“Conversion Therapy” Accountability Law Goes Into Effect

HB26-1322 creates 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, and 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” will go into effect on July 1.

"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 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,” Mullica said. “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 law going into effect, 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 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 could 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 have 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” 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.” 

Law to Protect Children from Sexual Exploitation Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO – Legislation to update and strengthen Colorado’s criminal statutes regarding commercial sexual activity with a child will go into effect July 1, 2026. 

SB26-015, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, and Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge, modernizes outdated terminology and increases penalties for crimes relating to sexual exploitation of a child. 

“Children deserve protection, dignity, and justice,” said Roberts. “This bill is a targeted approach to address a gap in current law that can allow those who have sexually exploited children to avoid jail time. It creates a new floor, strengthening protections for children and ensuring accountability for those who buy children for sex. It also modernizes language to make it clear that children are never at fault in these cases.”

"With our bipartisan law going into effect, we are holding traffickers accountable and protecting children," said Duran. "For too long, people who sexually exploit children have benefited from confusing and unclear statutes to evade accountability. This law removes outdated terms, brings clarity to Colorado statute and increases penalties for traffickers and buyers to hold dangerous people accountable and protect Colorado children."

Also sponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, and Minority Leader Jarvis Caldwell, R-Monument, the law replaces outdated terms related to “child prostitution” with the more accurate “commercial sexual activity with a child,” reframing these offenses to emphasize the exploitation of children.

SB26-015 also increases penalties for such offenses. Beginning July 1, 2026, it requires a minimum of 364 days of jail time as a condition of probation if an offender is charged with soliciting commercial sexual activity with a child. It increases penalties for other crimes related to commercial sexual activity with a child, requiring courts to impose a mandatory minimum sentence of the lower end of the sentencing range, which is currently four years for a class 3 felony. Lastly, the law creates a new class 3 felony for the crime of internet luring of a child with intent to meet a child for commercial sexual activity.

Legislation to Create More Affordable Home Ownership Opportunities Goes Into Effect

SB26-040 updates 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 will go into effect on July 1.

SB26-040, sponsored by Senator Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Representatives Katie Stewart, D-Durango, and Lesley Smith, D-Boulder, expands eligibility for qualified buyers and makes practical updates to 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 new law 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.”

“This bipartisan law makes the Prop 123 Affordable Homeownership Program more responsive to the needs of our communities, especially in Colorado mountain towns like mine, where working people struggle to find affordable housing,” said Stewart. “When Colorado voters approved Prop 123, it created the Affordable Home Ownership Program to help first-time homebuyers with down payments and other financial assistance. This law, going into effect soon, makes crucial updates to the program to help more low- and middle-income Coloradans in rural areas qualify for homebuying assistance. 

“We’re expanding eligibility and flexibility for this Prop 123 program to deliver more housing assistance for hardworking Coloradans,” said Smith. “The Affordable Homeownership Program was created to help first-time homebuyers, especially to secure down payments. Unfortunately, interest rates and construction costs are higher than they were when the program was created. Our law makes necessary adjustments to the program so it can support Coloradans as intended and make homeownership a reality for more hardworking people.”

The new law, also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, increases the allowable income threshold to qualify for the program to less than or equal to 120 percent of either the statewide Area Median Income (AMI) or the local AMI. This allows 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. The law raises that threshold to 38 percent for homebuyers receiving direct down payment assistance, and also creates a process to allow eligible organizations to seek a waiver of the housing cost limit entirely when a qualified buyer is not found after six months of advertising. 

Additionally, the law allows eligible organizations to temporarily rent units if they cannot be sold in a timely manner and creates more flexibility in the program rules. Beginning July 1, these updates will help ensure that the program is working as intended and serving as many Coloradans as possible.

Trump’s High Energy Inflation Drives Up Costs for Coloradans

 U.S. President says he loves it

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

“The forecast shows that not only is inflation driving up costs for Coloradans, but it’s also neutralizing any wage gains workers might have earned even as the economy continues to grow at a steady pace,” said JBC Chair Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “Instead of addressing the affordability crisis, President Trump is making light of record-high inflation numbers while Coloradans are feeling squeezed from all sides. From driving down housing costs to creating universal preschool, Colorado Democrats have implemented real solutions to make our state more affordable for families. In stark contrast to Washington, we’re focused on creating communities that are safe, healthier and more affordable.”

"The forecast reflects what many Coloradans already feel. The cost of gas, housing, and childcare continues to put pressure on family budgets,” said JBC Vice Chair Sen. Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “Combined with uncertainty from Washington, these challenges create real strain on Colorado's economy and our state budget. We're focused on protecting core services and making sure Colorado is prepared for what comes next, while Colorado's workers and businesses continue to show up, work hard, and move our economy forward."

“The forecast reflects what many Coloradans are already feeling: our economy is strong, but rising energy costs and national headwinds are making everything more expensive and dragging down growth in Colorado,” said JBC Member Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “We made difficult decisions during the legislative session to balance our budget, including cuts that no one wanted to make. It’s clear that without reforms to TABOR, the legislature will be forced to make additional cuts to address rising caseload and Medicaid costs. With the interim commission, we are working hard to find solutions so Medicaid can continue to deliver the services people need while putting the program on a more sustainable path.”

“As a result of years of thoughtful budgeting and often painful cuts, this forecast shows that we have made the right decisions to put Colorado on strong economic footing even as the chaos in Washington continues to strain our state budget,” said JBC Member Sen. Judy Amabile. “Between corporate tax cuts in H.R. 1, high inflation, and soaring gas prices, we have not been dealt an easy hand, but we’ve been able to preserve crucial services and maintain a healthy reserve. There are certainly difficult decisions ahead, but we will continue to meet the moment.” 

The Legislative Council Staff (LCS) forecast anticipates General Fund revenue to be $16.57 billion in FY 2025-2026, $18.07 billion in FY 2026-2027, and $19.05 billion in FY 2027-2028. This represents an overall increase of $489 million in the current year and $335 million for FY 2026-2027 as compared to the March forecast.

The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) forecast anticipates that General Fund revenue will be $16.93 billion for FY 2025-26, $17.89 billion for FY 2026-2027 and $18.37 billion for FY 2027-2028. This represents an overall increase of $371 million in the current year and a decrease of $102 million for FY 2026-2027 as compared to their March forecast. This revised revenue increase shows a resilient economy and consumers. 

Medicaid costs have skyrocketed over the last two years, largely due to the increased cost of providing care. In addition to reducing Medicaid spending by $360 million this year alone, lawmakers also established an interim Commission on Medicaid to develop long-term strategies to focus on utilization, reduce spending and ensure sustainability in the program.

