Colorado 2025 Bills

Alignment of Petty Property Crime Threshold

House Bill 24-1241, which has been signed into law and is now effective, changes how courts handle certain low-level property crimes. Previously, if the value of stolen or damaged property was less than $50, a court could set monetary conditions for someone's release from custody related to that crime. The new law removes this dollar limit, meaning courts can no longer impose financial conditions for any comparable municipal property crime that would be considered a petty offense under state law, regardless of the value involved. This affects individuals charged with minor property crimes and ensures they won’t face monetary restrictions tied to their release from custody.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Single-Exit Stairway Multifamily Structure

HB 24-1239, which has been signed into law in Colorado, allows local governments (such as city councils and county boards) to update their building codes by December 1, 2026. This change would permit multifamily buildings up to five stories high to have a single exit stairway, rather than requiring multiple exits. The bill also offers technical support from the state for local governments that need help implementing these changes. This affects developers and residents of multifamily housing in areas where local building codes are updated according to this law.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Digital Education Materials

HB 24-1247, also known as the Digital Education Materials bill, requires Colorado public schools to include a clause in contracts with digital education providers that allows for termination if harmful content is found three times. This includes advertisements or links that could be detrimental to students. Schools must inform parents and community members about how to report such issues, and vendors are required to remove any problematic material within 3 business days of being notified. The bill has been signed into law, meaning public schools will now have to follow these guidelines when contracting with digital education providers starting July 1, 2024.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Income Tax Owed by Minors on Earned Income

House Bill 24-1243, which has been signed into law, changes how Colorado taxes minors who earn income. Under the new law, minors aged 17 or younger can subtract their earned income from their federal taxable income, meaning they won't owe state income tax on that money. Employers also don’t need to withhold state income tax from a minor’s wages anymore. This affects young people who work part-time jobs and earn income. Since the bill has been signed, it is now law and in effect.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Sunset Regulation of Respiratory Therapy

House Bill 24-1253 extends the regulation of respiratory therapy in Colorado until September 1, 2035. It updates the definition of respiratory therapy to include prescriptions from physician assistants and restricts exemptions for unregistered polysomnographic technologists who can only perform certain limited tasks under supervision. This bill has been signed by the governor and will take effect on August 7, 2024, meaning that these changes will be implemented soon after this date.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Minor Autopsy Report Release Requirements

House Bill 24-1244, titled "Minor Autopsy Report Release Requirements," makes autopsy reports of minors confidential and limits who can access them. The law restricts the release of these reports to specific entities like parents, law enforcement, health-care providers, and certain state agencies involved in child welfare or public health investigations. It also allows individuals to request basic information about a minor's death but not the full report unless they petition a district court under strict conditions. This bill was signed by the governor on May 22, 2024, and will take effect on January 1, 2025.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Accessory Dwelling Units

Senate Bill 24-154, also known as the Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) bill, aims to make it easier for homeowners in certain areas of Colorado to convert existing structures into additional living spaces. Starting January 1, 2025, counties outside city limits and not within high-risk wildfire zones must allow these conversions with a streamlined approval process and cannot impose strict design or size requirements on ADUs. Additionally, the bill provides funding for loans that help homeowners finance the conversion of their accessory dwelling units if they live in them themselves. The bill has been signed into law, meaning it will go into effect as planned.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · Senate

Homeowners' Association Delinquency Payments Enforcement Procedures

House Bill 24-1233 updates the rules for homeowners' associations (HOAs) when dealing with residents who are behind on their payments. It removes the requirement for HOAs to physically post notices of delinquency and allows them to contact residents via phone instead of just certified mail. The bill also lets HOAs charge residents for the cost of sending important documents by certified mail. This new law will take effect on August 7, 2024, after being signed by the governor. It affects both regular homeowners and time-share owners who are not living in their units full-time.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Presumptive Eligibility for Long-Term Care

HB 24-1229, which has been approved and signed by the governor, changes how Colorado handles long-term care eligibility for its medical assistance program. Starting January 1, 2026, people who need long-term services won't have to go through a full assessment before being presumed eligible for help. This means they can get assistance sooner. The bill affects individuals seeking long-term care and the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, which will make necessary adjustments to comply with federal requirements. Some parts of the law are already in effect as of August 7, 2024, while others will start on January 1, 2026.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Protections for Real Property Owners

House Bill 24-1230, titled "Protections for Real Property Owners," enhances legal protections for homeowners by extending the time limit for filing construction defect lawsuits from 6 years to 10 years and requiring courts to award interest on claims of defects. The bill also prevents developers from including clauses in contracts that restrict group lawsuits against construction professionals or limit consumer rights under existing laws. Signed into law, this means that homeowners now have more time and legal support when dealing with issues related to defective construction.

