JOINT RELEASE: “Conversion Therapy” Accountability Bill Signed Into Law

HB26-1322 will create a civil cause of action for harm done by “conversion therapy”

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Representatives Alex Valdez, D-Denver, and Karen McCormick, D-Longmont to allow Coloradans to pursue a civil cause of action for damages related to “conversion therapy” was signed into law today.

"Mental health is crucial to our overall health and wellbeing. A licensed therapist should not inflict harm on a child or young person by steering them in any predetermined direction," said Cutter. "This law recognizes that real harm can be inflicted in the name of therapy, and that this harm might not be fully understood for many years. We are simply allowing people to have the time to process and understand the trauma that might have been inflicted, and seek the remedies already available to them under Colorado law."

“Conversation therapy is ineffective and has dangerous repercussions, and we’re creating a clear pathway for someone who is harmed by these practices to seek justice,” said Valdez. “This law is for all of the LGBTQ+ Coloradans who were told that something about them was wrong because of who they were or who they loved. With the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling against Colorado’s conversion therapy ban, we are committed to offering survivors of this harmful practice the protections they deserve.”

“It is critical that we as policymakers listen to trusted scientific organizations when they tell us a practice is harmful. For over a decade, we’ve known that ‘conversion therapy’ increases suicidality and exacerbates depression and anxiety for LGBTQ+ Coloradans,” said Mullica. “In light of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, it’s vital that we create avenues for those who have been subjected to ‘conversion therapy’ to get some justice.”

“While the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on Colorado’s conversion therapy ban law is deeply harmful, we’re not giving up the fight to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ Coloradans,” said McCormick. “The LGBTQ+ community faces higher rates of depression and suicide, and conversion therapy only increases those rates. With this new law, we’re ensuring that LGBTQ+ Coloradans can seek justice for the harm caused by conversion therapy.”

Beginning July 1, 2026, HB26-1322 will allow an individual who was subject to “conversion therapy” to bring a civil cause of action against certain professionals who cause damages from efforts to change their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

The law defines conversion therapy as any practice by a licensed mental health professional that seeks to direct a patient toward a predetermined sexual orientation or gender identity outcome, or to eliminate or reduce attractions toward individuals of a particular sex or gender. The definition excludes counseling that provides acceptance and support to a patient without directing toward a predetermined outcome, therapy neutral with respect to sexual orientation and gender identity, and therapy related to a patient's sexual behaviors or relationships that does not seek to direct the patient toward a predetermined outcome.

Currently, Colorado law requires these claims to be filed within two years. The law removes this time restriction, and if the impacted individual has passed away, their representative can bring a survival action within five years of the individual’s death.

A 2024 report from the Trevor Project found that 14 percent of LGBTQ+ youth in Colorado had been threatened with or subjected to “conversion therapy.”

In 2009, the American Psychological Association Task Force on Appropriate Therapeutic Responses to Sexual Orientation concluded that “conversion therapy” is not likely to be successful and increases the risk of depression, suicidality and anxiety. The American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association, the American Medical Association, the National Association of Social Workers, and many other mental health and medical organizations believe that “conversion therapy” is harmful and ineffective.

In 2019, Colorado Democrats passed a law to ban state-licensed medical or mental health care providers from providing “conversion therapy” to minors. The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled against this law, making it vitally important to create new protections for people who are harmed by “conversion therapy.”

JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Trio of Bills to Support Higher Education Students

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed three bills to support students at higher education institutions. HB26-1016 will save college students and professors money on educational materials. HB26-1006 will support college students from diverse, low-income and rural backgrounds. HB26-1078 will expand access to low- and no-cost college-level courses for high school students. 

“Our law saves college students and instructors money by making high-quality education materials, such as textbooks, available and easily accessible at no cost,” said Rep. Jacque Phillips, D-Thornton, sponsor of HB26-1016. “This legislation ensures the state develops and implements open educational resources to reduce barriers to a well-rounded education and support our higher education professors and students alike.” 

“No student should be denied educational opportunities because they can’t afford their textbooks,” said Sen. Judy Amabile, sponsor of HB26-1016. “Free access to course materials through the Open Educational Resources program has already saved Colorado students millions and expanded access to higher education. This law ensures the program continues so that students from all backgrounds can complete their degrees without the burden of expensive textbooks.”

HB26-1016, also sponsored by Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction and Senator Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, will help college students and professors access no-cost education materials, known as open education resources (OER). OERs include free and openly-licensed teaching, learning and research materials, such as textbooks and videos. OERs save students money, help reduce barriers to high-quality education and spur innovation. 

HB26-1006 creates an outcome-based designation at the state level to recognize outstanding institutions that serve diverse student populations and make it easier for them to apply for future funding sources or grants. This law establishes a thriving designation for post-secondary higher education institutions. To receive the thriving designation, higher education institutions need to meet certain criteria, such as aligning with Colorado’s workforce development priorities.

“No matter their zip code or background, Colorado students should have access to a world-class education at an institution that strives to meet their needs,” said Rep. Matt Martinez, D-Monte Vista, sponsor of HB26-1006. “This law will improve outcomes for students from diverse, low-income and rural backgrounds. HB26-1006 supports rural communities with higher education institutions that serve Coloradans from all backgrounds.”

“Students across Colorado represent the diversity of our great state, and those thriving at rural and underserved schools deserve recognition and resources,” said Sen. Dylan Roberts, sponsor of HB26-1006. “This new law will boost resources for those students and faculty. Kudos to institutions like Colorado Mountain College that worked so hard with us to get this bill passed and signed into law."

“When resources are tailored to the individual needs of our students, they’re better equipped for life after graduation,” said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, sponsor of HB26-1006. “As the federal government actively works to punish minority serving institutions and the communities they serve, we’re boosting Colorado’s higher education landscape and supporting students of different backgrounds and income levels. In Colorado, we celebrate all students, and this law helps our students from diverse, low-income and rural backgrounds achieve their dreams.”

HB26-1078, also sponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, will extend concurrent enrollment in Colorado to include off-campus courses offered by higher education institutions. Concurrent enrollment allows high school students to take college-level courses, saving them money and time while accelerating their degree completion. Students can typically earn high school and college credits simultaneously for certain courses.

“By broadening the scope of concurrent enrollment to include off-campus courses offered by four-year higher ed institutions, more high school students can take advantage of this cost-saving tool,” said Rep. Lesley Smith, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB26-1078. “Our law expands access to college-level courses to save students money and encourage them to try something new. Colorado’s higher education institutions are top-notch, and this legislation makes it easier for high school students to take advantage of concurrent enrollment.”

“Concurrent enrollment classes accelerate student learning and prepare them for future careers, whether it be public service, private sector jobs, or technical training,” said Sen. Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, sponsor of HB26-1078. “I’m proud to have sponsored this new law that will expand these effective and low-cost programs and create more opportunities for Colorado students to excel.”

