Colorado Lawmakers Face Critical Final Week of Legislative Session
DENVER — As Colorado’s legislative session approaches its conclusion on May 7, lawmakers are racing against time to finalize a myriad of bills, with several contentious proposals still on the table.
State Rep. Meg Froelich, a key player in Democrat-led initiatives, noted, "It feels like 80% of the work happens in the last two weeks." The delay in finalizing the budget has been a pivotal factor hindering progress on many bills.
A crucial piece of legislation, Senate Bill 25-161, aims to reform the Regional Transportation District (RTD). Froelich emphasized its potential to increase ridership, meet climate goals, and support housing initiatives by ensuring reliable transit options.
Another significant proposal under discussion is Senate Bill 25-276, which would enhance privacy protections for immigrants and impose stricter limitations on local and state collaboration with federal immigration authorities. State Sen. Julie Gonzales stated the legislation is vital for creating an inclusive community. However, House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese expressed concerns about ensuring law enforcement can still collaborate with federal agencies.
Additionally, lawmakers are considering a resolution challenging the constitutionality of the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR). Rep. Sean Camacho argued that TABOR is outdated, while Pugliese highlighted her caucus’s firm intention to maintain TABOR’s protections.
On the agenda is also legislation easing labor union formation, changes to filling vacant legislative seats, and a bill aimed at increasing transparency in the ballot measure process, despite criticisms from conservatives.
Furthermore, the Senate is expected to vote on potentially overriding Gov. Jared Polis’ veto on Senate Bill 25-077, which seeks updates to the Colorado Open Records Act. Overriding a gubernatorial veto remains a challenging endeavor, as evident from previous attempts that have failed.
With a busy weekend ahead, Colorado lawmakers are set to tackle these pressing issues before the session concludes.
