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HB25-1239 will expand protections under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act < Back May 22, 2025 Governor Signs Legislation to Strengthen the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act HB25-1239 will expand protections under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act DENVER, CO - Governor Polis today signed a new law to strengthen Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws. HB25-1239 , sponsored by Senators Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, and Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, and Representatives Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins, and Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, will expand protections under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) to protect vulnerable communities, especially Coloradans with disabilities. “People with disabilities should have the same rights to seek damages after experiencing discrimination as any other protected group,” said Weissman. “This bill ensures that people with disabilities can be compensated for attorney fees, emotional distress, and other noneconomic harms if they experience discrimination or violation of their civil rights.” “Under threat from the Trump Administration, it’s more important now than ever that we strengthen Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws,” said Zokaie. “When someone is wronged, we have a duty to create a pathway to justice. With this new law, we’re upholding our shared values of fairness, dignity, and equality under Colorado law and better protecting Coloradans who experience discrimination.” “The cost of hiring an attorney prevents many Coloradans from pursuing justice after facing discrimination,” said Daugherty. “People with disabilities who are denied housing or turned away from public spaces deserve a clear path to hold wrongdoers accountable and access the support they need to move forward.” “This law addresses unreasonable deadlines, barriers to financial compensation and other gaps in the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act to strengthen protections for Coloradans who experience discrimination,” said Boesenecker. “From housing discrimination to inaccessible building entrances, Coloradans with disabilities have faced barriers to access for far too long. This law provides crucial recourse to people with disabilities and other victims of discrimination to ensure they can receive the justice they deserve.” This law comes from a task force established by the legislature in 2023 to study the rights of Coloradans with disabilities and make recommendations. HB25-1239 is the largest expansion of CADA enforcement rights since CADA was passed nearly 70 years ago. This new law will allow victims of discrimination to receive monetary compensation for unfair housing practices, discrimination in places of public accommodation, or a violation of their civil rights under the CADA for all protected classes. Under the law, victims will be able to recover attorney’s fees and costs, and either recovery of actual monetary damages, non-economic damages of up to $50,000, or a statutory fine of $5,000 per violation per aggrieved party. Awards for damages for non-economic loss or injury will be limited to $50,000. A defendant will be entitled to a 50 percent reduction of the amount of the non-economic loss or injury if the defendant corrects the violation within 30 days of the complaint and did not knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly cause the violation. Previous Next

The House today passed legislation sponsored by Representatives Regina English and Junie Joseph that would make certain civil legal services more accessible and affordable to Coloradans. The bill passed by a vote of 62-2. < Back March 4, 2024 Legal Representation Equity Bill Advances in House DENVER, CO - The House today passed legislation sponsored by Representatives Regina English and Junie Joseph that would make certain civil legal services more accessible and affordable to Coloradans. The bill passed by a vote of 62-2. “Legal services like legal separations can be costly, especially when attorney fees get added to the bill,” said Rep. Regina English, D-Colorado Springs. "Our legislation would codify into Colorado law that licensed legal paraprofessionals can perform certain civil services, making legal access more equitable for low-income Coloradans, seniors, people with disabilities, and other communities that can’t easily afford these services.” “Money should not stand in the way of someone accessing the legal services they need to move forward in life,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder. "By allowing licensed legal paraprofessionals to practice a limited scope of law, our legislation ensures that more Coloradans, regardless of their economic status, can access legal representation for important life-changing matters.” In March 2023, the Colorado Supreme Court adopted a rule change that would allow legal paraprofessionals to apply for a license enabling them to represent clients in some civil matters. HB24-1291 would codify the regulation of licensed legal paraprofessionals into Colorado law. Under the bill, a licensed legal paraprofessional would be able to represent a client in: A legal separation, declaration of invalidity of marriage, or dissolution of marriage or civil union, A matter involving the establishment or modification of child support or maintenance, Seeking, modifying, or terminating a civil protection order, A name change, and A request to amend a birth certificate to change the sex designation of an adult. Previous Next

