April 24, 2024
Committee Passes Bill to Promote Responsible Gun Ownership With Firearm Insurance Coverage
DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, that would encourage responsible gun ownership by requiring gun owners to have liability insurance for their firearms cleared the Senate State, Veterans & Military Affairs Committee today.
“Gun violence unfortunately impacts every corner of our state, and we must do more to protect victims from the severe financial repercussions of gun violence,” Hansen said. “Like vehicles, firearm accidents can be dangerous, and owning them requires responsibility. This bill will add guardrails and insurance to provide financial protection for gun-owners and gun violence victims alike.”
Starting January 1, 2025, HB24-1270 would require gun owners to have liability insurance that covers losses or damages to a person who is injured from the accidental or unintentional discharge of a firearm.
Failure to have a firearm liability insurance policy is a civil infraction, but those denied insurance by two or more providers or who cannot afford it can seek a court exemption. The court can grant a three-year exemption if it finds that the gun owner is likely to behave prudently and safely in the storage, carrying, and use of a firearm and that the person has a gun safe or other secure container to store the gun at home.
The bill allows this coverage to be included under the gun owner’s homeowners, condo unit, or renters policy.
HB24-1270 will now move to further consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Via. ColoradoSenateDemocrats
April 24, 2024
Kolker and Hansen Bill to Provide Tax Credit for Renters Earns Senate Approval
DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Chris Hansen’s, D-Denver, bill that would address housing affordability in Colorado by providing temporary tax relief.
SB24-146 would provide a non-refundable income tax credit for renters with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of up to $75,000 for single filers and $125,000 for joint filers. The bill offers $2,000 for qualifying joint filers with AGIs of $75,000 or less, and $1,000 for single filers with AGIs of $50,000 or less. These credits would decrease with higher incomes.
“Colorado’s ongoing housing crisis is forcing renters to spend more of their income on rent, which makes it harder to afford other essentials,” said Kolker. “This bill is about protecting our most vulnerable, and ensuring they can have a safe space to live while affording groceries, paying bills, and making ends meet.”
“This bill is a way we can get relief directly into the hands of folks who need it most,” Hansen said. “Housing has become unaffordable for many hard-working Coloradans, but by providing a tax credit for qualifying renters we can help alleviate that burden.”
The tax credit would apply for the 2024 through 2026 tax years, targeting support for lower and middle-income renters during this period. Additionally, the tax credit would be compatible with other assistance. Folks receiving help with rent or heat grants would not be disqualified, nor would the credit count as income for public assistance or affordable housing eligibility.
SB24-146 will now move to the House. Follow its progress HERE.
Via. ColoradoSenateDemocrats
April 24, 2024
Senate Advances Bill to Crack Down on Deepfakes, Protect Colorado’s Elections
Deepfake audio of President Biden was sent via robocall in New Hampshire to discourage voters from participating in the primary election
DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved legislation that would add protections against deepfake media in our elections.
HB24-1147, sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, would create new regulations around AI-generated content in electioneering communications. Deepfake media that includes a candidate for elected office would be required to include a disclaimer that the content is not real or truthful.
“Deepfake technology is a direct threat to our democracy, and I am proud to be focused on defending transparency in our elections,” Hansen said. “Voters deserve to know which media they consume is real and which is manipulated so they can make informed decisions at the ballot box. These guardrails are essential to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure fair races for both candidates and voters.”
“AI is already affecting our electoral process, and it is vital we add protections in time for upcoming elections,” said Buckner. “This legislation would safeguard our elections by requiring a disclaimer on artificially altered media, so Coloradans can know what's true and not be deceived by bad actors.”
Additionally, under the bill a candidate who is the subject of an undisclosed deepfake communication can pursue civil action, and anyone who believes there has been a violation of the disclosure requirements can file a complaint with the office of the Secretary of State.
The bill now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Follow its progress HERE.
Via. ColoradoSenateDemocrats
Bill to Revitalize Colorado’s Community Solar Program, Set Standards for Equitable Clean Energy Policy Introduced
Legislation could leverage hundreds of millions of federal dollars from the Inflation Reduction Act to expand access to the clean energy transition
DENVER, CO – Legislation to revitalize Colorado’s community solar programand set new standards for equitable clean energy policy was recently introduced in the Senate.
Sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Chris Hansen, D-Denver, SB24-207 would put Colorado in a strong position to leverage hundreds of millions of federal dollars from the Inflation Reduction Act to expand access to the clean energy transition, upgrade Colorado’s electric grid, and reduce energy costs.
“All Coloradans, regardless of income level or homeownership status, should be able to participate in the transition to renewable energy,” said Fenberg. “This important bill removes barriers to accessing solar energy – like homeownership or credit score requirements – to ensure renters, non-profits, and small businesses can take part without breaking the bank. With unprecedented federal funding opportunities through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, now is the time to revitalize Colorado’s community solar program and ensure our state remains a leader in renewable, clean energy use.”
“Colorado’s community solar program was designed to welcome all Coloradans to the transition to clean energy,” Hansen said. “However due to outdated policies, lower-income Coloradans or renters haven’t accessed these critical programs at the levels we hoped. This bill aims to break down barriers and get more people connected to community solar – supporting our transition to clean energy while saving folks money on their energy bill.”
Community solar projects generate electricity that flows directly to the electricity grid. Community solar subscribers pay for a share of the electricity generated by the project, and then receive bill savings on their electricity bill in the form of a monthly credit. Community solar paired with storage alleviates stress on the grid and avoids costly transmission system upgrades.
Colorado was the first state in the nation to pass community solar legislation, however only one percent of Xcel’s customers are able to participate in community solar due to the program’s outdated design and limited size.
The bill would improve the future of community solar in Colorado by:
Requiring investor-owned utilities to continue allowing for the development of community solar projects;
Reserving at least 51 percent of community solar projects for income-qualified residential subscribers;
Delivering income-qualified residential customers a 25 percent bill credit discount, which increases to up to 50 percent with federal tax credits;
Adopting subscriber enrollment methods and consumer protections; and
Giving the Public Utilities Commission discretionary authority to evaluate community solar program requirements in 2028 and beyond.
SB24-207 is scheduled for its first hearing in the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee on Monday, April 22. Track its progress HERE.
Via. ColoradoSenateDemocrats
April 17 2024
Senate Approves Hansen’s Bipartisan Bill to Improve Road Safety, Keep Coloradans Mobile
DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate approved Senator Chris Hansen’s, D-Denver, bipartisan legislation to create safer roads.
HB24-1250, cosponsored by Senator Jim Smallwood, R-Parker, would allow an individual convicted of a driving infraction to attend a driving improvement course to waive license suspension points. Driver improvement courses teach the most up-to-date rules of the road and how to drive more safely. The Department of Revenue approved courses are four to six hours and can be completed online or in person.
“Having a driver’s license is essential to many hardworking Coloradans so they can get to work, attend appointments, and take care of their families,” said Hansen. “This bill is a great way to allow drivers to keep their licenses and avoid driving illegally. Instead of paying a one time fee, drivers would have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, ultimately making our roads safer while saving folks money.”
Sixteen other states have implemented similar programs that cover topics such as highway safety, defensive driving, state traffic laws, and driving emergencies. These programs are shown to lower insurance premiums, which saves drivers hundreds of dollars annually.
HB24-1250 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Follow its progress HERE.
Via. ColoradoSenateDemocrats
April 15 2024
Bill to Improve Colorado Privacy Act, Protect Consumers Clears Committee
Legislation would amend the Colorado Privacy Act to include protections for biometric data
DENVER, CO – The Senate Judiciary Committee today voted to advance Senator Chris Hansen’s, D-Denver, bipartisan bill to amend the Colorado Privacy Act to include protections for biometric data.
Biometric data is highly unique to an individual and includes fingerprints, facial recognition used to unlock smartphones, and iris scanning. Cosponsored by Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, HB24-1130 would require biometric data be destroyed within two years of collection or when the data is no longer needed, whichever is earliest, and to be stored at a higher level of security.
“Coloradans have the right to know which companies have their biometric data and what specific data they have,” said Hansen. “Biometric data is increasingly being used for security purposes, like using a fingerprint or faceprint as a password, which means companies are in possession of highly sensitive data. This important policy will improve transparency, reduce the risk of exploitation, and bolster consumer protections.”
In 2021, legislators passed SB21-190 to enact the Colorado Privacy Act and make it a deceptive trade practice for entities who control the personal data of at least 25,000 people to process sensitive data without consent.
HB24-1130 will now move to the Senate floor for further consideration. You can follow its progress HERE.
Via. ColoradoSenateDemocrats
April 8, 2024
Hansen’s Bipartisan Bill to Improve Road Safety, Keep Coloradans Mobile Clears Committee
DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee approved Senator Chris Hansen’s, D-Denver, bipartisan legislation to create safer roads.
HB24-1250, cosponsored by Senator Jim Smallwood, R-Parker, would allow an individual convicted of a driving infraction to attend a driving improvement course to waive license suspension points. Driver’s improvement courses teach the most up-to-date rules of the road and how to drive more safely. The Department of Revenue approved courses are four to six hours and can be completed online or in person.
