Introducing our Weekly Newsletter - “The Mighty 19 Minute.” Stay informed about the latest developments in the state legislature, upcoming bills, and key policy changes. We're committed to keeping you engaged and empowered by providing essential information on how you can actively participate and make your voice heard. Join us on this journey to foster community awareness and involvement in shaping Colorado's future. Subscribe today for a weekly dose of legislative updates and opportunities to get involved!

This week, our dedicated Representatives, such as Representative Taggart, Frizell, and many others, successfully passed bills focusing on public safety, tax policy analysis, and supporting military families. These legislative victories highlight our commitment to education, affordability, and public safety. We're actively working on key bills addressing healthcare access, sexual assault protections, and improving school facilities. Your engagement and support are crucial as we strive to make Colorado an even better place for everyone. Thank you for standing with us in these important endeavors.

-Minority Leader Rose Pugliese

Minority Leader Pugliese

HB24-1122

Bipartisan public safety measure Protection Orders for Victims of Crimes

Passed the House

Representative Taggart

HB24-1041

Streamlining Sales and Use Tax Returns

Passed the House

Representative Taggart

HB24-1097

Occupational Credentialing for Military Families

Passed the House

Representative Frizell

HB24-1053

Analysis of Tax Policy

Passed the House

Representative Soper

HB24-1059

Use of Developer Subdivision Earnest Money Deposits

Passed the House

Representative Lynch

HB24-1130

Protecting the Privacy of Biometric Data

Passed the House

Representative Catlin

SJR24-004

Approval of Water Project Revolving Fund Eligibility Lists

Passed the House

Representative Catlin

SB24-051

Modifications to Enhance Adult Education in Colorado

Passed the House

Representative Luck

SJR24-007

Honoring Purple Heart Recipients

Passed the House

House Bill 24-1072

Protection of Victims of Sexual Offenses

Rep. Lisa Frizell - Prime Sponsor

This bill strengthens protections for victims of sexual assaults by increasing evidentiary requirements in criminal proceedings. The bill eliminates exceptions allowing evidence of a victim's prior sexual conduct and expands the rape shield law to prohibit introducing evidence related to a victim's manner of dress, hairstyle, or mental health unless directly relevant. Testifying in favor of this bill is crucial to advocate for a more comprehensive and respectful legal framework for survivors of sexual assault.

This bill will be heard in the Judiciary Committee on

Tuesday, February 27

upon adjournment (typically around 10:00/10:30 AM).

House Bill 24-1171

Naturopathic Doctor Formulary

Rep. Matt Soper - Prime Sponsor

This bill strengthens the naturopathic doctor formulary by permitting prescription classes of medicines, including legend drugs and certain controlled substances. The bill emphasizes annual consultation between the director and the advisory committee for formulary updates. Testifying in favor of this bill is essential to support a more comprehensive regulatory framework for naturopathic doctors.

This bill will be heard in the Health & Human Services Committee on

Wednesday, February 28

at 1:30 PM.

House Bill 24-1217

Sharing of Patient Health-Care Information

This proposal is slated for February 27, 2024, in Colorado, and proposes a universal behavioral health consent form and a centralized digital consent repository. While the bill aims to streamline healthcare data sharing, it raises red flags. Existing statutes and HIPAA regulations provide robust patient privacy protection, rendering these new measures redundant. Moreover, the push for a digital consent experience lacks transparency and risks overlooking critical terms related to data security. People are urged to testify against the bill, as it may compromise privacy and lead to hasty consent decisions without a thorough understanding of the implications.

This bill will be heard in the Health & Human Services Committee on

Tuesday, February 27

upon adjournment (typically around 10:00/10:30 AM).

House Bill 24-1040

Gender-Affirming Health-Care Provider Study

This proposes a grant program and task force for youth gender-affirming care in Colorado. Critics argue it could harm minors by promoting early treatments without considering long-term consequences and the need for cognitive development in addressing gender dysphoria. The bill's fiscal impact of $1.49 million for FY 2024-25 raises concerns about resource allocation. Opponents urge citizens to voice their worries to prevent potential harm to the well-being of Colorado's youth.

This bill will be heard in the Health & Human Services Committee on

Wednesday, February 28

at 1:30 PM.

Governor Polis sure loves talking about reducing income taxes. Representatives Pugliese and Bottoms had a bill to do exactly that, lower the income tax rate. Watch our video below to see how the Democrats reacted.