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< Back July 11, 2020 JOINT RELEASE: WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTIONS SIGNED INTO LAW Denver, CO — Governor Jared Polis today signed new legislation into law to help Colorado safely reopen by protecting workers from retaliation when they report workplace safety concerns. The bill was sponsored by Representatives Leslie Herod and Tom Sullivan, and Senators Brittany Pettersen and Robert Rodriguez. “With ongoing COVID-19 outbreaks at workplaces in our state, we must empower workers to speak up to protect themselves and their colleagues,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “No one should be fired in Colorado for doing their part to help our state safely reopen or for protecting customers, workers or students from unsafe conditions.” “People need to feel safe going to their employers about workplace safety concerns,” said Sen. Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood. “Unfortunately during the COVID outbreak, too many workers experienced retaliation when they spoke up. This new law will ensure that all Coloradans can return to work safely without being forced to choose between risking their life or losing their job.” “If we don’t keep our workforce safe, then more Coloradans will fall sick, and our economic recovery will leave behind those who are struggling the most,” said Rep. Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial. “These whistleblower protections will help Coloradans stay safe at work, give employees the essential right to wear a mask and keep our economic recovery on track by reducing the number and frequency of COVID-19 outbreaks.” “In order for Colorado to continue safely reopening, we must ensure that workers’ voices are heard,” said Sen. Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver. “Businesses need to take seriously the concerns raised by their employees and not dismiss or punish those who come forward. This law will protect Coloradans and promote transparency and receptivity in the workplace. ” Until now, Colorado has had few state-level whistleblower protections, relying primarily on the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which can take years to process retaliation claims. HB20-1415 protects Colorado workers from retaliation when they raise concerns about the health and safety of their workplace to their employer, fellow coworkers, the public, or government agencies. The vast majority of businesses are being responsible and are working to keep people safe during this pandemic, but there are workers who have been fired simply because they raised concerns about safety procedures in their workplace. The new law grants workers the right to wear protective equipment, such as masks, to work, and it requires employers to inform employees of their rights to blow the whistle on unsafe conditions. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment will manage implementation and investigate complaints. Previous Next

< Back April 3, 2019 DRIVER’S LICENSE EXPANSION PROGRAM RECEIVES BIPARTISAN HOUSE COMMITTEE APPROVAL Many members of agricultural workforce are forced to drive 600 miles for one of few appointments available (Apr. 3) – The House Transportation and Local Government committee approved a bill sponsored by Rep. Rochelle Galindo, D-Greeley, and Rep. Jonathan Singer, D-Longmont, which would expand on SB13-251, a program that provides driver’s licenses to all Colorado residents, regardless of immigration status. There are currently only four appointment offices that grant these driver’s licenses in the state. “In 2013, the legislature took the right steps towards better making our roads safer and protecting the public,” said Rep. Galindo. “Agriculture is an economic driver and employs many of our friends and families. This program is necessary to the health and wealth of our community and ensures we have more resources available to empower our workers while keeping our roads safe.” Without transportation, people have more difficulty finding jobs and keeping them, especially in the agricultural sector, where mass transit options are often limited. This is a problem not only for the farm workers but also for their employers. SB19-139 carries out the full intent of the 2013 law by establishing appointment offices in rural areas to ensure that Colorado farmers have the workforce they need. It will require the Department of Revenue to issue these types of driver’s licenses at 10 or more offices across the state. “Among other things, this bill will also improve the safety of our roads,” said Rep. Singer. “By providing the proper testing, training and insurance, it will improve the safety of our public and our roads.” Rep. Singer is a co-prime sponsor of SB18-108 which removed obstacles that have restricted access to a program launched in 2013 to provide driver’s licenses to all Colorado residents, regardless of immigration status. The self-funded program gives all drivers the opportunity to prove that they are qualified to get behind the wheel and allows them to obtain insurance. SB19-139 will ensure rural communities and agricultural workers can access driver’s licenses in all four corners of the state. It will also help to increase the size of the workforce of local businesses, specifically in the agricultural industry. The bill passed the House Transportation and Local Government committee with a bipartisan vote of 8-3. It now heads to the House Appropriations committee. Previous Next

< Back May 4, 2021 KENNEDY’S BROADBAND EXPANSION BILL ADVANCES The House Transportation and Local Government Committee today advanced a bill to help close the digital divide and fund broadband development throughout the state. This bill is part of the Colorado Comeback state stimulus , a package of legislation that will invest roughly $800 million into helping Colorado recover faster and build back stronger. The bill passed by a vote of 9-1. “Access to quality internet was already a basic necessity well before COVID made us transition to online work, school, telehealth, and more,” said Rep. Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “Today we seized a unique opportunity to leverage state dollars to help bridge the digital divide and increase access to reliable internet across the state. This bill is good for businesses, good for students, good for rural Colorado and good for a sustainable economic recovery.” HB21-1289 creates the Colorado Broadband Office and grant programs in various departments to support broadband infrastructure development. It provides $75M to increase internet access across Colorado through the deployment of devices, and the development of middle and last mile infrastructure to support services that have become a necessity during the pandemic, like telehealth. The bill specifically includes $20M for broadband deployment by the Ute Mountain and Southern Ute Tribes. Previous Next