Legislation to increase access to educator pathways and boost student success and wellbeing goes into effect on August 6. < Back July 24, 2025 JOINT RELEASE: Bills to Address Teacher Shortage, Create Universal Dyslexia Screenings & Implement Trauma-Informed Practices in Schools Go Into Effect DENVER, CO – Legislation to increase access to educator pathways and boost student success and wellbeing goes into effect on August 6. SB25-154 , sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins, and Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial, will address Colorado’s teacher shortage by expanding access to educator pathways. “As a former school board member and district volunteer, I know that students and educators, especially in rural communities, are hurting as a result of a shortage of teachers,” said Kipp. “This law will give aspiring educators more opportunities to pursue a career in teaching, helping students and teachers alike succeed in Colorado schools.” "In Colorado, we're focused on addressing the educator shortage and intervening early to provide students with the support they need to succeed in the classroom," said Hamrick. "Our law, going into effect soon, will create more pathways for educators to teach in areas facing more severe shortages, such as special education and early childhood education. Additionally, the implementation of universal dyslexia screening in Colorado schools will help ensure our elementary students receive the support, resources and tools they need to thrive." SB25-154 , also sponsored by Rep. Matt Soper, R-Delta, will amend and clarify assessment requirements for currently licensed educators to obtain endorsements in early childhood special education, elementary education, early childhood education, and special education. This law will also allow candidates to demonstrate their qualifications in multiple ways. Additionally, SB25-154 will permit currently licensed teachers to teach subjects that may face even steeper shortages, like special education, without extensive barriers. To expand opportunities for low-income students to pursue a career in education, the law will also open more pathways for students to attend state universities that offer certain courses at a community college tuition rate. SB25-200 is also sponsored by Reps. Hamrick and Soper as well as Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton. This new law will require schools to either adopt a universal dyslexia screening tool or develop a process to identify students in early elementary grades who exhibit characteristics of dyslexia by the 2027-2028 school year, adding to existing reading interventions in the Colorado READ Act . If evidence of a reading deficiency is assessed, then teachers are required to discuss this with parents. The law also allows schools to implement individualized readiness plans for students with a reading deficiency. “Supporting students with dyslexia requires a different approach than supporting those with general reading challenges – they need specific tools to succeed,” said Kolker. “The vast majority of other states already require universal dyslexia screenings, and with this law, Colorado is stepping up. Early intervention is everything, and every child deserves the opportunity to succeed with the right information and support.” “My ‘why’ for this bill is my amazing daughter, who has dyslexia,” said Mullica. “Even as a family actively involved in her education, we struggled to get her the support she needed to thrive. The screenings schools currently use for reading challenges don’t go far enough, and one-size-fits-all interventions simply don’t work. By implementing universal, early dyslexia screenings through this law, we can ensure that no child – regardless of their background or circumstance – falls through the cracks.” According to the Colorado Department of Education, dyslexia affects about 15 to 20 percent of the population, making it the most commonly diagnosed learning disability. Early intervention for dyslexia significantly improves educational outcomes. Before this law, Colorado was one of only seven states that did not mandate screenings for dyslexia. Finally, SB25-027 , sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Rep. Ryan Gonzalez, R-Greeley, establishes a work group in the Office of School Safety within the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to develop recommendations on the use of trauma-informed practices in conducting school safety drills. "Every child deserves a supportive learning environment, especially when facing adversity," said Marchman. "This law ensures school safety drills prioritize student well-being while respecting and maintaining local control. By incorporating trauma-informed practices, we are creating a safer, more supportive space for all students to learn and thrive." "A supportive, comfortable learning environment plays a big role in how our students engage and participate in the classroom," said Joseph. "Our law aims to make safety drills in schools less stressful for students and teachers by using trauma-informed practices." Trauma-informed practices equip school personnel with knowledge and strategies to make school safety drills less traumatic and anxiety-inducing for students. The work group will meet throughout 2025 and 2026 and will be required to submit a report to the legislature containing their findings and recommendations by June 30, 2026. Previous Next