Rising Medicaid costs continue to impact the state budget; however, the increase for FY 2027-2028 is far less than the $1 billion lawmakers addressed last session. According to LCS scenario B, the General Fund would end FY 2027-28 with a 13.2 percent reserve, $315.4 million less than the statutory requirement. This scenario accounts for a $462.5 million increase in Medicaid spending. This increase is almost half the previously forecasted increase in FY 2026-27. In addition, TABOR will likely trigger a temporary income tax rate reduction that disproportionately benefits the wealthiest Coloradans while requiring over $300 million in cuts to core services like Medicaid that benefit the most vulnerable Coloradans. 

The LCS and OSPB forecasts anticipate that FY 2027-28 revenue will be above the TABOR cap by $674 million and $52 million, respectively. For the 2026-27 FY (beginning July 1, 2026), revenue is forecasted to be above the cap by $483 million in the LCS forecast and $470 million per OSPB. For the 2025-2026 FY about to end, by the LCS forecast, Colorado’s revenue is below the TABOR cap by $425 million. By the OSPB forecast, revenue is below the TABOR cap by $15 million.

Due to corporate tax cuts in H.R. 1, the Family Affordability Tax Credit (FATC) will be entirely turned off for the 2026 tax year, raising taxes on families. Both forecasts released today now expect the FATC to be off for 2027 and 2028 taxes as well.

To help blunt some of the cost for Colorado families, Democratic lawmakers created a new tax credit last session, the Family Affordability Credit (FAC). Families who would have been eligible for the FATC will be eligible for the FAC, and while it is a smaller credit, estimates show families could still receive up to $260 for each child under age six and up to $195 for each child between six and 16 because of HB26-1223.

The annual inflation rate (4.2 percent) in the U.S. hit a three-year high in May, up from 3.8 percent in April. This includes a 0.4 percentage point increase in May alone and has almost doubled since February. Trump’s war with Iran has caused an oil shock and increased energy costs nationwide, and is driving rising inflation in Colorado. High energy costs, combined with a weakening job market and worsening household finances, are weighing on families. Economic inequality continues to grow, with low-income families increasingly burdened by credit card debt.  

While wages have ticked upward for the majority of workers (3.8 percent), including low-wage earners, they have not kept pace with high inflation. In addition, many Coloradans are underemployed or have left the workforce and job growth remains stagnant at 0.1 percent, worsened by an 11 percent decrease in federal government jobs in Colorado.

Law to Save Coloradans Money on Property Insurance Goes Into Effect

Denver, CO – On July 1, 2026 legislation to save Coloradans money on their property insurance policies will go into effect. HB25-1182 requires insurers to be more transparent regarding their wildfire mitigation risk models and allows property owners to appeal their scores. 

“Colorado is grappling with some of the highest property insurance rates in the nation, and to lower costs, property owners can implement home hardening and wildfire mitigation tactics,” said Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada. “Coloradans have invested in wildfire mitigation efforts on their property before, only to receive no discounts from their insurance companies. Our law, going into effect next month, requires property insurance transparency and accountability so Coloradans know what insurers expect and can effectively lower their rates.” 

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

“After the Marshall Fire destroyed hundreds of homes in my community, many of my neighbors experienced skyrocketing property insurance costs,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “We know that home hardening and wildfire mitigation efforts can make our communities more resilient to natural disasters and lower property insurance rates for everyone. However, Coloradans sometimes miss out on lower insurance rates because insurers aren’t forthcoming with what goes into a wildfire risk score. This law, going into effect on July 1, requires insurers to provide up-front, transparent wildfire risk score calculations to customers so Coloradans can take action before the next disaster.” 

HB25-1182, also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, requires an insurer to provide a written notice to each policyholder at the time of application, renewal or nonrenewal. The notice must include plain-language explanations of the wildfire risk score or other classifications, a range of possible scores a property could be assigned, and the impact each mitigation action could have on a risk score or classification.

Policyholders and applicants can appeal their wildfire risk model score, wildfire risk classification, or applicable mitigation discount if they believe it is inaccurate and can provide evidence of the mitigation efforts they have taken. To make the appeals process timely, the insurer must notify the policyholder or applicant in writing of the right to appeal and acknowledge receipt of the appeal within 10 calendar days. Insurers will also be required to respond to the appeal with a reconsideration and decision within 30 calendar days. If an appeal is denied, the Commissioner of Insurance can request a copy of the appeal and the insurer’s response.

To help lower property insurance costs, the law requires insurers to consider parcel-level and community-wide mitigation efforts in their models to ensure that risk scores reflect the property and the surrounding area. If an insurer doesn’t incorporate these actions into their models, they should provide discounts to policyholders who demonstrate property or community-level mitigation actions, such as cleaning up brush near a home.

Colorado homeowners' insurance rates are some of the highest in the nation and have doubled from 2020 to 2025. Natural disasters like wildfires and hailstorms are some of the largest drivers of high insurance costs:  the Division of Insurance recently found that hail damage accounts for an average of 26 percent to 54 percent of an annual homeowners' insurance premium and that hail mitigation has the potential to save consumers an average of $82 to $387 per year. 

This year, lawmakers championed a new law that will create a grant program to harden roofs and mitigate the impact of natural disasters. SB26-155 will help stabilize Colorado’s homeowners' insurance market, mitigate the impacts of natural disasters and save Coloradans money on their property insurance. 

JOINT RELEASE: Contractors Reject Road Funding Solutions, Pursue Reckless Ballot Measure Instead

Denver, CO – The four sponsors of HB26-1430, legislation to mitigate the deeply harmful impacts of Initiative 175, today released the following joint statement after road building contractors walked away from a proposed agreement that would put Colorado on a path to better fund transportation: 

“We could be working right now on a solution to better fund our roads, but instead the road building contractors walked away. Now, Coloradans are left with only bad choices when what we deserve is better roads and transit. It is troublesome that this still-harmful ballot measure is moving forward after we made several good-faith efforts to find an agreement, and it is a shame that instead of pursuing a solution, special interests are selling Coloradans a false promise so they can line their pockets. The legislature has worked hard to support transportation funding the last several years even as we have faced difficult budget environments. We remain open to options that are responsible, sustainable and do not slash funding for healthcare or education.” 

During the 2026 legislative session, lawmakers passed HB26-1430, sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, Representative Emily Sirota, D-Denver, and Senators Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield. The bill mitigated many of the harmful state budget impacts of Initiative 175, which otherwise would have slashed funding for K-12 education, raised tuition costs, and forced steep cuts to rural hospitals while siphoning off resources for DUI prevention and road safety if passed. 