< Back May 12, 2022 JOINT RELEASE: LEGISLATURE TACKLES AFFORDABILITY, CRIME, AND EDUCATION Democrats faced Republican obstruction to laws that protect abortion rights and defend Colorado’s democracy DENVER, CO – The Second Session of the 73rd General Assembly adjourned today with lawmakers passing legislation to save people and businesses money, build a safer and healthier Colorado, and prepare students for success. Democrats codified abortion rights and passed critical legislation to protect Colorado’s election systems from insider threats. The legislature also passed bipartisan, comprehensive legislation to combat the fentanyl crisis and save lives. Of the bills passed this session, 93 percent received bipartisan support on final passage. “We came into this session focused on saving people money, improving public safety and preparing our students for success, and that’s exactly what we did,” said Speaker Alec Garnett, D-Denver. “We put money back into people’s pockets with early refund checks of at least $500 and $1000, established free universal preschool that will save families thousands, and we made transformational investments to build more homes and save people money on housing. Addressing one of the most pressing challenges our communities face, we passed bipartisan, comprehensive legislation on fentanyl that will deploy proven public health strategies and crack down on dealers to get this deadly poison off our streets and save lives. I am very proud of all we have accomplished for the people of Colorado.” “Our work over the past 120 days has culminated in transformational progress for Colorado. In addition to making historic investments in Colorado’s behavioral health system and addressing the affordable housing crisis, we also tackled the existential problems facing our state,” said President Steve Fenberg D-Boulder. “We passed critical legislation to bolster wildfire mitigation and prevention efforts ahead of what could be the most dangerous wildfire season we’ve ever seen. Additionally, we are bringing down transportation and industrial emissions, cleaning up our air, and building a healthier and safer Colorado for all.” “From saving people money on property taxes to creating affordable pathways for students to earn degrees, I’m so proud of what we were able to accomplish this session for Southern Colorado and communities across our state. We significantly increased funding for K-12 public schools that districts can use to raise teacher pay, reduce class sizes, and improve education outcomes for students,” said Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “We went into this session knowing we had to protect the right to an abortion, and with the Supreme Court on the cusp of ripping away rights we’ve had for over 50 years, I’m proud that we passed the Reproductive Health Equity Act to ensure abortion remains safe and legal in Colorado.” “We started this legislative session with a once in a lifetime chance to transform the lives of Coloradans and meet the needs of our growing state,” said Senate Majority Leader Dominick Moreno, D–Commerce City. “This session, we passed policies to help Colorado recover from the pandemic and uplift our economy, support our working families, and help folks save money on everyday essentials like gas and groceries. We also made important strides to fix our broken behavioral health system to ensure Coloradans can access the care they need and deserve. I’m incredibly proud of the work we did this session to move our state forward and create lasting change that will benefit Colorado families for generations to come.” Saving People Money Tax Relief and Cashback for Individuals and Families: Democrats passed legislation to save the average homeowner $274 on their property taxes ( SB22-238 ); provide advanced tax refunds this summer to every Colorado resident ( SB22-233 ); help families and workers take advantage of tax reforms to save $180 million this year through the expanded earned income tax credit and child tax credit ( SB22-182 ); and save homeowners money on wildfire mitigation ( HB22-1007 ). Tax Relief for Businesses: Democrats are providing $700 million in property tax relief over the next two years for businesses and homeowners ( SB22-238 ); eliminating fees to start your own business ( HB22-1001 ); allowing restaurants to keep $40 million of the sales tax they collect ( HB22-1406 ); making sales tax filing easier ( SB22-006 ); and replenishing the unemployment insurance trust fund to save businesses money and protect this important assistance for workers ( SB22-234 ). Saving People Money on Housing: Democrats are saving Coloradans money on housing by investing $428 million in pandemic relief funds to preserve and construct new affordable housing. This funding will go toward loans to leverage private and local dollars to construct affordable homes; direct grants to nonprofits and local governments to build affordable homes; investments in middle-income housing; and innovative housing solutions such as modular homes. ( HB22-1304 , SB22-159 , SB22-160 , SB22-146 , HB22-1282 ). Additionally, Democrats extended the Colorado Affordable Housing Tax Credit for an additional 7 years, providing $420 million in additional tax credits over the next decade ( HB22-1051 ), fostered economic mobility among mobile home park residents ( HB22-1287 ), and protected veterans and active military members from housing discrimination ( HB22-1102 ). Increasing Behavioral Health Care Access: Democrats passed legislation to expand access to behavioral health care and save people money on the treatment they need to support their health and well-being. This $450 million package expands access to critical services for adults, youth, and families; increases access to substance use disorder treatment; bolsters the behavioral health workforce; and adds desperately needed residential treatment beds. ( HB22-1281 , HB22-1303 , HB22-1283 , SB22-196 , HB22-1302 , SB22-147 , SB22-148 , SB22-181 , SB22-177 ). Democrats also passed a landmark bill ( HB22-1278 ) to streamline and improve access to Colorado’s behavioral health system. Child Care and Free Universal