< Back April 5, 2022 BILLS TO ADDRESS COLORADO’S BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CRISIS WIN COMMITTEE APPROVAL Legislation includes more than $140 million to expand access to behavioral health care for Colorado youth and adults DENVER, CO – The House Public & Behavioral Health & Human Services Committee today unanimously passed two bills to expand access to behavioral health services for adults and youth. These bills were developed based on recommendations from the state’s Behavioral Health Transformational Task Force and will invest $140 million to build a healthier Colorado. “We’ve made it a top priority to expand access to behavioral health care, and that’s what this transformational bill will do,” said Rep. Serena Gonzales Gutierrez, D-Denver. “With these federal funds, we have a once-in a generation opportunity to significantly expand behavioral heath care and address the cries our state is facing. This legislation provides $90 million directly to local governments, nonprofits and community-based programs to expand access to behavioral health care and fill critical gaps across the state so that more Coloradans can seek the care they need to thrive.” “This transformational $90 million investment will lay the foundation for a more accessible, affordable, and inclusive system of behavioral health care in our state,” said Rep. Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora. “Our behavioral health care crisis will not be solved overnight, but with these funds, we have a unique opportunity to address some of the most pressing concerns in our state. Every community is different and has different circumstances and different needs. This bill encourages collaboration, uplifts local solutions, and ensures that funding reaches every corner of Colorado and that no community is left behind.” Community Behavioral Health Continuum of Care Gap Grants: HB22-1281 sponsored by Representatives Gonzales-Gutierrez and Naquetta Ricks, will ensure Coloradans across the state — including children, youth and families — have access to the behavioral health care they need. This bill will invest $90 million in grant funds for local governments and nonprofit organizations to implement innovative, community-based programs with the goal of filling regional gaps across the continuum of care and transforming behavioral health outcomes for families, children and youth living in Colorado. The bill passed unanimously. Previous Next

House Speaker Julie McCluskie today made committee appointments for the 75th General Assembly, including the chairs and vice chairs for the ten House committees of reference. < Back December 9, 2024 Speaker McCluskie Announces Committee Appointments DENVER, CO – House Speaker Julie McCluskie today made committee appointments for the 75th General Assembly, including the chairs and vice chairs for the ten House committees of reference. For the first time in history other than a brief period in 2022, women make up the majority of members in the Colorado legislature. “Coloradans trust Democrats to fight for what they value most, and we are proud to lead the way to make Colorado more affordable,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “I’d like to congratulate every lawmaker appointed to committee leadership positions; their experience and expertise are invaluable for our chamber. I’d also like to recognize our caucus leadership team; their commitment to expanding opportunities for members to participate in committee leadership positions reaffirms our values. House Democrats are excited to continue our work to lower costs for families, safeguard our air and water, build safer and healthier communities, and protect our future.” Elected by the House Democratic Caucus last month, the majority leadership team includes six women, five of whom are women of color. Committee structure, leadership and majority caucus appointments are made by the Speaker, and traditionally, members of the leadership team do not chair committees. House Democrats Committee Assignments for the 75th General Assembly: Agriculture, Water and Natural Resources Committee (9-4) Chair, Representative Karen McCormick, D-Longmont Vice Chair, Representative Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo Representative Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs Representative-Elect Katie Stewart, D-Durango Representative-Elect Lesley Smith, D-Boulder Representative Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora Representative Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista Representative Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs Representative Tammy Story, D-Conifer Appropriations Committee (7-4) Chair, Representative Emily Sirota, D-Denver Vice Chair, Representative Shannon Bird, D-Westminster Representative Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins Representative Brianna Titone, D-Arvada Representative Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs Representative Junie Joseph, D-Boulder Representative Karen McCormick, D-Longmont Business Affairs and Labor Committee (8-5) Chair, Representative Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora Vice Chair, Representative Steven Woodrow, D-Denver Representative Bob Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch Representative-Elect Gretchen Rydin, Littleton Representative Regina English, D-Colorado Springs Representative Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton Representative Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo Representative William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield Education Committee (8-5) Chair, Representative Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs Vice Chair, Representative Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista