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< Back February 19, 2020 BILL TO ABOLISH COLUMBUS DAY PASSES THE HOUSE DENVER, CO — The Colorado House today passed a bill to remove state recognition of Columbus Day, a holiday named after the perpetrator of numerous crimes against humanity, and instead create a holiday that recognizes humanitarian Frances Xavier Cabrini. The new holiday would be the first state holiday named after a woman and would honor Cabrini’s tireless work on behalf of Colorado’s children. The bill was approved by a vote of 37-26. “I’m glad to finally see the House vote to end our state’s recognition of a holiday that brings pain to indigenous people in Colorado every year,” said Rep. Adrienne Benavidez (D-Adams County). “I’m proud that we were able to get this done after so many years trying — this is a momentous day. I’m especially glad that at the same time as we ended our recognition of Columbus, we were able to take a step towards establishing the first state holiday in Colorado to honor a woman.” “I’m proud to see the House vote to set the historical record straight,” said Rep. Kyle Mullica (D-Northglenn). “The legacy and memory of Columbus are a very present source of pain for many communities in our state, and I’m glad we took a step towards putting this pain behind us.” HB20-1031 would establish Cabrini Day on the first Monday in October as a state holiday. It would be a paid holiday for state employees, and the bill would remove state sanction of Columbus day, which occurs one week later. The holiday would recognize Cabrini’s humanitarian values and lifelong dedication to service, especially to the Italian American immigrant community, who faced discrimination and difficulty as they immigrated to America. She worked tirelessly to support the Italian-American community in the United States, including through several projects in Colorado. In 1904, Cabrini established Denver’s Queen of Heaven Orphanage for girls. In 1910, she founded a summer camp for the orphanage’s residents in Golden, Colorado. Currently, a shrine stands in her honor in the original location of the summer camp in Golden. The shrine includes the “Stone House”, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Columbus Day is one of the few holliday’s named after a person, and its continued existence perpetuates the pain and suffering he inflicted. He was responsible for the kidnapping, rape and murder of thousands. Over 50,000 indiginous people commited suicide rather than comply with his rule, and within two years of his landing in the bahamas, over 125,000 people died, half the population. The bill aims to end the state sanctioned pain this holliday The bill passed on Third Reading this morning; the bill will now move onto the Senate. ### Previous Next

New laws improve access to insurance plans, address underinsurance, reduce the costs of rebuilding and protect tenants in properties damaged by wildfire < Back May 12, 2023 Polis Signs Laws to Help Victims of Wildfire Rebuild New laws improve access to insurance plans, address underinsurance, reduce the costs of rebuilding and protect tenants in properties damaged by wildfire BOULDER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed four bills into law that will protect homeowners’ access to insurance plans, address underinsurance issues that leave property owners without the coverage they need, lower the cost of rebuilding, and ensure tenants aren’t forced to return to unsafe rental properties. HB23-1174 , sponsored by Representatives Kyle Brown and Judy Amabile and Senators Dylan Roberts and Mark Baisley, addresses homeowner underinsurance for damaged homes or structures. It requires home insurance companies to offer a variety of options to cover the costs of repair or replacement for a damaged or destroyed structure. HB23-1288 , sponsored by Speaker Julie McCluskie, Representative Amabile, and Senator Roberts creates a nonprofit public entity to guarantee Coloradans with homes and commercial properties located in wildfire zones can receive homeowners or commercial insurance if insurance companies do not offer them coverage. This law ensures Coloradans will be able to insure their homes and commercial spaces as wildfires grow in frequency and destruction. “The rising frequency of wildfire disasters is making it harder for property owners to find insurance plans while many homeowners that do have insurance have found their plans won’t cover all their rebuilding costs,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB23-1174 and HB23-1288. “We’re looking ahead to stabilize the insurance industry by creating a plan of last resort in the event a property owner can’t find an insurance company that will offer them coverage. With the laws Governor Polis just signed, property owners will have additional coverage options to ensure their homes are protected when disaster strikes.” “Wildfires are becoming increasingly frequent and destructive, and that is making it difficult or sometimes impossible for folks who live in rural communities like mine to purchase homeowners insurance that meets their needs,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, sponsor of HB23-1174 and HB23-1288. “The bolstered protections offered by HB 1174 and the FAIR Insurance Plan will help protect vulnerable Coloradans and allow people to insure their homes, businesses, and property against potential disasters.” “I’m proud that Governor Polis has signed my bill into law to offer Coloradans additional insurance options that will protect them from the devastating costs of rebuilding after a wildfire,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, sponsor of HB23-1174. “After the Marshall Fire, thousands of homeowners faced unanticipated rebuilding costs because their insurance plans didn’t offer enough coverage. Now, Coloradans will be able to purchase coverage that meets their needs and protects them from the increasing risk of more destructive fires.” “Wildfires are becoming more frequent and destructive in Colorado, and we need to ensure our neighbors and communities are protected, ” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, sponsor of HB23-1288. “Through this legislation, we’re creating a FAIR insurance plan especially for Coloradans living in wildfire prone areas to insure their homes, businesses and livelihood. Property owners are already struggling to find insurance, and we are hearing from constituents that some may not be able to purchase insurance at all. We’re committed to doing everything we can to help property owners insure their structures as climate change continues to drive increasingly destructive natural disasters.” HB23-1240 , sponsored by Representatives Kyle Brown and Judy Amabile and Senator Fenberg, creates a state sales and use tax exemption for construction and building materials for