“Having a driver’s license is essential to many hardworking Coloradans so they can get to work, attend appointments, and take care of their families,” said Hansen. “This bill is a great way to allow drivers to keep their licenses and avoid driving illegally. Instead of paying a one time fee, drivers would have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, ultimately making our roads safer while saving folks money.”
Sixteen other states have implemented similar programs that cover topics such as highway safety, defensive driving, state traffic laws, and driving emergencies. These programs are shown to lower insurance premiums, which saves drivers hundreds of dollars annually.
The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Follow its progress HERE.
April 1, 2024
Legislation to Protect More Coloradans from Bias-Motivated Crimes Clears Committee
SB24-189 would add gender identity and gender expression to Colorado’s bias-motivated crimes and harassment laws
DENVER, CO – Legislation that would protect more Coloradans from bias-motivated crimes cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee today.
SB24-189, sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Chris Hansen, D-Denver, would improve protections for Coloradans by adding gender identity and gender expression to the classes included in Colorado’s bias-motivated crimes and harassment laws.
“Every Coloradan deserves to feel secure in their community, but far too many folks have been targeted because of who they are or how they identify,” Fields said. “As trans, nonbinary, and gender-expressive folks face increasing threats across the country, we will continue fighting to make our state safer for all Coloradans and provide better protections against bias-motivated crime and harassment.”
“Colorado has been a national leader when it comes to advancing equality and protections for our LGBTQ+ neighbors,” Hansen said. “This bill will help protect Coloradans from violence or harassment based on their gender identity or gender expression, and will help ensure perpetrators of bias-motivated crimes are held accountable for their actions. I’m pleased to champion this legislation that will help more Coloradans feel secure and keep people in our communities safe.”
The bill also redefines "sexual orientation" as used in Colorado's bias-motivated crimes and harassment statutes.
SB24-189 will now move to further consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Senate Approves Coleman, Hansen Bill to Protect Homeowners in Metro Districts
DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed a bill that would increase protections and prevent foreclosures for homeowners in metropolitan districts.
HB24-1267, sponsored by Senate President pro tempore James Coleman, D-Denver, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, would prohibit metropolitan districts from foreclosing based on delinquent fines and fees and require them to publish clear policies and procedures for imposing fines and handling disputes between a metropolitan district and a homeowner.
“Keeping families housed is a key priority of mine,” Coleman said. “But a lack of transparency and confusing, hard-to-follow rules in metro districts can saddle homeowners with large fines and make it hard for folks to stay in their homes. This bill will give metro district homeowners more freedom and better protection from foreclosures, and ultimately keep more Colorado families housed.”
“Metro districts can be an important tool in helping create more badly-needed housing for our communities – but too often homeowners in metro districts face entirely preventable foreclosures,” Hansen said. “By creating more avenues for dispute resolution and creating clearer rules and practices, we can help ensure a fair process for foreclosures and keep more of our neighbors in their homes.”
Starting January 1, 2025, HB24-1267 would prohibit a metro district from foreclosing on a lien based on a resident’s delinquent fees or other charges owed to the metro district. It would also create rules and guidelines for metro districts to comply with when enforcing policies on owners, including:
Requiring metro districts to adopt written policies regarding the imposition and collection of fines;
Prohibiting metro districts from requiring residents to use specific flammable roofing or other materials;
Establishing a fair process that gives an owner notice and an opportunity for a hearing; and
Outlining procedures for dispute resolution between metro districts and residents, including mediation and court cases.
HB24-1267 further protects residents’ property rights by allowing them to display flags and signs, modify their property to accommodate a person with a disability, park an emergency vehicle in a driveway, remove vegetation for fire mitigation purposes, use a rain barrel, operate a family child care home or install renewable energy devices.
HB24-1267 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Coleman, Hansen Bill to Protect Homeowners in Metro Districts Clears Committee
DENVER, CO – The Senate Local Government & Housing Committee today passed a bill that would increase protections and prevent foreclosures for homeowners in metropolitan districts.
HB24-1267, sponsored by Senate President pro tempore James Coleman, D-Denver, and Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver, would prohibit metropolitan districts from foreclosing based on delinquent fines and fees and require them to publish clear policies and procedures for imposing fines and handling disputes between a metropolitan district and a homeowner.
“Keeping families housed is a key priority of mine,” Coleman said. “But a lack of transparency and confusing, hard-to-follow rules in metro districts can saddle homeowners with large fines and make it hard for folks to stay in their homes. This bill will give metro district homeowners more freedom and better protection from foreclosures, and ultimately keep more Colorado families housed.”
“Metro districts can be an important tool in helping create more badly-needed housing for our communities - but too often homeowners in metro districts face entirely preventable foreclosures,” Hansen said. “By creating more avenues for dispute resolution and creating clearer rules and practices, we can help ensure a fair process for foreclosures and keep more of our neighbors in their homes.”
Starting January 1, 2025, HB24-1267 would prohibit a metro district from foreclosing on a lien based on a resident’s delinquent fees or other charges owed to the metro district. It would also create rules and guidelines for metro districts to comply with when enforcing policies on owners, including:
Requiring metro districts to adopt written policies regarding the imposition and collection of fines;
Prohibiting metro districts from requiring residents to use specific flammable roofing or other materials;
Establishing a fair process that gives an owner notice and an opportunity for a hearing; and
Outlining procedures for dispute resolution between metro districts and residents, including mediation and court cases.
HB24-1267 further protects residents’ property rights by allowing them to display flags and signs, modify their property to accommodate a person with a disability, park an emergency vehicle in a driveway, remove vegetation for fire mitigation purposes, use a rain barrel, operate a family child care home or install renewable energy devices.
HB24-1267 will now move to consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Via. ColoradoSenateDems
March 20, 2o24
Senate Approves Kolker, Hansen Bill to Save Older Coloradans Money, Make Senior Homestead Property Tax Exemption Portable
SB24-111 would help more Coloradans age in place
DENVER, CO – Legislation aimed at saving older Coloradans money on their property taxes by making the senior homestead property tax exemption portable cleared the Senate today.
Sponsored by Senators Chris Kolker, D-Centennial, and Chris Hansen, D-Denver, 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.
“Spiking housing prices are hitting Coloradans hard - and it’s particularly tough for seniors on fixed incomes,” Kolker said. “Our state is number one in the nation for housing instability among people over the age of 65. Allowing seniors to carry this important benefit with them when they move will save older Coloradans thousands of dollars on their property taxes and help them age in place with the dignity they deserve.”
“Too many older Coloradans who would like to downsize or move are reluctant because they would lose their exemption under the current rules,” Hansen said. “Making the senior homestead exemption portable gives seniors the freedom to downsize or sell their home without facing a higher tax bill and will help older Coloradans stay independent.”
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 exemption under the senior homestead exemption.
SB24-111 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.
Via. ColoradoSenateDems
January 24, 2024
BIG PIVOTS: Solar Industry Seeks Changes to Electrical Grid Planning
“We have a mid-20th century way of doing things as we hurtle through the 21st century.”
That’s how Mike Kruger, president of Colorado Solar and Storage, describes the situation that has spawned a bill almost certain to be introduced into the Colorado General Assembly in coming days that might dramatically rearrange how Xcel Energy goes about its distribution system planning.
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The bill has a fancy, forward-looking title: Powering Up Colorado.
A year ago, he says, solar installers were complaining about the inability of Xcel to get systems connected in a timely matter. “Part of the issue was directly related to the grid.“
The answer, he says, is more thoughtful distribution system planning, and this bill — it’s being carried by at least two of the most savvy legislators as regards energy bills, Sen. Chris Hansen and Senate President Steve Fenberg — would force Xcel to revamp how it goes about distribution planning.
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Working with COSSA in drafting the bill have been the Colorado Energy Office, the Natural Resources Defense Council, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and others. He said he believes proponents have the support of Xcel because it takes into account their concerns.
January 15, 2024
Should We Increase Registration Fees for SUVs? And Other Things Being Debated In Colorado’s 2024 Legislative Session
From property taxes to education, here’s an early look at what bills might be passed into law as the Colorado General Assembly gathers this week.
It’s too early to know the makeup of all legislation that will pass under the gold dome this year, but we do know that hundreds of bills will be on the docket—including a few that are sure to inspire spirited debate.
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Taxing Short-Term Rentals Like Hotels
Thanks to interim committee work at the end of 2023, we have insight into several bills set to be introduced, including legislation aimed at raising the tax on properties that are used as short-term rentals (bookings that are less than a month long) for more than 90 days each year. Sponsored by Denver Democrat Chris Hansen, the bill would classify certain short-term rentals as lodging properties—the same as hotels and motels—which pay a property tax rate of 27.9 percent.
June 9, 2023
Denver Judge Rejects Effort to Block 10-Year Property Tax Relief Plan From Going Before Colorado Voters in November
Denver District Court judge David H. goldberg rejected arguments that proposition HH violates requirements in the state constitution that ballot measures deal with a single subject and have clear titles
An effort by conservative fiscal activists and GOP-led counties to block a 10-year property tax plan formed by Gov. Jared Polis and Democrats in the legislature from going before voters in November was denied Friday by a Denver judge.