Representative Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial Representative-Elect Jacque Phillips, D-Thornton Representative Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver Representative-Elect Lesley Smith, D-Boulder Representative-Elect Lindsay Gilchrist, D-Denver Representative Tammy Story, D-Conifer Energy and Environment Committee (9-4) Chair, Representative Alex Valdez, D-Denver Vice Chair, Representative Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs Representative-Elect Amy Paschal, D-Colorado Springs Representative Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora Representative Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn Representative Junie Joseph, D-Boulder Representative Kyle Brown, D-Louisville Representative Manny Rutinel, D-Commerce City Representative-Elect Sean Camacho, D-Denver Finance Committee (8-5) Chair, Representative William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield Vice Chair, Representative Brianna Titone, D-Arvada Representative Bob Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch Representative Junie Joseph, D-Boulder Representative Lorena Garcia, D-Unincorporated Adams County Representative-Elect Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood Representative-Elect Sean Camacho, D-Denver Representative-Elect Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins Health and Human Services Committee (9-4) Chair, Representative Kyle Brown, D-Louisville Vice Chair, Representative Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton Representative Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial Representative-Elect Gretchen Rydin, D-Littleton Representative Karen McCormick, D-Longmont Representative-Elect Katie Stewart, D-Durango Representative-Elect Lindsay Gilchrist, D-Denver Representative-Elect Lisa Feret, D-Arvada Representative Regina English, D-Colorado Springs Judiciary Committee (7-4) Chair, Representative Javier Mabrey, D-Denver Vice Chair, Representative-Elect Michael Carter, D-Aurora Representative-Elect Cecelia Espenoza, D-Denver Representative Chad Clifford, D-Centennial Representative Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver Representative Lorena Garcia, D-Unincorporated Adams County Representative-Elect Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins State, Civic, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee (8-3) Chair, Representative Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn Vice Chair, Representative Chad Clifford, D-Centennial Representative-Elect, Cecelia Espenoza , D-Denver Representative Javier Mabrey, D-Denver Representative-Elect Lisa Feret, D-Arvada Representative Meg Froelich, D-Englewood Representative-Elect Michael Carter, D-Aurora Representative Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora Transportation, Housing and Local Government Committee (9-4) Chair, Representative Meg Froelich, D-Englewood Vice Chair, Representative-Elect Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood Representative-Elect Amy Paschal, D-Colorado Springs Representative Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins Representative Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora Representative-Elect Jacque Phillips, D-Thornton Representative Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora Representative Alex Valdez, D-Denver Representative Steven Woodrow, D-Denver Previous Next

The House today passed a bill on a preliminary vote to accelerate Colorado's clean energy transition and save consumers money on their energy bills. < Back April 14, 2023 House Advances Bill Help Reach Colorado’s Clean Energy Goals DENVER, CO – The House today passed a bill on a preliminary vote to accelerate Colorado's clean energy transition and save consumers money on their energy bills. “Colorado is leading the way on clean energy as we develop new tools to reduce dependency on fossil fuels,” said Rep. Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins. “High-efficiency appliances, including heating and plumbing fixtures, can drastically reduce your energy bill and your carbon footprint. This bill updates our state’s energy and water efficiency standards for household fixtures so Coloradans have access to the cleanest, greenest appliances and fixtures.” “This is one of many smart policies that saves Coloradans money and aids in our state’s clean energy transition,” said Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn . “This bill ensures we are stretching our precious energy and water resources as far as they can go by updating standards so consumers benefit from the latest technology and save money on utility bills. Coloradans are invested in our state’s transition to clean energy, and this bill makes it easier for them to obtain high-efficiency and cost-effective household appliances.” HB23-1161 would update energy and water efficiency and emissions standards for appliances and fixtures. This bill would make it easier for Coloradans to access the cleanest high-performance models of appliances, including heating and plumbing fixtures. HB23-1161 is part of a broader legislative package to accelerate Colorado’s clean energy transition. Previous Next