homeowners looking to rebuild or repair their home that was damaged in a declared wildfire disaster. The exemption for qualified purchases is administered through a refund process, which must be claimed by June 30, 2028, and allows homeowners that have already made purchases to retroactively claim a refund. “Folks recovering from the Marshall Fire have enough to deal with, and shouldn’t be taxed on rebuilding their homes,” said Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder. “This law will make it easier for survivors to put their lives back together and move forward from this disaster.” “The sales tax exemption Governor Polis signed today will save victims of the Marshall fire money as they rebuild their homes,” said Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB23-1240. “There’s no reason the government should be bringing in tax revenue that comes as a result of rebuilding from a natural disaster. This law will make it easier for victims of recent fires to get back on their feet and rebuild their lives.” “With global inflation increasing the cost of rebuilding homes, it’s been challenging for many families to move back into their residences after the Marshall Fire,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville sponsor of HB23-1240 and HB23-1254. “The bills Governor Polis just signed create new protections for renters so they aren’t forced to live in properties that are uninhabitable, and save Coloradans money as they rebuild their homes.” HB23-1254 , sponsored by Representatives Brown and Javier Mabrey and Senator Lisa Cutter, bolsters renter protections in the state’s warranty of habitability by adding lack of compliance with certain standards following an environmental public health event to the list of conditions that make a property uninhabitable. It also adds additional protections for members of a vulnerable population, including allowing such a tenant to terminate their lease if certain conditions are met. “As our climate becomes more unpredictable and weather becomes increasingly severe, the number of homes impacted will continue to grow,” Senator Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, said. “This new law will bolster critical protections for Colorado renters and ensures folks won’t be forced into unsafe living situations if disaster strikes.” “The Marshall Fire displaced many Coloradans and when they were unable to find anything available that was in their budget, many felt pressured to return to the damaged rental property just to have a roof over their head,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, sponsor of HB23-1254 . “No one should feel cornered into living in housing that can cause negative short or long-term health effects, which is why we brought this legislation to give both landlords and renters the tools to repair their property to a safe living condition. With this law, we’re streamlining and clarifying the Warranty of Habitability statute to protect renters and help landlords know where the goal post is when it comes to remediating their property.” Previous Next

< Back June 23, 2022 JOINT RELEASE: LAWMAKERS CELEBRATE IMPORTANT STEP FORWARD TO FUND COLORADO OPTION Landmark bill will save Coloradans money, improve access to health care COLORADO – Colorado Democratic lawmakers today are celebrating news that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved Colorado’s Section 1332 Innovation Waiver Request for the Colorado Option , a landmark bill signed into law last year that will save Coloradans money and improve access to health care across the state. Sponsored by Reps. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, and Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, and Senator Kerry Donovan, D-Vail, the Colorado Option will lower health care costs for individuals, families, and small businesses across the state by creating a new standardized health insurance plan for consumers on the individual and small group markets, and by requiring health insurance carriers to bring premiums down by 15 percent over three years. “The Colorado Option will be an affordable and quality insurance plan in every county of the state. Coloradans – especially in rural and mountain communities like mine – have faced soaring health care costs for too long and that is why we worked so hard to make this plan a reality,” Roberts said. “This waiver means we can move forward with the Colorado Option and make quality, affordable health insurance plans for individuals and small businesses in every part of the state a reality.” “I want to thank CMS for their partnership in making the Colorado Option a reality. This groundbreaking idea will cut the cost of health care and increase access for all Coloradans and small businesses – relief we need in Colorado’s high country and across the state,” Donovan said. “I am proud that the Colorado Option will bring more affordable and quality health care to rural communities, people of color and small businesses across our state,” Jodeh said. “We have been working toward this day for a long time, and CMS’ approval of Colorado’s waiver is an important step toward full implementation of the Colorado Option and achieving meaningful cost savings for Coloradans.” Section 1332 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) permits a state to apply for a State Innovation Waiver (also referred to as a Section 1332 waiver) to pursue innovative strategies for providing residents with access to high quality, affordable health insurance while retaining the basic protections of the ACA. CMS’ waiver approval is a critical step that will allow Colorado to use up to $135 million in federal funding to provide a new, affordable health insurance option that will save consumers money and help more Coloradans access and afford the critical health care they need to thrive. Previous Next