Preschool: Democrats passed legislation this session to help child care providers save money and stay open ( HB22-1006 , SB22-213 ) and create free universal preschool for every Colorado family that will help parents get back to work and save families thousands of dollars ( HB22-1295 ). Democrats saved people money everywhere we could, including on: gas and car registrations ( HB22-1351 , HB22-1254 ): groceries ( HB22-1380 ): hygiene products and diapers ( HB22-1055 ): drivers license renewals ( HB22-1004 ): professional fees and licensure renewals ( HB22-1298 , HB22-1299 , HB22-1005 ): college tuition and apprenticeships ( HB22-1350 , HB22-1155 , SB22-192 , SB22-226 , SB22-003 ): and student loan forgiveness for educators and behavioral health care professionals ( SB22-181 , HB22-1220 ). Improving Public Safety and Preventing Crime Community Safety Investment Act and Safer Streets Act: The Community Safety Investment Act ( SB22-145 ) invests $30 million to implement proven public safety strategies like co-responder models, violence interrupter programs, and support for recruiting and training law enforcement who reflect the communities they serve. The Safer Streets Act ( SB22-001 ) helps communities make critical improvements to cut down on crime and improve public safety through neighborhood upgrades, such as better lighting to increase visibility and improved design of shared community spaces. HB22-1003 invests $2 million in projects that demonstrate an evidence- and community-based response to reducing youth involvement in the juvenile justice system. Preventing Catalytic Converter Theft: SB22-009 cuts down on catalytic converter thefts by giving state regulators more oversight of aftermarket sales of catalytic converters and making it easier to prosecute those selling stolen ones. SB22-179 adds civil penalties for offenses related to catalytic converter theft, while HB22-1217 creates a grant program to increase public awareness around catalytic converter theft and provide financial assistance to victims. Supporting Victims and Preventing Identity-Based Violence: HB22-1234 creates a grant program to prevent and respond to identity-based violence; SB22-049 updates the Victim Rights Act to make it easier for victims to navigate the criminal justice system and bring perpetrators to justice; and HB22-1243 invests $14 million to improve school security and increase student access to behavioral health care in public schools. Preparing Students for Success Major Increase in K-12 Education Funding: The 2022 School Finance Act increases funding for K-12 public schools by nearly $550 per student on average to put more resources directly into classrooms that school districts can use to increase teacher pay, reduce class sizes and ensure students have what they need to thrive. State support for K-12 education will increase by $431 million to $8.4 billion, reducing the Budget Stabilization Factor to the lowest level since it was created. Boosting Funding for Higher Education: The 2022 state budget increases funding for institutions of higher education. As tuition rises across the country, the budget saves students money by investing state dollars to keep tuition down. With an investment of $129 million, we are boosting financial aid and tuition assistance to save Colorado students and families money on their degrees. Creating More Affordable Pathways to Degrees, Certificates and Successful Careers: Democrats passed legislation to to invest $91 million in regional talent development initiatives to better align postsecondary credential programs to help workers fill good jobs in growing industries ( HB22-1350 ); and expand stackable credential pathways to help Coloradans seeking to further their education or switch careers get the affordable training and credentials they need to land jobs in high-demand industries ( SB22-192 ). Combating the Fentanyl Crisis and Saving Lives The legislature passed HB22-1326 , the Fentanyl Accountability and Prevention Act, a comprehensive approach to combat the fentanyl crisis. The bill deploys both proven public health-focused strategies and enhanced criminal penalties targeting dealers to keep fentanyl off Colorado streets and save lives. The bill strengthens criminal penalties on any individual distributing fentanyl, directs $29 million in federal pandemic relief funds to expand access to proven public health tools like the life-saving opioid antagonist Narcan as well as fentanyl test strips, and integrates mandatory substance use disorder (SUD) assessments and treatment into the state’s sentencing process to get people into treatment and recovery services. Protecting Abortion Rights and Access As reproductive rights face imminent threats at the Supreme Court and across the country, Colorado took bold action to pass the Reproductive Health Equity Act ( HB22-1279 ),protecting reproductive rights and establishing a fundamental right to choose to continue a pregnancy and give birth, or to have an abortion. Improving Air Quality and Addressing the Climate Crisis Historic Air Quality Investments: Democrats made a record $111million investment to improve Colorado’s air quality through immediate emission reduction strategies and air quality monitoring ( HB22-1362 ), deploy clean transportation initiatives such as electric-powered school buses and e-bike sharing programs, and incentivize the reduction of emissions ( SB22-193 ). Protections From Air Toxics: Toxic air pollution leads to poor health and higher risks for disease and cancer. Democrats passed legislation to reduce toxic pollution from harmful chemicals by establishing health-based air quality standards for hazardous air pollutants ( HB22-1244 ). Seasonal Free Public Transit: Democrats invested $10 million in the Revitalizing Main Streets grant program for communities to provide free transit rides during ozone season, which will improve air quality through increased use of public transit ( SB22-180 ). Preventing and Responding to Wildfires Wildfire Mitigation Resources for Homeowners, Local Governments and Volunteer Firefighters: Democrats passed legislation to invest $10 million in a matching grant program to help local governments fund sustainable forest management and wildfire mitigation efforts ( HB22-1011 ); extend a current income tax deduction and create a new state income tax credit for wildfire mitigation expenses up to $625 per year ( HB22-1007 ); allocate $7.2 million into wildfire mitigation grant programs ( HB22-1012 ); and expand wildfire mitigation outreach and awareness