“With this law, we’re establishing stronger career pathways and educational opportunities for our students while they’re still in high school,” said Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial, sponsor of HB26-1078. “The narrow definition of concurrent enrollment programs excluded some higher education institutions, and this law makes it possible for our colleges and universities to offer accredited courses that meet the needs of today’s students. When we equip our students with the tools they need to learn and grow, including concurrent enrollment, we can save them money and time as they begin to build their careers.” 

This law modifies the state’s narrow requirement by allowing higher education institutions to offer off-campus courses that qualify as concurrent enrollment courses, provided the courses meet state and federal requirements and accreditation guidelines. The law also applies to post-secondary technical and career education courses offered through area technical colleges, which are non-traditional, hands-on courses such as workshops, certificate classes, and skilled trades.

JOINT RELEASE: Governor Signs Bill to Modernize the Public Utilities Commission, Protect Ratepayers and Improve Oversight

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis on May 29 signed the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Sunset (HB26-1326). This legislation will extend the PUC's critical functions while modernizing the commission to better meet the needs of Coloradans.

“We need a dynamic, modern PUC to protect jobs, streamline services and protect ratepayers and consumers,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “Our law extends the critical functions of the PUC that Coloradans rely on, including transportation, utilities and cell services, while improving transparency and oversight of the commission. The PUC keeps Coloradans safe and connected, and we worked alongside many stakeholders, including rural and local leaders, utility providers, labor, and environmental advocates, to ensure the commission can continue its important role.” 

“This law ensures Colorado continues to lead in renewable energy and consumer protection, while prioritizing safety in our transportation, communications, and utility systems,” said Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “We’re extending and modernizing the PUC to reflect today’s realities and set us up for the future.”

“Our law helps ensure the PUC is appropriately resourced and more efficient,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn. “The safety and security of our transportation services and utility infrastructure is critical, and without this law, the PUC will not be able to continue its important work. We’ve taken steps to modernize the commission in a way that protects ratepayers, strengthens transportation safety and continues Colorado’s clean energy transition.”

“How we travel, communicate, and power our lives all look completely different today than they did when the PUC was last renewed seven years ago,” said Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. “After months of work and negotiations between impacted groups, this legislation strikes a balance that boosts renewable energy, strengthens safety from passenger rail to rideshare trips, cracks down on phone scams and bad actors, and improves community collaboration.”

The PUC is the primary regulator of Colorado’s electric, gas, water, telecommunications and transportation services. In 2019, the PUC Sunset established a minimum value for the cost of carbon pollution. This helped modernize benefits to ratepayers and improve Colorado's clean energy transition.

HB26-1326 extends the PUC's critical functions for another seven years while modernizing and boosting transparency within the agency. This will continue Colorado’s clean energy transition that will lower utility costs and foster new jobs. 

Meeting Colorado’s renewable energy goals

To help Colorado meet its energy goals, this law will update and streamline clean energy reporting requirements and scheduling for utility companies. The law will boost transparency and accountability by allowing the PUC to investigate how to streamline and integrate energy planning proceedings and report its findings to the General Assembly. The law will also help electric utilities secure more renewable energy assets, such as wind and solar, by requiring the PUC to conduct a study on the barriers companies face to joint procurement, or collaborative purchasing, for large-scale investments.

Improving safety

This bill takes steps to improve rail, pipeline and transportation safety and security in Colorado. Under HB26-1326, state rail oversight will be aligned with federal law for consistency. The bill also includes the creation of an oversight program that will review, approve and monitor the creation and implementation of passenger and freight rail in Colorado. 

The law will also require rideshare companies to provide the commission’s contact information to riders for increased transparency. PUC staff receiving complaints about rideshares will receive trauma-informed training. HB26-1326 also requires activity buses, limos, and off-road scenic charters to receive scheduled inspections by the commission to ensure they are safe for travel. 

Modernizing telecommunications and protecting consumers

Mobile, wireless, cellular, landline and satellite telecommunications fall under the PUC’s purview and are charged a fee to provide service in Colorado to help maintain and expand our state’s telecommunications infrastructure. This bill extends the fee to include modern telecommunications systems, including web-based service providers, such as Google Voice or Zoom Phone. 

To boost consumer protections and crack down on bad actors, this law will increase the fees for companies that purchase no-call lists and sell them to other companies.  

Improving local participation and engagement

HB26-1326 will encourage more local participation and decision-making by requiring the PUC to hire staff dedicated to engagement and communications to ensure inclusiveness and consistency in public comment hearings. To further improve representation, the PUC will create an equity task force to represent the interests of disproportionately impacted communities, workers, and income-qualified customers. 

JOINT RELEASE: Signed! AI Chatbot Protections Bill

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis on May 29 signed a bill into law that will create safeguards around artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots to protect Colorado kids.

“The unfortunate reality is that AI chatbots have encouraged suicide attempts and engaged in romantic interactions with minors. Our new law protects users, especially children, from misleading AI chatbot conversations,” said Rep. Sean Camacho, D-Denver. “As a parent, it is unsettling to know that unchecked AI chatbots can put children in harm's way, especially when children show signs of depression or suicidal ideation. Our law improves transparency and safeguards around AI chatbots to protect Colorado children from manipulative and dangerous AI technology.”

“The cases we’ve seen in recent years where AI chatbots encourage children to commit suicide are horrifying and unnecessary,” said Sen. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “We must step up as policymakers to ensure our children, especially those who are struggling, are safe. This new law takes the first step toward establishing commonsense guardrails so that our children are encouraged to turn to trusted adults, not to AI chatbots, in times of need.”

“AI chatbots have posed as licensed mental health professionals or as a romantic partner, which has led to emotional dependence and in some cases suicide,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “Our phones have become an extension of ourselves, making these AI chatbots available at kids’ fingertips. This new law establishes guidelines to prevent the gamification of chatbots, prevent AI from generating or engaging in sexually-explicit content with children and require AI companies to provide resources to users who express mental health struggles.”

Beginning January 1, 2027, HB26-1263 implements safeguards around artificial intelligence chatbots, particularly as they interact with children. The law requires AI developers to provide a clear and visible disclosure to minor users that the AI chatbot is artificially generated and not a human, and prohibit the use of rewards to encourage engagement.

Under the law, AI developers are now required to take reasonable steps to prevent AI chatbots from generating sexually explicit content or generating conversations that encourage or engage in sexually explicit interactions with minors. These developers must also prevent AI chatbots from creating an emotional dependence through false claims that the chatbot is human, generating conversations that are romantic or sexual, or role-playing with a minor.

The law, which is also sponsored by Senator John Carson, R-Douglas County, additionally requires AI developers to allow for parental controls if their chatbots are accessible to children under the age of 13.HB26-1263 requires AI chatbots to provide suicide-prevention resources to users who express suicidal thoughts or interest in self-harm, and platforms would be required to file reports on how often a chatbot flags suicidal or self-harm behaviors.

The American Psychological Association has warned that, while AI chatbots are low-cost and accessible, they lack necessary regulations to guarantee that they are being used safely.

JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Create More Good-Paying Jobs in Colorado Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Polis on May 29 signed into law legislation to create more good-paying jobs by incentivizing businesses to expand or relocate to Colorado.

Sponsored by Senator Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, HB26-1014 extends the Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit through tax year 2034. The Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit was created in 2009 to help create new jobs by offering a performance-based state income tax credit of 50 percent of the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (Social Security and Medicare payroll taxes) contributions paid by the business for each new job. The bipartisan legislation is also sponsored by Senator Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, and Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction.

“The Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit has been hugely successful in creating opportunities for workers to thrive and grow in good-paying careers,” Ball said. “This legislation would continue to create good new local jobs and opportunities for Colorado families across our state.”

“This new law will create new, good-paying job opportunities and boost Coloradans in their career fields,” said Boesenecker. “The Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit has successfully created jobs in every corner of our state with wages that pay more than the average pay in that area. Expanding this tax credit will help attract businesses to Colorado, which will create more good-paying jobs and jumpstart careers.”

To qualify for this state income tax credit, businesses must create at least 20 new jobs during the credit period, or at least five new jobs if the project is within an Enhanced Rural Enterprise Zone. These jobs must pay at least 100 percent of the county’s average annual wage and be maintained for at least one year.

The following projects were announced as recent recipients of the Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit:

• Project Hera, a technology company that would create 1,250 new jobs at 108-percent of the average annual wage in Broomfield County,

• Neon, a company in the quantum industry, that is expected to create 150 new jobs at 172-percent of the average annual wage in Boulder County,

• Project Elevate, a real estate investment and modular home manufacturing company, which is expected to create nearly 100 jobs at 135-percent of the average annual wage in Mesa County, and

• Frontera, a construction company, which is expected to create 40 new jobs at 104-percent of the average annual wage in Montrose County.

JOINT RELEASE: Bill to Create Jobs and Support New Small Businesses Becomes Law

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis on May 29 signed a bill into law to expand eligibility for the successful CLIMBER (Colorado Loans to Increase Mainstreet Business Economic Recovery) program to better equip small businesses for success, create more good-paying jobs and support local economies.

“The CLIMBER Program generates much-needed funding for start-ups and small businesses that create jobs in our local communities, which is why I sponsored this law to make capital more accessible for small businesses,” said Rep. Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora. “This program was a lifeline for small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping businesses keep workers on payroll and grow. By signing this bill into law today, we are opening up more funding and adding flexibility to the qualification requirements. Colorado Democrats are demonstrating our commitment to ensuring Colorado’s economy rewards hardworking people and job creators.”

“Here in Colorado, small businesses power our economy,” said Sen. Chris Kolker, D-Centennial. “Access to a loan to grow a business or help it get off the ground can be a game-changer for Colorado entrepreneurs, their employees, and our local communities. The updates to this program will increase access to loans for small businesses and create flexibility to allocate loans where the need is greatest throughout the state.”

“Our law can help save small businesses hundreds to thousands of dollars a month, which can be used to grow their company, increase employee wages and help Coloradans realize their dream of being a business owner,” said Rep. Sean Camacho, D-Denver. “Data shows that the CLIMBER program is making a measurable impact on communities by creating and supporting over 2,000 jobs across our state. By strengthening access to these loans and restructuring the program to meet the current needs of small businesses, our new law will deliver results for Colorado’s small businesses, workers and local economies.”

“Since its creation during the COVID-19 pandemic, the CLIMBER program has delivered measurable results – supporting hundreds of small businesses and creating jobs,” said Sen. Janice Marchman, D-Loveland. “This law modernizes the program to meet the needs of small businesses today, expand eligibility, and increase support for rural and underserved businesses.” 

HB26-1003 removes the COVID-19 recovery language from the Small Business Recovery and Resiliency Loan Program and expands loan eligibility to better equip small businesses for success, create more good-paying jobs, and support local economies.

HB26-1003 builds upon a 2024 law sponsored by Rep. Ricks, Sen. Kolker and Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, to make the CLIMBER Program permanent and target resources and expertise to underserved businesses in order to secure favorable loans. The new law reappropriates $5 million to the Colorado Startup Loan Fund, a program that’s been highly successful in supporting business owners in rural areas, multilingual speakers, and those who have been unable to receive traditional financing.

The law also increases the accessibility of the Small Business Recovery and Resiliency Fund by lowering the private leverage requirement, which previously required $4 of private funds for every $1 of state funds. HB26-1003 lowers the matching ratio requirement to 1:1.

In order to support Colorado's small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, Colorado Democrats established the CLIMBER program in 2020 to offer small business loans with below-market interest rates. Under the program, small businesses with up to 99 employees may apply for working capital loans between $10,000 and $500,000. These loans can be used to hire more employees, start or expand brick-and-mortar storefronts, get new businesses off the ground and more. In fiscal year 2023-2024, the CLIMBER program loaned over $17 million and helped create or support nearly 1,900 jobs across the state.

JOINT RELEASE: ICYMI: Polis Signs Bill to Expand Access to Abortion Care for College Students

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed legislation to require college student health centers to provide on-site abortion medication services. 

“Despite the Trump administration’s attempts to outlaw abortion entirely, Colorado remains a beacon for safe, legal and protected reproductive health care,” said Rep. Lorena García D-Unincorporated Adams County. “When voters approved Amendment 79, they enshrined the right to an abortion into the Colorado Constitution, and this new law makes sure college students can easily access their constitutionally-protected right to reproductive healthcare. For college students, their entire lives center around campus, and this law makes medication abortion accessible through a student health clinic or pharmacy.” 

“College students are navigating a nation that continues to undermine their right to abortion care, but Colorado is and will remain a safe haven for reproductive rights,” said Sen. Katie Wallace, D-Longmont. “This law will ensure that students who rely on campus health centers are able to access the healthcare they need, when they need it, where they are.”

“In a post-Dobbs era where patients and providers navigate a frightening national landscape, Colorado has stepped up to safeguard reproductive healthcare,” said Rep. Kenny Nguyen, D-Broomfield. “While abortion is legal, it’s not always accessible, and this law makes it easier for college students to access abortion medication on campus. College students shouldn’t have to go through hoops to receive their constitutionally-protected right to an abortion. Our law streamlines access to medication abortion so college students can receive life-saving care.” 

“Abortion care is healthcare, and college students in Colorado deserve access to that care despite national efforts to deny it,” said Sen. Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Colorado voters enshrined the right to abortion in the constitution, and with this law, we’re leveling the playing field so students have equal access to that right.”

HB26-1335 will expand college students’ access to reproductive healthcare by requiring public and private higher education institutions with student health centers to provide on-site abortion medication. 