The House Finance Committee today passed legislation that would save older Coloradans money on their property taxes by making the senior homestead property tax exemption portable between primary residences. SB24-111, sponsored by Representatives Sheila Lieder and Mary Young, passed by a vote of 11-0. < Back April 18, 2024 Bill to Save Older Coloradans Money, Make Senior Homestead Property Tax Exemption Portable Passes Committee DENVER, CO - The House Finance Committee today passed legislation that would save older Coloradans money on their property taxes by making the senior homestead property tax exemption portable between primary residences. SB24-111, sponsored by Representatives Sheila Lieder and Mary Young, passed by a vote of 11-0. “Seniors typically live on a fixed income, making them especially vulnerable to property tax increases as they also juggle other rising costs,” said Rep. Sheila Lieder, D-Littleton. “The Senior Homestead Exemption is a useful tool to help Colorado seniors save money on property taxes, but current law only allows these property tax exemptions for long-term primary residences. Our legislation would make this property tax exemption portable so seniors can apply it to their new residence, so they can make housing choices that work best for their well-being and open up housing opportunities for new families looking for larger homes.” “Aging Coloradans should be able to move without risking their housing security and losing eligibility for senior property tax exemptions,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “Downsizing or moving into a single-level home is often necessary for seniors to accommodate their changing needs. This important legislation would allow Colorado seniors to continue to benefit from senior property tax exemptions if they move, saving them money while allowing them to choose housing that best fits their needs.” SB24-111 would create a new subclass of property called "qualified-senior primary residence real property" for an individual that has previously qualified for a senior homestead exemption but has moved to a new home. For this new subclass of property—qualified-senior primary residence real property—the bill sets the assessed value of the property as the actual value minus 50 percent of the first $200,000 of that actual value, which is consistent with the relief provided under the current senior homestead exemption. This bill helps provide financial sustainability and housing security to seniors who no longer qualify for the senior homestead exemption because they moved residences. In a Colorado Coalition for the Homeless report, Colorado was ranked first for housing instability for older adults. Previous Next

< Back January 24, 2022 TAX EXTENSION FOR SMALL BUSINESSES RETAILERS PASSES DENVER, CO – The House today passed bipartisan legislation that would save small business retailers money by extending the deadline for sales tax collection practices that came as a result of the Supreme Court’s decision in South Dakota v. Wayfair in 2018. The vote was 64-0. HB22-1027 extends the destination sourcing deadline from February 1, 2022 to October 1, 2022 giving Colorado small businesses more time before needing to remit sales taxes based on the buyer’s address. This bill is also the first piece of legislation to advance the House this year. “This session, we’re looking at every way we can to save Coloradans and businesses money, and that’s what this bill will do,” said Rep. Cathy Kipp D-Ft. Collins . “With the legislation we passed today, small retailers will have a nine-month extension for destination sourcing, providing them more flexibility before making the final transition later in 2022.” Last year, the Colorado Legislature passed SB21-282 to provide relief to Colorado’s small business network amidst the pandemic. This bill builds upon last year’s legislative efforts to save retailers money by extending the compliance deadline to October 2022. In accordance with Colorado tax codes, destination sourcing is sales tax calculated based on the buyer’s address when the taxable product or service is delivered to a consumer. HB22-1027 allows small business retailers with less than $100,000 of sales, to continue to source their sales to the business’ location regardless of where the purchaser receives the good. It also provides more time for retailers to onboard with the electronic sales and use tax system. Previous Next

< Back March 22, 2025 House Advances SB25-003 Legislation will save lives by prohibiting the purchase and sale of all rapid fire conversion devices, commonly known as “bump stocks”, and by creating a permit to purchase dangerous, semi-automatic military style firearms that can accept high capacity magazines DENVER, CO - The House today advanced legislation on a preliminary vote that would fully implement and enforce Colorado’s existing high-capacity magazine prohibition to save lives. “The gun violence epidemic requires meaningful action, which is why I’m sponsoring this bill to protect all Coloradans from gun violence,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins. “Colorado has a tragic history of mass shootings and our state's high-capacity magazine ban needs to be enforced to save lives. This legislation will help ensure these deadly weapons won’t get into the wrong hands.” “Preventing gun violence is one of the most effective ways that we can make our communities safer and save lives,” said Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Englewood. “Semi-automatic weapons and high-capacity magazines are uniquely lethal and dangerous. This bill is a commonsense solution to ensure that people receive effective training and meet the requirements under state and federal firearm laws before purchasing the most lethal weapons on the market. From background checks and waiting periods to limits on high-capacity magazines, Colorado Democrats have enacted multiple laws to protect Coloradans from future gun violence.” Beginning August 1, 2026, SB25-003 would fully implement and enforce Colorado’s existing law