HB26-1430 only temporarily blunts the impacts of Initiative 175. If passed at the ballot in November, the initiative would still require the state to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on just highway projects in three years that would otherwise go to K-12, healthcare or higher education. It would place strict limits on what types of transportation projects can receive state funding. It would immediately reduce TABOR revenue that would otherwise be refunded to taxpayers, or directed to children and education should the measure referred to voters in SB26-135 pass in November.

Lawmakers made several good-faith efforts to reach a compromise with the backers of Initiative 175 through the legislative process that the contractors ultimately rejected. This included creating a working group to address road funding and establishing a new enterprise with $7.5 million in seed funding to direct additional dollars to roads that could serve as the beginning of a sustainable fix. The working group followed a model with demonstrated success used in similar efforts, such as the Artificial Intelligence Policy Workgroup and the RTD Accountability Committee, that led to successful legislation this year. Similar to previous working groups, the recommendations generated would have provided the General Assembly and Joint Budget Committee a solid framework for legislation next session. Barring reconsideration of this decision, the deadline stands statutorily at June 15th for the contractors to withdraw the initiative and instead establish the enterprise and working group. 

JOINT RELEASE: ICYMI: Signed! Tax Credits to Boost Working Families and Restaurants

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis signed legislation on June 4 to support working people and small businesses after Congress passed H.R. 1, which granted massive tax breaks to corporations while raising taxes on working families in Colorado. 

HB26-1223, sponsored by Senators Matt Ball, D-Denver, and Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, and Representative Steven Woodrow, D-Denver, repeals Colorado’s downloadable software exemption to ensure taxes on these products are consistent, no matter how or where they are purchased, funding tax credits for working families and providing relief to Colorado restaurants.

“Before this law, software products were taxed differently depending on where they were purchased,” said Ball. “It was a patchwork system that simply didn’t make sense with the current way we make purchases in our modern, online society. By fixing this discrepancy, we’re putting money back into the hands of Colorado families and supporting restaurants.”

“We’re repealing a tax exemption to ensure Colorado law is being equally applied, no matter your zip code,” said Boesenecker. “By modifying our tax code, we can put money back into the pockets of hardworking Coloradans and support local restaurants. Our law creates a new tax credit for hardworking families to make our state more affordable.” 

“This is a win-win-win for hardworking Coloradans, for local restaurants, and for modernizing our tax code,” said Roberts. “It is narrowly focused on one outdated statute that taxes software differently based on where and how it is purchased. By standardizing this inconsistency, we are funding tax credits that give hardworking Coloradans a chance to get ahead and give Colorado restaurants a much-needed boost by relieving them of sales tax burdens."

“Colorado Democrats are making tax policy changes to put money back into the pockets of hardworking families,” said Woodrow. “Taxes on downloadable software should be applied the same, regardless of how it is purchased. This will help create a more equitable tax code that puts hardworking people first.”

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.

With part of the revenue generated from closing this exemption, the law creates a new tax credit for hardworking families. The Family Affordability Credit (FAC) will go to families who would be eligible for the highly successful Family Affordability Tax Credit (FATC) in current law. That credit is temporarily deactivated due to the corporate tax cuts in H.R. 1. Estimates show families could receive up to $260 for each child under age six and up to $195 for each child between six and 16 because of HB26-1223. 

The law also funds tax relief for restaurants through a temporary sales tax deduction and permanent expansion of a utility tax deduction. In 2027 and 2028, for July, August, November, and December, restaurants, bars, and other food vendors will retain the state sales tax collected on up to $14,000 of taxable sales in that month. Additionally, before this law, certain restaurants were allowed to subtract 55 percent of their energy bills from their tax obligations. The law permanently expands this to allow restaurants to deduct 100 percent of gas and electricity purchases from their taxable sales.

JOINT RELEASE: ICYMI: Bill to Collect Data on Working Conditions and Extreme Temperatures Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Legislation to better understand how extreme temperatures impact working conditions and worker safety was signed into law on June 4. 

HB26-1272, sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Representatives Meg Froelich, D-Englewood, and Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, will outline a pathway for Colorado to protect workers from extreme temperatures. 

"Every worker deserves safe conditions,” said Cutter. “But that’s not happening in jobs where workers are exposed to extreme heat and cold. Because of the effects of climate change, many workers are being exposed to dangerous weather conditions that can seriously impact their health and livelihood. This new law helps build a resilient future that protects workers."

“Colorado workers are increasingly exposed to dangerous heat and cold as our weather becomes more extreme,” said Froelich. “As federal action to protect our workers has stalled out, this law lays the groundwork for keeping Colorado workers safe from extreme temperatures. Given Colorado’s budget constraints, we’re focused on collecting this important data to help us understand how extreme temperatures impact worker health and safety. Through data collection and creating readily available temperature-related injury and illness prevention plans, we’re moving forward with a law that puts workers first today and creates a roadmap for the future.” 

“The federal government has failed to step in to create clear guidelines on safe temperatures for working conditions, so it is up to us to enact protections,” said Weissman. “This new law takes the first step by collecting data on how workers are impacted by extreme temperatures and creating recommendations. This will lay the groundwork for evidence-based policies that keep workers safe amid Colorado’s new normal.” 

“There’s a gap in support for Colorado workers exposed to dangerous heat and cold, and we need to do more to keep our workers safe and healthy on the job,” said Velasco. “Colorado is facing a significant budget deficit, so our law focuses on data collection of temperature-related injuries, illnesses and emergencies in workplaces. Climate change is already impacting working conditions and HB26-1272 is the first step toward creating a safer future for Colorado workers.”  

The new law will require the state to collect and analyze data on temperature-related injuries, illnesses, and emergencies at worksites, and related workers' compensation in the state. This data will serve as an important baseline for future rulemaking and temperature-related injury prevention planning.

Under the law, the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) will develop a model temperature-related injury and illness prevention plan (TRIIPP) by 2028. TRIIPPs typically include methods for cooling down, such as access to water, shade, and gradual acclimatization for workers. Once created, the TRIIPP will be available to lawmakers and employers on CDLE’s public website. CDLE will be responsible for updating the TRIIPP as needed but not less than every five years to meet the needs of workers.  

This legislation is the first step toward keeping workers safe on the job by prioritizing education and evidence-gathering that reflect conditions across industries and regions in Colorado. The findings from this law’s implementation will inform future protections and legislation.

JOINT RELEASE: ICYMI: SIGNED! Bill to Fight Back Against Federal Coal Mandates

DENVER, CO — Governor Jared Polis on June 4 signed legislation to fight back against federal mandates that force aging coal plants to stay operational, which will drive up costs to ratepayers and hinder Colorado’s clean energy future.