Denver District Court Judge David H. Goldberg found that he didn’t have jurisdiction to consider the case. But he also rejected arguments that Proposition HH violates requirements in the state constitution that ballot measures deal with a single subject and have clear titles.
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit, filed in May, included Advance Colorado, a conservative political nonprofit, and more than a dozen Colorado counties controlled by Republicans. Several GOP county commissioners and Republican current and former politicians also signed onto the legal action.
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Polis’ office said the governor “appreciates the court’s ruling to allow the voters the opportunity to enact Proposition HH as passed by the legislature.” Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, celebrated the ruling.
“I am pleased that the court today agrees that voters should have their say,” Fenberg said in a written statement.
Sen.Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat and an architect of the proposal, calling the ruling “clear and decisive.”
Proposition HH was placed on the November ballot through a bill passed by the legislature in May. It’s meant to respond to massive increases in Coloradans’ property tax bills starting next year caused by a sharp spike in property values. The median increase in home values across the state in May when county assessors determined property values was 40% since June 2020, the last time assessors determined property values.
June 2, 2023
General Assembly Democrats - SIGNED! LEGISLATION TO PREVENT GUN VIOLENCE, CRACK DOWN ON GHOST GUNS BECOMES LAW
SB23-279 WILL PROHIBIT THE POSSESSION, SALE, OR TRANSFER OF UNSERIALIZED FIREARMS, FRAMES, AND RECEIVERS
DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation aimed at preventing further gun violence and cracking down on “ghost guns” into law. Sponsored by Senators Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, and Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Representatives Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, and Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, SB23-279 prohibits the possession, sale, or transfer of an unserialized firearm, frame or receiver. It also prohibits manufacturing a frame or receiver, unless done by a federally licensed firearm manufacturer, including via a 3D printer.
Ghost guns are unregulated, untraceable firearms that can be bought online and assembled at home, often through DIY kits or downloadable blueprints. They are designed to avoid all gun laws, and are available to purchase without a background check, serial number, sale record, or other protections.
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“Right now it’s far too easy for young people in Colorado and others who shouldn’t possess firearms to access them, and ghost guns are a huge part of that problem,” Hansen said. “Nearly anyone can order the parts or have them 3D printed, and within minutes have access to a fully functional, untraceable firearm. By cracking down on ghost guns, we will get these dangerous weapons out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them, reducing gun violence and increasing safety across our state.”
April 18, 2023
Colorado Public Radio News- Colorado’s Top Oil and Gas Regulators Could Get a New Name, But the Change Wouldn’t Only Be Skin Deep
Colorado's top oil and gas regulators could be getting a new name and a broader scope of work.
Since its creation in 1951, the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission has approved thousands of drilling projects across the state. That role has put the governor-appointed panel at the center of countless conflicts related to climate change and the local impacts of fossil fuel extraction.
Now, a bill introduced by Democratic lawmakers Tuesday would give a new title to the seven-member committee: the Energy and Carbon Management Commission.
The name change is more than cosmetic. It signals an attempt to bring the commission — and the industry it regulates — into the state's larger efforts to combat climate change and provide new options for energy storage.
If the legislation wins approval, the panel would gain new authority over projects to drill for geothermal heat deep below the Earth's surface. It would also oversee any company planning to store natural gas underground and study the potential for similar hydrogen storage projects.
State Sen. Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat and lead sponsor of the legislation, said the shift provides clarity for oil and gas companies with existing drilling expertise. Instead of exacerbating the climate crisis, those same techniques could assist in efforts to reduce emissions.
"That is certainly a possibility for some oil and gas firms. And we have a clear indication that some of those companies want to diversify their operations," Hansen said.
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Update this legislation passed and became law on May 22nd 2023
April 12, 2023
Colorado Sun- Making, Possessing and selling “ghost guns” will likely soon be illegal in Colorado
“Making, possessing and selling so-called ghost guns, the untraceable homemade weapons linked to several recent high-profile Colorado shootings, will likely soon be illegal in the state.”
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Other prime sponsors of the bill are Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver; Rep. Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins; and Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder.
“No law stops illegal activity,” Hansen said. “I have no doubt there will be people who will break the law. But, the point is, we have nothing on the books right now to address unserialized firearms.”
The measure is expected to cruise through the Democratic-controlled legislature to Gov. Jared Polis, who supports the legislation.
There’s also growing, bipartisan support outside of the Capitol for regulating ghost guns. The mayors of Denver, Colorado Springs and Aurora wrote a joint opinion column in January supporting legislation that would restrict untraceable guns.
Ghost guns have been associated with several high-profile shootings in Colorado over the past year, including one in March when an East High School student with a history of making guns shot two administrators. The alleged shooter in the Club Q massacre in Colorado Springs also had a history of using a 3D printer to produce guns at home.
The bill would also add crimes around unserialized guns and gun parts to the list of reasons someone could be barred from purchasing a firearm.
February 22, 2023
Colorado Newsline- Colorado lawmakers advance climate bill but strip pension system measure
Two Democrats on the Colorado Senate Finance Committee on Tuesday joined Republicans to defeat the latest in a series of attempts to prod the state’s public pension system towards more climate-friendly investment decisions.
Senate Bill 23-16, a wide-ranging package of reforms to state climate policy sponsored by Democratic state Sen. Chris Hansen of Denver, was amended on a 5-2 vote to strip a section requiring the board of the Public Employees Retirement Association to ensure its proxy votes as an investor “align with, and are supportive of” the state’s greenhouse gas reduction goals.
State Sens. Kyle Mullica of Northglenn and Chris Kolker of Centennial, both Democrats, joined the committee’s three GOP members in approving the amendment over Hansen’s objections.
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“This was not a divestment provision,” Hansen told the committee. “This was focused completely on an update of the proxy policy.”
Hansen also said he was “getting very close to a final set of amendments” to the bill related to widespread delays in installing and connecting rooftop solar installations for homes and businesses. Customers of utilities like Xcel Energy, Colorado’s largest electric provider, have reported that they pay to install solar panels only to face months-long waits for the panels to be “interconnected” to the grid.
“The utilities are working hard to catch up, but we’ve been behind, unfortunately, and that’s costing companies money, it’s costing consumers money,” Hansen said. “Right now I think we have a timeline or a deadline that is lacking in that process, and I think we’ve got a lack of ability to implement fines if there are delays.”
SB-16 also includes sections aimed at streamlining the process for the installation of electric transmission lines, tax credits for the purchase of electric-powered lawn equipment, and a new regulatory framework for carbon capture projects.
The committee approved several other amendments to the bill on Tuesday, including one that would prohibit homeowner associations from banning electric heat pumps. The committee advanced the bill on a 4-3 party-line vote.
“Folks in Colorado know how vital it is we address this issue,” Hansen said. “Certainly the drought in the Colorado (River) Basin is yet another example, along with the wildfires that we’ve experienced over the last few years, of how important it is to continue to make progress on meeting our emissions goals.”
February 20, 2021
Denver Post - Opinion: Colorado is vulnerable to a Texas-like power failure. We must connect our grid supply to other Western states.
“The wide scale power outages in Texas have reminded all of us how fragile our energy system can be and the dangers created when we lose something we typically take for granted. When you turn on your lights or plug your phone in to charge, do you know where that electricity is coming from or how it got there? It’s OK if you’re not sure — most people don’t know. The answer is a bit complicated and it largely depends on where you live. However, whether you live in Montrose, Denver, Sterling, or Pueblo, the overall problem is the same, and Colorado urgently needs to improve its electricity grid.
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This week we introduced Senate Bill 72, legislation that will streamline new transmission investments, create the Colorado Energy Transmission Authority to independently develop projects that support ratepayers, and provide a pathway for Colorado to interconnect with our neighbors by joining a western regional transmission organization.
This approach creates a competitive marketplace that spans across multiple states, utilizing an organized and connected electricity grid to purchase the lowest cost power and deliver it in the most efficient way. Most of the U.S., more than 65% of the population lives in a jurisdiction with an regional transmission organiztion. Colorado is behind the times.
Imagine if all the utilities in the state had to compete with each other to build new transmission projects, thus ensuring that customers were able to purchase the least-cost and most reliable power. Now imagine if this marketplace included the utilities and power providers in six or more Western states — that is the free market competition that we’re trying to create.”
Febuary 9, 2023
Colorado Lawmakers Push Electric Lawn Equipment
Lawmakers brought forward a bill this year that, if passed, would add interim goals and a more stringent timeline for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, encouraging people to buy electric lawn equipment.
(TNS) — Some Colorado Democrats are taking a “bigger and better” swing at addressing climate change this year, but first it needs to survive a process that killed last year’s effort.
State Sen. Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat, brought forward a bill this year that, if passed, would add interim goals and a more stringent timeline for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, encourage people to buy electric lawn equipment, and focus state retirement decisions away from pollution, among other things.
The bill, SB23-016, already survived its first hurdle, passing along a party-line vote in its first committee, but drawing praise and concern along the way.
