make the most of the brief time we have to shape Colorado’s future. From creating the I Matter program to connect every Colorado child with mental health support, to guaranteeing free and healthy school meals for all, I have fought hard to ensure every Colorado kid has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. This work, and more, has saved lives and helped result in Colorado’s lowest youth suicide rate since 2007.

I have also been a proud representative and leader within Colorado’s Jewish community, using my position to share and celebrate our identity, history, and faith. Part of this work culminated in legislation guaranteeing Holocaust studies are incorporated into Colorado's public school curriculum.

I always aspire to serve with joy, humility, and guided by the will of my constituents. I am so thankful to the people of Senate District 21 for their trust, to my colleagues in the House and Senate for their partnership on legislation both big and small, and to my family for their perseverance and grace at every step of this journey.

As my tenure at the Capitol comes to a close, I am excited and hopeful about the opportunities ahead as I step up to serve as Director of the David Merage Foundation for Confronting Antisemitism."

Senate Approves Legislation to Protect Colorado Nonprofits from Federal Threats

SB26-009 would allow Colorado nonprofits who have had their federal tax-exempt status revoked for political reasons to maintain their exemption from state sales tax

DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved legislation to protect Colorado nonprofits from hostile federal actions. 

SB26-009, sponsored by Senators Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, and William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield, would ensure that nonprofit organizations that have lost their federal tax-exempt status for politically motivated reasons remain exempt from state sales tax. 

“Nonprofit organizations in our state are cornerstones of their communities, supporting countless Coloradans through difficult times,” Snyder said. “Chaos in the federal government threatens to upend these organizations’ ability to serve their communities. This bill would offer much-needed stability and dependability to charitable groups across our state.”

“Political retribution from the federal government could throw essential nonprofit organizations and the Colorado families who rely on them into chaos and financial distress,” Lindstedt said. “This legislation would fulfill our state’s responsibility to offer stability to valid charitable organizations amidst federal turbulence.”

SB26-009 would ensure that valid 501(c)(3) organizations maintain their state tax exemption, even if the federal government removes their federal tax-exempt status for political reasons. It would also ensure that the state maintains its authority to deny tax exemption for organizations that have lost their federal nonprofit status for legitimate reasons. 

Over the past year, Colorado nonprofits have increasingly struggled to navigate frenzied federal actions that call into question their budgetary futures and ability to serve their communities. SB26-009 is another in a host of actions Colorado Democrats have taken to protect Coloradans’ way of life amid federal threats. 

SB26-009 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Bipartisan Pair of Roberts Bills to Support Rural and Mountain Communities Passes Committee

DENVER, CO – Today, a pair of bipartisan bills sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to support rural and mountain communities passed out of the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.

“Coal workers deserve the opportunity to transition to good-paying jobs in the communities where they live and want to be for years to come,” said Roberts. “For years, they’ve provided for their families and powered our communities, and they should have the chance to benefit from new technologies, industries and opportunities coming to Northwest Colorado and beyond.  SB64 also supports our mountain and rural communities by expanding eligibility for agricultural loans and strengthening water conservation efforts. These bipartisan bills that passed committee today reflect my commitment to the workers and farmers who are the backbone of Colorado’s rural and mountain economies.”

SB26-052, also sponsored by Senator Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, would require certain businesses in a coal transition community to give hiring preference to former coal workers who meet the job requirements. Covered businesses would include railroads, utilities, energy generation, and advanced manufacturing. The covered businesses would report annually to the Colorado Office of Just Transition on positions filled by coal transition workers and recruitment efforts by the business.

The committee also approved SB26-064. Also sponsored by Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, the bill would expand eligible recipients for the Agriculture Future Loan Program, allowing the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) to provide loans to state-certified water conservation entities. 

Initially created in 2021 by the legislature, the Agricultural Future Loan Program provides low-interest loans and grants to newer or underrepresented producers who lack access to traditional capital to help them grow their farms, ranches, and agribusinesses.