“With this law, we’re pushing back against federal overreach that increases costs for ratepayers and continues to burden communities with pollution,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn. “There is consensus among environmental organizations and the operators of the Craig Unit 1 power plant that forcing coal plants to stay online will increase utility costs for Coloradans. Colorado needs to plan for our own energy future, and this law helps protect ratepayers and bring us closer to our climate goals.” 

“Colorado is a leader in climate policy, and we should be able to continue planning our own energy future,” said Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. “While the Trump Administration is busy propping up outdated, highly polluting, ready-to-retire coal plants, we’ve made considerable progress in bringing Colorado into a sustainable future with clean air, good jobs, and affordable energy. This law will mitigate harm caused by misguided federal mandates while protecting ratepayers and maintaining clean air standards.”

“Trump's capricious, ill-advised use of an emergency order to keep an aging coal plant online will increase utility costs and set back Colorado’s climate and clean air goals,” said Rep. Froelich, D-Englewood. “Coloradans should be in charge of our state’s energy future, not the federal government. And ratepayers deserve to know how much propping up an aging, broken-down coal-fired power plant will cost them on their utility bills. Our law protects consumers from Trump’s war on clean energy and destructive energy cost increases while keeping us on track to meet our climate goals.”

“The Trump Administration is trying to force expensive, polluting coal plants to stay open against the will of our communities, ignoring years of thoughtful planning,” said Sen. Weissman, D-Aurora. “This bill pushes back by requiring transparency and pollution safeguards if some coal plants are required to stay open, ensuring Colorado can continue to chart our own path forward.”

HB26-1226 will help to mitigate the impacts of federal interference in Colorado’s energy future, ensure energy reliability, and implement modern standards for coal plant pollution.

If coal-fired plants are permitted to operate past 2034, this law will:

• Mandate that consumers and regulators are given information on the costs of keeping those coal plants open, and give the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) financing tools to manage operating costs, minimizing the impact on ratepayers.

• Ensure the PUC approves new resources for Colorado’s largest electric utilities to help Colorado reach our carbon reduction targets and retire coal plants on schedule.

• Require that coal plants still in operation use modern pollution controls to reduce emissions and help Colorado reach clean energy targets.

In addition to informing consumers about the cost impacts of keeping coal plants open past their retirement date, this law will also allow utility companies to use securitization as a financing tool if it lowers costs for ratepayers. This would include refinanced debt or long-term, low-interest bonds on large-scale projects to help lower costs for ratepayers now. 

To reduce pollution, this law will require the Air Quality Control Commission to issue a rule to set limits on the emission of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) from coal-fired power plants, unless those plants have retired or converted to burn a fuel other than coal. HB26-1226 also requires operators to submit quarterly emissions reports showing compliance and the associated costs beginning in 2034, which the commission must make available to the public. 

Last December, the Trump administration issued a 202(c) emergency order to keep an aging coal-fired power plant in Craig operating, despite the plant's scheduled retirement in late 2025. The Colorado Attorney General and environmental groups challenged this unprecedented order.

Additionally, the owners of the coal power plant, Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, and the Platte River Power Authority filed a formal petition asking the U.S. Department of Energy to reconsider to “find a more effective and affordable path forward, one that will not delay retirement of Craig Unit 1.” In March, the Trump administration issued a second order, further extending coal burning at Craig until at least June, which is estimated to cost almost $80 million annually.

JOINT RELEASE: ICYMI: Governor Polis Signs Bill to Modernize, Improve Higher Education Funding Formula

HB26-1345 will make updates to the performance model funding to capture Colorado’s entire student body, including part-time and transfer students

DENVER, CO — Governor Jared Polis on June 4 signed bipartisan legislation to modernize Colorado’s higher education funding model to meet the needs of Colorado students, including those from diverse and underserved backgrounds and non-traditional students.

“Higher education is foundational in Colorado, and I dream of a day when we can drive more dollars to Colorado’s colleges and universities. However, until that day, we must distribute the funds we have in a way that best meets the needs of Colorado students and our workforce,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “Based on recommendations by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education working group, our law modernizes the funding formula to foster high-quality education. Whether they’re part-time or transfer students, we’re making sure the modern-day student has the tools they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.”

“Higher education looks different today than it has in years past, with more students taking a nontraditional path, transferring between schools, and going to school part-time,” said Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver. “Schools are adapting to this new reality and our funding model should adapt too. Coloradans of all ages and backgrounds deserve a higher education system that works for them, and that includes part time and transfer students.” 

“Part-time students make up 55 percent of Colorado’s higher education student body, but they’re not accurately accounted for in the current funding formula,” said Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial. “This law lays the groundwork for a modernized and improved higher education funding formula that will better meet the needs of Colorado students, including transfer and part-time students. We’ve taken bold steps to reimagine education funding in Colorado, and this law is another step toward our shared mission to drive funding to the students who need it the most.”

HB26-1345 will implement changes to higher education funding as recommended by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education’s 2025 Report on the Higher Education Funding Allocation Formula. Also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, the law aims to streamline and modernize higher education data systems and definitions to better meet the needs of Colorado’s student body, including part-time and transfer students. 

One component of higher education funding uses a results-informed funding model, and beginning in fiscal year 2027-2028, HB26-1345 will make modifications to this model by:  

Expanding qualified transfers: The current formula does not recognize four-year transfers as a successful touchpoint, despite 45 percent of Colorado students transferring between schools at least one time. This law will expand qualifying transfers to include those from four-year institutions who transfer to another higher education institution with at least 18 credits earned at the previous institution. Without this modification, only students who earn 18 credits and transfer out of a community college will be counted in the credential completion weights.

Prioritizing part-time students: 55 percent of Colorado’s higher education students attend classes part-time, but they are not included in any outcome measurements. This law will create an inclusive retention rate that measures both part-time and full-time students. 

Modernizing graduation calculations: Collaborative programs, including the Bridge and Partnership programs, allow students to complete their degree in a field of study that is not offered by their home institution. However, this can skew the graduation calculations at their home campus. This law will exclude students who are enrolled in a co-located degree partnership to ensure this population does not negatively impact the graduation calculations of their home campus. 

Streamlining formula definitions and data sources: The law will clean up language and definitions in the current formula to make it more streamlined and clear for higher education institutions and policymakers. Specifically, HB26-1345 will make formula “levers” consistent, predictable, and focused on student-centered performance. Additionally, this law will standardize data sources by transitioning the calculation of retention and graduation rates to the Department of Higher Education’s data system. To respond to shifts at the federal level, this law will also change the definition of “Pell-eligible” student to “Pell-recipient” to ensure that this metric remains consistent.

ICYMI: SIGNED! Tax Credits to Boost Jobs, Clean Energy, Wildfire Mitigation

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, legislation sponsored by Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Representatives Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County, and Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, to update Colorado’s tax code was signed into law.