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The bill would set 2050 as the goal for a 100% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Currently, the state has a goal of a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by then, compared to 2005. The big current milestone is 50% by 2030. Hansen’s bill would add a 65% target for 2035, 80% by 2040, and 90% by 2045.
“I wouldn’t say (our climate goals are) aggressive, I would say necessary,” Hansen said. “We can all feel it, right? Wildfires, droughts, shorter ski seasons. It shows up in Colorado in a very pronounced way, in fact, a more pronounced than many other states because of our climate and geography.”
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Update this legislation passed and became law on May 11 2023
September 1, 2021
Letter of Support - DOE Office of Energy Market Interoperability and Infrastructure
June 21, 2021
NRDC- Colorado Steps Up for Healthy Homes and Good Jobs
“Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed the first of four cutting-edge energy laws this afternoon to reduce climate-warming emissions as well as unhealthy pollution in homes and places of work. The new laws will put Colorado’s building sector on track to meet the state’s climate goals and ensure that the transition to healthy, 100% clean energy buildings will result in good, family-sustaining jobs for those who need them most.
Energy use in buildings is responsible for 20 percent of Colorado’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Emissions that come from burning fossil fuels like methane (aka “natural”) gas directly in our homes can also make our families sick today. Fortunately, we can now harness plentiful and affordable electricity from the sun and wind to power all our building energy needs. By powering our homes and businesses with clean energy and making them as efficient as possible, we can eliminate toxic indoor air pollution and cut down on our utility bills.
Gas Demand-Side Management (HB21-1238, sponsored by Representative Tracey Bernett and Senator Chris Hansen), directs the Public Utilities Commission to set energy savings targets for gas utilities to expand energy efficiency programs and help more customers cut energy waste.
Clean Heat Standard (SB21-264, sponsored by Senator Chris Hansen and Representatives Alex Valdez and Tracey Bernett), sets robust and enforceable emission reduction targets so that gas utilities across the state can leverage all of the above programs and incentives to deliver the GHG reductions the state desperately needs.
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Together, these four new policies give homeowners and businesses a chance to take stock of their energy use and make it easier and more affordable to upgrade to modern appliances that rely on Colorado’s ever-cleaner electricity. At a time when research clearly shows that old gas-powered appliances waste energy and contribute to troubling health effects, policies that help Coloradans make healthier and more affordable energy choices are just common sense.”
Jun 21, 2021
Pagosa Daily Post- Colorado Governor Polis Signs Three New Gun Laws
“On Saturday, June 19, Governor Jared Polis signed three landmark gun safety measures into law that aim to address the issue of gun violence with a root-cause, multi-pronged approach.”
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“HB21-1299, sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen and Rhonda Fields, establishes the Office of Gun Violence Prevention under the Department of Public Health and Environment. The Office would be responsible for conducting public awareness campaigns about gun violence prevention. It would educate the public about existing state resources and laws, including how to file an Extreme Risk Protection Order, how to access mental health resources, and how to store firearms securely. The Office would also fund proven community-based violence intervention programs that are focused on interrupting cycles of gun violence through competitive grants…”
June 18, 2021
EIN Presswire- JOINT RELEASE: Forecast Shows Colorado Comeback is Well Underway
“DENVER, CO – Democratic members of the Joint Budget Committee today released the following statements after the Legislative Council staff and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting delivered the June economic forecasts, both of which project higher General Fund revenue compared to earlier estimates, but warn of continued budget challenges in years to come and uncertainty as the economy rebuilds from the pandemic.
“Today’s economic forecast reassured us that as vaccine rates rise and the pandemic continues to abate, the economy continues to improve,” said JBC Member Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “Colorado is one of the leaders in the rebound in employment, with nearly two-thirds of our pandemic job losses now filled. Still, we cannot let up. The recovery continues to be K-shaped and lower income families have still not recovered to their pre-pandemic income levels. We will work to ensure that we lift up all people across this state and continue to implement stimulus measures and targeted relief to achieve that goal.”
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The Legislative Council staff (LCS) June forecast anticipates General Fund revenues to be $14.34 billion in FY 2020-21 and $14.87 billion in FY 2021-2022 – a $1.62 billion and $1.06 billion increase from the March revenue forecast respectively. These persistent improvements in the state’s economic outlook are due in large part to federal and state stimulus dollars, which have elevated personal incomes throughout the pandemic while allowing Colorado to invest in stabilizing the industries and individuals most severely impacted by COVID-19…
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In addition, LCS and OSPB identified both upside and downside risks to the forecast but feel confident the risks remain fairly balanced with potential to lean towards the upside as vaccine distribution continues, employment recovers, and the economy continues to reopen. The most significant downside risks surround supply and demand mismatches and inflationary increases, however, both are expected to be temporary as the market stabilizes and businesses adjust to new consumer spending patterns.”
June 16, 2021
The Villager- New Law Will Gather Health Data and Limit MJ Concentrates for Ages 18 TO 20
“After all 35 members of the Colorado state senate voted to approve HB21-1317, Regulating Marijuana Concentrates, on June 3, they sent it back to the state House, where, on June 8, all 65 members concurred, resulting in a unanimous vote. What is even more unusual is that the bill was not introduced until May 14. Prime bipartisan sponsors of the legislation were Speaker of the House Alec Garnett from Denver, Adams County Rep. Dr. Yadira Caraveo, a pediatrician, Denver and Arapahoe County Sen. Chris Hansen, and El Paso County Sen. Paul Lundeen.
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In Colorado, only those over the age of 21 can purchase recreational marijuana, but one can be only 18 to get a prescription from a doctor for medical marijuana. This new law limits the amount of concentrated medical marijuana a patient can purchase to two grams per day if the patient is between the ages of 18 and 20, under normal circumstances. It also limits the amount of concentrated marijuana that can be purchased in a day to eight grams for those aged 21 and over, whether the purchase is medical or recreational…
Other new requirements include a significant expansion of the medical assessment required, including their mental health history, before a physician recommends medical marijuana for a patient. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will now report annually on the number of physicians who made medical marijuana recommendations in the past year and how many recommendations each physician made. For a person between the ages of 18 and 20, it will take two physicians from separate medical practices to agree that medical marijuana is required to treat a “debilitating or disabling medical condition,” after each of the doctors conducts an “in-person consultation” with the patient.”
June 15, 2021
Governor Signs Trio of Climate Action & Clean Energy Stimulus Bills
“DENVER, CO - Today, Governor Polis signed into law three bills that are a part of Colorado’s recovery package, all targeting investments in the clean energy sector and energy efficiency projects.
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SB21-230, sponsored by Senators Chris Hansen & Faith Winter, allocates $40 million to the Colorado Energy Office for several clean energy finance initiatives. The majority of these funds will be directed to the Colorado Clean Energy Fund, which acts as Colorado’s “Green Bank” with the purpose of financing clean energy projects and bridging gaps between clean energy projects and private capital providers. The remaining funds will be spent between programs that support clean energy retrofits, energy efficient new construction, clean energy lending and funding for the installation of EV charging stations at facilities across the state.
“As we work to rapidly reduce carbon emissions and meet our climate goals, we need additional funding to support our efforts,” said Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “These vital resources will help us preserve our environment and utilize our abundant clean energy resources while creating good-paying green jobs, putting us on a successful pathway toward a sustainable future for generations to come.”
MAY 27, 2021
Colorado Newsline- Legislative trio brings ’embodied carbon’ bill to the table
You’ve heard of climate change. Have you heard of embodied carbon?
If not, you aren’t alone. When it comes to green initiatives, we often turn to topics such as renewable energy or electric vehicles. Yet embodied carbon — the comprehensive carbon footprint of a material — contributes notably to greenhouse gas emissions.
Embodied carbon is notoriously challenging to address for many reasons, but particularly as it spans everything from manufacturing, transportation, installation and the disposal of a material. Even the governor’s Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction Roadmap side stepped it almost entirely, despite acknowledging its role.
Enter Colorado’s House Bill 21-1303, a scantily reported bill sponsored by Reps. Tracey Bernett and Barbara McLachlan, and Sen. Chris Hansen.
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In 2020, Hansen — who holds a master’s in engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Ph.D. in economic geography from Oxford University — sensed “a gap that needed immediate attention” in the state’s climate policy. He created the first version with Senate Bill 20-159, but the bill succumbed to a legislative session marred by COVID-19.
This year, Hansen partnered with Bernett and McLachlan. Taking Hansen’s initial work on SB-159, Bernett was especially set on adding transportation materials. In time, they earned strong support from Colorado’s Energy Office, with Executive Director Will Toor testifying in support of HB-1303 as a “complementary strategy” to the greenhouse gas reduction roadmap.
May 25, 2021
Colorado Sun- How much damage does climate change cause in Colorado? Leaders are trying to put a price tag on it.
“How much damage does climate change cause in Colorado? Leaders are trying to put a price tag on it.
The Biden administration and Colorado legislators are turning to a calculation called the “social cost of carbon” to measure the economic harm of putting one additional ton of carbon dioxide, the prime greenhouse gas, into the air.