Senate Approves Bill to Safeguard Science-Backed Vaccine Recommendations

SB26-032 would protect consistent, science-backed state vaccine guidance

DENVER, CO –Today, the Senate approved legislation to protect Coloradans’ access to immunizations and science-backed decision making, regardless of changes to federal guidance.

SB26-032, sponsored by Senators Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, and Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, would allow Colorado to continue to rely on science-backed vaccine guidelines from health professional organizations in addition to federal guidance, and would add protections to ensure consistent vaccine access and coverage.

“As an ER nurse, I know that protecting Coloradans’ access to immunizations is a matter of life and death,” said Mullica. “Vaccines must continue to be widely available and given according to a schedule based on science and evidence. With this bill, we’re standing up to protect Coloradans’ health and safety and insulating Colorado from the dysfunction in Washington.” 

“Vaccines are medical miracles,” said Daugherty. “Adults, children, and infants used to die every day from diseases that we have all but eradicated because of immunizations. It is crucial that, regardless of the confusion spreading from RFK and the White House, Coloradans have access to evidence-based care and the vaccines that keep us and our children healthy.” 

The bill would also codify pharmacists’ authority to prescribe and administer vaccines and expand existing state liability protections to all health care providers and entities who provide immunizations. 

Colorado law has traditionally relied on federal vaccine recommendations. Recent shifts in federal vaccine guidance have created uncertainty and confusion, and more states are turning to trusted professional organizations for guidance. The trusted health organizations named in SB26-032 are the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Physicians, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

The legislation would build upon last year’s SB25-196, sponsored by Mullica and Senator Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, which protected insurance coverage for preventive care including vaccines and HB25-1027, also sponsored by Mullica and Daugherty, which directed the state Board of Health to take into consideration the recommendations of these professional organizations in immunization requirements. The bill would not create new vaccine mandates and would not change medical and non-medical exemptions under Colorado law.

SB26-032 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Bill to Unlock Local Governments’ Ability to Address Housing Needs Passes Senate

SB26-001 would make funds available for workforce and affordable housing

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved bipartisan legislation to give local governments additional flexibility to address housing shortages. 

SB26-001, sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County, would allow counties to use existing resources to support workforce and affordable housing, removing outdated restrictions that limit their ability to respond to local housing needs.

“I’m proud that the first bill introduced in the Senate this year is one to unlock local governments’ ability to meet their own housing needs,” said Roberts. “This bill will cut red tape and give counties, municipalities, and housing authorities more tools to help them build and maintain housing for more working families and individuals. This means more opportunities for Coloradans to stay in their communities and stable housing for the workers who keep our rural and mountain towns running.”

“Local governments know their housing needs, and the state shouldn't artificially limit the tools they can use to ensure their residents have a place they can afford to live,” said Bridges. “This bill removes barriers for counties and municipalities to invest in affordable and workforce housing and accelerates development. It’s a common-sense approach that gets out of the way and lets local communities address housing shortages.”

The bill would also allow local governments to sell, lease, or acquire property for the purpose of workforce or affordable housing and create a tax exemption for construction materials used for workforce housing projects. Additionally, SB26-001 would update Colorado’s Middle-Income Housing Tax Credit to help projects secure financing by allowing the credits to be transferred to individuals, firms, or corporations that do not own a project interest. 

SB26-001 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.

Legislation to Protect Colorado Nonprofits from Federal Threats Passes Senate Committee

SB26-009 would allow Colorado nonprofits who have had their federal tax-exempt status revoked for political reasons to maintain their exemption from state sales tax

DENVER, CO – The Senate Finance Committee today unanimously approved legislation to protect Colorado nonprofits from hostile federal actions. 

SB26-009, sponsored by Senators Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, and William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield, would ensure that nonprofit organizations that have lost their federal tax-exempt status for politically motivated reasons remain exempt from state sales tax. 

“Nonprofit organizations in our state are cornerstones of their communities, supporting countless Coloradans through difficult times,” Snyder said. “Chaos in the federal government threatens to upend these organizations’ ability to serve their communities. This bill would offer much-needed stability and dependability to charitable groups across our state.”