Last action: 2024-02-12 · House

Title X Funding

SJR 24-008, also known as the Title X Funding bill, was signed into law and aims to support funding for reproductive health services in Colorado. This includes programs that provide birth control, STD testing, and other preventive care, especially for those who might not otherwise afford it. The bill affects individuals seeking access to these healthcare services and ensures they receive assistance without facing financial barriers. Since the status is "signed," this means the bill has been approved by both legislative bodies and the governor, making it official state law that will now be implemented.

Last action: 2024-02-09 · Senate

Honoring Military Service of Native American Veterans

House Joint Resolution 24-1013, which has been signed into law, honors the military service of Native American veterans in Colorado. This resolution recognizes and celebrates the contributions and sacrifices made by Native American servicemembers who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. armed forces. It affects all Native American veterans within the state and aims to raise awareness about their significant role in protecting the nation. Since it has been signed, this resolution is now official policy in Colorado, though it does not require any financial or legal actions beyond recognition and commemoration.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Tenth Mountain Division

HJR 24-1012, also known as the "Tenth Mountain Division" bill, honors Colorado's Tenth Mountain Division, a World War II unit that trained in the state and later fought in Italy. This resolution recognizes their contributions to both military history and Colorado’s skiing culture. Since it has been signed into law, its main effect is symbolic, celebrating the legacy of these soldiers without requiring any new policies or spending.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

World War II Anniversary

House Joint Resolution 24-1010, which has been signed into law, aims to commemorate the anniversary of World War II. This resolution likely includes statements or events to honor those who participated in and were affected by the war. It affects all Coloradans but is particularly relevant for veterans and their families, as well as history enthusiasts. Since it's signed, this means that Colorado now has an official recognition process or event planned to mark the anniversary of World War II.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Constitutional Bail Exception First Degree Murder

House Concurrent Resolution 24-1002, which has been signed into law, amends the Colorado constitution to allow judges to deny bail to individuals charged with first-degree murder if there is strong evidence or a clear presumption of their guilt. This change affects people accused of this specific crime and allows for them to be held without bail until their trial. Since it has been signed, this resolution means that the constitutional right to bail no longer applies in cases of first-degree murder under certain conditions.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Latina and Latino Veterans

House Joint Resolution 24-1015, which has been signed into law, aims to honor and recognize the contributions of Latina and Latino veterans in Colorado. This resolution highlights the unique experiences and service of these veterans and acknowledges their importance to the state's history and community. Since it is now signed, this resolution serves as a formal recognition and celebration of Latina and Latino veterans without requiring any new policies or spending.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Military Appreciation Day

HJR 24-1007, also known as Military Appreciation Day, is a bill that designates a specific day in Colorado to honor and recognize the contributions of military members and veterans. This designation aims to show gratitude to those who serve or have served in the armed forces. Since the bill has been signed into law, it means that Colorado now officially observes a designated day for military appreciation each year, likely involving events and activities to thank service members and veterans.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Tuition Assistance for Colorado National Guard & Dependents

House Bill 24-1226 expands a Colorado program that helps National Guard members pay for college by including their spouses and children. To qualify, the military member must have served at least six years in the Colorado National Guard, with an option to include those who previously served for at least twelve years. The bill also covers additional fees charged by educational institutions. It has been signed into law, meaning that dependents of eligible National Guard members can now receive financial assistance for their education from a special fund set up within the existing program.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Personhood of Living Unborn Human Child

House Bill 24-1224, also known as the "Personhood of Living Unborn Human Child" bill, aims to grant legal personhood status to an unborn child from the moment of fertilization. This means that any existing laws related to abortion or prenatal care would be overridden if they conflict with this new definition. The bill also protects a mother from being charged with first-degree murder under duress if she harms her unborn child. Since it has been signed into law, it will now have significant legal implications for abortion rights and maternal health in Colorado.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Gold Star Families

HJR 24-1008, also known as the "Gold Star Families" bill, aims to provide support and recognition for families who have lost a loved one while serving in the military. This includes offering them resources and assistance to help cope with their loss. The bill has been signed into law, meaning it is now active and its provisions are being implemented to benefit these families in Colorado.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Vietnam Veterans Military Appreciation

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Honoring African-American Veterans

HJR 24-1011 is a bill in Colorado that honors African-American veterans by recognizing their contributions and sacrifices. This resolution aims to acknowledge the important role these individuals have played in U.S. history and military service. Since it has been signed, it means that the recognition of African-American veterans as outlined in this bill is now official state policy in Colorado.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