House Speaker Julie McCluskie today delivered remarks to open the First Session of the 75th General Assembly. < Back January 8, 2025 Speaker Delivers Opening Day Remarks DENVER, CO – House Speaker Julie McCluskie today delivered remarks to open the First Session of the 75th General Assembly. Speaker’s Opening Day Remarks as Prepared for Delivery: Good morning! It is my great privilege to welcome you all to the opening day of the 75th General Assembly! A special welcome to our newly elected members, the fresh faced stars on the House stage. New members, please rise and give a wave! I would also like to welcome the former Speakers of the House: The honorables Alec Garnett, KC Becker, Crisanta Duran, Mark Ferrandino, Terrance Carroll, Frank McNulty, and Russ George. We are so grateful for your public service and leadership, both back then (and for some of you, way back then!) and now. I am pleased to recognize State Treasurer Dave Young! Thank you for your dedication and service to our state. And my deepest love and appreciation to my family - my husband Jamie, my children Ian and Cait, my parents Bob and Etta, Sister Susan, Brother and Sister in law David and Vicki, and their daughter Jaclynn. Members, let’s all thank our families who have been integral to our journeys in public service. I also want to thank our sensational team who work their magic behind the scenes - our clerks, sergeants, custodial staff. To our nonpartisan and partisan staff, including our legislative aides, thank you all so much for your dedication and commitment to the institution. This session is also the first for our new Chief Clerk, Vanessa Reilly! Please give her a warm welcome to this new role. There’s also a new President over in that lower chamber - if you see President Coleman today, make sure you give him a big High Five and a “Let’s Do This!” Now let us pause and give honor to our veterans - for everyone with us today, members and guests alike, please rise or give a wave if you are currently serving in the military or are a veteran of the US Armed forces. We are forever in your debt. Finally, I am proud of the experience and dedication of our majority and minority leadership teams. Will the leadership teams from both sides of the aisle please stand and be recognized. It is truly an honor to serve with all of you. And I am especially grateful to Majority Leader Duran. I know members appreciate your partnership & leadership. Happiest of Birthdays, Majority Leader, this must be the best and craziest birthday party ever. With campaigns in the rear view mirror, election 2024 behind us, our responsibility to govern is now front and center. Good governance calls us all to listen to one another, hear the stories of our constituents and work together to craft lasting policy that meets the demands of the moment. On policies big and small, I know Democrats and Republicans will work together, as we have so many times before. Just look at school finance formula reform, property tax cuts, higher education investments, workforce initiatives, and of course, uncertified potatoes. (While some say the idea for that policy was only half BAKED, eventually you all HASHED it out and it was a SMASHING success. ) With each new session, we have an opportunity to start fresh, and that includes how we manage debate. When relevant to the topic at hand, chairs will uphold members’ rights to free speech. At times, this will be uncomfortable for lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. The right to free speech coexists alongside our obligation not to spread hatred. I know with the work that lies ahead, Colorado will lead the way. The national spotlight is on us. This is our moment to demonstrate what good, responsive governance and leadership looks like for our country. But folks, our work this year will not be easy. We will need to trim nearly $1 billion from our state budget in a way that ensures strong safety net services for the most vulnerable among us and protects our bipartisan investments in early childhood, schools, colleges and universities. As a result, there may be some unpopular decisions ahead - choices that put truly deserving efforts and priorities in competition with each other for funding. The Joint Budget Committee has a track record of working across party lines to deliver a balanced budget, and it is now more important than ever to continue in this tradition. My thanks to Representatives Bird, Sirota and Taggart in advance for your hard work and those enduring sleepless nights. Even though our budget situation is challenging, I know this body remains committed to investing in our public schools. We will not bring back the budget stabilization factor, and we will implement the new, equitable school finance formula on time that our kids deserve. Thank you Governor Polis for your strong commitment to public education investing in our children year over year . Like too many special education students in Colorado, Jeremiah, who is twelve, needed additional learning supports in school. Not every public school has the resources they need to adequately teach students with Down syndrome. But when his parents found a special education program designed for his abilities, Jeremiah excelled. His academic achievement improved, as did his self-esteem. He found his calling. If you haven’t heard of him yet, you soon will. His calling, it turns out, is acting, and he’s very good at it. Jeremiah is the star of the film “Color Book,” which tells the story of a single father raising his young son with Down syndrome. The power of Jeremiah’s personal story, and his magnificent portrayal of Mason, help shape our understanding of the challenges we see in gaining access to a high quality education and safety net services in our communities. Exciting news! He has been nominated for the NAACP’s outstanding youth performance in a motion picture award. I’m overjoyed that Jeremiah and his family are here with us today. Please give him a round of applause. My goal this session is to protect the progress we’ve made for students like Jeremiah, by increasing funding for special education, at-risk students, English language learners, and rural schools. The hard truth is that we will need to grapple with declining student enrollment. We will navigate this issue carefully while listening to our partners in public education. Our guiding principle must be to keep equity for our students at the heart of our decision making. We wouldn’t be Colorado without our beautiful mountains, brilliant forests, and clean air. Let’s take our water for example. Water is a part of our Western identity, essential to our nearly $50 billion agricultural economy, as well as Colorado’s iconic outdoor recreation and tourism industries. I took a five day ride down the Yampa River this past spring. What a thrill! And I learned one important lesson - that’s how to play defense against those roaring rapids. There’s a saying in the rafting business, “Be sure you Rig to Flip”. That means making sure everything stays secure when your raft guide flips the boat and you’re taken for a swim - it’s all about being ruthlessly prepared, so you protect the people and things you love most. This year, I expect we will continue to face threats to our water resources, and we may have to play defense. But, thanks to leaders from both parties, we have already taken significant steps to protect our state’s most precious resource - yes folks, we are prepared and we are “rigged to flip.” We should be particularly thankful to the many farmers and ranchers doing everything they can to reduce their water use, embrace innovative technologies and help lead us through this drought. Colorado Agriculture truly makes us proud. I also want to mention that soon, we will be creating a new bipartisan Outdoor Recreation Caucus that will put Western Voices at the table