If the college has an on-campus pharmacy, abortion medication must be available to enrolled students. If the college does not have a pharmacy on campus, healthcare providers will be required to submit a prescription for abortion medication to a pharmacy or other prescription drug outlet located off campus. The law will also add privacy protections by requiring institutions to comply with preexisting personally identifying information maintenance and disclosure protections in state law. The law will exempt higher education institutions from the requirement to stock or dispense abortion medication if doing so would conflict with their religious beliefs or practices or if it would jeopardize an institution’s federal grant participation. 

Colorado Democrats have championed multiple laws to expand and safeguard abortion access in Colorado. This includes legislation to strengthen Colorado's shield laws, protecting patients and providers from hostile out-of-state actions. Last year, Colorado Democrats implemented the will of the voters by enshrining abortion rights into the state constitution.

JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! McCluskie, Bridges Bill to Connect Coloradans to Good-Paying Jobs

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation to better connect students and workers with the resources and education they need for good-paying jobs.

“HB26-1317 lays the groundwork for a one-stop-shop for Colorado’s job seekers and learners,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “Our bipartisan law will unify and reimagine career-focused pathways to meet Colorado’s ever-changing business, workforce and education needs. This effort will equip our students with the tools and resources they need to land good-paying jobs in growing fields and boost our economy. From the classroom to the workforce, Colorado is focused on fostering strong, affordable pathways and partnerships that make it easier for Coloradans to secure the career of their dreams.” 

“The programs we’ve built to help people find jobs just don’t connect the way they should. This fragmentation makes them less effective for the very people they’re supposed to serve,” said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “This new law starts to fix that by reworking how we think about postsecondary pathways so more Coloradans can find real opportunities, contribute in their communities, and earn wages that actually pay the bills.”

HB26-1317 will better connect students and workers with the resources and education they need to secure good-paying jobs. The law, which is also sponsored by Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction and Senator Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, will lay the foundation for a new, unified system and department for post-secondary education development. 

With a focus on a thoughtful, inclusive stakeholder process, this bill will establish a Transition Advisory Committee (TAC) of 27 members, including representatives from state agencies, institutions of higher education, apprenticeship programs, organized labor, local workforce centers, local government, non-profit associations and the business community. The TAC’s recommendations will serve as the structural outline for the new department.

This bill will also begin the process to unite several programs, including the Divisions of Employment and Training, Regional Talent Summit Initiatives, Plans and Opportunity Now Grants and Adult Education and Literacy Programs, among others, under one new agency. Last year, Governor Polis shared a new report outlining a robust roadmap to streamline and strengthen the way Coloradans access education, training and career support. 

Research shows that in the next six years, nearly three in four job openings will require some type of post-secondary credential. However, there is an attainment gap between the need for credentials and the number of Coloradans who earn them, which poses a challenge for Colorado’s economy and workforce. HB26-1317 will begin the process to streamline more than 20 divisions, offices and units across seven state entities that deliver more than 100 programs and initiatives to create a one-stop-shop for Coloradans’ access to post-secondary education, training and employment.

JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Bill to Save Families Money on Child Care

HB26-1004 extends a tax credit that makes life more affordable for working Coloradans

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation into law to spur the creation of more high-quality and affordable child care facilities in our communities.

“Child care is essential for hardworking families to have a fair shot at the Colorado Dream, and this law will create quality child care options to save Colorado families money,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “The Child Care Contribution Tax Credit is an important tool to support hardworking families while creating jobs, which is why I sponsored this bipartisan law so communities across the state can continue to benefit from this tax credit.”

“Colorado’s families, communities, and economy are all stronger when we have a vibrant child care ecosystem,” said Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver. “This law drives donations toward child care facilities, which means more good jobs and more options for hardworking families at all price points. For many Colorado families, child care is their number one expense every month. This law is about taking action to make child care more available and affordable.” 

The Child Care Contribution Tax Credit allows taxpayers who donate money to a licensed child care facility in Colorado to receive an income tax credit of 50 percent of their contribution. HB26-1004, also sponsored by Minority Leaders Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Jarvis Caldwell, R-Monument, extends the Child Care Contribution Tax Credit until 2037.

These child care facilities could include qualifying child care centers, homeless youth shelters and residential treatment centers. These donations can be used to create or maintain a child care facility, fund child care financial assistance programs for families and train child care providers. In tax year 2023, around $33 million in credits were claimed by almost 16,000 taxpayers, generating a total of $66 million for the child care ecosystem.

In January, the Trump Administration attempted to freeze over $300 million of funding for child care and social services that thousands of Colorado families rely on. As a result, Colorado Democrats are stepping up to create more avenues to fund affordable care.

JOINT RELEASE: 2026 School Finance Act Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Today the bipartisan 2026 School Finance Act was signed into law. SB26-023, sponsored by Senator Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Representatives Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, and Emily Sirota, D-Denver, drives $180 million more to Colorado’s K-12 public schools for the 2026-27 school year.

“As Chair of the Senate Education Committee, upholding our promise to Colorado students, teachers, and schools is my number one priority,” said Kolker. “During an extremely challenging budget year, we worked hard to ensure we don’t backslide on the important progress we’ve made to eliminate the Budget Stabilization Factor and drive more funding to our schools. While there is much more work to do to ensure Colorado is a national leader in public education funding, I’m proud that despite budgetary constraints we were successfully able to increase per-pupil funding and protect funding for Colorado’s public schools.”

“The 2026 School Finance Act, which makes meaningful investments in K-12 education and keeps the student-centered formula in place, is now law,” said Sirota. “We were forced to make painful decisions because of our TABOR limit and Colorado’s budget deficit. However, we were able to protect core education funding. We’ve taken bold action to drive more dollars to our public schools, and I’m deeply proud of that work. This year’s school finance act builds upon Colorado Democrats' mission to fully fund our schools, increase teacher pay and set our students up for a lifetime of success.” 

“As any teacher will tell you, fully funded schools make all the difference to our students, and I’m thrilled to help deliver record funding to K-12 education with the 2026 School Finance Act,” said Lukens. “Despite budgetary constraints, we still delivered record investments in K-12 education and increased per-pupil funding. The 2026 School Finance Act boosts per-pupil funding by $449, bringing the total per-pupil funding to $12,325. There is more work to be done to fully fund our schools, but this year’s school finance act is an important step in the right direction.”

Also sponsored by Senator Barb Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, SB26-023 sets statewide per-pupil funding at $12,325 for Fiscal Year 2026-2027, an increase of $449 as compared to FY 2025-2026 funding levels, bringing total K-12 funding for the upcoming fiscal year to $10.2 billion and increasing total program funding by $180.79 million.

The General Fund contribution to K-12 education is increasing significantly thanks to the Kids Matter Fund created by Democrats last year, which is forecast to invest more than $216 million in Colorado’s schools next year. 

Under SB26-023, the new school finance formula (HB24-1448) is implemented at 30 percent and includes a three-year averaging model to help stabilize school funding in a declining enrollment environment. This follows requirements in last year’s School Finance Act that phased in the implementation of the new school funding formula at 15 percent per year for six years, and then 10 percent for the final seventh year of implementation.