The dollar value of the social cost of carbon — Colorado is using a minimum of $46 a ton — is, however, not without controversy.
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The social cost of carbon is already embedded in a 2019 Colorado law regulating utilities, and there are two bills working their way through the legislature this year that would employ it to manage natural gas energy efficiency programs and cut the state’s greenhouse gas emissions.
The 2019 law, Senate Bill 236, directed the Colorado Public Utilities Commission to use a social cost of carbon in evaluating all existing electric generation and in the approval of the plan by Xcel Energy, the state’s largest electricity provider, for closing plants and adding new generation…
A second bill, House Bill 1238, directs the PUC to use a social cost of carbon and a social cost of methane in evaluating energy efficiency and demand management programs for utilities, like Xcel and Atmos Energy, selling natural gas to homes and businesses.
“We really needed to have a planning assumption on the cost of carbon in investing taxpayer or rate payer dollars,” said Sen. Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat and cosponsor of House Bill 1238.
Hansen said because there isn’t a carbon market price — some European countries do have markets where carbon credits are bought and sold — “this is the next best thing.”
May 18, 2021
Ark Valley Voice- Governor Signs $35.9 Billion 2021-2022 Colorado Budget
Governor Jared Polis signed SB21-205, on Monday afternoon, the FY 2021-2022 Long Appropriations Bill, announcing the bipartisan approval of the budget as a step that is “paving the way for Colorado’s comeback”.
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Colorado’s $35.9 billion budget funds core state services including education, corrections, health care, and human services. The state’s $13.1 billion General Fund will benefit from a historic 13.4 percent reserve.
Last year, budget forecasts estimated the state would face a significant revenue decline, leading lawmakers to enact historic reductions while still prioritizing critical services and education. But with the economy and state revenues recovering faster than anticipated, the budget returns funding to pre-pandemic levels while responsibly setting aside historic reserves for the future.
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“Budgets are moral documents – they show what we as a community value and prioritize – and this year, Colorado’s budget underscores not only the adversity we have overcome as a state, but the ongoing commitment we have to building back stronger,” said Joint Budget Committee member Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver.
May 11, 2021
Patch Media- Colorado Democrats Propose $375M 'Tax Fairness' Overhaul
“Colorado Democrats on Monday introduced a package of tax reforms that would offer more benefits to lower-income families and small businesses while limiting or eliminating some tax breaks for wealthier individuals and corporations.
Together, House Bills 21-1311 and 21-1312 propose one of the most significant overhauls of Colorado's tax code in decades.
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Overall, the two bills would add about $375 million annually to the state budget by eliminating tax breaks that sponsors say are outdated or unfairly benefit high-income people and big business. About $250 million would in turn be spent on creating or expanding tax benefits for lower-income people, including state-level versions of the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit. The remainder would go to the state's general fund.
"We have a real opportunity with this legislation to help make our tax code and our economy work for every Coloradan regardless of their race or income," state Sen. Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat and lead sponsor of both bills, said in a statement. "We know that tax credits for working families and small business owners are going to help Colorado recover more quickly, boost jobs and do more for our economy than outdated corporate tax breaks."
May 4, 2021
Colorado Politics- Polis signs budget orbitals, retired judges bill into law
“Gov. Jared Polis on Tuesday signed 12 bills into law, including 11 companion measures that accompany the state budget and align the Long Appropriations Bill to state law…
SB21-214 from McCluskie and Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, which authorizes a state payment to qualified hospice providers caring for those enrolled in Medicaid and eligible for care in a nursing facility but who are unable to find a bed in such a facility due to COVID-19
SB21-217 from Herod, McCluskie, Hansen and Sen. Bob Rankin, R-Carbondale, which changes the requirement for a state Department of Human Services market rate study for the Colorado Child Care Assistance program from annually to tri-annually
SB21-221 from McCluskie, Hansen and Rankin, which removes a $1 million limit for the state grant share of projects under the Forest Restoration and Wildfire Risk Mitigation Grant Program
SB21-223 from Ransom and Hansen, which allows Department of Revenue administrative tax hearings to be conducted via video conference
and SB21-228 from McCluskie, Ransom, Hansen and Moreno, which creates a PERA Payment Cash Fund and fills it with $380 million from the General Fund. The bill also requires the State Treasurer to use those funds to make a $225 million payment to PERA on July 1, 2022.”
April 30, 2021
EIN Presswire- State Budget is Finalized: Restoring Cuts, Targeting Relief, & Investing in Colorado’s Future
“Today, with strong bipartisan support, the Senate gave final approval for this year’s state budget, SB21-205. After the Joint Budget Committee convened a conference committee to review bill changes, the General Assembly entered ultimate concurrence.
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“This budget is a moral document that seeks to rebuild community pillars and set the tone for reimagining an economic future that truly works for everyone,” said Joint Budget Committee Member, Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “As budget writers, we have to balance adequately funding existing programs, while also making calculated investments that benefit as many Coloradans as possible. I’m proud of the final budget, and I’m grateful for the collaboration of both chambers and parties.”
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Colorado’s $34.6 billion budget includes funding for day-to-day operations of state government, the majority of which is allocated to six departments, known as the ‘Big Six’ – the Dept. of Health Care Policy & Financing, the Dept. Education, the Dept. of Higher Education, the Dept. of Human Services, the Dept. of Corrections, and the Judicial Dept – which together receive approximately 80% of total state funding.
This year, Senate Democrats prioritized: 1) restoring funding to the cuts that the General Assembly was forced to make last year; 2) uplifting the most marginalized Coloradans to ensure an equitable economic recovery; and 3) investing in Colorado’s future to make our state more financially resourceful and resilient. In practice, this manifested in several ways.”
Apr 28, 2021
Colorado Politics- Quadratic voting, or how General Assembly Democrats decide what to fund at the last minute
“What happens when lawmakers have $50 million to spend on bills that could establish new laws for the rest of the session, and those funding requests tap the same pot of money set aside to cover the amendments to the long bill?
You get quadratic voting, at least for Democrats in the General Assembly.
It works like this: every Democratic lawmaker gets 100 credits plus access to an interactive website with a spreadsheet that lists the bills awaiting action from the House or Senate Appropriations committees and which will require general fund dollars.
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Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee, heard about quadratic voting from a friend, according to a 2019 Wired article and decided to try it out to determine how to spend those last dollars. It's no surprise that this came from Hansen: he holds a doctorate in philosophy in energy geography from the University of Oxford and has an interest in game theory, which definitely applies here.
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Hansen explained that it’s just another tool that lawmakers have for negotiating support for their bills… Hansen first tried out the system in the 2019 session for that year's budget process, according to a the Wired story. The winner that year was the paid leave bill, although that issue was later resolved by voters last November.”
Apr 23, 2021
The Center Square Contributor- Polis signs bipartisan bills addressing roadways, renewable energy
“Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed three bipartisan bills on Thursday that address issues ranging from renewable energy to local roadways.
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Senate Bill 21-020 updates the tax treatment of certain renewable energy utilities such as battery storage devices in property tax calculations.
Property assessors are currently required to valuate properties with these units using an “income approach” which accounts for a 20-year depreciation period.
The bill increases that timeframe to 30 years and requires assessors to use a “cost approach” to make the taxable income from these properties more stable.
The bill was sponsored by Sens. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Dennis Hisey, R-Fountain, and Reps. Alex Valdez, D-Denver, and Matt Soper, R-Delta.
Hansen said he was both “excited” and “proud” for Polis to sign the bill.
“All of us believe in creating more investment opportunities, more jobs, and expanding opportunities in the state,” Hansen said at the bill signing.
“I think this is a really appropriate adjustment to battery storage of renewable energy equipment that will really accelerate this part of our economy over the next few years,” he added.
April 20, 2021
KGAB- Two New Colorado Gun Bills Signed Into Law
“Earlier this week on Monday, April 19th, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed two new gun bills into law.
One of the laws, HB21-1106, requires gun owners to securely lock up their firearms when not in use so that they are unattainable to anyone besides the gun owner. Failure to do so can carry a fine of up to $1000 and/or a year in jail.
The other law put into place by Governor Polis, SB 21-078, requires gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms to authorities within five days of their disappearance. Failure to comply to this new law can result in a misdemeanor charge and a fine of up to $500.”
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“These bills were in the works prior to the tragic shooting in Boulder earlier this year, Senator Chris Hansen has been on record saying that both of these new laws will aid in preventing another tragedy like the aforementioned one:
“The tragedy in Boulder just heightened the focus on needing to improve gun safety in the state. It’s not to say that either of these bills are a solution to what happened in Boulder, but they do contribute to improving the culture of safety around guns in Colorado.”
April 12, 2021
Denver Business Journal - Capitol Business Preview: A $30 million Clean Energy Fund debate
“Colorado legislators will begin debate in earnest on the stimulus package this week with initial hearings on two of the major bills in the effort. But while one of the bills is expected to get across-the-board support, the other shows how proposals to boost businesses still can be controversial.
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Contrast that with Senate Bill 230, which is scheduled for its first hearing Tuesday afternoon before the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee. The bill from Democratic Sen. Chris Hansen of Denver and Faith Winter of Westminster seeks to set aside $40 million for clean energy projects, with the majority ($30 million) going to the Clean Energy Fund to help grow Colorado companies focused in that area.