HB26-1289 will modernize and simplify the tax code by eliminating ineffective or unnecessary special tax exemptions and deductions to expand and extend tax credits for food access, wildfire and beetle kill mitigation, job creation, and investments in clean energy. This new law will make Colorado’s tax code more consistent and efficient.

"Our tax laws must be continually reviewed and updated to make sure they are working for Coloradans," said Weissman. “Particularly as federal law changes in recent years have negatively impacted Colorado, we must use this moment as an opportunity to revise or eliminate ineffective tax laws, continue or extend those that work, and make sure our tax laws work in service of our bigger goals of supporting working people, saving Coloradans money on energy, and managing wildfire risk. At the end of the day, tightening up ineffective tax laws to continue impactful tax credits for working families is an easy choice."

“When Trump’s H.R. 1 slashed tax credits for working families, we knew we needed to step up and support everyday hardworking Coloradans,” said García. “Our law cleans up our tax code to continue tax credits for food, wildfire mitigation and economic development. Without this law, families could face food insecurity and locally operated farms could miss out on important tax credits that help them feed their communities.” 

“We’re making necessary changes to create a tax code that focuses on hardworking Coloradans, affordability and climate resilience,” said Brown. “Our law repeals tax loopholes and tax breaks to strengthen our economy and provide tax credits to small businesses, renewable energy and economic development to lower costs for consumers and businesses. While Congressional Republicans put corporations first, Colorado Democrats are finding every opportunity to simplify Colorado’s tax code to create jobs, fund essential services and save hardworking Coloradans and small businesses money.”

HB26-1289 will eliminate ineffective tax exemptions for purchases regarding space flight and vendor discounts for cigarettes, nicotine, and tobacco products.

It will also make 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,

• Expanding the Wildfire Mitigation Tax Credit, allowing it to be carried forward to count against future tax liability, and broadening eligibility to boost wildfire mitigation efforts, and

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

JOINT RELEASE: Tamale Act Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO — Governor Jared Polis today signed the Tamale Act to allow the sale of temperature-controlled homemade foods in Colorado.

“Growing up, I watched my abuela and mom sell delicious homemade food to make ends meet, and this law is an entrepreneur’s dream realized,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “The Tamale Act makes it possible for Coloradans to sell safe, temperature-controlled foods, like tamales and burritos, with fewer barriers. We know that many immigrant families are looking for new, creative ways to earn money while navigating the Trump Administration's harsh policies, and our law will open doors. The Tamale Act is a win for home chefs, and I know it will make all the difference to people like my abuela.” 

“People already sell prepared food – like tamales, pupusas, and baked goods – to their friends, family, and neighbors,” said Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “This is a way that Coloradans share their culture, support each other, and work hard to earn extra money and support their families. This law creates a pathway for this to happen in a safe and legal way.”

The Tamale Act (HB26-1033) will allow for the sale of homemade foods in Colorado that require refrigeration and foods that include meat or meat products. To keep Coloradans safe, homemade food sellers must complete a food safety course that includes proper food handling, including time and temperature control. Food sellers must maintain proof of the course completion. Additionally, food sellers may not transport the food more than once or transport it longer than two hours. The Tamale Act is also sponsored by Representative Ryan Gonzalez, R-Greeley and Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling.

In 2012, Colorado passed the Cottage Food Act. This law allowed for the sale of some homemade food items, including coffee beans and pickles, but not temperature-controlled items or meat and dairy products. HB26-1033 expands the Cottage Food Act so home food sellers can sell products that include staple ingredients, such as butter, milk and meat. 

The Institute for Justice (IJ) analyzed data from seven states with some of the broadest homemade food laws and found no significant instances of foodborne illness traced back to homemade foods. In the report, IJ stated these results should not be surprising considering “many of these cottage food businesses are run by only one or two people, with their name, reputation, and livelihood on the line.”

JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Establish Guardrails for AI in Healthcare Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, the Governor signed legislation sponsored by Senators Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Representatives Gretchen Rydin, D-Littleton, and Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, to ensure patients’ continued access to mental healthcare provided by a licensed human professional. 

“No AI-generated algorithm can replace the expertise, nuance, and connection that human healthcare professionals utilize to treat their patients,” Mullica said. “With this new law, we’re establishing necessary guardrails to ensure proper access to quality care for those who need it most.”

“Without input or oversight from a licensed professional, AI chatbots can be mistaken for legitimate therapy. This practice is dangerous for patients, which is why we passed this law to ensure Coloradans are protected and informed,” said Rydin. “This new law establishes reasonable protective measures on AI use in mental and behavioral health care, including prohibiting the use of AI to independently provide therapy to a patient. Licensed professionals are still allowed to use AI for administrative purposes, but clinical treatment and psychotherapy must be administered by a licensed provider.”

“As policymakers, we cannot let chatbots, several of which are currently facing major lawsuits due to wrongful and horrifying deaths, replace certified mental health providers,” Amabile said. “Some AI models serve as bad actors claiming to offer low-cost care – but this new law puts guardrails in place to ensure patients receive the quality, human care they deserve.”

“Colorado patients deserve access to real, human-centered care,” said Mabrey. “This timely law sets up important guardrails for AI use in mental and behavioral health care. AI chatbots are biased, unlicensed tools and they should not be used for therapy and treatment recommendations without oversight and transparency. With this bill now law, we’re protecting patients while still allowing providers to take advantage of AI tools for administrative tasks.”

HB26-1195 sets standards in clinical settings, limiting the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to administrative tasks with oversight by a licensed professional. Providers must disclose the use of AI for supplementary support, such as recording or transcribing meetings. To ensure patients receive legitimate behavioral healthcare, this new law makes sure that psychotherapy is human-delivered by a licensed professional, such as a social worker, psychologist or addiction counselor. 

To protect consumers and ensure access to quality care, this legislation will prohibit AI chatbots from being marketed to patients as equivalent to a licensed psychotherapist or counselor. AI chatbots would also be barred from implying patient input is covered by commonplace confidentiality protections like HIPAA. 

In 2025, researchers at Stanford University recommended that Large Language Models (LLMs), which power AI chatbots, “should not replace therapists.” Additionally, researchers concluded that “LLMs express stigma toward those with mental health conditions and respond inappropriately to certain common (and critical) conditions.” 

Top AI companies, including OpenAI, Google, and Character.AI, are all facing lawsuits from families after AI chatbots recommended suicide to a person seeking behavioral health advice or support. Last year, parents of children who died by suicide testified before Congress, stating AI chatbots discouraged their teens from seeking support.