This year, Democrats also increased funding by $14 million to continue free preschool access for all Colorado kids and increased funding by $38 million to implement the voter-approved Proposition MM to preserve access to free school meals for students. Since the 2020-2021 academic year, Democrats have increased total program funding from $7.2 billion to $10.2 billion for the upcoming year despite a declining enrollment environment. Per-pupil funding has increased from $8,100 to $12,300 in that time as well. 

JOINT RELEASE: Signed! Legislation to Improve Road Safety, Fund Wildlife Crossings

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed bipartisan legislation into law that will prevent wildlife collisions.

SB26-141, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, will create an optional $5 collision prevention fee during annual vehicle registration, creating reliable and dedicated funding for wildlife crossing infrastructure.

“There’s very little that we can do in government that is over 90% effective – but wildlife crossings are that rare solution,” said Roberts. “This infrastructure is proven to reduce collisions with wildlife, protect humans and animals, and save drivers money. I’m proud to sponsor this bipartisan solution to create a sustainable, voluntary funding source that will make our roads safer, especially in rural Colorado.”

“The success of the Kremmling wildlife crossing has made it clear that wildlife crossings help prevent dangerous accidents,” said McCluskie. “Wildlife collisions are common on the Western Slope, which not only makes road travel risky, but also drives up car insurance costs and impacts Colorado’s ecosystem. Our new bipartisan law creates more opportunities to build wildlife crossings, saving lives and protecting Colorado wildlife.”

Also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, and Representative Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction, the law will dramatically reduce motor vehicle crashes with wildlife by authorizing an optional $5 fee that will be collected during annual vehicle registration beginning in 2027. The fund will be used to construct wildlife collision prevention infrastructure including overpasses, underpasses, jump-outs, and fencing, and will also allow Colorado to leverage federal matching funds for these projects. A portion of the funds will also benefit the Wildlife Cash Fund, administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, to conserve habitat on either side of the crossings.

Collisions with wildlife can be fatal, damage property, and create financial burdens. In 2024, at least 3,500 crashes with animals occurred on Colorado roads. From 2010-2025, these tragic accidents resulted in 52 motorist fatalities and over 400 serious injuries. The total estimated annual cost of wildlife-vehicle collisions in Colorado is over $300 million. Wildlife crossings have been shown to reduce these collisions by more than 90 percent.

JOINT RELEASE: Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Outdoor Recreation Becomes Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis on May 27 signed bipartisan legislation into law to support outdoor recreation and rural economies.

“In communities like mine, outdoor recreation drives the economy, bolsters our workforce and supports local businesses,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. “With this bill being signed into law, we’re taking steps to balance outdoor recreation, wildlife and our natural resources so that future generations can enjoy them as we do. This law improves collaboration among key conservation efforts, agriculture, private landowners and other public land users to maximize the outdoor recreation potential of Colorado and protect our open spaces.”

“No agency is better positioned to hold recreation and conservation together than Colorado Parks and Wildlife,” said Sen. Janice Marchman, D-Loveland. “This law gives them the coordinating capacity to engage partners, collaborate with tribal governments, and deliver the kind of strategic, integrated management that keeps Colorado’s outdoors from being loved to death.”

Colorado’s lands support a $65.8 billion outdoor recreation economy. HB26-1008 directs stewards of our lands to collaborate with stakeholders from all different land-use backgrounds, from wildlife and natural resource advocates to agricultural communities and private landowners. Specifically, this law formalizes Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s (CPW) role in leading Colorado’s outdoors strategy to support conservation, outdoor recreation, and climate resilience in the state.

The goal of HB26-1008 is to proactively streamline planning and management so that the state can continue to provide high-quality experiences to all outdoor users. CPW manages 43 state parks and over 350 wildlife areas, covering roughly 900,000 acres in Colorado. As the lead coordinator, CPW will ensure outdoor recreation needs are well-represented in its leadership and increase coordination to anticipate and respond to potential conflicts. The strategy prioritizes integrating data and metrics from existing efforts, partnering with local and federal agencies, and shoring up state capacity in this area.

JOINT RELEASE: Signed! Bill to Reduce Human-Bear Conflicts

WINTER PARK, CO – Governor Jared Polis on May 27 signed a bill into law to keep Coloradans, visitors and the state’s bear population safe. HB26-1342 will further reduce human-bear conflicts by cracking down on human behaviors that attract bears.

“Dangerous human-bear interactions are rising in our state, and we’re doing more to keep Coloradans, visitors and the bear population safe,” said Rep. Katie Stewart, D-Durango. “Last year, the vast majority of bear reports were related to trash or food waste. Bears are attracted to human food, which means this is a people problem, and it’s our responsibility to keep food undetectable to bears so we can limit human-bear interactions. This law strengthens existing enforcement mechanisms to help CPW reduce human-bear conflict and keep Coloradans safe.” 

“Once a bear has learned how and where to obtain human food, it’s really difficult to unteach this behavior, which ultimately leads to more human-bear conflicts and costly bear relocations and euthanizations,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs. “We are reducing barriers for CPW to minimize human-bear interactions to keep everyone safe, including Colorado’s bear population. Bears can cause extensive property damage, and this law mitigates human behavior that attracts bears and helps prevent bears from digging through your trash in the first place.”

HB26-1342 helps minimize human-bear conflicts in Colorado by enhancing Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s (CPW) authority to deter human behaviors that attract bears, specifically leaving edible garbage uncovered and accessible. CPW may still issue penalties even if no human-bear conflict occurs, so long as there is a reasonable probability of luring a wild bear.

HB26-1342 expands misdemeanor offenses to include knowingly placing food or edible waste in the open, meaning CPW no longer must prove that an individual is intentionally luring bears. It also raises the penalty for third or subsequent offenses of luring bears from $2,000 to $5,000 to strengthen deterrence of human behavior that leads to conflicts with bears.

Human-bear conflicts are rising. CPW received 5,022 bear reports in 2024 and 5,229 in 2025. According to CPW, this is a 15-percent increase in conflicts and interactions over the last six years. Of the 17,000-20,000 bears in Colorado, the majority of incident reports involve bears trying to access human food sources. Last year, 57-percent of the sightings were linked to edible trash, 18-percent to livestock, chickens and beehives, and 16-percent to bird seed, pet food, barbeque grills, coolers and refrigerators. Of the 5,299 reports CPW received in 2025, 2,448 resulted in property damage to a shed, garage, home, vehicle or fence.

In 2024, 68 black bears were relocated and 98 were euthanized because of incidents with humans. That same year, CPW spent nearly 6,000 hours of staff time responding to human-bear conflicts and spent nearly $800,000 in supplies, grants, and salaries related to human-bear conflicts.

To limit human-bear interactions, experts recommend securing food, trash and recycling, removing bird feed when bears are active, cleaning grills and smokers and never leaving pet food outside.

JOINT RELEASE: Signed! Bill to Reduce Housing Costs, Save Coloradans Money

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis on May 27 signed legislation into law that will help drive down housing costs and save Coloradans money. HB26-1065 funds transit infrastructure improvements and transit-oriented housing.