campaigns ( SB22-007 ). Another $5 million investment ensures local volunteer fire departments have the resources to purchase necessary equipment, provide training and behavioral health care services to firefighters and respond safely to wildfires ( SB22-002) . Disaster Preparedness & Recovery and Insurance Coverage for Fire Disasters: The legislature invested $35 million to help individuals, businesses, and governments rebuild after disaster emergencies; allocated $15.5 million for improved wildfire fighting aviation resources and maintenance of a statewide fire dispatch center; and created the Office of Climate Preparedness in Colorado to better prepare for and respond to future disasters ( SB22-206 ). Democrats also passed legislation to ensure that homeowners displaced by declared wildfire disasters receive a fair payout from their insurance companies ( HB22-1111 ). Defending Colorado’s Gold Standard Elections Colorado Election Security Act: Colorado sets the national standard when it comes to holding free, fair, and secure elections. Democrats passed SB22-153 to further improve internal election security by prohibiting anyone from serving as an election official if they have been convicted of any election offense or any offense or conspiracy to commit sedition, insurrection, treason, or conspiracy to overthrow the government, among other measures. SB22-153 also prohibits election officials or candidates from physically tampering with voting equipment, and from having access to or being present in a room with voting equipment without being accompanied by one or more persons with authorized access. Addressing Homelessness Transformational Statewide Grant Program: This $105 million grant program directs flexible funding to local governments and nonprofits that are pursuing innovative measures to address the needs of individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Those initiatives may include wraparound supportive services, care coordination, emergency shelters, transitional housing, permanent supportive housing and property conversion ( HB22-1377 ). Denver-Metro Residential Services Campus and Ridge View Supportive Community Campus: These bills allocated $50 million for partnerships between the state, local governments and nonprofits in the Denver-Metro area to build or acquire and manage a regional campus to comprehensively respond to and prevent homelessness. ( HB22-1378 ). SB22-211 repurposes Ridge View, a currently unused, state-owned facility, into a recovery-oriented community to help individuals without stable housing access services for mental health and substance use disorder treatment. ( SB22-211 ). Empowering Colorado’s County Workers Landmark Bill to Expand Collective Bargaining Rights: SB22-230 builds upon the state workers bill from 2020 to extend collective bargaining rights to county workers. This bill gives public service workers who choose to form a union a seat at the table to collectively bargain on issues like working conditions, job safety, pay and benefits, and to collaborate with management to address shared challenges like staff shortages, retention issues, and improving public services. Previous Next

The House Transportation, Housing & Local Government Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Representatives Junie Joseph and Rebekah Stewart to improve accessibility in new and renovated buildings and facilities for Coloradans with disabilities. HB25-1030 passed by a vote of 9-3. < Back January 29, 2025 Committee Passes Bill to Boost Building Accessibility for Coloradans with Disabilities DENVER, CO - The House Transportation, Housing & Local Government Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Representatives Junie Joseph and Rebekah Stewart to improve accessibility in new and renovated buildings and facilities for Coloradans with disabilities. HB25-1030 passed by a vote of 9-3. “The Americans with Disabilities Act has helped make our world more accessible to people with disabilities, but unfortunately patchwork building codes have allowed some new and renovated buildings to forgo accessibility features that Coloradans rely on,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder. “As Colorado’s skyline continues to change and expand to accommodate our growing population, it’s important that we pass this bill to make it clear that buildings must meet accessibility requirements so people with disabilities are afforded equal access and mobility opportunities in buildings and facilities.” “Features like ramps and audio announcements are necessary tools that allow Coloradans with disabilities to be independent and able to engage with their communities, and our bill would ensure that more buildings incorporate these tools,” said Rep. Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood. “We’re making it easier for Coloradans with disabilities to benefit from the laws we’ve passed that make housing, schools, and other buildings more inclusive for all.” Beginning January 1, 2026, HB25-1030 would require local governments that adopt or amend a building code and public schools and health facilities that substantially amend a building code to ensure that they meet or exceed the accessibility standards set by the International Building Code and existing laws. The State Housing Board would also be required to meet or exceed these standards when it comes to substantial updates to uniform construction and maintenance standards for hotels, motels, and multiple dwellings in jurisdictions with no local building code. Colorado Democrats have championed many laws in recent years to break down accessibility barriers for Coloradans with disabilities, including creating the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office to implement a statewide strategy to promote successful economic, social, and community integration. Previous Next