JOINT RELEASE: Bill to Make Property Insurance More Affordable Signed Into Law

Hail damage accounts for up to 54 percent of annual homeowners insurance premiums

DENVER, CO – The Governor today signed into law legislation to drive down homeowners insurance premiums and prevent damage from hailstorms, windstorms and other extreme weather events.

SB26-155, sponsored by Senators Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and Representative Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, will help stabilize Colorado’s homeowners insurance market and make property insurance more affordable through the creation of a grant program to fortify roofs against costly wind and hail damage.

"This law is about saving Coloradans money and preventing costly hail and wind damage that raises prices for everyone," said Mullica. “Homeowners insurance premiums have skyrocketed in recent years, squeezing household budgets and costing families thousands each year. This law is a commonsense approach to reduce costs and make Colorado homes more resilient and disaster-ready for years to come.”

“Our law will save Coloradans money on their property insurance premiums, protect homes from damage, and make our communities more resilient to extreme weather events,” said McCluskie. “Years ago, we created the FAIR Plan to offer property insurance of last resort to Coloradans who live in areas at-risk of wildfires and other natural disasters. As climate change creates increasingly damaging hailstorms, all homeowners pay the price. This law helps prevent property damage from hail and wind storms to save all homeowners money on their insurance premiums.”

“Hardening homes against hail and wind doesn’t just protect the family inside, it lowers costs for every policyholder in the state,” said Marchman. “Colorado ranks in the top 10 most expensive homeowners insurance markets and hail is driving more than half of premiums in communities like mine. If we are serious about affordability, we have to be serious about reducing the losses that are pushing rates up. This law does that.“

“This law could save homeowners hundreds of dollars on their property insurance and prevent costly property damage,” said Brown. “Climate change has escalated the threat of natural disasters, especially storms with baseball-sized hail that can easily break windows and destroy roofs. By making our communities more resilient to wind and hail destruction, we can stabilize Colorado’s homeowners insurance market, lowering property insurance costs for Coloradans.”

SB26-155 creates the Strengthen Colorado Homes Enterprise in the Division of Insurance to implement a grant program to help homeowners fortify their roofs against wind and hailstorms. The Enterprise will collect a fee from insurers that offer multiperil homeowners insurance policies and use the revenue to provide grants to homeowners to retrofit residential properties with resilient roof systems. The Enterprise will be governed by a seven-member board that includes the Colorado Insurance Commissioner, experts in home hardening, and members to represent the interests of insurers, industry experts, consumers, and counties. 

Beginning in 2027, the insurer fee imposed and collected by the Enterprise will be an amount equal to 0.5 percent of the total premium collected by an insurer on multiperil homeowners insurance policies in the preceding calendar year. The insurer may not add a surcharge to policyholders. An insurer offering multiperil homeowners insurance in the state will be required to demonstrate in their rate filings that savings from the installation of resilient roof systems are passed through to homeowners through discounts or reduced premiums on their insurance policies.

Additionally, the law requires the Enterprise and the Division of Insurance to conduct a study to analyze insurance risk in high-risk wildfire areas of the state. The study will include an analysis of market competition in high-risk wildfire areas, the impact of a high-risk program on potential losses, and the availability of homeowners insurance in those areas.

Colorado homeowners insurance rates are some of the highest in the nation and have doubled from 2020 to 2025. The Division of Insurance recently found that hail damage accounts for an average of 26 percent to 54 percent of an annual homeowners insurance premium and that hail mitigation has the potential to save consumers an average of $82 to $387 per year.

JOINT RELEASE: ICYMI: Mobile Home Park Protections Bill Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, legislation to make mobile home park sales more fair and transparent was signed into law.

HB26-1224, sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, House Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, and Representative Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, strengthens Colorado’s Mobile Home Park Act (MHPA) to ensure that residents have a fair chance to purchase the land underneath their mobile home. 

“This legislation builds upon years of work to level the playing field for mobile home park residents who often own their home but not the land beneath it,” said Cutter. “We’ve implemented laws to help residents join together to purchase their parks, keeping costs down and creating opportunities for stability and ownership. This new law adds additional measures to facilitate residents’ ability to purchase their park when it goes up for sale.” 

“Mobile home residents are uniquely vulnerable to displacement, which is why we passed this law to strengthen protections for residents to prevent housing instability,” said Velasco. “Mobile homes are one of the most common affordable housing options we have in Colorado, especially on the Western Slope. This law builds on our work to protect mobile home residents and create opportunities for them to build generational wealth by bolstering resident protections and improving disclosure and notice requirements. This will help give residents the time and information they need to present a strong bid to purchase the park, preserving existing affordable housing.”

“I've seen firsthand the opportunity for residents to purchase their mobile home park in action in my district – and it's transformational for preserving affordable, local housing,” said Roberts. “This new law ensures that more residents in our state will have the time and information they need to make that decision, including operating costs and financial disclosures, and adds new protections to prevent families from losing their home. It continues upon years of work to keep mobile home parks – which provide essential affordable housing – in the hands of our communities.”

“Mobile home parks are a great source of unsubsidized affordable housing, and it is crucial that we protect this resource for hardworking Coloradans to bring down housing costs,” said Boesenecker. “Colorado Democrats have passed key protections for mobile home residents in recent years, but residents are still struggling to compete against better-resourced external buyers when presented with the opportunity to purchase the park. This law ensures that mobile home residents have a fair shot at buying the mobile home park that they live in, which will help maintain affordable housing options for low- and middle-income Coloradans.”

Beginning January 1, 2027, the law will give residents at least 90 days to conduct inspections and protect residents who negotiate in good faith. The law will ban anti-competitive practices that inflate prices above market value to make it harder for residents to purchase the mobile home park.

HB26-1224 will improve transparency by requiring a landlord to disclose documentation upon request of a mobile home resident to justify the list price of the property, the age and history of major infrastructure on the property, rental information and operating expenses. Upon request, the law will also require a landlord to disclose any financial ties to potential buyers of the property and any agreements between the landlord and the potential buyer.

To prevent evictions and keep housing costs down, the law will:

• Ensure that residents receive notice when a park owner is temporarily prohibited from raising lot rents;

• Require evictions to be based on an official government finding of a violated law, ordinance, or rule, not just an informal claim; and

• Limit the amount of the annual MHPA registration fee that can be passed onto homeowners.

In 2020, the legislature passed a law to create a pathway for mobile home park residents to join together to purchase the land under their communities. Democrats have also passed laws to improve water quality in mobile home parks, strengthen tenant protections, improve language accessibility for important park notices and meetings and clarify the conditions of a sale of mobile homes and parks. The legislature also passed a bill this session, also sponsored by Senator Cutter and Representative Velasco, to strengthen water quality protections for Coloradans in mobile home parks.