“Housing costs continue to be too high for Coloradans, which is why we are laser-focused on making Colorado a more affordable place to live,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “This new financing tool creates a pathway for local governments to boost funding for multimodal transit systems and housing that Coloradans can afford so we can better meet the needs of our communities, especially in the High Country. I am excited to deliver affordable, transit-oriented housing across the state.”

"The mountain and rural communities that I represent have some of the most severe housing shortage and cost crises in the state, and so I’m proud to sponsor this legislation that will help finance and build homes that working families need and can afford,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “In partnership with towns, counties, nonprofits and private industry, HB26-1065 will help finance new transit infrastructure and housing options in all parts of our state.”

“We’re building affordable housing and transit centers so Coloradans can quickly get where they need to go,” said Rep. Steven Woodrow, D-Denver. “This law helps increase transit ridership while reducing housing costs and traffic congestion. Colorado Democrats are serious about addressing our affordability crisis, and this law shows we’re finding innovative ways to do just that.”

“I’m proud to sponsor this new law to tackle the most common concern I hear from my constituents: the cost of housing,” said Senator Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs. “By making it possible to build more homes near reliable transit, we are taking action to address Colorado’s housing shortage. At the end of the day, this legislation is about making sure that working families have the transit and mobility options they need and are not forced to leave the communities they love.”

HB26-1065, the Transit Investment Area Act, creates a new financing tool to improve transportation infrastructure and establish a tax credit to build more transit-oriented affordable housing. 

The law uses tax-increment financing to allow local governments to invest state sales tax revenue into transportation infrastructure. Local governments, in partnership with transit agencies, will be able to apply to create a transit and housing investment zone. These zones could fund transportation infrastructure projects within two miles of a transportation facility, like safety improvements and centering transit stops within the community to increase ridership. Local governments must suggest an annual limit on the amount of revenue that could be allocated to the transit investment project in the application process. 

The law allows up to three transit investment projects to be approved in a calendar year, with no more than six projects funded through the bill in total. Under the law, the Colorado Economic Development Commission will also set an annual limit on the amount of revenue that can be allocated for a transit investment project. 

HB26-1065 also creates the Colorado Affordable Housing in Transit Investment Zones Tax Credit. This tax credit is reserved for projects that serve low- and middle-income housing within newly created transit and housing investment zones. The law allows up to $50 million in tax credits per calendar year from 2027 to 2033 for a total investment of $350 million by 2038.

JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Bill to Benefit Colorado Farmers and Ranchers

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis on May 26 signed legislation to make pesticide disposal and recycling easier and more affordable for Colorado’s farmers and ranchers.

“This new law will help farmers and ranchers in my district and across Colorado who have been holding on to pesticides for decades because there aren’t safe, easy disposal options,” said Rep. Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo. “Our law creates a new state-run program that brings safe, convenient and low-cost pesticide disposal directly to our communities. Colorado farmers and ranchers are good stewards of our land, and this law will save them time, money and hassle on proper pesticide disposal.”

“This new law will keep our communities safe from pesticide contamination, protect Colorado’s land and waterways, and support farmers with an affordable and convenient way to safely dispose of pesticides and recycle containers,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins. “It’s specifically designed to meet Colorado’s needs through a public-private partnership with strong oversight.” 

“HB26-1111 saves farmers and ranchers money and protects our waterways and soil,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont. “Without access to pesticide disposal programs, Coloradans risk contaminating our environment or exposing themselves to chemicals from accidental leaks. Our law brings safe, affordable pesticide disposal to our farmers and ranchers. I’m proud to sponsor this law because it not only supports our agriculture community, but protects our environment too.”

“This new law creates a solution to a real challenge in our rural and agricultural communities that will save people money,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “In Colorado, we don’t currently have a system that allows for the responsible and affordable disposal of agricultural pesticides, leading to unsafe storage, contamination risks, and high costs for producers. These pesticides require specific handling and incineration protocols, leaving many producers in rural communities without any good options. This new law is a win-win, tailored to fill this gap to support Colorado farmers while protecting our land and water."

HB26-1111 will offer farmers a new option to safely remove pesticides and containers that are no longer needed from their property. This law creates the Pesticide Product Disposal and Container Recycling Enterprise housed in the Department of Agriculture (CDA). This Enterprise will target large quantities of pesticides kept on agricultural properties by farmers and ranchers by creating an affordable method for pesticide disposal. 

Pesticide disposal and recycling facilities in Colorado are limited, dispersed, inconvenient and expensive for farmers and ranchers. Without access to pesticide disposal and recycling services, harmful chemicals often accumulate, which increases the risk of improper disposal or leaks that could contaminate Colorado’s soil and water. Beginning in 2027, HB26-1111 will create a new program that provides relief to our farmers and ranchers and protects our environment.

JOINT RELEASE: Bill to Update the Front Range Passenger Rail District to Pave the Way for Future Service Becomes Law

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis on May 26 signed a bill into law that will make narrowly targeted updates to advance the Front Range Passenger Rail project, a train line that would connect communities from Fort Collins to Pueblo.

“Families in Fort Collins want an affordable, eco-friendly, and convenient way to travel along the Front Range,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins. “These communities are highly interconnected and our infrastructure should match how Coloradans live, work, and travel every day. This bill creates a strong foundation for this project to advance with accurate boundaries and community input.”

“From Fort Collins to Pueblo, passenger rail is coming to Colorado,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “As we get closer to breaking ground on the project, we are narrowing in on details that will help make passenger rail a reality for the Front Range. From going to CSU games and a concert in Denver to commuting for work, the Front Range Passenger Rail will deliver a safe, dependable alternative to car travel.”

“For my community in Pueblo, Front Range Passenger Rail means opportunities for employment, visiting family, and enjoying everything Colorado has to offer in a way that meets how Coloradans want to travel,” said Senator Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo. “This bill lays the groundwork for Front Range Passenger Rail to move forward, creating limitless opportunities for communities along the Front Range, including Pueblo.”

“Passenger rail can open up more job opportunities and save Coloradans money on transportation,” said Rep. Amy Paschal, D-Colorado Springs. “This law creates a clear path for the Front Range Passenger Rail to take shape, improving Colorado’s transportation options and infrastructure for the municipalities that have already opted into this rail system. Soon, voters around these stations will get a say on whether or not their community will have Front Range Passenger Rail. This project has been a long time in the making, and I am excited for the opportunities that this will open up for my community in Colorado Springs.”

SB26-172 updates the Front Range Passenger Rail District boundaries to focus on municipalities that would be directly served by the rail line and remove municipalities outside of the service area. It also creates residency requirements for the district board members and adjusts how ballot measures are brought by the district, creating options for subdistricts within the district boundaries.