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Hansen said he would expect the funds to help the companies to leverage even greater private funding, possibly at a rate 10 times that of the state’s investment, by giving them a seal of approval that investors will see. And if they are able to do that, they can create jobs to get the many still-unemployed Coloradans back to work and can do so in a field that has not seen the type of capital infusion as traditional sources of energy.
“I really see this as a very unique opportunity here to get a big snowball at the top of a mountain to accelerate job creation and other energy businesses in the state,” Hansen said Friday. “I think this is the state investing in itself.”
April 12, 2021
Colorado Politics - Senate sends safe gun storage bill to Polis' desk
“Along with House Bill 21-1106, which is set to require gun owners to use locking devices, gun safes or other devices to secure firearms in the home, the Senate also sent a bill to Gov. Jared Polis’ desk last week requiring firearm owners to report to law enforcement within five days of learning their gun has been lost or stolen. Polis received Senate Bill 21-078 last Thursday but has not yet acted on it.
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Greenwood Village Democratic Sen. Jeff Bridges, who carried the bill in the Senate along with fellow Democratic Sen. Chris Hansen of Denver, countered the measure was “incredibly targeted” at keeping kids safe.
“We know from data across the country that bills like this one work,” Bridges said. “States with these kinds of laws have 68% fewer firearm-related suicides than states without them.”
April 1, 2021
Denver Post - Colorado budget: Lawmakers to weigh 3% pay raise for state workers, restoring education cuts and more
“Colorado’s proposed 2021-22 state budget debuts Monday, and the legislature’s Joint Budget Committee made a slew of last-minute spending adjustments in recent days, looking to restore pandemic-induced cuts in some places and put money toward some new initiatives, too.
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Lawmakers now believe they can bring the “budget stabilization factor” — a complex aspect of the state’s school funding formula — down to an 11-year low. The upshot? More per-pupil funding at the K-12 level.
This is made possible largely by the more than $4 billion in federal stimulus that will flow to the state under the American Rescue Plan.
“That, to me, is a huge headline,” said budget committee member Sen. Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat. The JBC “put in close to $500 million to basically get the state portion back to where it was in (2019-20), and now the federal money will be on top of that foundation.”
April 1, 2021
CBS Denver - Colorado Bill Requiring Safe Storage Of Firearms & Locking Device Advances
“A bill that would require Colorado gun owners to securely store their weapons passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday. Opponents of the bill say most gun owners already do what the bill requires.
Supporters say more firearm regulations are needed because accidental shootings involving children keep happening in Colorado.
“We need to protect our kids by preventing their access to a deadly weapon in the midst of a mental health crisis,” said State Sen. Chris Hansen, a Democrat who sponsors the bill. “This bill will work to ensure that guns are properly stored thus reducing needless tragedies by formalizing a practice that responsible Coloradans already do.”
The bill specifically requires all new guns sold in Colorado to have a locking device. Current gun owners would have to either install the device or keep their guns in a safe if there are children under the age of 18 in the house.
Under the bill, a violation could carry a misdemeanor charge. The legislation now moves to the Senate Committee of the Whole for further consideration. More information about the bill can be found at leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb21-1106.”
March 29, 2021
Daily Record - Lawmakers don’t want Colorado to be like Texas; they want to make state’s electric grid regional
“Legislation that’s designed to expand the use of renewable energy in Colorado by steering utilities to join regional transmission networks could also help if a big freeze or other extreme weather strains the state’s energy supply.
Sen. Chris Hansen said the bill he and Sen. Don Coram are sponsoring has been in the works for a couple of years. But consideration of Senate Bill 21-072 follows frigid weather in February that created havoc from Texas to the Midwest, forcing utilities to pay exorbitant prices for in-demand natural gas.
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“The situation in Texas highlighted the fragility of having an isolated grid. In that sense, it helped focus people on the potential downside of not addressing our transmission system,” said Hansen, a Denver Democrat.
Massive outages that left millions of Texans without heat and electricity resulted from a number of factors, including a lack of winter-proofing of equipment in an area where single-digit temperatures are rare. The Texas electric grid is self-contained, making it more difficult to pull energy from other places.
Colorado is different from Texas in many respects. Colorado is more prepared for cold weather and has a much different regulatory system. However, Hansen said Colorado’s electric grid has similar vulnerabilities.
“Colorado is relatively islanded in the Western power grid,” Hansen said. “We basically have 38 island grids in the Western U.S. It’s massively inefficient. If we were to combine those over time, you would get tremendous upside for customers because you’re moving the lowest cost power to where it’s needed.”
March 19, 2021
EIN Presswire - Bipartisan Measure to Enhance Electric Grid Reliability Reduce Consumers Costs Moves Forward
“This afternoon, the Senate Transportation & Energy Committee gave bipartisan approval to SB21-072, a Hansen bill that would transition Colorado toward a regional transmission organization while simultaneously interconnecting the grid, enhancing grid reliability, decreasing costs for utilities and ratepayers, and increasing capacity for renewable energy that will help us reach out statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals.
“As Colorado works to navigate this inevitable transition of our energy sector, we cannot do it alone,” said Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver). “By interconnecting Colorado’s grid to our neighboring states through a regional transmission organization, we will not only be able to increase competition and ensure low-cost power delivery, but we’ll also be able to enhance grid reliability and more easily achieve our statewide clean energy goals."
Currently, Colorado’s grid is controlled by just a few utilities and transmission owners, which allows monopolies to dominate regions and inhibit economic competition, resulting in high-cost electricity for consumers. This bill would streamline new transmission investments and create the Colorado Energy Transmission Authority to independently develop projects that support ratepayers.
Additionally, the bill would require utilities to move toward a regional transmission organization. Our current system operates where a few power providers share resources, but they must constantly negotiate and barter with one another to sell power back and forth in bi-lateral, short-term agreements. In a regional transmission organization, that interstate commerce is instantaneous.
A recent analysis from nonpartisan Legislative Council Staff found that the bill will “facilitate and potentially accelerate the state’s ongoing transition to clean energy by alleviating constraints in transmission and market access” which will “lead to greater greenhouse gas emissions reductions than are currently projected for the electric power sector under current law.”
The legislation now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Information and updates regarding the bill can be found at leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb21-072.”
February 16, 2021
Governing.com - Evidence-Based Government Gets a Boost During COVID
“Before COVID, governors had hoped to increase general fund appropriations by more than $33 billion in fiscal year 2021. Instead, they will be making cuts of more than $6 billion across program areas at a time when citizens are depending on them to lead the way back to health and economic stability.
There’s no room for waste in public-sector investments of dollars and human capital. A Center for Results-Driven Governing has been established at the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) to increase confidence in outcomes by curating and sharing lessons learned from decades of evidence-based policymaking.
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Along with Aaron Ray, Beth Skinner and Pew’s Sara Dube, Colorado Senator Chris Hansen is a member of the NCSL work group that helped define the work of the Center for Results-Driven Governing. He’s convinced that its work is exceptionally important at this time.
“We’ve had an erosion of the public trust in government, in facts,” he says. “I can’t think of a worse situation to be in, when we have the two parties essentially talking past each other.”
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Hansen, who has a Ph.D. in energy and economics, shares Aaron Ray’s appreciation for scientific rigor. One goal for the coming year, he says, is to get definitions and standards in statutes, so that all parties are measuring claims with the same barometer.
It’s deeply disturbing that large numbers of citizens, right- and left-leaning, are amenable to conspiracy theories or able to be convinced that the earth is flat, he says. Using evidence to make policy, and communicating about it to the public, can be one way to overcome this.
“It's so important that we communicate scientific concepts and get rid of that word ‘belief,’” says Hansen. “That is a word for Sunday morning, and it’s not applicable to what we're trying to do with science-based policy.”
February 12, 2021
The Colorado Sun - Colorado wants to put electric vehicle charging stations in every state park. Now it must find funding.
“The Colorado State Parks system is pursuing sponsorship agreements to put electric vehicle charging stations in all of the 40-plus parks, including some busy day-use areas, with a boost from an environmental group that is also pursuing chargers for federal land sites.
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Colorado drivers bought only a few thousands EVs in 2020, and state tax credits dropped further on Jan. 1. EVs made up about 2.4% of Colorado’s 178,000 car and light truck sales in the first 10 months of 2020. Residents will have to buy 100,000 to 150,000 EVs a year between now and 2030 to reach state goals.
Advocates and EV users said Friday, though, that the few charging stations that exist are getting used, and it’s important to make the link for people between what they are driving and the climate change that is causing record wildfires, an ongoing drought and other assaults on Colorado public lands.
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Meanwhile, public park use has exploded, particularly during pandemic lockdowns of other forms of entertainment or hobby, said Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver. Colorado State Parks use rose 30% in 2020, Hansen said.
“What’s a better fit for Colorado than protecting the environment while you enjoy the environment?” Hansen said. “One of the ways you can drastically reduce your trace is by using an EV.”