U.S.S. Pueblo

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

First Degree Murder Bail & Jury Selection Statute

House Bill 24-1225, which has been signed into law but won't take effect until November 2024 if approved by voters, changes Colorado’s bail and jury selection rules for first-degree murder cases. It removes the right to bail for individuals charged with first-degree murder when there is strong evidence or presumption of guilt. Additionally, it increases the number of juror challenges each side can make in these cases, similar to how it's handled in capital cases. This bill affects defendants facing first-degree murder charges and impacts their legal rights during both pre-trial and trial phases.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Annual Rule Review Bill

House Bill 24-1227, also known as the Annual Rule Review Bill, extends most state agency rules that were adopted or amended between November 1, 2022, and October 31, 2023. However, it specifically allows certain rules from the State Board of Education, Medical Services Board, and Department of Revenue to expire on May 15, 2024, because they conflict with existing laws. This bill has been signed into law by the governor and is now effective as of May 10, 2024.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Persian Gulf War Service Members

HJR 24-1014, also known as the "Persian Gulf War Service Members" bill, aims to honor and recognize Colorado residents who served during the Persian Gulf War by providing them with special recognition or benefits. This includes acknowledging their service and potentially offering support through various state programs. The bill has been signed into law, meaning it is now official and its provisions are in effect for eligible veterans.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Corrections Officers Flexible Schedules

House Bill 24-1228, which has been approved and signed into law, changes how overtime is calculated for corrections officers in Colorado. Instead of receiving overtime pay after working more than 8.5 hours in a single shift, corrections officers who are part of flexible or compressed scheduling systems will not get overtime if their shifts exceed 8.5 hours but are still within their regular schedule. This new law affects the way corrections officers are compensated for their work and took effect on May 28, 2024.

Last action: 2024-02-08 · House

Tax Credit for Qualified Renters

Senate Bill 24-146, which has been signed into law, provides tax relief for low-to-middle-income renters in Colorado by offering a nonrefundable income tax credit. For the years 2024 through 2026, eligible individuals who rent their primary residence and have an adjusted gross income (AGI) of up to $75,000 for single filers or $125,000 for joint filers can receive a tax credit ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on their income level. The bill also ensures that those who qualify for rent or heat assistance will be eligible for the full credit amount regardless of their AGI. This new law aims to help ease the financial burden of housing costs for qualifying renters in Colorado.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Creation of 911 Services Enterprise

Senate Bill 24-139 creates a new entity called the 911 Services Enterprise within Colorado’s Department of Regulatory Agencies. This enterprise will be allowed to charge users of 911 services up to $0.50 per month, with the collected funds going towards improving and securing 911 services across the state, including training programs, public education campaigns, cybersecurity measures, and more. The bill was signed into law by the governor on May 31, 2024, and will take effect on August 7, 2024. This means that starting in August, Colorado residents who use 911 services will see a small fee added to their bills to support these improvements.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

News Access for Consumers Who Are Print-Disabled

Senate Bill 24-153, titled "News Access for Consumers Who Are Print-Disabled," aims to help people in Colorado who are blind or have trouble reading print by expanding news and information services available to them. This includes providing more assistive technologies, training, and support to ensure these individuals can access a wider range of resources and stay informed about local news and events. The bill also allocates $200,000 from the state's general fund for library programs and reading services to support this initiative. Governor Jared Polis signed the bill into law on June 7, 2024, making it effective immediately.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Income Tax Credit for Eligible Teachers

HB 24-1221, which has been signed into law, provides Colorado teachers with a tax break to help cover the costs they incur for classroom supplies and professional development. Full-time teachers employed for an entire academic year will receive a $1,000 credit, while those working half the year get $500. This benefit applies to joint filers as well, meaning each teacher in a couple can claim their own credit if eligible. The new law takes effect starting from January 2024 and lasts until January 2026.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · House

Operation of Home-Based Businesses

Senate Bill 24-134, which has been signed into law and will take effect on August 7, 2024, stops homeowners' associations from banning home-based businesses in residential communities. However, these businesses must still follow reasonable rules set by the association regarding things like noise levels, parking, and landscaping, as well as local laws about noise and nuisances. This means that starting a small business from your home will be allowed, but you'll need to make sure it doesn't disturb neighbors or violate community guidelines.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Prohibiting Carrying Firearms in Sensitive Spaces