by requiring a permit and firearm safety training to purchase high-powered firearms that accept detachable magazines. The bill would also prohibit the purchase and sale of after-market accessories that increase the rate of fire of a semi-automatic firearm, like binary triggers. The bill would allow a person to purchase a semiautomatic firearm with a detachable magazine after undergoing a background check and completing a firearm certification course that includes information on safe gun usage, federal and state firearm laws, de-escalation and crisis intervention strategies, range time, and more. The bill would not impact the sale of shotguns, commonly used hunting rifles, semiautomatic firearms that have fixed magazines and almost all handguns. While SB25-003 would prohibit the sale of gas-operated semiautomatic handguns, the sale of recoil-operated handguns, which make up over 90 percent of the pistol market, would not be impacted by the bill. The bill also would not impact the possession of currently-owned firearms. In response to the 2013 Aurora theater shooting, Colorado Democrats passed legislation that prohibited the sale and transfer of magazines that hold more than 15 rounds of ammunition. Currently, individuals seeking to bypass existing law can legally buy magazines in neighboring states and attach them to high-powered, military-style firearms. Semi-automatic weapons and high-capacity magazines have been used in numerous mass shootings in Colorado, including the 2021 Boulder King Soopers shooting, the 2022 Club Q shooting, and the Columbine High School massacre. ### Previous Next

SB24-042 will provide outreach and support to individuals living with sickle cell disease < Back June 3, 2024 SIGNED! Legislation to Create a Sickle Cell Outreach Program Becomes Law DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law legislation that will provide outreach and support to Coloradans living with sickle cell disease. Sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, and Representative Regina English, D-Colorado Springs and Assistant House Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, SB24-042 will create the Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program within the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to provide support to individuals living with sickle cell disease. Outreach and support services will be administered by a nonprofit organization contracted through CDPHE. “Sickle cell disease is a debilitating condition that takes a toll on an individual’s health and quality of life,” said Fields. “Worse, we see disproportionately high rates of sickle cell disease in Black communities. This important program will provide critical outreach to individuals living with sickle cell disease to help connect folks to supportive health care and community services, and will help address long-standing health inequities that remain far too prevalent in marginalized communities across our state.” “Sickle cell disease can cause blockages in a person’s small blood vessels and be incredibly painful if left untreated,” said Rep. Regina English, D-Colorado Springs . “This law establishes the new, Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program, to provide critical outreach and support to Coloradans living with sickle cell disease. Sickle cell disease disproportionately impacts Black communities and this new outreach program will help bridge the gap between needed health care and access to care experienced by marginalized communities. I am proud to carry this legislation forward because it will improve health outcomes for so many in our state.” “Arie P. Taylor was a trailblazer as Colorado's first female Black representative,” Buckner said. “Creating this program in her name honors her legacy and ensures communities she represented have the support they need to thrive – just as Ms. Taylor envisioned. I’m proud to see this bill get signed into law and I look forward to seeing how the Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program will support individuals and families and ultimately, change lives.” “Long-standing inequities in our health care system have left many Black Coloradans without access to the care they need, let alone specialized care,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “This new law would establish the Arie P. Taylor Sickle Cell Disease Outreach Program to connect people living with sickle cell disease with resources and support. Sickle cell disease is genetic, and unfortunately, the rates have been much higher among Black communities. Named after Colorado’s first Black female legislator, the new program honors Ms. Taylor’s legacy by providing individualized support to our community and works to bridge the gap in health care access.” Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells that carry oxygen to stick together after the oxygen is released, causing blockages in the small blood vessels, anemia, and severe pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), sickle cell disease occurs among about 1 out of every 365 Black or African-American births and occurs among about 1 out of every 16,300 Hispanic-American births. Previous Next