Today, a new chapter in community advocacy and political representation begins with the launch of the Joint MENASA & Muslim Caucus. This groundbreaking initiative, led by Colorado state representative Iman Jodeh, the first Muslim and first Palestinian American elected to the Colorado legislature, aims to elevate the voices of Middle Eastern, North African, South Asian (MENASA), and Muslim communities within Colorado and beyond. < Back November 19, 2024 Representative Iman Jodeh and Representative-Elect Yara Zokaie Announce the Launch of the Joint MENASA & Muslim Caucus to Advocate for Middle Eastern, Southwest Asian, North African, South Asian, and Muslim American Communities Denver, CO — November 19, 2024 — Today, a new chapter in community advocacy and political representation begins with the launch of the Joint MENASA & Muslim Caucus. This groundbreaking initiative, led by Colorado state representative Iman Jodeh, the first Muslim and first Palestinian American elected to the Colorado legislature, aims to elevate the voices of Middle Eastern, North African, South Asian (MENASA), and Muslim communities within Colorado and beyond. Representative Jodeh will be joined by Representative-Elect Yara Zokaie, the first Iranian American elected to the Colorado legislature. In its mission, the Joint MENASA & Muslim Caucus is committed to protecting civil rights and combating xenophobia and Islamophobia by advocating for equity through legislation, collective action, public engagement, and amplified representation. They will work to advance interests and address the unique challenges of the diverse heritages and religions within Middle Eastern, North African, South Asian, and Muslim communities in Colorado, promoting justice and inclusion for all. “This past year and an impending Trump administration has underscored the need to create a united caucus that ensures our community’s representation and presence is elevated and has an uncompromising agency at the Capitol,” said Representative Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora . “We are dedicated to advancing and guaranteeing accurate representation of the diverse MENASA population, including groups beyond Muslims, such as Sikh, Baháʼí, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, and Catholic minorities. These communities also face anti-Arab and anti-Brown hate crimes, xenophobia, and discrimination. Our region and population are unique because we are forced to identify primarily through religious narratives rather than our unified identities. It is time to challenge this monolithic framing. By amplifying representation and advocating for equity, we aim not only to protect the rights of our communities but also to champion initiatives that foster justice, inclusion, and unity.” Representative Jodeh joined the Black Democratic Legislative Caucus in 2020 when she was elected to her first term. “The Black Caucus has given me a home over the past four years that gave me a sense of belonging when I was the only. My time in the Black caucus has been invaluable and one I will carry with me. I am committed to continue to work closely with them and all allied caucus,” said Representative Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “I brought Iman into the Black Caucus because we were all fighting for our communities, regardless of ethnicity. She brought a wealth of knowledge to the caucus, and I know she will still advocate for the Black community,” said Senator Janet Buckner, ranking member of the Black Caucus . “It has been a pleasure to serve with Rep. Jodeh as a member of the BDLC,” said Representative Jennifer Bacon, Chair of the Colorado Democratic Black Caucus. “She joined us as a place of support as she represents a district (Aurora) and an intersectional community (Muslim and Arab) critical for the Black Caucus to uplift. We hope that we served as a place of learning as we wish her success in creating and sustaining the Joint MENASA and Muslim Caucus.” “Growing up as the daughter of immigrants, I understand firsthand the importance of community support in navigating adversity,” said Representative-elect Yara Zokaie. “Through the caucus, we aim to extend that support and bring meaningful change to our communities. With the approaching Trump presidency, it is more important than ever for our communities to have fierce advocates and mount a proactive and comprehensive defense. Should Trump attempt to reinstate a Muslim ban, we will be ready to put protections in place. We are committed to being a voice for the voiceless and amplifying the perspectives of those who so often go unheard as we fight in solidarity for a more just and equitable society. It’s a privilege to stand alongside Representative Jodeh to make a difference.” “Representative Jodeh has been an incredible advocate for her community and has worked tirelessly to pass critical legislation,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “I am excited to see her continue her leadership in the capitol with the creation of this new caucus, and it is a privilege to welcome Representative-elect Zokaie to the House. Our caucus reflects the diversity of our state, and policy making in the legislature is strengthened because of our affinity caucuses. I know the Joint MENASA & Muslim Caucus will be an important resource for lawmakers.” The Joint MENASA & Muslim Caucus has partnered with East Meets West , a non-partisan, non-secular, not-for-profit organization that mobilizes and champions MENASA and SWANASA artists, leaders, and companies. Alongside their partners, they have been an integral part of having MENA included in the upcoming U.S. Census and have built the largest standing Membership Collective and Coalition in history to support MENASA/SWANASA artists, leaders, and companies. East Meets West Senior Advisor Serina Khan expressed their support for this collaboration, saying, “We are so grateful to have partnered with Representative Jodeh and Representative-Elect Zokaie to launch this first-of-its-kind caucus and welcome more communities to join us to support our marginalized and often underrepresented and misrepresented community. Now more than ever, it is time to build new tables with unlimited seating alongside individuals and groups who share our values.” About Iman Jodeh Iman Jodeh, was elected in 2020 as the first Muslim and first Palestinian American. She is a first-generation American and has called Colorado, specifically HD41, her home her entire life. Iman is the first female Spokesperson for the Colorado Muslim Society, the largest and oldest mosque in the Rocky Mountain region, and the founder of Meet the Middle East, a non-profit that fosters relationships between the US and the Middle East through education and immersive travel. She also spent years lecturing about the Palestinian-Israeli conflict at the University of Denver Enrichment Program. She has passed legislation like medical debt forgiveness, eviction protections, and access to affordable medications. Notably, she also passed landmark legislation establishing the Office of New Americans in Colorado and the Colorado Option, the largest health insurance bill in Colorado’s history. About Yara Zokaie Representative-Elect Yara Zokaie