Colorado 2025 Bills

Department of Regulatory Agencies Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-130 adjusts the budget for Colorado's Department of Regulatory Agencies by increasing its funding. This means more money from the state’s general fund and cash funds will be allocated to this department, which oversees various regulatory boards and commissions in the state. The bill was signed into law by the governor on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Law Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-122 amends the state budget for the Department of Law by reducing the amount of money allocated to it. This affects how much funding the department can use from different sources, including the general fund and cash funds. The bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Child Welfare And Juvenile Court Jurisdiction

House Bill 23-1172, which has been approved by the governor and will take effect on August 7, 2023, allows Colorado juvenile courts to make permanent decisions about custody arrangements for children without needing to declare each parent unfit. It also gives these courts the power to change a child's name if they are involved in cases related to dependency or neglect, and it removes the requirement to publish notice of such name changes publicly. This bill affects families dealing with child welfare issues and those involved in juvenile court proceedings.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · House

Department of Agriculture Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-112 increases the funding for Colorado's Department of Agriculture by adjusting and balancing the amounts allocated in the state budget. The additional funds come from both general state money and cash reserves, which will help support various agricultural programs and initiatives. This bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day, meaning the Department of Agriculture can now use the extra funding to enhance its operations and services for farmers and other stakeholders in Colorado's agriculture sector.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Public Health & Environment Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-128 adjusts the budget for Colorado’s Department of Public Health and Environment by increasing funding from the general fund and decreasing reappropriated funds. It also amends previous legislation aimed at reducing lead in drinking water at facilities where children are present, providing additional funding for this initiative in future fiscal years. The bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and took effect immediately on that same date. This means the department now has more money to work with and can continue efforts to protect children from lead exposure as planned.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Corrections Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-113 amends the state budget for the Department of Corrections by increasing funding from the general fund and cash funds. This means more money is being allocated to support the operations and programs run by the Colorado Department of Corrections. The bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day, meaning the additional funding is now in place for the department to use.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Labor & Employment Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-121 adjusts the budget for Colorado's Department of Labor and Employment by reducing the total amount of money allocated to it. This includes cutting funds from the general state budget, cash reserves, previously allocated funds, and federal grants. The bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and took effect immediately on that same day. This means the department will have less funding than originally planned for its operations and programs.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Education Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-115 adjusts the budget for Colorado's Department of Education by increasing funding from the general fund and cash funds while decreasing previously reappropriated funds. This change affects how money is allocated to support educational programs in the state. The bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day, meaning the new budget allocations are now being used by the Department of Education.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department Of Personnel Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-127 adjusts the budget for Colorado's Department of Personnel by increasing funding from various sources, including the general fund and reappropriated funds. This means more money will be available for the department to use in its operations and programs. The bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Human Services Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-119 adjusts the funding for Colorado's Department of Human Services by increasing the total amount of money available from various sources, including federal funds. This means more resources will be allocated to support programs and services managed by the department. The bill was signed into law by the governor on March 6, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day. This increase in funding is intended to help the Department of Human Services better serve Coloradans who rely on its programs for assistance.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Governor, Lt. Governor, & OSPB Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-116 adjusts the budget for the governor's office, lieutenant governor's office, and state planning and budgeting. It increases funding from the general fund and reallocates some funds, while also reducing the amount of money available for broadband deployment initiatives managed by the Colorado Broadband Office within the Governor’s Office of Information Technology. The bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and took effect immediately on that same day. This means that the changes to funding allocations are now in place and being implemented.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Transportation Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-133 adjusts the budget for Colorado's Department of Transportation by reducing its cash funds. This means less money will be available for transportation projects and initiatives managed by the department. The bill was approved by the governor on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day. As a result, the Department of Transportation now has to work with a reduced budget for its operations and projects.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Military Affairs Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-125 adjusts the budget for Colorado's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs by increasing its funding from the state’s general fund. This means more money will be available for programs and services managed by this department, which supports military members and veterans in Colorado. The bill was signed into law on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Department of Treasury Supplemental

Senate Bill 23-134 adjusts the budget for Colorado's Department of Treasury by increasing its funding. This means more money will be available in both the general fund and cash funds for the department to use. The bill was approved by the governor on February 28, 2023, and became effective immediately on that same day. So, the changes are already in place and affecting how the Department of Treasury operates with its new budget allocation.