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Hansen noted the charging stations can go in without major disruptions to coveted public lands, since all state parks already have electric and water lines, bathrooms, visitor centers, campgrounds and more. Whether users would pay for charging station use, or what refilling speed the chargers will be, is still under discussion, the groups said.”
February 4, 2021
Colorado Politics - Joint Budget Committee spares K-12 from cuts in 2020-21 budget
“The Joint Budget Committee, preparing for the legislative session that resumes Feb. 16, on Thursday approved legislation that will hold K-12 school funding constant, instead of making downward adjustments in the 2020-21 budget to account for a 3.3% decline in enrollment tied to the pandemic.
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The JBC also heard a plea from the Auraria Higher Education Center for assistance with 10 bond and debt service payments that are due in April and May that AHEC will not be able to cover. With institutions moving to online classes because of the pandemic, Auraria found its auxiliary services, including multiple parking garages and lots, the Tivoli Student Center, its bookstore and child care facility, were not being used. That’s revenue they depend on to cover bond payments, according to JBC analyst Amanda Bickel, and AHEC is now at risk for default. The total decline in revenue is 36%, which is substantial, she told the committee. “This is really dramatic, and I really think it is completely reasonable for the General Assembly to kick in some support here,” she said.
AHEC, which houses the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver and the Community College of Denver, asked for $5.2 million. The position of the governor’s office has been that the three institutions should kick in some of their CARES Act money, which Bickel said was “not unreasonable.” But the institutions, which do not have a legal responsibility for those payments, have not stepped up, she said. Auraria, because it is not a higher ed institution, did not get money from the CARES Act, Bickel explained.
Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, pointed out that Colorado State University in Fort Collins did exactly that, using federal CARES Act money to cover their drop in auxiliary services revenues. "There’s no way we can allow [AHEC] to default," he said.”
January 15, 2021
Colorado Politics - Gov. Polis released a road map for reducing the state's greenhouse gas pollution
“Gov. Jared Polis has released a road map for reducing Colorado's greenhouse gas pollution by 90% before 2050.
The Colorado Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction road map, released on Thursday, shows that the state is on the trajectory to achieve almost half of the emissions reductions needed to achieve its 2025 and 2023 goals.
The ultimate target is to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2040, but state leaders are currently aiming to have emissions reduced by 26% in 2025 and by 50% five years later.
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"Although we made a lot of progress in the 2019 session by setting ambitious emission reduction goals, we still have much work to do to put together the pieces of the road map and ensure we actually reach these targets," State Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, said at the press conference.
In September, the governor's office released a draft intended for public comment. Several changes were implemented as a result of those comments, including the addition of a climate equity framework, and giving voices to disadvantaged communities and to people of color.”
January 14, 2021
Denver Post - Senate wraps up day two of 2021 session, with focus on per diem and business deductions
“On day two of a planned three-day beginning to the 2021 General Assembly, the Senate quickly moved through final votes on their three bills — passing all on a 34-0 vote and sending them to the House — as well as working on the four House bills sent over Thursday morning.
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Senators briefly debated House Bill 1002 Thursday afternoon. That bill, according to co-sponsor Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, is intended to make a couple of fixes to a 2020 bill that resulted in unintended consequences.
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Lawmakers intended to make the state earned income tax credit available to I-10 filers for the 2020 tax year, but the bill actually delayed that credit into the 2021 tax year, Hansen said. During Thursday's discussion, Sen. Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, asked why the bill couldn't direct that tax credit toward education expenses. But co-sponsor Sen. Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, said parents could choose to use it for that purpose or for any other purpose that would help cover family expenses.
The other unintended consequence put a time restriction on when businesses could claim losses allowed under the CARES Act. HB 1002 gets rid of that restriction, allowing businesses to claim deductions tied to those losses for the next five tax years. “We’ve gotten very positive feedback from small businesses” and chambers that HB 1002 will help them manage their tax liabilities for the next five years, Hansen said. “We wanted to make sure we were not doing anything in state law that would change those timelines, except we accidentally did.”
december 7, 2020
Real Vail - Colorado lawmakers look to ramp up renewable natural gas industry across state
“…a bill last legislative session that would have mandated large utilities get a certain percentage of their energy from RNG. It was called the Adopt Renewable Natural Gas Standard (SB20-150), and it passed the Senate 24-10 with one senator excused before being derailed in the House when the session ended abruptly due to COVID-19.
But it will be back, according to its primary Democratic sponsor, Sen. Chris Hansen of Denver, and this time he’s hoping it makes it through the Democrat-controlled House as well. Still, this is a bipartisan bill aimed at methane capture that just makes sense for the Front Range and the Western Slope, he said, noting his Republican co-sponsor is Don Coram of Montrose.
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“The Low Carbon Fuel Standard to my mind is a good policy, but it’s not a great one, because it’s not very efficient when it comes to abatement [of methane] per dollar,” Hansen said. “What I’m trying to do in Colorado is a reboot of a bill that … is really focused on trying to get rid of as much greenhouse gas emissions as we can for as low a cost as we can.”
Hansen compares his RNG bill to Colorado’s first-in-the-nation, voter-approved Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) in 2004.
“We create a target for renewable gas, or zero-emission gas, and basically have people bring projects forward,” said Hansen, who grew up in a farm town on the Colorado-Kansas border and earned an undergraduate degree in engineering, a Master of Science from MIT and a PhD from Oxford. “Those projects would be reviewed by the PUC [Public Utilities Commission], and the best projects would get selected and invested in to meet the targets – similar to what we did with the RPS, where we went from 10 to 20 to 30 and now 80 % [renewable energy].”
The RNG projects, he says, will target the sectors that make the most sense geographically, from the landfills in the Denver metro area to the coalbed (natural) and coal-mine (manmade) methane of southern and western Colorado to ag operations all across Colorado.
“We’ve got a bill that I think will really help create opportunities for jobs and investment in Colorado,” Hansen said. “The dairies, especially in Weld County, there’s great opportunities there. The West Slope, we need to do everything we can to support the economies and jobs on the West Slope, and with the coalmine methane that’s available, there could be huge investments and new jobs created. I’m really excited about this.”
december 3, 2020
Denver Post - More than 150,000 Coloradans could lose unemployment benefits if Congress doesn’t act
“In a year when roughly one in four Colorado workers has filed an unemployment claim, a small measure of relief should reach hundreds of thousands of people in the state this week: The money that is landing in accounts weeks before more than 150,000 Coloradans could lose the federal unemployment benefits they are relying on as the COVID-19 pandemic’s third wave continues to ravage the economy.
Gov. Jared Polis announced in late October that the state had found enough money to push out one-time $375 stimulus payments to people who qualified for unemployment benefits of $25 to $500 between March 15 and Oct. 24. Officials with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment expect roughly 408,000 Coloradans to receive those payments by close of business Friday.
State Sen. Chris Hansen described the stimulus payments and the raft of COVID relief-focused bills the Colorado legislature passed in a special session that closed Wednesday as “hopefully a bridge” to get people who are struggling through the next few months until bigger steps can be taken in the 2021 session.
The impact state lawmakers can have pales in comparison to what Congress could do. There was talk of a bipartisan bill stimulus package worth more than $900 billion in Washington this week, but Congressional leaders have been unable to reach a consensus on anything since the CARES Act passed in late March.
“I think we did the best we could with the resources we had in this special session,” said Hansen, D-Denver. “Of course, we’re all hopeful that we get rapid uptake of the vaccine but there is a huge amount of risk and uncertainty for the economy right now. We basically need Congress and the White House to act.”
November 17, 2020
Denver Post - COVID-19 stimulus package will be aim of Colorado legislative special session
“Gov. Jared Polis and legislative leaders Tuesday announced a special session of the Colorado General Assembly, likely to be held at some point after Thanksgiving, with the intent of passing a state stimulus package.
“Extraordinary times call for extraordinary actions,” said Polis, during a press conference at the governor’s mansion in Denver. “I’ll be asking the General Assembly to take up critical legislation that will help Colorado families and Colorado businesses survive these challenging winter months ahead to bridge us to the vaccine.”
Lawmakers expect to have roughly $220 million to allocate as part of the special session’s stimulus package, with areas of focus including housing, child care, small business relief, education and broadband access.
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Though the legislature’s regular annual session is just eight weeks away, Capitol leaders feel they must act now to get money out the door — especially given that new COVID regulations are likely to stiffen soon in many counties, if not the entire state.
“The immediacy of the impact to businesses with capacity restrictions means we cannot wait until mid-January and get money out in February,” Colorado Joint Budget Committee member and state Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, told The Denver Post.
“Why not wait until the legislative session starts in January? Frankly, January will be too late” for many businesses and households, he said.
November 11, 2020
Mountain Town News - Comanche 3 under the microscope
“Funds for Just Transition. That’s where securitization comes it. Colorado lawmakers in 2019 authorized the tool. The concept is often compared to refinancing a house to take advantage of lower interest rates. Instead of paying 8% to 10% on its debt at Comanche or other plants, Xcel would pay 3% to 4% over the same time period. The new, lower-interest money is secured by surcharge on customer bills. Early retirement of an asset using securitization without capital recycling would be unattractive for utility shareholders, but better than most other options, said Varadarajan.