will soon become the first Iranian American sworn into the Colorado State Legislature. Zokaie is a dedicated public servant and accomplished tax attorney, currently serving as Chief Deputy Assessor for Larimer County. She has consistently advocated for transparency, equity, and economic justice in her work. Notably, she successfully organized a community to help pass a paid family leave program in Colorado. About East Meets West East Meets West is a non-partisan, non-secular, not-for-profit organization founded in October 2023 in response to the rise of anti-Arab, anti-MENASA/SWANASA, islamophobia, anti-semitism, and anti-sikh hate crimes. East Meets West fosters a community that mobilizes, invests, and spotlights Middle Eastern, SouthWest Asian, North African, and South Asian creators, leaders & companies. They have been building the largest Membership Collective and Coalition to lead narrative change and socio-economic empowerment for the MENASA/SWANASA community. Their programming and initiatives include launching safe spaces at major film festivals and business conferences and launching business accelerators and talent pipeline programs across the entertainment, technology, and commerce industry. They have been a vital driver behind MENA being added to the upcoming 2030 U.S. Census. As well as launching MENASA/SWANASA Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) at Fortune 500 companies. 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< Back September 15, 2020 ESGAR NAMED ALLIANCE’S LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR PUEBLO, CO– Today, on Tuesday, September 15 at 1:30 PM, Representative Daneya Esgar will be awarded Alliance’s Legislator of the Year Award during a ceremony held at Pueblo Diversified Industries. She will be recognized for her “consistent and thoughtful leadership to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families.” Alliance members voted unanimously to present her with this award, citing her work on attempting to end the IDD waitlist, her sponsorship of the 2020 IDD Awareness Day Tribute, and her efforts to ensure that crucial programs, like the Children’s Extensive Supports and Supported Living Services waivers, were fully funded through a difficult budget year. In advance of receiving the award, Representative Esgar released the following statement. “I am immensely proud and truly humbled to be receiving this award today,” said Rep. Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families have been at the forefront of my mind since I became a policymaker. This was a difficult year for all of our budget priorities, and while I’m proud of the work we did to maintain crucial funding for many programs that benefit the IDD community, I know that we have a great deal of work left to do. Receiving this award has only invigorated me to continue my partnership with Alliance and our work to improve the lives of countless Coloradans living with disabilities.” Alliance is a nonprofit, statewide association of Community Centered Boards (CCBs) and Program Approved Services Agencies (PASAs) that is dedicated to strengthening services and supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Alliance members provide services to over 20,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Colorado and employ thousands of people to support them in every Colorado community. Visit their website: www.alliancecolorado.org Previous Next

< Back February 16, 2019 COMPREHENSIVE SEXUAL EDUCATION BILL MOVING THROUGH HOUSE Bill to allow students to access the skills and information they need to keep themselves & their peers safe approved on second reading (Feb. 15) – The House approved Rep. Susan Lontine and Rep. Yadira Caraveo’s bill on second reading to expand the content in the comprehensive sexual education that many students in Colorado already receive. This bill does not require schools to teach sex education, however, existing law requires that if they do provide sex education it must be comprehensive. The bill adds consent, defining a healthy relationship, and sexual orientation to the current standards. “Colorado’s students deserve access to age-appropriate, accurate and comprehensive information regarding sex education to keep themselves and their classmates healthy and safe,” said Rep. Lontine, D-Denver. “It’s important that students are taught about consent at a young age so they can advocate for themselves.” Colorado does not have a mandatory sex education requirement. However, existing law does provide a set of standards if school decides to teach about sex education. This bill would increase the ranges of topics to include birth control and pregnancy, abstinence, STD prevention, consent, healthy relationships and sexual orientation. “As a doctor in a clinic, I only have the ability to affect one child and one life at a time,” said Rep. Caraveo, D-Denver . “Schools have the ability to improve the health of hundreds of kids at a time through the ability to provide comprehensive sex ed that will prevent countless young people from facing life altering illnesses or unplanned pregnancies.” This bill would also allocate $1 million in funds to an existing grant program administered by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for teaching comprehensive sex education. Rural schools and public schools that do not have the resources to offer sex education will be prioritized for receiving this grant money. Some of the common misconceptions about this legislation are around the opt-out options already in place, the content around LGBTQ inclusion, and the definition of a healthy relationship. “I think about this bill and I think about all of the unnecessary hurt that this could have prevented for my mother. That if she had the opportunity in school for somebody to talk to her about healthy relationships, to answer questions about what she was going through. To show her that she’s normal – that nothing is wrong with her – . what could that have done for her?” said Rep, Kyle Mullica, D- Northglenn during a moving speech on the House floor. “And I think about what this bill can do for our LGBTQ students today and the unnecessary pain that it can prevent today.” House Republicans attempted to sabotage this bill on the House floor by introducing a number of politically charged amendments that would have gutted the bill and reflected how out of step they are with everyday Coloradans and students. The bill was approved in an initial House floor vote 35-20 and now will need to be approved by a recorded vote on third reading in the House. ATTACHED: Headshots of Rep. Lontine, Rep. Caraveo and Rep. Mullica ### About the Colorado General Assembly House Democrats Colorado’s 65-member House of Representatives includes 41 Democrats. For current and past House proceedings, go to Comcast Channel 165 or coloradochannel.net . Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/COHouseDems , on Twitter @COHouseDem , and on Instagram @COHouseDemocrats or visit our website at cohousedems.com Previous Next