on the issues that impact the economies of our communities. We are equally committed to protecting Colorado’s pristine environment, reaching our climate goals and making energy costs more affordable. We’ve made important progress funding transit, front range and mountain rail, and eliminating dangerous pollution. We are so grateful for the work of Representatives Willford and Bacon and all the lawmakers who have prioritized improving our air quality. Like many of you, when I visit my district, the stories I hear most often at town halls, in the grocery store or at neighborhood gatherings continue to be about how hard it is to get ahead. That’s why, this session, we will redouble our efforts to make Colorado more affordable. Inflation is down. Unemployment is low. Home prices and rents are leveling off, and we are starting to see signs that our aggressive multi-year agenda to lower costs for families is bearing fruit. Reinsurance and the Colorado Option are saving Coloradans nearly half a billion dollars this year on health insurance premiums. We cut property taxes for businesses and homeowners, and we cut taxes for middle and lower-income families. Thanks to last year’s refundable tax credit initiative, the cost of tuition and fees at community colleges is now covered for the vast majority of students. Universal preschool, full day kindergarten, and investments in child care are saving families money. Because of our work, Coloradans trust elected officials to GET THINGS DONE. Other states are watching us - they are seeing what’s possible when governors and legislatures do big things together. For example, housing. We've cracked the land use code and invested hundreds of millions of dollars in affordable housing projects and ending homelessness. This year, we will: resolve the stalemate on construction defects reform, tackle algorithms that drive up rent, Ease red tape for religious institutions to build on their own land, incentivize modular home construction, and bring forward creative new approaches to driving down property insurance costs. Let’s foster an even stronger economy in this state by lowering costs for businesses and working families, and finding fair opportunity for all. Let’s do this by taking steps to eliminate wage theft, strengthen worker’s voices, and create low-cost pathways to college credentials, in the big blur between high school college career. And just as we did last year with the quantum technology industry, we will seize opportunities to support innovative economic development, like (capturing the attention of the) Sundance Film Festival and driving millions of tourism dollars into local communities and businesses. But folks, a less expensive Colorado is not our Colorado if we fail to protect our rights and freedoms. When the Dobbs decision came down and the threat to overturn Roe v. Wade was clear, we responded by protecting abortion access in statute. This past November, the voters went one step further and protected that right in our state’s constitution. Similarly, we heard the stories of concern from families in our state and referred a measure to the ballot safeguarding the freedom to marry. And again, voters overwhelmingly approved it. This is leadership. This is Colorado. We don’t know exactly what we will face from this new administration, but they have published their playbook and we are watching. We will be ready to do what is best for the people of this state because we’ve been here before. No matter where we come from, all Coloradans want the same things: to put a roof over our family’s heads, put food on the table, and pursue the American Dream. Throughout our nation’s history, immigrants have been used as a political scapegoat to divide us and distract us from real challenges. Immigrants are an integral part of Colorado’s diverse and thriving communities. Immigrants power our economy and make up 30 percent of our construction workforce, 12 percent of entrepreneurs, 11 percent of STEM workers, and eight percent of nurses in the state. Coloradans do not support mass deportations, separating families, or detaining parents at their children’s schools. In addition to the devastating human cost, mass deportations will cause significant labor shocks and drive up the cost of health care, food, and housing. Democrats and Republicans alike oppose deporting our friends and neighbors who have been here since childhood, built their lives here and are making our communities better places to live. My thanks to the many organizations supporting Colorado’s hard working immigrant families, like the Mountain Dreamers. Mountain Dreamers in Frisco, Colorado work to support immigrants and make the Colorado Dream a reality for more people in our High Country communities. I want to especially thank their team with us today - Peter, Javier, Yerania, and Miriam. Representative Velasco, who was born in Mexico and grew up in mobile home communities in the Vail Valley, and the Latino Caucus are leading our work on this issue, alongside the Aurora delegation, including Representative Ricks - the first African immigrant legislator - and we are so grateful to have their expertise and lived experience in the General Assembly. Colorado will remain a safe haven from attacks on reproductive rights, voting rights, workers’ rights, LGBTQ rights, personal liberty, and civil rights. It doesn’t seem all that long ago that Coloradans sent the first transgender lawmaker to the capitol. Now entering her final term, Representative Titone has served with grace and true leadership. I am thankful that Rep. Titone, along with Assistant Majority Leader Bacon, Representative Froelich, and Representative Garcia are ready to step up once again to protect Coloradans’ rights and freedoms. Colorado is primed to lead. Where there is despair, we will light the way and offer hope. We may face challenges from Washington, budget constraints, and distractions right and left, but I continue to find immense joy in doing the people’s work. I know you all do as well. So … Share YOUR story, listen to the STORIES of your colleagues and constituents, and let the stories move you, keep your word, be open with your colleagues, fight for what you believe in, be kind to all, and above all else, hold space for defying gravity. It is my privilege to open the People’s House and welcome you all to the 75th General Assembly. Previous Next

