Colorado bill aims to reduce human trafficking by requiring federal background checks for spas

Representative Anthony Hartsook is leading a new Colorado bill to combat human trafficking by requiring federal background checks for all massage facility employees. Having passed through committee, the bill now heads to the House floor. Hartsook aims to identify and deter bad actors while protecting legitimate businesses. This statewide mandate builds on local efforts to close spas involved in illicit activities.



All Veterans Honor Guard honored at Colorado Capitol



Representative Hartsook honored the All Veterans Honor Guard at the Colorado Capitol, recognizing their service in providing honors for departing veterans at Fort Logan National Cemetery. Hartsook, who has personal connections to the military, emphasized the significance of the Honor Guard's contributions. The recognition included retired United States Air Force Pilot Stephanie Wells, one of the first female combat pilots, highlighting the ongoing service of veterans.



Castle Rock VA clinic one step closer to caring for Veterans

The VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System broke ground on February 1 for the first VA outpatient clinic in Douglas County. This new clinic will provide the County's 20,000 veterans with convenient access to comprehensive VA services, including primary care and physical therapy. Representative Hartsook and other local officials attended the ceremony, highlighting the community's commitment to supporting its veterans. The clinic is scheduled to open in mid-February 2025.

Small biz struggles to survive with state shutdown of community event

Rep. Anthony Hartsook, addressed the negative impact of the state’s abrupt shutdown of the Parker Wine Walks, a key event for local small businesses. In response, he sponsored HB24-1156 to reinstate the event, emphasizing its importance for economic recovery and community support.

Rural mental health funding bill passes committee with ag’s support



Rep. Hartsook co-sponsored SB24-055, a bill to improve rural mental health services in Colorado. The bill, which passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, aims to create a liaison position and a working group within the Behavioral Health Administration to support rural communities and agriculture workers.



Bipartisan school-finance bills put students over systems

Rep. Hartsook emphasized the need for Colorado’s education system to focus on preparing students for their futures. He supported HB24-1448 and HB24-1364, which aim to reform school funding to be student-centered and improve data collection on college and career readiness programs. These changes are intended to better allocate resources based on student needs and ensure programs effectively prepare students for careers, benefiting both individuals and the state’s economy.