< Back June 8, 2022 JOINT RELEASE: GOVERNOR SIGNS BILL TO SAVE SENIORS $100 MILLION ON HOUSING 140,000 Colorado seniors can now claim new refundable tax credit for housing DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed HB22-1205 , which will save seniors money on housing by creating a temporary new income tax credit. “Coloradans are feeling the pressures of rising costs from pandemic-induced inflation, supply chain challenges and rising gas prices, so we made saving people money our top priority this session,” said Rep. Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood. “We reduced property taxes, made record investments to bring down the cost of housing, and passed legislation to put more money into people’s pockets. With this law, 140,000 low-income Colorado seniors save $100 million on housing. This will cut taxes and directly boost the incomes of older Coloradans who rent their homes or haven’t owned them long enough to qualify for the senior homestead exemption.” “This year we took important steps to alleviate the pressure many families are facing due to pandemic-induced inflation and the rising cost of living, and this new law is a key component of that progress,” said Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver . “This measure will save older Coloradans millions of dollars on housing, make Colorado a more affordable place to live, and ensure seniors can remain in the communities they have called home for years.” “This new law will put $100 million back into seniors’ pockets, save seniors money on housing, and help vulnerable Coloradans afford the rising cost of living in our state,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora. “With so many Coloradans facing rent increases, higher property taxes, or an unaffordable home market, we passed a package of bills this session to save people money on housing. In addition to the new tax credit signed into law today, Governor Polis has signed bills into law to reduce property taxes by $274 on average and direct $428 million in federal funds to build more affordable homes, develop middle-income housing, and construct innovative and modular homes.” “Rising housing costs are putting folks all across Colorado in a bind, and it’s hitting those on fixed incomes, like many seniors, especially hard,” said Senator James Coleman, D-Denver. “This new law will give those folks immediate relief by creating a new tax break that will save thousands of Colorado money on housing and help them stay in their homes and their communities.” HB22-1205 , sponsored by Representatives Chris Kennedy and Mike Weissman and Senators Chris Hansen and James Coleman, will save Colorado seniors over $100 million on their housing costs by creating a new refundable income tax credit. Seniors with incomes under $75,000 who have not claimed the senior homestead exemption will be eligible for the tax credit through their 2022 income tax returns. The credit starts at $1,000 for taxpayers with incomes below $25,000 and phases out slowly by $10 for every $500 of income above $25,000. Because the credit is refundable, taxpayers will receive the benefit even if the credit exceeds their tax liability. According to the bill’s fiscal note prepared by nonpartisan staff, nearly 60,000 Coloradans will receive the full $1,000 credit, and up to 77,000 additional Coloradans will see tax relief under the law. The chart below from the bill’s fiscal note shows the tax credit amount as it phases out by income level. Previous Next

< Back June 3, 2019 GOV SIGNS EXUM’S BIPARTISAN BILL TO PROTECT HEALTH OF FIREFIGHTERS AND MCLACHLAN’S BILL TO COMBAT WILDFIRES (Jun 3) – Governor Polis signed two bills today that protect firefighters and help combat wildfires and protect public safety. Rep. Tony Exum’s bipartisan bill, which was unanimously passed out of the House, looks to protect firefighters from the dangerous impacts of the manmade Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFA) which is used regularly in the profession. “As a former battalion chief, we often used the material during training and this toxic material increased the health concerns of my fellow firefighters,” said Rep. Exum, D-Colorado Springs. “When we used this material, it would frequently contaminate the drinking water of the surrounding communities. This is a long overdue step that we can take to protect our courageous firefighters who fight for us and protect the health of people in our communities.” PFA substances are used to battle high-heat fires. The EPA has deemed this material toxic as it stays in the body for two to seven years upon exposure. HB19-1279 prohibits the use of PFA during firefighting training exercises and includes a fine for compliance failure. The money collected from these fines would go to the Local Firefighters Safety and Disease Prevention Fund. Finally, it also created the Firefighters Foams and Personal Protection Equipment Act, which prohibits the use of PFAs, requires companies to inform consumers if their equipment has been treated with this hazardous material and requires the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment (CDPHE) to conduct surveys to learn if any stations are using this material. Rep. Barbara McLachlan’s bill to help combat wildfires was also signed today by the Governor. “Wildfire season is fast approaching,” said Rep. McLachlan, D-Durango. “Implementing a system to patrol the airspace above the fires will give our firefighters the tools they need to keep our homes, communities and themselves safe.” SB19-020 directs the Center of Excellence (COE) to study and implement a system to patrol the airspace above a wildland fire. The COE was created under SB14-164 in the Division of Fire Prevention and Control in the Dept. of Public Safety. Its mission is to protect Colordoans, land and resources in Colorado by researching, testing and evaluating existing and new technologie that support sustainable effective and efficient aerial fighting techniques. Detection of drones is currently limited to visual observation which poses challenges during a wildland fire. Previous Next