< Back December 12, 2022 Speaker-Designate McCluskie Announces Committee Appointments DENVER, CO – Speaker-designate Julie McCluskie today announced the chairs, vice chairs and committee appointments for the 11 House committees of reference, appointing six new committee chairs. Of the 22 members in committee leadership, 14 are women—a milestone that is consistent with the historic nature of Colorado having the second majority female legislature in the country. “I’m so proud of our historic majority and all the lawmakers who are taking on leadership positions on committees,” said Speaker-designate Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “The size of our caucus is a recognition that Democrats deliver on behalf of every Coloradan. Our new chairs and vice chairs, alongside our historically diverse, women-led leadership team, will work hard to make life more affordable, improve health and safety in our communities, protect our air and water, and help every person live their Colorado dream.” Last month, Representative Julie McCluskie was designated Speaker of the House of the 74th General Assembly by her Democratic colleagues. Rep. Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge, will serve as Majority Leader while Rep. Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, will serve as Assistant Majority Leader. Reps. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora and Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins will serve as Majority Co-Whips, while Reps. Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora and Brianna Titone, D-Arvada will be the Majority Co-Caucus Chairs. Committee structure, leadership and majority caucus appointments are made by the Speaker. "I want to join Speaker-designate McCluskie in celebrating our new chairs, vice chairs and committee members—we know they will do fantastic work this session to move Colorado forward," said Majority Leader-elect, Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge. "Our historically large and diverse class of new lawmakers are going to bring fresh voices and new ideas to our committees, and the leadership team is excited to see so many newly-elected members with experience in public service take on the responsibility of vice chair. Of the 22 committee leadership positions, 14 will be women, recognizing the historic role women will play in mentoring new members and shaping the future of our state.” “For the first time, the House will be led by three women, and there are a historic number of women of color in leadership positions,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver. “Our chairs and vice chairs all share a deep commitment to helping our colleagues advance legislation that responds to the needs of our communities across the state. I’m excited to serve as vice chair of the Judiciary Committee and on the Education Committee where I know we will deliver meaningful policy solutions to improve public education and work towards a future where all Coloradans feel safe in their communities.” “I am grateful for the current chairs and outgoing members of leadership who are pursuing new ways to serve their communities in the new year; Coloradans are better off because of what they’ve accomplished with their work in the legislature,” continued Speaker-designate McCluskie. The complete list of Majority committee assignments is below: Agriculture, Water and Natural Resources Committee (9-4) Chair, Representative Karen McCormick, D-Longmont Representative Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora Representative-Elect Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs Representative-Elect Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista Representative Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango Representative-Elect Jennifer Parenti, D-Erie Representative-Elect Tammy Story, D-Conifer Representative Brianna Titone, D-Arvada Representative-Elect Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs Appropriations Committee (7-4) Chair, Representative Emily Sirota, D-Denver Vice Chair, Representative Shannon Bird, D-Westminster Representative Judy Amabile, D-Boulder Representative Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins Representative Leslie Herod, D-Denver Representative Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora Representative-Elect Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs Business Affairs and Labor Committee (7-4) Chair, Representative Judy Amabile, D-Boulder Vice Chair, Representative Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora Representative-Elect Regina English, D-Colorado Springs Representative-Elect Sheila Lieder, D-Lakewood Representative-Elect William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield Representative-Elect Javier Mabrey, D-Denver Representative-Elect Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo Education Committee (7-4) Chair, Representative Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango Vice Chair, Representative-Elect Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista Representative Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver Representative-Elect Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial Representative-Elect Meghan Lukens, D-Steamboat Springs Representative Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Aurora Representative Mary Young, D-Greeley Energy and Environment Committee (8-3) Chair, Representative Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins Vice Chair, Representative-Elect Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn Representative-Elect Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial Representative Meg Froelich, D-Englewood Representative Alex Valdez, D-Denver Representative-Elect Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs Representative-Elect Stephanie Vigil, D-Colorado Springs Representative Mike Weissman, D-Aurora Finance Committee (7-4) Chair, Representative Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs Vice Chair Representative-Elect Junie Joseph, D-Boulder Representative Adrienne Benavidez, D-Commerce City Representative Lindsey Daugherty, D-Aravada Representative Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood Representative Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins Representative-Elect William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield Representative-Elect Bob Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch Health and Insurance Committee (8-3) Chair, Representative Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada Vice Chair, Representative Chris Kennedy, D-Lakewood Representative-Elect Sheila Lieder, D-Lakewood Representative Karen McCormick, D-Longmont Representative David Ortiz, D-Littleton Representative Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora Representative Brianna Titone, D-Arvada Representative-Elect Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn Judiciary Committee (9-4) Chair, Representative Mike Weissman, D-Aurora Vice Chair, Representative Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver Representative Adrienne Benavidez, D-Commerce City Representative Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada Representative-Elect Elisabeth Epps, D-Denver Representative-Elect