Colorado state House legislators debated and advanced a $44 billion spending plan for the next fiscal year. The budget includes $17 billion in general funds and $14 billion in federal dollars, with a $1.2 billion general fund shortfall. The House Appropriations Committee stripped out changes made by the Senate, eliminating funding for obstetrics services and higher provider rates. Republicans offered amendments to reduce state spending, but only a few were adopted, adding less than $5 million. The House also approved funding for various projects including a veteran’s court, youth services program, and national cybersecurity center. There was a failed attempt to restore funding for obstetric services in southeastern Colorado, leaving only two facilities in the area. Republicans proposed amendments to divert funds to other purposes, such as education and transportation projects. Another unsuccessful amendment aimed to prevent the use of general fund dollars to invalidate the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights. The budget debate ended with a humorous amendment requiring the licensure of professional circus clowns. Overall, the budget bill and orbitals passed without requiring a lengthy reading, minimizing the need for weekend work between now and the end of the session. The House also honored the late House Minority Leader with a tradition of wearing bow ties during the annual budget debate.
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Photo credit denvergazette.com
Colorado House Approves $44 Billion Budget in First Round of Voting
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