Colorado Democrats established the Front Range Passenger Rail District in 2021 to lay the groundwork for a high-speed passenger rail system along the Front Range corridor. This past April, the future train was named “Colorado Connector,” after input from more than 25,000 Coloradans. Last week, the state and relevant governing boards reached an agreement with BNSF to advance to the design phase of the passenger rail project. Service is anticipated to begin by January 2029.

JOINT RELEASE: Signed! Bill to Modernize and Improve RTD

SB26-150 implements recommendations from the 2025 RTD Accountability Committee

DENVER, CO – On May 26, legislation sponsored by Senators Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, and Representatives Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, and Jamie Jackson, D-Aurora, to modernize and improve the Regional Transportation District (RTD) was signed into law.

“Millions of Coloradans live on the Front Range, and yet, they are stuck with a transit system that is severely underdeveloped compared to similar districts in other cities,” Ball said. “This critical legislation will help Coloradans to have cleaner and more effective transit options.”

“This law is about providing a strong transit system for all parts of the Denver metro area for workers, youth, seniors and people with disabilities,” said Froelich. “RTD has unfortunately not been able to bounce back since the pandemic the way that other transit agencies around the country have, and it is clear that change is needed to deliver reliable transit for Coloradans. Thanks to the work of the RTD Accountability Committee, we are reimagining the Denver Metro Area’s transit system to provide transit that hardworking people can depend on.”

“The Denver metro area is a world-class destination boasting world-class offerings, and while public transit helps Coloradans access those big-ticket events, it also supports mobility and accessibility for the 30% of households that don’t have reliable access to a car,” Jodeh said. “When transit doesn’t work, it impacts whether families – especially communities of color, seniors, and people with disabilities – can go to work, school, and connect with their communities. This law is about continuing Colorado’s commitment to those families and sustainable growth for generations to come.”

“We’re helping ensure that our regional transit system actually works for the people who rely on it,” said Jackson. “As the metro area expands, it is crucial that we have a transit system that meets the needs of our growing communities. This law implements a long-term plan to improve para-transit services, modernize the RTD board to be more effective and strengthen accountability to rebuild Coloradans’ trust.”

SB26-150 makes a number of changes to the RTD board in order to create a governing board that is more functional and well-equipped to develop a world-class transit system. These changes include:

• Reducing the current 15 member board to nine, bringing it in line with the majority of transit boards in the country;

• Preserving five seats up for election, ensuring that the majority of the board remains democratically elected;

• Making the remaining four seats at-large appointments by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, ensuring that the board will have expertise in finance, land use, transportation planning, disproportionately impacted communities, and/or labor;

• Requiring one of the board members to be appointed in consultation with the Denver Regional Council of Governments and at least one board member to be an Amalgamated Transit Union member, guaranteeing that the voices of local governments and labor are represented;

• Raising board and chairperson salaries to attract high-quality candidates; and

• Increasing efficiency and clarity for the board by requiring that specific authorities and responsibilities be set for each board member.

New RTD districts will be drawn in advance of the 2028 election, creating an entirely new board by January 1, 2029, with plans in place to achieve staggered turnover of the board starting in 2031. Current board members and those elected in the 2026 election will continue to serve until the 2028 election. The law also requires a review of the new RTD board structure after 15 years, guaranteeing analysis of the new structure that will assess its effectiveness over time, including representation, expertise, ridership, and financial performance.

Additionally, SB26-150 requires that RTD commission a study and adopt a plan for implementing improved paratransit services by December 31, 2027. The study must include a needs assessment and analysis of current service for riders with disabilities, an assessment of barriers faced by paratransit riders, and measurable performance metrics to measure progress.

The RTD Accountability Committee was created by SB25-161. After studying RTD’s structure and the challenges the agency faces, the Committee delivered its recommendations to the General Assembly earlier this year.

JOINT RELEASE: Keeping Colorado Communities Safe: Governor Polis Signs Major Bipartisan Public Safety Legislation Updating Colorado’s Competency Laws

DENVER - On May 21, Governor Polis signed SB26-149 - Pathways for Individuals with Mental Health Disorder, sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile and Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, and House Speaker Julie McCluskie and House Minority Leader Jarvis Caldwell. This major public safety law will update Colorado’s competency laws, ensuring people who are deemed incompetent to stand trial, unlikely to be restored in the near future and pose a danger to themselves or others are not just released into the community, but connected to services and secure placement. 

“This is a major step forward to keep Coloradans and our communities safe. It is not right for someone who is a serious danger to themselves or others to be released into the community without resources or proper care. This law updates Colorado’s competency process, provides important funding for bed capacity, invests in services, and protects public safety. Keeping the status quo was not an option, and I am grateful to the sponsors for the hard work and thoughtful conversations it took to bring this important bill to my desk,” said Governor Polis. 

This law improves the state's ability to connect defendants deemed incompetent to services and empowers the state to find safe placements for individuals whose cases have been dismissed. This law invests roughly $30 million to safely serve those found incompetent and unrestorable,  including through an expansion of both inpatient and outpatient capacity. Separately, this law improves our civil mental health system to give courts and mental health care professionals the tools to support individuals with chronic behavioral health needs. Read the Governor’s signing statement. 

“This new, bipartisan law will address gaps in Colorado’s justice system to ensure people have access to the behavioral healthcare that they need and keep our communities safe,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “This law creates a new pathway to place someone in long-term treatment if they pose a serious risk to community safety and are unlikely to be restored to competency to stand trial. Modernizing treatment and coordination between agencies will improve our justice system and public safety across the state. This has been an extremely difficult and complicated issue to address, and I am grateful for the work of Senator Amabile, Minority Leaders Simpson and Caldwell, the Office of the State Public Defender, the Governor’s Office and State Agencies, and Colorado’s district attorneys, who worked so hard to deliver this bipartisan consensus."

“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,” said Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. “This new law improves access to restorative treatment, protects Coloradans’ constitutional rights, and enhances public safety by ensuring that the very small percentage of people who should not be released into our communities get the treatment they need. SB149 comes after months of consideration with law enforcement, mental health providers, impacted families, and community leaders to find the right path forward that protects Coloradans’ fundamental rights and prioritizes public safety.”

“This legislation was a top priority, and I want to thank all of the stakeholders, especially the District Attorneys and Public Defenders, for their work to strike the crucial balance between constitutional rights and public safety,” said Minority Leader Jarvis Caldwell (HD-20). “Passing this bill was essential to ensure that individuals who pose a serious threat to public safety are not released back into our communities.”

“Today’s signing of SB26-149 is an important step toward closing dangerous gaps in Colorado’s competency and mental health systems. For years, families, law enforcement, and communities have struggled without clear pathways for individuals who are both severely mentally ill and pose a danger to themselves or others. This bipartisan legislation strengthens public safety, protects constitutional rights, and creates more accountability in how the state handles these complex cases. I am proud to work across the aisle to advance a solution focused on treatment, structure, and safer communities for all Coloradans.”

Governor Polis also signed the following bills into law administratively.