Bob Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch Representative-Elect Said Sharbini, D-Brighton Representative Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs Representative Steven Woodrow, D-Denver Public and Behavioral Health and Human Services Committee (8-3) Chair, Representative Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City Vice Chair, Representative Mary Young, D-Greeley Representative Judy Amabile, D-Boulder Representative-Elect Regina English, D-Colorado Springs Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, D-Denver Representative-Elect Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial Representative Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora Representative-Elect Tammy Story, D-Conifer State, Civic, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee (8-3) Chair, Representative Steven Woodrow, D-Denver Vice Chair, Representative David Ortiz, D-Littleton Representative Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins Representative Tracey Bernett, D-Louisville Representative-Elect Elisabeth Epps, D-Denver Representative Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora Representative-Elect Said Sharbini, D-Brighton Representative-Elect Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn Transportation, Housing and Local Government Committee (9-4) Chair, Representative Meg Froelich, D-Englewood Vice Chair, Representative-Elect William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield Representative Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins Representative-Elect Ruby Dickson, D-Centennial Representative Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora Representative-Elect Javier Mabrey, D-Denver Representative-Elect Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo Representative-Elect Jennifer Parenti, D-Erie Representative-Elect Stephanie Vigil, D-Colorado Springs Previous Next

Legislation creates a bipartisan commission to identify long-term solutions to rising property taxes < Back November 28, 2023 SIGNED! Bill to Develop Long-Term Property Tax Solutions DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, Senator Kyle Mullica, D-Thornton, and Representative Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, that creates a bipartisan commission to develop long-term solutions to rising property taxes in Colorado. HB23B-1003 creates the Commission on Property Tax to outline plans for long and short-term property tax relief and to evaluate property tax ballot initiatives filings for the 2024 election. The bipartisan Commission includes legislators, county commissioners from across the state, a property tax administrator and different local government, business, and community leaders representing constituencies impacted by property tax revenue. The goal of HB23B-1003 is to map out potential long-term solutions to property taxes that have been rising since Coloradans voted to repeal the Gallagher Amendment in 2020. “Steep property tax increases over the past several years have hit Colorado homeowners hard, especially economically vulnerable folks like seniors and those on fixed incomes,” Fenberg said. “The legislation we passed during the special session delivers meaningful short-term relief, but this is not a short-term problem. We’re committed to working in a bipartisan way to find long-term, comprehensive solutions to address property taxes in Colorado, and this task force ensures we’ll do so hand in hand with partners across the state.” “I’m proud of the responsible property tax relief we delivered for Coloradans this special session and look forward to more long-term solutions that will make our state more affordable,” said Snyder. “The task force, outlined in my legislation, will be composed of bipartisan local and statewide leaders and will develop ongoing short-term and long-term solutions to rising property taxes. Everyone deserves to thrive in their communities, and this law is an important step forward in our mission to create a Colorado everyone can afford.” “Democrats have worked hard to meet the moment and answer the Governor’s special session call by delivering short-term property tax relief to Coloradans,” said Mullica. “Steep property tax increases have stretched families’ budgets for several years now, and if we don’t find a long-term solution it’s only going to get worse. That’s why I’m working on legislation that will convene a bipartisan Commission made up of balanced representation to develop long-term, transformational solutions to rising property taxes that will make Colorado more affordable in the years to come.” Under HB23B-1003, the Commission will convene by the week of December 18, 2023, and deliver an initial report to the General Assembly and Governor by March 15, 2024. Previous Next

< Back February 16, 2022 BILL TO SAVE BUSINESSES AND ENTREPRENEURS MONEY PASSES COMMITTEE DENVER, CO – Legislation to save Colorado small businesses and entrepreneurs money passed the House Business Affairs & Labor Committee today by a vote of 11 to 1. HB22-1001 , sponsored by Representatives Lisa Cutter and Tom Sullivan, would reduce business filing fees through a credit applied by the Secretary of State’s office. “This session, we’re laser focused on saving Coloradans money and this bill will do just that by reducing several business filing fees,” said Rep. Tom Sullivan, D-Centennial. “We know Colorado’s small business community has faced significant hardships during the pandemic which is why we’re using every tool available to reduce fees, jumpstart our state’s economic recovery, and put more money back in the pockets of business owners and entrepreneurs.” “This bill is part of our efforts to save Coloradans money, specifically focusing on the business community,” said Rep. Lisa Cutter, D-Littleton . “I am a small business owner, and I understand how difficult it is to start a new business. By reducing many of the filing fees, we’re eliminating red tape to help ensure that operating a business in Colorado is as easy as possible. We are an entrepreneurial state — small businesses are essential to our state’s economic recovery and shape our communities. I’m proud to support this effort to help move Colorado forward.” If passed, HB22-1001 would reduce several business filing fees and other costs associated with operating a business to $1.This includes new business registrations, annual renewals and other fees typically paid to the Secretary of State’s Office. The cost savings associated with this bill would be in effect for one year. Previous Next