“Political retribution from the federal government could throw essential nonprofit organizations and the Colorado families who rely on them into chaos and financial distress,” Lindstedt said. “This legislation would fulfill our state’s responsibility to offer stability to valid charitable organizations amidst federal turbulence.”

SB26-009 would ensure that valid 501(c)(3) organizations maintain their state tax exemption, even if the federal government removes their federal tax-exempt status for political reasons. It would also ensure that the state maintains its authority to deny tax exemption for organizations that have lost their federal nonprofit status for legitimate reasons. 

Over the past year, Colorado nonprofits have increasingly struggled to navigate frenzied federal actions that call into question their budgetary futures and ability to serve their communities. SB26-009 is another in a host of actions Colorado Democrats have taken to protect Coloradans’ way of life amid federal threats. 

SB26-009 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE. 

Senate Approves Bill to Expand and Improve Colorado’s Red Flag Law

SB25-004 would build on past legislation to prevent gun violence and save lives

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved legislation to expand Colorado’s existing “Red Flag” law to proactively de-escalate violent situations and save lives. 

SB26-004, sponsored by Senators Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would expand the list of community members eligible to petition for an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) to include health care and education institutions.

“In Colorado, our ‘Red Flag’ law has already helped prevent gun violence, but we can strengthen it to give more people the opportunity to save lives,” said Sullivan. “Adding health care and education facilities to the list of qualified petitioners for an ERPO helps ensure that trusted community members are able to reach those who are a danger to themselves or others sooner and stop more violence before it occurs.”

“Colorado’s ‘Red Flag’ law exists to prevent gun violence so that families have the freedom to go to school, church, and the grocery store without fear,” said Gonzales. “Strengthening this already highly effective law will allow us to stop preventable acts of gun violence and save more Coloradans' lives.”

SB26-004 would add health care facilities that employ co-responders and health care professionals to the list of community entities that may petition the court for an extreme risk protection order (ERPO). It would also add health care facilities, behavioral health treatment facilities, K-12 schools, and higher education institutions as institutional petitioners that may petition a court for an ERPO.

Passed in 2019, Colorado Democrats’ original ERPO legislation allows qualified individuals to petition a judge to temporarily remove a firearm from a potentially dangerous individual and interrupt gun violence before it has a chance to occur. In 2023, lawmakers passed legislation to expand the list of qualified individuals eligible to petition for an ERPO to include DAs and other law enforcement officials, licensed health care professionals, educators, and mental health professionals.

In 2024, the most recent data available, there were 164 ERPO petitions filed in Colorado.

SB26-004 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track its progress here.

Bill to Safeguard Constitutional Rights Passes Committee

SB26-005 would create legal remedies in state court for an individual harmed during a civil immigration enforcement action where constitutional rights were violated

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee approved legislation to strengthen constitutional protections by ensuring that those harmed by unconstitutional conduct by federal immigration enforcement officials have a pathway to justice in state court. 

SB26-005, sponsored by Senators Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would create a state law cause of action for violations of the United States Constitution that occur in the context of federal civil immigration enforcement. 

“People have long come to our country for the promise of a better life and the guarantee of equal treatment under the law,” said Weissman. “I’m proud to sponsor legislation to protect our constitutional rights and create legal remedies when those rights are violated. Senate Bill 5 stands for the basic principles that government agents must follow the law like everyone else and that there should be legal remedies when constitutional rights are violated. This legislation reaffirms the civil rights of all Coloradans.”

“Under the Trump Administration, we are witnessing the conflation of immigration status, dissent, and criminality,” said Gonzales. “Our government is telling us not to believe what we see with our own eyes. It is up to us to act boldly and bravely, create pathways of real accountability for those who violate our fundamental rights and freedoms, and ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect in Colorado.” 

This bill would allow Coloradans to pursue legal action against federal officers if their rights under the U.S. Constitution are violated during a civil immigration enforcement action. Those found responsible for such violations could be held liable to the injured party for appropriate legal or equitable relief.

The legislation aims to protect Coloradans’ constitutional rights amid intensifying violence by federal immigration officials, including the fatal shootings of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of federal immigration officers in Minneapolis. 

SB26-005 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.