• SB26-092 - Modification of County Elected Officer Salary Categories, sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson and Representatives Larry Don Suckla and Elizabeth Velasco

• SB26-101 - Local Government Landfill Methane Emission Reduction Regulations, sponsored by Senators Byron Pelton and Dylan Roberts, and Representatives Meghan Lukens and Chris Richardson 

• SB26-124 - Colorado Survivor Justice Act, sponsored by Senator Katie Wallace and Representative Rebekah Stewart

• SB26-182: Updated Clean Energy Plan Municipally Owned Utility, sponsored by House Minority Leader Jarvis Caldwell, Representative Amy Paschal, Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, and Senator Marc Snyder

ICYMI: Signed! Legislation to Support Survivors of Crimes

SB26-095 will improve transparency, strengthen survivor rights, and bolster trauma-informed procedures in court and law enforcement response

DENVER, CO – Legislation to improve access to information for survivors of crime and strengthen trauma-informed practices in the justice system was signed into law May 20. 

SB26-095 is sponsored by Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Representatives Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, and Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn.

“Under current Colorado law, survivors of crime face significant barriers to care, justice, and information about their proceedings,” said Weissman. “I am proud to sponsor this long-overdue legislation to improve access to care, ensure trauma-informed justice procedures and law enforcement response, and strengthen protections for the rights of survivors in court proceedings.”

“This survivor-led law builds on the progress we have made to improve protections for survivors and make it easier for them to hold their abuser accountable,” said Froelich. “The justice system can be daunting, especially when a survivor is discouraged from pursuing their case and is left to figure out how to track the status of their DNA evidence kit on their own. It should not be so hard for survivors to manage their cases. By improving trauma-informed investigations and response, survivors are more empowered and protected during the judicial process.”

“We’re making changes to the health care, legal and justice systems to prevent the retraumatization of survivors and make it easier for survivors to seek justice,” said Willford. “Colorado Democrats stand with survivors, and our new law makes crucial changes that make navigating the justice system an easier, less traumatic experience for survivors. This will help aid in the healing process for survivors and improve public safety across the state.”

SB26-095 makes several updates to Colorado statute, including: 

• Ensuring that victims are notified when forensic testing is complete and informed of how to obtain results and other records related to testing;

• Creating a special motion to dismiss claims arising from protected survivor statements made during investigations or legal proceedings, helping to shield survivors from retaliatory lawsuits;

• Limiting the enforceability of mandatory pre-dispute arbitration and joint-action waivers, thereby strengthening the rights of survivors in sexual misconduct disputes;

• Authorizing remote forensic testimony and allowing certain survivors to voluntarily testify remotely via closed-circuit television to prevent retraumatization; and

• Expanding training and use of peace officer training funds to include trauma-informed law enforcement response training.

Weissman, Froelich, and Willford passed laws last year to address the backlog in DNA tests collected in sexual assault investigations and protect survivors and children conceived through sexual assault. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation's processing backlog for sexual assault evidence kits reached over 1,400 cases in February 2025 with a turnaround time of 560 days. As of April 2026, the backlog has been reduced to 566 cases with a turnaround time of 334 days.

Democratic Leaders Respond to Commutation of Tina Peters’ Sentence

DENVER, CO – House and Senate Democratic Leadership today released the following statement after Governor Jared Polis commuted the sentence of Tina Peters:

“We strongly oppose Governor Polis’ decision to preempt the courts and commute the sentence of a still-unremorseful Tina Peters. Tina Peters sought to overturn the election results and committed a serious crime. She was prosecuted by a Republican district attorney in a conservative county and convicted by a jury of her peers. Her actions threatened our elections, and commuting her sentence sends exactly the wrong message at a time when the Trump Administration is threatening vote-by-mail and working to undermine our democracy. 

“House and Senate Democrats have repeatedly outlined the many serious reasons why Governor Polis should let the courts decide Ms. Peters’ sentence. We stand by these concerns and the voices of election officials across our state to once again express our strongest objection to this decision. The legislature has worked for years to strengthen and protect Colorado’s elections to ensure they are safe, secure, and accessible, and we staunchly support our dedicated county clerks and election officials who have increasingly come under threat to uphold that.” 

In March, every House and Senate Democrat signed a letter to Governor Polis opposing a commutation or pardon of Tina Peters. Below is the full text of the letter:

Governor Polis:

We thank you for your service to our state and the dedication with which you serve the people of Colorado. 

We write today to urge you not to grant clemency, sentence commutation, any other sentence reduction, or a federal transfer to Tina Peters. 

While we acknowledge you have concerns with what the Colorado Appellate Court found in the processes of Ms. Peters’ case and the questions that the court continues to assess, the resolution to those issues should be handled by the judicial branch. It is our understanding that such a review is underway with further information being sought by the court, and we urge you to allow that process to advance and for the judicial system alone to handle review of any further actions in this case. 

Gubernatorial clemency, pardons, and similar sentence forgiveness are processes for those who have taken accountability for their crimes, understand the harm that they have created, and made good faith efforts for restitution to victims and self-rehabilitation. Ms. Peters has made no efforts to these ends. Instead, she refuses to take accountability for her crimes and continues to push election-denial conspiracy theories. Her total lack of remorse is in addition to her at-times violent behavior, as was captured on video when she attacked a police officer and, separately, another inmate. We also wish to remind you that most estimates place Ms. Peters’ release around late 2027 or early 2028, should she act with good behavior. We believe this is a reasonable sentence for attempts to tamper with and sow discord around our elections. 

We would be remiss if we did not express strong concern about the impact of Ms. Peters’ crimes in fueling election conspiracy theories that undermine the integrity of our elections system as a whole. We fear that any clemency or other sentence reduction on your part will further embolden these conspiracies and those who propagate them. We urge you not to empower those who seek to undermine our elections and Republic by providing them with a figurehead to rally around and near assurance that, when you tamper with our elections, you will escape justice. 

We also wish to share our sincere concern for the safety and longevity of our county clerks, in particular rural county clerks and their staff, should you grant sentence relief. As a result of election denial conspiracy theories - the likes of which Ms. Peters continues to propagate - our election administrators face threats to their safety and attempted interference in their work. In the last year alone, we have seen one Colorado elections office targeted with arson, in addition to other increasing threats against our election workers. 

As they seek to ensure transparency and integrity in our elections, clerks and election workers should be afforded every safeguard the state can create. They have made their message clear and we reiterate it here: if you take this action, many will leave their roles and Colorado’s safe and secure elections will suffer greatly as a result.  

We applaud your transparent approach to this issue, and share your desire to see equal application of justice. In this case, we ask that you let the courts do that work, as is their mandate. 

We ask for your approach to consider - beyond all else - that the impacts of your decision ripple far beyond fairness in carceral sentencing. This is not about any of us, or you, or even Ms. Peters. This is about the security and assuredness of our elections as a whole. This is about the future of our democracy, and of free and fair elections in our nation. We ask you to stand with us in safeguarding that future. 

Thank you for your consideration of our genuine concern for the future of our elections.