< Back February 26, 2019 MCCLUSKIE’S BIPARTISAN BILL TO CREATE SPECIAL DISTRICTS FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD SERVICES GETS HOUSE APPROVAL Bill will invest in Colorado’s young students (Feb. 26) – The House gave preliminary approval to bipartisan bill sponsored by Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillion, to create special districts for the purpose of delivering early childhood development services. “This bill is about investing in our future and responding to the needs of our communities. Colorado is a local control state, and these local communities across the state are interested in working together to offer high-quality, early childhood development services,” said Rep. McCluskie. HB19-1052 provides community leaders the ability to work together to create efficient and effective programs tailored for communities. These early childhood services include early care and education, health and mental health care, and developmental support programs for children from birth to age eight. This bill passed on final reading with a bipartisan vote of 50-13. Rep. Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction is the co-sponsor of the bill. Previous Next

Governor Polis today signed a bill to streamline the construction of and expand access to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure for homeowners and renters.  < Back May 23, 2023 Polis Signs Bill to Expand EV Charging DENVER, CO – Governor Polis today signed a bill to streamline the construction of and expand access to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure for homeowners and renters. “There are many Coloradans who are interested in owning an EV, however it can be difficult to secure charging locations near their home or even in their neighborhoods,” said Rep. Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo. “Our law builds up and expands EV charging infrastructure across our state so we can accommodate current and future EV owners. We’re committed to making EV use more accessible for all Coloradans because it cuts back on our greenhouse gas emissions, creates more jobs and saves people money.” “With more EVs on the road than ever before, Colorado needs to invest in EV-specific infrastructure to help meet growing demand and cut down our reliance on fossil fuels,” said Rep. Alex Valdez, D-Denver. “ This law breaks down barriers to owning an EV by creating more charging stations, which can be tough to secure if you’re living in an apartment. We’re setting into motion a plan to vastly expand EV charging across the state and save Coloradans money in the process.” HB23-1233 , sponsored by Representatives Tisha Mauro and Alex Valdez, removes barriers to EV ownership by improving access to EV charging, especially for renters and those living in multifamily housing. Specifically, HB23-1233 expands electric vehicle charging infrastructure in new construction to accommodate future and current EV owners. The law updates electric code requirements, removes burdensome parking restrictions for EVs, and provides property tax relief to Coloradans for EV charging stations. HB23-1233 is part of a broader legislative package to incentivize the advancement and adoption of clean energy technologies, accelerate the clean energy transition and make Colorado a leader in budding clean energy technologies. Previous Next

< Back June 29, 2020 SIGNED! NEW HIGHER ED FUNDING FORMULA AND CRITICAL BILLS TO IMPROVE HIGHER ED ATTAINMENT Denver, CO — Today, at Simply Pure, a marijuana dispensary, Governor Jared Polis signed into law a bill that increases access to the Social Equity license, which makes owning and operating a retail marijuana store accessible to more Coloradans. The bill is sponsored by Representative James Coleman. “All hardworking Coloradans deserve a fair shot at sharing in the prosperity of the booming marijuana industry,” said Rep. Coleman, D-Denver . “We should not be defined by our past alone, and this bill provides Coloradans who want to make an honest living in the marijuana industry with the opportunity to do so. Creating equal economic opportunity for all makes us stronger. ” “Colorado has led the way for the nation’s fast-changing laws and attitudes towards marijuana,” said Rep. Singer, D-Longmont . “By allowing the Governor to pardon individuals with small possession offenses and improving access and equity in the booming marijuana industry, this bill moves our state boldly forward. The bill signed today is good for small businesses, hardworking Coloradans, and our state’s economy as a whole.” In order to drive socioeconomic equity to the retail marijuana trade, HB20-1424 establishes that marijuana retailers cannot be denied access to the Social Equity license solely based on a prior marijuana conviction. The bill also allows the governor to pardon individuals who were convicted of possession of marijuana for up to two ounces — effectively offering these Coloradans a clean slate. In order to be eligible for the Social Equity license, applicants must be a Colorado resident and one of the following regulations must apply. Applicants must have either: resided in Colorado for 15 years, have been arrested or convicted of a marijuana offense, have a household income that did not exceed a predetermined amount, or hold at least 51 percent of marijuana business license. Marijuana retailers who have a Social Equity license are eligible for the Accelerator Program, which authorizes stores with a Social Equity license to operate under established state laws as long as they are endorsed by an Accelerator Store. Previous Next

Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, today released the following statements on Governor Polis’ FY 2024-2025 budget proposal: < Back November 1, 2023 JOINT RELEASE: Democratic Leadership on Governor’s Budget Proposal DENVER, CO – Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, today released the following statements on Governor Polis’ FY 2024-2025 budget proposal: Statement from Speaker McCluskie: “After years of delivering historic increases in public school funding and making steady progress, the General Assembly this year is poised to eliminate the public school funding deficit (the Budget Stabilization Factor) in Colorado for the first time since 2009. This is the moment that parents, students and teachers have been waiting for, and I’m proud that our responsible budgets and consistent investment in our students have paved the way to make it a reality. The Governor’s budget proposal will build on our collaborative efforts with the JBC and Education Committee Chair Rep. McLachlan to boost per pupil funding to record levels, increase teacher pay, and reduce class sizes to set up our students to thrive. I appreciate Governor Polis’ budget proposal, and I look forward to working with him and the JBC to improve education, support working families and make Colorado a more affordable place to live.” Statement from President Fenberg: “Making sure our kids get the best education possible is one of the most important jobs we have, which is why I am thrilled to see Governor Polis’ budget request put such a strong emphasis on fully funding our schools and eliminating the Budget Stabilization Factor once and for all. Governor Polis’ budget request represents a thoughtful, responsible approach that will also save Colorado families money on urgent priorities like housing and health care, while providing badly-needed resources to help achieve our shared goal of making Colorado communities safer. I look forward to working closely with Governor Polis next session as we fight to create a healthier, safer, and stronger Colorado for us all.” Previous Next