Securitization, said Varadarajan, is a “foundational policy of the energy transition” because it allows utilities to more rapidly retire uneconomic coal plants, benefitting utility shareholders but also customers.
But securitization can also deliver funds to other needs in the transition—including for community and worker benefits.
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State Sen. Chris Hansen, the Denver Democrat who was the key driver of the securitization provision in 2019 legislation, said he thought it was appropriate to carve out a portion of proceeds for community and worker assistance. The figure of 15% was mentioned.
This would cause Xcel ratepayers to pay for community assistance, but that’s appropriate because they benefited from the assets in question, Hansen said.
“Yes, it would be wonderful if there were some big federal grants,” he said. “but there is some direct responsibility by ratepayers who benefited from the asset to help pay for the transition.” And he then pointed to the state’s covid-depleted general treasury.”
November 9, 2020
Denver Post - Bernie Buescher: In Amendment B, Coloradans came together to deliver significant change
“Our 2020 election provoked intense emotions. Partisan positions are so entrenched that campaigning often felt more performative than an attempt at meaningful persuasion.
Yet, with Amendment B, Coloradans from across the political and geographic spectrum came together to deliver the most significant fiscal policy change to our constitution in at least a generation. Amendment B’s passage is not solely a victory for liberals, conservatives, big cities, or small towns. It is a win for Colorado — and a testament to the pride and care Coloradans have for their communities and neighbors.
This collaborative approach to problem-solving began at the statehouse earlier this year. Four members of the General Assembly, Republicans Jack Tate, Bob Rankin and Matt Soper and Democrats Chris Hansen and Daneya Esgar, led a rare vote that included support from nearly 75% of the legislature. Together, they sent a clear message: Colorado needed to move on from Gallagher’s unfair approach to property taxes.”
November 5, 2020
Denver Post - New Democratic leaders emerge in Colorado House
“The Senate sends three people to the Joint Budget Committee: Democrat and current committee Vice Chair Sen. Dominick Moreno of Commerce City, Democrat Sen. Chris Hansen of Denver, and Sen. Republican Bob Rankin of Carbondale, who eked out an election win in northwest Colorado this week.”
November 4, 2020
Pueblo Chieftain - Amendment B passes in Colorado
“I am so thrilled that a majority of Coloradans reached the conclusion that our property tax code was outdated, and acted to reform our Constitution to make sure it's working for all of us," state Sen. Chris Hansen, one of the prime sponsors of the measure. "With the pandemic, wildfires, and virtual learning, our healthcare workers, firefighters, and teachers have been working overtime for us, and passing Amendment B will help make sure they receive the funding they need.”
October 25, 2020
Colorado Springs Gazette - Hansen & Tate: Secure Colorado’s future; support Amendment B
“There is a reason this ballot initiative received support from more than 75% of Republican and Democrat lawmakers. It freezes property tax assessment rates — homeowners will keep the third-lowest property tax rate in the nation; it prevents further cuts to schools, fire departments, and hospitals, and, most importantly, it restores a sense of fairness and stability to a broken system.
Legislators cannot fix this problem alone. We need your help.
We all have a collective responsibility to improve the future of this great state. As Republicans and Democrats, we are putting aside partisan politics and coming together to find the right answer — and that is to vote “yes” on Amendment B.”
October 23, 2020
Denver Post - Colorado homeowners have among the lowest tax rates in the U.S., but businesses say they’re paying the price
“Amendment B freezes the assessment ratios where they are now, but it doesn’t guarantee they will stay there. TABOR limits prevent them from going higher without a vote. But some county commissioners worry the legislature won’t be able to resist the urge to lower them in the future.
Businesses will likely demand a lower assessment ratio on commercial property. Over time, homeowners upset with rising property taxes may do the same. And what happens along the Front Range will drive what happens statewide, replicating the problems Gallagher created.
If Gallagher is repealed by voters, Sen. Chris Hansen, a sponsor of the repeal bill to get it on the ballot, said, “absolutely we will need to come back next January and start to think about a property tax reform package.” That could include how to help low-income homeowners with their share, reduce the commercial burden on small businesses and provide more assistance to fixed-income seniors.
“It’s all available for reform and discussion if we can get Gallagher out of the Constitution,” the Denver Democrat said. But that’s a scenario some counties fear, especially because it’s less predictable.”
October 8, 2020
Denver Post - Colorado State Senate District 31 candidate Q&A
“Why are you seeking public office?
I’m running for office because I love this state, and want to continue to serve the people of Colorado with a focus on addressing our structural budget problems and tackling the climate crisis. Every day I walk into the Capitol I am humbled by the work that the voters have trusted me to do, and I am driven to make tangible, beneficial change in people’s lives. In the past four years, I have been proud of the work that my colleagues and I have accomplished, and I hope to get the opportunity to continue this work for another four years.”
August 10, 2020
Colorado Sun - Trump’s order to extend unemployment benefits could cost Colorado $31.1 million a week — money it doesn’t have
“Congress has been negotiating how to extend the federal benefit with options that include the Democrat-supported HEROES Act, which would extend the $600 weekly payment till Jan. 2021, or the Senate Republicans’ HEALS Act, which would pay just enough to raise jobless workers incomes to 70% of their regular pay. Both proposals have been stuck in partisan limbo.
With no breakthrough, Trump signed the order on Aug. 8 to pay an extra $400 of weekly benefits to people on unemployment as part of the Lost Wages Assistance Program. The extra weekly pay would be available until Dec. 6 and funded with about $44 billion from the Disaster Relief Fund. Trump wants states to pay 25% of the weekly benefit.
But Trump’s tapping of state funds puts another burden on the state and the action is not legal, said state Senator Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat, who had pushed to increase the trust fund long before the pandemic.
“President Trump does not have the constitutional authority to make financial decisions. Only Congress is in charge of the budget,” Hansen said. “Signing this executive order that doesn’t have the force of law is not useful and it doesn’t actually help people. We need to start with that.”
July 10, 2020
Broomfield Enterprise - No more busy signal. Virtual agent to answer Colorado unemployment calls beginning next week
“State Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, worked with the labor department on a bill passed in the 2020 legislative session the will reform a number of aspects of the unemployment insurance program including greatly increasing the amount employers pay into the unemployment trust fund in the future.
Hansen said he has helped hundreds of constituents who have reached out for help with their claims and is aware of how hard it has been for many to reach someone at the call center this spring and summer.
“I would say by any reasonable measure its behind,” Hansen said. “We should not have those long of wait times, and the department knows that. And the department has brought significant new resources to bear.”
June 13, 2020
Colorado Sun - Colorado Democrats pare back bill eliminating tax breaks to reach accord with governor, business interests
“Democrats in the Colorado legislature Saturday evening reached a deal with Gov. Jared Polis and business interests on legislation to eliminate a number of tax breaks and recoup money for education that was lost because of the economy’s coronavirus downturn.
The result is a significantly pared back version of the original legislation, House Bill 1420, which when introduced on Monday drew backlash from Polis and business groups, who said it was likely impossible to remedy.
But after several days of negotiations, all sides had settled on an agreement that keeps many of the tax breaks in place but still pours $113 million into education for the next fiscal year, which begins in July, and then $25 million in the 2021-22 fiscal year.
The original version of the measure was expected to generate nearly $250 million in the next fiscal year and then $408 million in the 2021-22 fiscal year, sending $150 million and $200 million to education each fiscal year, respectively.
The measure also still aids middle-class families by expanding the earned income tax credit, albeit not by as much as lawmakers originally had hoped.
“We felt like we still got decent size out of the final package,” said Sen. Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat. “There was certainly a desire to have done more, but I think this is significant. It’s a great step forward.”
May 10, 2020
Colorado Sun - Hansen: We’ve been here before — recovery from the coronavirus crisis is conditional
“The State of Colorado has been and is passing through a period of stress and suffering … which has resulted in unparalleled conditions of unemployment and destitution, and … relief funds … have been inadequate to meet the problem.”
No, this is not an excerpt from a resolution passed by the Colorado General Assembly to address the economic fallout of the current public health crisis.
This is part of a resolution passed at the state Capitol in 1933 — midway through the Great Depression.
While we still may be able to avoid a depression, the budgetary shortfalls and hardships posed by the coronavirus pandemic are driving economic anxiety that hasn’t been felt in nearly a century.
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We must adequately fund the critical programs of our state government that will help us get through this pandemic. To accomplish that, we should learn lessons from the past and use this opportunity to build resilient societal infrastructures that can help us withstand the next crisis.
For instance, the previously quoted resolution from 1933 didn’t just take note of the economic hardships prompted by the Great Depression, it established a commission to look into the then-new idea of unemployment insurance.
This planning has paid off, as unemployment insurance has paid out more than $250 million to Coloradans since the pandemic began a few short months ago.
When my colleagues and I reconvene at the Capitol this month, we will fight to weather this economic storm as best as we can. We will work to prioritize maintaining K-12 education funding and shoring up our social safety nets, like unemployment insurance, relief for renters and the earned income tax credit.”