Bills would reinstate and expand critical wetlands protections jeopardized by the U.S. Supreme Court Sackett v. EPA decision and encourage water conservation through increased graywater use < Back May 29, 2024 Signed! Legislation to Protect Streams, Rivers and Wetlands SILVERTHORNE / STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation to restore critical protections for Colorado’s streams, rivers and wetlands. He also signed bipartisan water conservation bills to encourage the adoption of graywater use, fund water conservation projects and implement recommendations from the Colorado River Drought Task Force. “After the Supreme Court removed important protections and left our waterways in jeopardy, we knew we must take action now to secure Colorado’s water future,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, sponsor of HB24-1379. “As this bill is signed into law, we are now one step closer to a Colorado-specific approach to protecting our streams, rivers and wetlands. From brewing beer to sustaining our livestock and crops – fresh, clean water is at the core of nearly every industry in Colorado. This law protects our state’s water supply now and into the future so generations to come can experience the Colorado way of life we all hold dear.” “There is no more important resource to our state and no more pressing challenge that we will face as a state in the decades to come than protecting our water,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, sponsor of HB24-1379. “Last year’s Supreme Court decision jeopardized protections for over half of Colorado’s wetlands, which threatens water supply, wildlife habitats, and our state’s environment and economy. This new law will protect streams, rivers, and wetlands that are vital to Colorado by creating a new Colorado-based permitting program to implement proven best practices for dredge and fill activities with key protections for agriculture and other crucial industry activity.” “Protecting our freshwater resources now means future generations can thrive in Colorado knowing they have clean and accessible water,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, sponsor of HB24-1379. “A 2023 Supreme Court decision rolled back crucial water protections and we need legislation that helps effectively manage and protect our wetlands, rivers, and streams. Our law would outline regulatory certainty for our businesses, landowners, and agriculture industry when it comes to Colorado’s water. Colorado’s water is a steady and vital resource that must be conserved and protected for generations to come, and this law protects what we all find essential.” The Clean Water Act authorizes the EPA to define “Waters of the United States” and the Army Corps of Engineers to regulate discharges from dredge and fill activities into waters that meet the definition. The U.S. Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA in 2023 redefined what constitutes waters subject to federal regulation and placed an estimated 60 percent of Colorado wetlands at risk of losing protections. The impacted wetlands and seasonal streams are in need of protection work to ensure there is adequate water supply, to aid groundwater recharge, and to provide for wildlife habitat in Colorado. HB24-1379 , works to protect Colorado waters that are no longer federally protected. The law will create a permitting program within the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for dredge and fill activities impacting state waters. The permitting framework is based on well-established approaches already used by the Army Corps of Engineers and will provide clarity and certainty on when a permit is needed for dredge and fill activities. Normal farming, ranching, and agricultural activities, such as plowing, farm road construction, ditch maintenance, and erosion control practices would not require a permit. Until the recent decision in Sackett v. EPA , the Army Corps’ permitting program safeguarded the vast majority of Colorado’s state waters from pollution caused by dredge and fill activities. Dredge and fill activities involve digging up or placing dirt and other fill material into wetlands or surface waters as part of construction projects. These operations are necessary in many infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, housing developments, flood mitigation, and utility pipelines. This law provides a way for these projects to move forward while protecting Colorado’s water resources. HB24-1362 , also sponsored by Senator Cleave Simpson, R-Alamosa and Representative Marc Catlin, R-Montrose encourages the use of graywater in Colorado to conserve our state’s scarce water supply by authorizing the installation of graywater systems in new construction projects statewide. It offers flexibility for local governments to adopt more tailored uses of graywater systems, including permitting their installation in existing structures, or prohibiting them altogether. “With this bill becoming law, we’re conserving our water resources, protecting our environment and upholding the Colorado way of life,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs, sponsor of HB24-1362. “This bipartisan law encourages local governments to use graywater in irrigation and for non-drinking household purposes, which is a great option for getting the most out of our water. Living on the Western Slope, I’m committed to protecting and conserving our precious water resources — and this law makes it easier for our communities to recycle water.” Governor Polis also signed HB24-1435 , sponsored by Representatives McCormick and Marc Caitlin and Senators Roberts and Cleave Simpson to designate important water supply and conservation projects around the state for funding from the Colorado Water Conservation Board. In addition to HB24-1435, Governor Polis also signed SB24-197 , sponsored by Speaker McCluskie, Representative Caitlin and Senators Roberts and Perry Will, R-New Castle, which would implement several recommendations made by the Colorado River Drought Task Force, including tactics to address the worsening drought conditions on the Colorado River. Previous Next