JOINT RELEASE: ICYMI: Signed! Legislation to Boost Utility Assistance

SB26-002 will improve access to energy assistance programs

DENVER, CO – Yesterday, the Governor signed into law legislation to standardize and improve energy assistance programs to ensure Coloradans have access to affordable, reliable energy. 

SB26-002, sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, Senator Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, and Representatives Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, and Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs, requires all investor-owned gas and electric utilities in Colorado to have a standardized framework for energy assistance programs known as Percentage of Income Payment Plans (PIPP). 

“No one should be spending an exorbitant amount of their income on utilities,” said Kipp. “Colorado families face difficult choices every month between rent, groceries, bills, and all the unexpected expenses life throws their way. This law is about ensuring that Coloradans who need energy assistance are able to access these programs in a simple, efficient way no matter what part of the state they live in or who provides their utilities.”

“No one should have to choose between keeping the lights on and going to the doctor,” said Willford. “By standardizing utility assistance, ratepayers can easily find and apply for these essential programs. We’re taking steps to make Colorado a more affordable place to call home, and this law streamlines energy assistance programs so those who qualify can receive it.” 

“Every Colorado family should be able to keep the lights on and keep their home safe and functioning without breaking the bank,” said Exum. “The purpose behind this law has never wavered – to bring down energy bills for families who need it. This law standardizes utility assistance programs, increases their visibility, and simplifies the application process so that more Coloradans can benefit.”

“The application for energy assistance programs needs to be accessible, simple and standardized to save Coloradans time and money,” said Velasco. “Coloradans who qualify for energy assistance programs should be able to take advantage of these programs without unnecessary barriers. The demand for energy assistance programs hasn’t dropped, and our law makes necessary modifications to energy assistance programs to save Coloradans money on utility bills.” 

SB26-002 requires utilities to clearly post information about eligibility criteria and enrollment processes for the PIPP program on their websites and standardizes the name of PIPP programs across all investor-owned utilities to reduce confusion for customers. 

Under the new law, customers will be allowed to apply directly with their utility for the program, rather than having to first enroll in another assistance program. Utilities will determine an annual bill credit for the customer delivered either as an up-front annual credit or a monthly credit on their utility bill. To improve and expedite the application experience, utilities must inform applicants within 30 days whether they have been approved or denied for PIPP and the reason why. The programs will be under the oversight of the Public Utilities Commission, to which utilities must submit an annual report about their PIPP program.

JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Support Victims’ Families After Deadly Use of Force by Law Enforcement Signed Into Law

DENVER, CO – Today legislation sponsored by Senate President James Coleman, D-Denver, Senator Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, House Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, and Representative Regina English, D-Colorado Springs, to support victims’ families after deadly use of force by law enforcement was signed into law. 

“In the immediate aftermath of a loss caused by deadly use of force, families are often left trying to understand what happened and who is responsible for answering their questions,” said Coleman. “This new law is about how we respond in those moments, both in how we inform families and how we communicate with the public. This legislation is a step toward clarity. It ensures that families are informed, that information is accessible, and that communication is responsible.”

“This law is about accountability, transparency and how we handle the aftermath of a police-related death,” said Bacon. “We are updating and modifying how body camera footage is shared with the families of those who have died at the hands of the police. I am proud to have worked on this law with impacted families who pushed for us to create a better system for families in their pursuit of justice.”

“Senate Bill 190 establishes baseline requirements for how information must be shared with impacted family members when they have lost a loved one in a police use of force incident,” said Weissman. “This law will ensure that families navigating an extremely complicated system during an acutely painful time in their lives are provided with clear information about an investigation before it becomes broadly available for public access. At its core, this legislation is about responding to community concerns, supporting victims' families and providing clarification in moments that are often defined by confusion.”

“Families deserve timely access to information when their loved one dies due to lethal force by a law enforcement officer, which is why I sponsored this new law,” said English. “Families should never have to figure out how to navigate the justice system on their own, especially as they mourn the loss of a loved one. This law creates a clear and consistent framework for how information is shared with families and communities and ensures that families are quickly notified after a deadly incident.”

Currently, video and audio recordings depicting incidents of peace officer misconduct that result in death must be provided upon request to a victim’s family. SB26-190 establishes a clear, consistent framework for how information is shared following a peace officer’s use of force that results in death, regardless of whether the incident received a complaint of misconduct.

The new law will require law enforcement to try to identify a victim’s immediate family. The law will also require law enforcement to notify known family members of the agencies involved in an investigation, as well as the status of an investigation, within 24 hours of the incident. 

SB26-190 will also ensure that family members have the right to obtain video and audio recordings of an incident within a 21 day timeframe, which they may decline, and that victims’ families receive video and audio recordings before they are available for public access.

JOINT RELEASE: Bill to Bolster Protections for Victims of Domestic Violence Becomes Law

DENVER, CO - Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation into law that will require lethality assessments to be conducted when law enforcement responds to domestic violence incidents to better protect survivors from harm.

“We’re giving law enforcement more tools to identify domestic violence to remove survivors from danger and connect them with life-saving resources,” said Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. “As a survivor, I know that lethality assessments can be the lifeline that helps a domestic violence survivor escape their abuser. This new law will improve public safety across Colorado and promote the use of additional tools to protect Coloradans from danger.”

“This law ensures law enforcement takes extra care to identify those at highest risk of death or serious injury by domestic violence and connects them with resources that can save their life,” said Senator Katie Wallace, D-Longmont. “I spent six years working in domestic violence prevention and intervention. Lethality assessments are an evidence-based tool that can prevent the worst outcomes before it’s too late.”

HB26-1009, also sponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, and Representative Ryan Gonzalez, R-Greeley, creates the Colorado Mandatory Lethality Assessment Act to support survivors of domestic violence and keep Colorado communities safe.

Beginning July 1, 2027, the law requires police officers responding to a domestic violence case to conduct a “lethality assessment” and include the results in their incident report. This assessment is an evidence-based screening tool that helps identify the likelihood of serious injuries or death, including questions about whether the abuser has a history of abuse and if the abuser has ever threatened to use or has used a weapon to harm them. If the findings from the lethality assessment indicate that the survivor is at-risk of harm, law enforcement will immediately reach out to a community-based victim advocate and offer the victim an opportunity to speak with them. The law also requires the Attorney General’s office to create a mandatory training for law enforcement officers to learn how to administer the assessment.

Majority Leader Duran has spearheaded pivotal legislation supporting survivors, including laws to funnel $54 million annually to crime victim and behavioral health programs, invest $48 million toward life-saving access to critical resources, programs, and support to victims of crime, including domestic violence and increasing safety by strengthening protections around civil protection orders. 