Senate Bill 24-131, which has been signed into law and will take effect on July 1, 2024, prohibits people from carrying firearms (both openly and concealed) in specific government buildings like state legislatures, local government offices, courthouses, as well as educational institutions and child care centers. The law includes exceptions for certain groups such as law enforcement officers, security personnel, and those with a concealed carry permit under specific conditions. This means that starting July 1, it will be illegal to bring firearms into these areas unless you fall into one of the exempt categories or are in an area where local governments have opted out of this restriction.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Planting of Uncertified Potatoes

Senate Bill 24-137, which has been approved and will take effect on August 7, 2024, requires potato growers in Colorado to either have their uncertified potato seed stock tested by a certifying authority or ensure that the potatoes are only one generation removed from certified parent potatoes before planting. This testing ensures that the potatoes are free of diseases that could harm Colorado's potato crop. The bill affects potato farmers who use uncertified seeds and aims to protect the state’s agricultural industry from potential threats.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Small Business Research Matching Program

Senate Bill 24-140, also known as the Small Business Research Matching Program, provides Colorado-based small businesses with matching funds for federal grants they receive through the SBIR or STTR programs. This means if a business gets money from these federal programs, the state will match it up to certain limits: $100,000 for Phase I and $250,000 for Phase II awards. To qualify, businesses must commit to staying connected to Colorado for at least three years after using the funds to develop their products or services. If they don't meet this requirement, they have to pay back the state money plus interest. The bill has been signed into law and is now active, meaning small businesses in Colorado can start applying for these matching grants to help grow their innovative projects.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Noneconomic Damages Cap Medical Malpractice Actions

Senate Bill 24-130 increases the cap on noneconomic damages in medical malpractice cases from $300,000 to $500,000 over a five-year period starting January 1, 2025. This means that patients who win medical malpractice lawsuits will be able to receive more compensation for non-monetary losses like pain and suffering by the year 2030. The bill has been signed into law, so these changes are set to take effect as scheduled.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Precipitation Harvesting Storm Water Detention

Senate Bill 24-148, which has been signed into law and will take effect on August 7, 2024, allows owners of storm water detention facilities to collect and use rainwater for beneficial purposes if they replace the collected water back into the system. This change affects entities that manage these facilities and aims to promote more efficient use of precipitation while maintaining ecological balance. Essentially, it enables better water management practices in Colorado without harming local ecosystems.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Modification of County Elected Officer Salary Categories

Senate Bill 24-138 modifies the salary categories for elected county officials in Fremont, Elbert, Rio Grande, and Hinsdale counties. This change will lead to significant pay increases ranging from 8.3% to 50%, depending on the specific position and county. For example, Elbert County's sheriff will see a 14.1% raise, while surveyors in both Elbert and Rio Grande Counties will get a 50% increase. The bill was signed into law by the governor and will take effect on August 7, 2024, meaning that officials starting new terms after this date will receive these higher salaries.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Regenerative Agriculture Tax Credit

Senate Bill 24-152, also known as the Regenerative Agriculture Tax Credit, offers a tax incentive for local food and beverage retailers who buy products from nearby farmers practicing regenerative agriculture. Retailers can get a tax credit worth up to 25% of their purchases from these producers, but this benefit is capped at $2,500,000 annually statewide. If state revenue forecasts predict less than a 4% increase in the next fiscal year starting June 2025, the tax credit amount for retailers would be cut by half or eliminated if it drops below $500. The bill has been signed into law and is now active, meaning local businesses can start claiming these credits once they meet the requirements set forth by the state departments of agriculture and revenue starting in 2024.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Processing of Municipal Solid Waste

Senate Bill 24-150 in Colorado addresses the processing of municipal solid waste. It offers existing waste combustion facilities financial incentives if they upgrade their technology by a certain deadline, but it also restricts future incentives for those that burn plastic after January 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill clarifies that synthetic gas from waste and methane from pyrolysis do not qualify as renewable energy resources under state standards. However, the governor vetoed this bill on May 17, 2024, which means it did not become law despite being signed and assigned to a committee earlier in the process.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Improved Access to the Child Care Assistance Program

House Bill 24-1223, titled "Improved Access to the Child Care Assistance Program," aims to simplify and expand Colorado's child care assistance program. It streamlines application processes by limiting required information, sets income qualifications similar to those for universal preschool programs, and allows child care provider employees to receive full benefits regardless of their income level. The bill also ensures providers are paid weekly in advance based on enrollment rather than attendance and caps copayments at 7% of a family's income. Additionally, it initiates a pilot program for unlicensed providers to become eligible CCCAP providers starting July 1, 2025. This bill was signed into law by the governor on June 4, 2024, and is now effective immediately.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · House