On August 7, two laws to support rural health care and increase the availability of telehealth services in rural and underserved areas will go into effect. < Back August 2, 2024 New Laws to Support Rural Health Care, Increase Availability of Telehealth Services Go Into Effect DENVER, CO – On August 7, two laws to support rural health care and increase the availability of telehealth services in rural and underserved areas will go into effect. SB24-055 , sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Representative Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, improves access to behavioral health care in rural Colorado by creating a new Agricultural and Rural Community Behavioral Health program that will work to better connect farmers, ranchers, and their families to behavioral health care. The program will partner with the Behavioral Health Administration, Colorado Department of Agriculture, and stakeholders to work directly with behavioral health care providers and liaisons to provide support to agricultural industry workers and communities throughout Colorado. “Colorado’s farmers, ranchers, and their families are struggling to get the behavioral health care they urgently need, and the results have been disastrous,” said Marchman. “Everyone deserves to have behavioral health care created by and for their own communities. This new law will bolster our ongoing efforts to close the rural mental health gap, and ultimately help save lives across our state.” “Coloradans living in rural and mountain communities, like mine, deserve access to high-quality health care – including mental and behavioral health care,” said Lukens. “We’re taking steps to expand mental health care support for our farmers and ranchers in their communities. Mental health matters in every corner of our state, and this new law will improve access, outreach, and connection for our farmers and ranchers to receive the behavioral health care they need.” Also sponsored by Senator Perry Will, R-New Castle and Representative Anthony Hartsook, R-Parker, SB24-055 establishes a working group and centralizes existing grant programs within the Colorado Department of Agriculture to better address the root causes of behavioral health issues in rural and agricultural communities. Farmers, ranchers and those in the agriculture industry currently rank fourth in the state for the highest suicide rate. This law aims to connect farmers and ranchers with tailored behavioral health care resources. Sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, Speaker of the House Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and Representative Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, SB24-168 d irects the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to reimburse the use of telehealth remote monitoring for outpatient services for Medicaid patients and provide coverage for continuous glucose monitoring devices. Also sponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa, the new law creates a grant program to assist rural and shortage area providers in obtaining remote telehealth monitoring equipment. Funds from the grant program could also be used for training staff on utilizing remote monitoring equipment. “Expanding access to health care is critical, especially in our rural and mountain communities,” said McCluskie. “Members of my family live with diabetes, and continuous glucose monitors have made living with this disease better for all of us and ensured strong health outcomes for my husband. To help ensure everyone has access to the health care they need when they need it, our law works to expand and encourage telehealth options. This new law also establishes a grant program to help our hospitals and providers implement telehealth technology and better serve our community members.” “Coloradans in my district know firsthand how challenging and expensive it can be to access critical health care services,” said Roberts. “During my time in the legislature, I’ve worked hard to deliver high-quality, affordable health care services to underserved and rural areas and this law expands access to remote health services and continuous glucose monitors, which have proven to be successful at ensuring patients receive the right care, at the right place, at the right time and save so much money in the long-run.” “For many of the residents living in my district, the nearest hospital is miles and miles away, making it hard to receive high-quality health care when they need it,” said Martinez. “This law expands telehealth services into rural and underserved communities like mine so everyone can access the treatment and care needed to live a healthy life. Our bipartisan law also creates a rural-specific grant program to help our health care providers locate and implement telehealth remote monitoring technology in their practice.” Previous Next

< Back February 6, 2019 HOUSE PASSES TIPPER & KENNEDY’S BILL TO ENSURE LOCAL CONTROL FOR SALE OF NICOTINE PRODUCTS (Feb. 6) – The House passed a bill today sponsored by Representative Kerry Tipper, D-Lakewood and Representative Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood to allow local governments to make their own decision regarding the licensing, taxation and assessing of fees for tobacco products. “We should restore local control and give communities the tools they need to address the epidemic of teen vaping head on,” said Rep. Tipper. “Colorado leads the nation in teen vaping. This is the canary in the coal mine. If we don’t do something now, we will have a generation of folks to answer to.” In January of this year, the American Lung Association released the State of Tobacco Control report and gave Colorado an “F” grade for its low taxes on nicotine products like traditional and e-cigarettes. “The ultimate goal of this bill is to acknowledge the teen vaping epidemic. Twenty-six percent of high school student use e-cigs, which is the highest in nation,” said Rep. Kennedy. “Teens using e-cigs make them six times more likely to smoke actual cigarettes in their lives, which we know is a major health risk.” Colorado tobacco taxes are lower than most other states. The American Lung Association also gave a “D” grade for Colorado’s funding for state tobacco prevention programs. The report found the state is spending only half the amount the Center for Disease Control recommends on prevention programs. HB19-1033 passed the House floor by a vote of 38-26. The bill now heads to the Senate. Previous Next