JOINT RELEASE: ICYMI: Polis Signs Bill to Strengthen AI Guardrails in Healthcare

HB26-1139 ensures patients’ continued access to healthcare provided by a human, licensed professional.

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis yesterday signed legislation to establish necessary requirements for artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. HB26-1139 will ensure a human oversight of critical insurance coverage determinations. 

“No matter your zip code or income level, you deserve human-centered health care,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder. “This important law establishes necessary requirements for the professional use of AI systems in health insurance coverage determinations. We are ensuring important decisions, especially denials, are not made solely based on group data. Technology is advancing rapidly, and we’re stepping up to safeguard Coloradans’ access to equitable health care determinations that reflect their individual circumstances.” 

"Coloradans are being denied coverage for life-saving healthcare by AI without human oversight. Healthcare is a deeply personal, subjective matter, and it is inhumane to allow machine intelligence to make decisions that can dramatically impact a person's life," said Sen. Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. "HB26-1139 ensures that a real person is involved in these critical decisions."

“Under our law, AI can be used to expedite approvals in health care coverage, but it cannot be used exclusively to deny coverage,” said Rep. Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton. “Health care is nuanced, and every patient deserves to have their case reviewed by a licensed human, professional. We’re stepping up to ensure AI is responsibly used to make health care decisions that keep Coloradans safe and healthy.”

“Healthcare and coverage decisions should be made by patients and their doctors, not algorithms,” said Sen. Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada. “This new law is an important step toward ensuring fairness and transparency in important and sensitive healthcare contexts.”

HB26-1139 will establish important requirements for entities using AI systems in insurance coverage decisions, to ensure transparency, accountability, and individualized determinations that are subject to human oversight. Under this law, if an AI system recommends denying coverage for a patient, the final decision must come from a qualified human after review. To protect patients against algorithmic bias, decisions to deny healthcare coverage must be based on an individual’s medical history and clinical circumstances, not solely on group data that falls short of an individual’s unique needs. 

JOINT RELEASE: Signed! Bills to Protect Patient Access to Medication and Boost Support for Rural EMS

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills into law that will create a healthier, safer Colorado. 

HB26-1262 will protect Colorado’s drug compounding laws to ensure patients’ continued access to individualized prescription medication. HB26-1069 will save Coloradans money on healthcare and support Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers, especially in rural and underserved communities.

“These new laws work to safeguard life-saving healthcare in rural communities,” said Rep. Katie Stewart, D-Durango, sponsor of HB26-1262 and HB26-1069. “Patients in Southwest Colorado are already feeling the effects of federal restrictions on compounding, and this law creates clear protections so health care providers can continue to administer individualized medication across the state. With this law, we’re making sure compounding pharmacies can continue to operate. When I worked as an EMT in Southwest Colorado, we provided on-site care to many patients, but EMS was not reimbursed for those calls when we did not transport the patient to the emergency room. Our new law saves patients money and supports EMS workers by eliminating the need to flood the emergency room with non-emergent cases, freeing up EMS so they can continue to provide essential care to our communities.” 

“Hospitals, dental offices, and behavioral healthcare clinics across Colorado rely on compounding to provide their patients with individualized doses and custom formulations of the medicine they need,” said Sen. Matt Ball, D-Denver, sponsor of HB26-1262. “This law resolves the uncertainty caused by recent court decisions by establishing consistent, clear rules so compounding can continue safely in Colorado. We’re protecting patient access to medication made specifically for them at the right strength, form, and ingredient combination that they need.”

“From allergies to smaller dosages, there are many reasons health care professionals utilize compounding to meet the needs of patients," said Rep. Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood, sponsor of HB26-1262. “This law codifies compounding rules and regulations in state law to ensure that patients can continue accessing individualized medication at an affordable cost. Our legislation protects health care professionals' ability to treat patients' safety through compounded medications.” 

“This bill protects longstanding practices that help lower prescription drug costs and ensure access to customized medications tailored to patients’ needs, especially when those treatments aren’t commercially available,” said Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, sponsor of HB26-1262. “Compounding is particularly critical in rural Colorado where care can be difficult to access. This law provides clarity for patients and providers, safeguards access to essential medicine Coloradans rely on, and keeps compounding practices under the oversight of state health and safety standards.” 

HB26-1262 safeguards Colorado’s compounding rules by aligning state and federal standards. This law provides necessary clarity in state law to protect the longstanding compounding practices used across hospitals, clinics and local pharmacies. Concentrated albuterol, a medication used to treat severe bronchospasms, asthma, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), is created in a Colorado compounding facility that serves patients nationwide.

Conflicting decisions by the Ninth and Fifth Circuit Courts have created uncertainty around the definition and regulation of compounding for our state and the cross-country patients that rely on Colorado. This law establishes clear statutory language surrounding compounding, ensuring Colorado can safely continue best practices that have guided compounding for decades.

HB26-1069 will save patients and the state money on healthcare and sustain EMS in rural communities. 

“EMS shows up to every call they receive, but only get reimbursed when they transport patients to the emergency room,” said Rep. Lisa Feret, D-Arvada, sponsor of HB26-1069. “By reimbursing for treatment in place and transport to a non-emergent setting, we save patients time and Colorado taxpayers money. This law will provide additional resources to emergency response providers while saving both hospitals, health plans and consumers money and freeing up emergency room beds for those who truly need it."

“As an emergency healthcare provider, I know that our EMS workers must have every tool at their disposal to provide care in-the-moment, and they should be reimbursed for that care,” said Sen. Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, sponsor of HB26-1069. “This law will lower costs for patients, reduce overall healthcare spending, and close funding gaps so EMS can continue providing the life-saving care Colorado communities rely on.” 

EMS providers regularly provide essential on-site treatment, also known as treatment in place (TIP), which costs significantly less than a trip to the emergency room. However, under current law, EMS providers are only reimbursed if they transport a patient to an emergency room, even when that transport is not necessary. This new law, also sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, will require Medicaid to reimburse EMS for TIP. It will also improve access to care by allowing Medicaid to reimburse for certain telehealth care involving EMS.

TIP limits the need for costly emergency room visits, saving the state and patients money on healthcare. For example, a federal TIP pilot program showed a 193-percent cost-to-savings ratio for Medicare members receiving TIP services instead of emergency room visits. On the Western Slope, a 2022 analysis of 911 calls in Eagle County revealed that TIP reimbursement accounted for a preliminary cost savings of $1,285.40 to the state per TIP call. 

HB26-1069 also ensures that social workers who co-respond in emergency settings are classified as first responders and receive the same benefits as EMS providers, which will strengthen workforce recruitment and retention, especially in rural or underserved areas.