First Responder Employer Health Benefit Trusts

HB 24-1219, which has been approved and signed by the governor, expands health benefits for firefighters in Colorado. It ensures that part-time and volunteer firefighters receive heart and circulatory malfunction benefits, funded by the state, alongside full-time firefighters. Additionally, it provides funding to help cover cancer treatment costs for eligible firefighters and offers cardiovascular screenings for peace officers. The bill also sets specific amounts of money from the general fund to be allocated each year to support these programs. This means that employers will have reduced financial burdens when providing health benefits to volunteer and part-time firefighters, as well as peace officers, thanks to state funding.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · House

Motor Vehicle Insurance & Registration Enforcement

Senate Bill 24-133 aims to create a task force that will study ways to improve how Colorado handles motor vehicle registration and insurance. The task force will look into changing the current system to a no-fault insurance model, shifting enforcement from police and courts to an administrative process, better utilizing the state’s insurance database for enforcement, and improving methods for enforcing vehicle registrations. This bill affects drivers in Colorado by potentially altering how they handle their car insurance and registration requirements. Since the bill has been signed into law, it means that the task force will proceed with its work as outlined, leading to potential changes in these areas by January 3, 2025.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Workers' Compensation State Employees

Senate Bill 24-149, which has been signed into law and is now effective, aims to protect state employees who file workers' compensation claims. It prohibits the state from suggesting that an employee resign or limit their future employment opportunities within the state due to a claim. Additionally, it requires the Department of Personnel to periodically seek interest from insurance companies for workers' compensation coverage and report findings to the General Assembly, starting in 2026. This ensures transparency and helps evaluate whether self-insuring claims is more cost-effective than purchasing insurance from private companies.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Real Property Valuation

Senate Bill 24-144, which has been signed into law, limits how much property values can rise for certain types of real estate in Colorado. Specifically, it caps the increase at no more than 6% per reassessment cycle starting from 2025 and continuing indefinitely, unless there's an unusual condition that causes a significant change. This affects property owners whose properties are reassessed every few years by the state, ensuring their property taxes don't spike dramatically in any single year after 2025.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Oral Health Screening in Schools Pilot Program

Senate Bill 24-142 establishes a pilot program in Colorado that will provide free oral health screenings for kindergarten and third-grade students at five selected school sites. The goal is to assess the effectiveness of these screenings in reducing dental issues among children, especially those from underserved communities. The bill allocates funding for this initiative and requires detailed reporting on its outcomes by 2027, after which a plan will be developed to implement oral health screenings statewide if successful. This program aims to improve the oral health of young students across Colorado.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Streamlining the Updating of Telecom Equipment

Senate Bill 24-147 simplifies the process for telecom companies to remove or replace risky equipment that could harm national security. When these companies follow federal guidelines and notify local governments in advance, they don't need additional permits from those localities if the new equipment works similarly to what it replaces. The bill has been signed into law, meaning telecom companies can now streamline this process without facing extra bureaucratic hurdles from local authorities.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Telecommunications Security

Senate Bill 24-151, also known as the Telecommunications Security Act, requires Colorado-based telecommunications companies to remove or replace any equipment from entities banned by the federal government. These companies must register with the state’s homeland security division and certify annually that they are not using banned equipment or participating in a federal reimbursement program to replace it. The bill took effect on June 7, 2024, after being signed into law by the governor. This means telecommunications providers now have specific deadlines to comply with these requirements starting January 15, 2025.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Credential Quality Apprenticeship Classification

Senate Bill 24-143, titled "Credential Quality Apprenticeship Classification," aims to establish a framework for evaluating the quality of nondegree credentials in Colorado. Starting January 1, 2026, the state's Department of Higher Education will assess these credentials annually and publish a list of high-quality programs. The bill also encourages the adoption of international standards (ISCED) to classify these credentials more uniformly across education and workforce systems. This initiative affects educational institutions, apprenticeship programs, and job seekers by ensuring that nondegree credentials meet quality standards and are recognized statewide. The bill was signed into law on May 10, 2024, and became effective on August 7, 2024.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate

Evaluation Protections & Educators

Senate Bill 24-132, which has been approved by the governor and will take effect on August 7, 2024, expands the confidentiality of evaluation reports for educators. This means that all records used in preparing these evaluations—such as performance reviews—are now protected from public access and can only be seen by the educator being evaluated, their supervisors, and those involved in legal proceedings related to education boards. The bill affects teachers, principals, administrators, special service providers, and education support professionals, ensuring their evaluation documents remain private.

Last action: 2024-02-07 · Senate