SB25-129 strengthens Colorado’s shield laws while SB25-183 implements the will of the voters to protect the right to reproductive health care < Back April 24, 2025 JOINT RELEASE: Pair of Bills to Safeguard Access to Reproductive Health Care Signed Into Law DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed two bills into law to protect Coloradans’ access to reproductive health care. SB25-183 , sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Senator Lindsey Daugherty, D-Arvada, and House Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, and Representative Lorena García, D-Unincorporated Adams County, implements the will of the voters by updating Colorado statute to reflect changes necessitated by Amendment 79’s passage, including removing the prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care. “Colorado voters have once again reaffirmed their support for freedom to make decisions about their bodies and their futures,” Rodriguez said. “Our state has a long history of standing up for reproductive health care freedoms, and this represents another chapter in that story. I am honored to sponsor this legislation that implements the will of the voters and ensures reproductive health care is protected in both our state law and our constitution.” “It’s our responsibility to implement the will of the voters, and that’s what this law does by further protecting and increasing access to abortion in Colorado,” said McCluskie. “Nationally, the future of reproductive health care is uncertain, however, it’s clear Coloradans trust people to make their own medical decisions without government interference. This law implements the will of the voters and reduces barriers so public employees can access the essential reproductive health care they need.” “Coloradans deserve the freedom to make their own health care decisions and choices about when to start a family – full stop,” Daugherty said. “Amidst a dangerous national landscape, we have worked hard to ensure that Colorado is a beacon for access to safe and affordable reproductive health care. Last November, Coloradans resoundingly voted to build on that work and permanently protect the fundamental right to abortion care in our state’s constitution.” “Colorado voters have spoken – abortion must remain safe, legal and protected,” said García. “Despite the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle abortion access or restrict funding altogether, Coloradans believe it’s your constitutional right to access the reproductive health care you need. This law will expand access to life-saving reproductive health care, including abortion, by covering these services for public employees and Coloradans on Medicaid.” In November 2024, Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 79 to enshrine the right to abortion in the Colorado Constitution and remove the state’s prohibition on using public funds to cover abortion care. The amendment was supported by a majority of votes in each of the state’s eight congressional districts. Beginning on January 1, 2026, the law will ensure that state employee health insurance plans cover abortion care and require the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to authorize reimbursements for abortion care under publicly funded insurance, including community members with coverage through Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program), and the Reproductive Health Care Program. SB25-129 , sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, and Senator Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Representatives Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, and Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, strengthens Colorado’s shield laws to protect patients and providers from out-of-state and federal attacks on reproductive and gender-affirming health care. “We have worked hard in Colorado to protect the freedom to decide what to do with our futures and our bodies, and we won’t allow anyone to put these freedoms in danger,” Cutter said. “As attacks on reproductive rights continue across the country, we are working to implement strong and responsive laws in Colorado to shield health care patients and providers from hostile out-of-state action.” “It’s time to fight back against out-of-state interference and Trump administration threats to restrict abortion and health care for LGBTQ+ Coloradans,” said McCormick. “Whether you're a Colorado resident or not, this shield law will protect your fundamental right to access the full range of reproductive health care, including abortion.” “Colorado is a beacon for reproductive freedom and access to abortion in our region,” said Winter. “Strengthening our shield law would expand protections for patients, providers, and helpers against interstate criminal and civil threats. These measures, like prescription label privacy, telehealth protections, and robust legal safeguards, will ensure that Colorado remains a national leader for reproductive health care and freedom.” “We’re reaffirming Colorado’s position as a sanctuary for safe, legal and protected reproductive health care by strengthening our shield laws,” said Joseph. “Our law expands Colorado’s shield laws to include telehealth and prescription label privacy. In the face of hostile, out-of-state attacks on our reproductive rights, we’re making sure Colorado can fight back and protect our patients and providers.” The new law protects providers by allowing their name to be excluded from a medication abortion label and requiring subpoena requests to include an affirmation that they do not pertain to legally protected health care. The law also bars attorneys, local governments, and state entities like hospitals, clinics, businesses and insurers from assisting with or responding to hostile out-of-state investigations and would strengthen enforcement and compliance mechanisms. Finally, the law updates Colorado’s 2024 telehealth law to clarify that out-of-state health care providers offering telehealth services to Colorado patients are protected under the state’s shield law. In 2023, Colorado Democrats passed legislation to establish shield laws to protect health care providers and people who travel to Colorado for abortion or gender-affirming care from out-of-state lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Previous Next