< Back December 15, 2022 New Recipients Announced for Outdoor Equity Grant Program DENVER, CO – The Outdoor Equity Grant Board announced today the newest recipients of more than $1.3 million in Outdoor Equity Grants. The Outdoor Equity Grant Program, created through HB21-1318 , will help improve outdoor recreation accessibility for all Coloradans including youth, families and traditionally excluded communities. “I’d like to congratulate all the incredible organizations that have received an Outdoor Equity Grant, including ViVe Wellness in HD8,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver, sponsor of HB21-1318. “When we championed this legislation in 2021, our mission was to open the great outdoors to communities that have traditionally lacked access to Colorado’s unique landscapes and outdoor adventures. Now, organizations in our very own communities and across the state are benefiting from this hard work.” “For those of us living with a disability, accessing the outdoors can be more challenging, but Outdoor Equity Grants help remove barriers so everyone can get out and explore Colorado,” said Rep. David Ortiz, D-Littleton, sponsor of HB21-1318. “Congratulations to the Colorado Center for the Blind in Littleton on receiving one of the latest grant awards. Grants for adaptive sports programs, educational experiences and recreation opportunities will build a more diverse pipeline of Coloradans working in the outdoor industry–and that’s good for everyone.” In 2021, the legislature passed HB21-1318 , sponsored by Representatives Leslie Herod and David Ortiz to create the Outdoor Equity Grant Program. The program provides funding to organizations that reduce barriers to the Colorado outdoors for underserved youth and their families. Get Outdoors Leadville! will receive $70,750, and Mountain Dreamers in Frisco will receive $40,000. “Congratulations to Mountain Dreamers in Frisco and Get Out Doors Leadville!,” said Speaker-designate Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “With these grants, more young Coloradans and their families will be able to experience our incredible outdoor spaces. I’m proud of the Outdoor Equity Grant Program’s work to help more underserved families access the beautiful lands Colorado is known for and live their Colorado dream.” In Carbondale, the Colorado Rocky Mountain School (HS)2 Program will receive $6,700. “With these grants from the Outdoor Equity Program, organizations, non-profits and schools will receive new funding to help more Coloradans access the great outdoors,” said Rep.-elect Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs. “I’m excited that young people in Carbondale and on the Western Slope will have new opportunities to get out and explore Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes.” In Greeley, the Connections for Independent Living will receive $21,000. “The great outdoors is for everyone, but many Coloradans with a disability face barriers that keep them from experiencing our open spaces,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “I’m so proud that Connections for Independent Living in Greeley, which does fantastic work serving and empowering people with disabilities, was included in this round of Outdoor Equity Grants so that more Coloradans will be able to get outside and enjoy everything our state has to offer.” The Gypsum Elementary School will receive $5,000, and Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports will receive $25,000. “Improving outdoor equity and accessibility is incredibly important in our communities,” said Rep.-elect Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs . “With this funding, Gypsum Elementary School and Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports will be able to offer additional opportunities for underserved youth and their families in our communities to experience the world-class outdoor recreation Colorado is known for.” The Adaptive Sports Association in Durango will receive $50,000; the Montezuma Inspire Coalition in Cortez will receive $70,000; and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe in Ignacio will receive $10,000. “Adaptive sports and educational experiences help introduce more Coloradans to the great outdoors,” said Rep. Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango. “I’m pleased the Adaptive Sports Association, Montezuma Inspire Coalition and Southern Ute Indian Tribe, among others, will be receiving an Outdoor Equity Grant. Breaking down barriers to accessing the outdoors will help foster a new generation of Coloradans that can enjoy, explore, respect and protect our public lands.” More than 20 organizations across the state will receive an Outdoor Equity Grant. Grant recipients also include: Asian Girls Ignite – Denver – $78,000 Colorado Center for the Blind – Littleton – $50,000 Colorado Discover Ability – Grand Junction – $50,000 Denver Indian Center – Denver – $85,000 Environmental Learning for Kids – Denver – $75,000 Fort Collins Community Action Network – Fort Collins – $50,000 Friends of Youth and Nature – Hotchkiss – $67,180 Haseya Advocate Program – Colorado Springs – $70,000 International Rescue Committee – Denver – $30,000 Northfield High School La Raza Club – Denver – $7,000 Sims Fayola Foundation – Denver – $50,000 Spring Institute for Intercultural Learning – Denver – $40,815 The Nature Connection – Hotchkiss – $40,000 The Storytellers Project – Denver – $50,000 Vibe Tribe Adventures – Aurora – $80,000 ViVe Wellness – Denver – $70,000 Youth Club of Trinidad – Trinidad – $55,363 Youth Seen – Denver – $75,000 Previous Next