Last action: 2023-02-06 · Senate

Memorializing Former Representative Mike McLachlan

The bill HM 23-1002 is a memorial that honors former Colorado state representative Mike McLachlan. It recognizes his contributions and service to the community and the state. Since it has been signed, this memorial is now official and likely includes some form of acknowledgment or tribute in the state's records or during ceremonies. This bill affects anyone interested in honoring past public servants and their legacies in Colorado.

Last action: 2023-02-03 · House

Limit Arrest For Low-level Offenses

House Bill 23-1169, which has been signed into law, limits the ability of police officers in Colorado to arrest individuals for minor offenses like traffic violations or petty crimes. Instead of making an arrest, officers are encouraged to issue citations and release people without taking them to jail. This bill affects anyone who might be arrested for low-level offenses, aiming to reduce unnecessary arrests and jail time. Since it has been signed, the law is now in effect and police departments must comply with these new guidelines.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

Opioid Harm Reduction

HB 23-1164, known as the Opioid Harm Reduction bill, changes Colorado's drug laws by removing certain requirements for proving intent when someone unknowingly possesses substances like fentanyl. It also allocates $2 million to purchase and distribute opioid antidotes (like Narcan) in schools to help save lives during an overdose crisis. The bill provides legal protections for those who supply these antidotes to schools, and it requires police departments to report instances where they use such antidotes. The bill has been signed into law, meaning its provisions are now active and enforceable in Colorado. This means that schools will receive funding to stock up on life-saving opioid antidote kits, and there's increased accountability for how these tools are used by law enforcement.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

Revoke Carbon Dioxide Status As A Pollutant

House Bill 23-1163, which has now been signed into law in Colorado, removes carbon dioxide from the list of pollutants regulated by state laws and rules. This means that carbon dioxide emissions will no longer be treated as a pollutant by state agencies or local governments, even if other regulations might suggest otherwise. The bill argues that carbon dioxide is less harmful compared to other greenhouse gases. As it has been signed, this law is now in effect and impacts how the state manages environmental regulations related to air quality and climate change.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

Repeal Retail Delivery Fees

House Bill 23-1166, which has been signed into law, eliminates retail delivery fees that were being charged by the state and various enterprises for deliveries of goods within Colorado. These fees were only collected up until June 30, 2023, after which they are no longer applicable. This change affects consumers who make purchases requiring delivery services in Colorado, as it removes additional costs associated with those deliveries starting July 1, 2023. Since the bill has been signed, these fees have officially ended for the current fiscal year and beyond.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

County Authority To Prohibit Firearms Discharge

House Bill 23-1165 allows county boards to create areas where it's illegal to fire guns, even on private property, as long as these areas have at least 35 homes per square mile. The bill also makes sure that police officers and people engaged in hunting or managing livestock can still use firearms in these restricted zones. This means counties will have more flexibility to set rules about where guns can be fired within their borders, affecting residents who live in densely populated unincorporated areas. Since the status of this bill is "signed," it has been approved by both houses of the legislature and signed into law by the governor, meaning these new regulations are now enforceable.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

Distributed Ledgers Voting

HB 23-1170, also known as the Distributed Ledgers Voting bill, introduces a new system for Colorado elections using distributed ledgers. This technology ensures that voter eligibility and ballot information are securely recorded and can be publicly verified to maintain transparency and accuracy in voting processes. For voters casting ballots either in person or by mail, unique tokens are assigned to each ballot to track its validity and ensure it is counted correctly. The bill has been signed into law, meaning this new system for secure and transparent elections will now be implemented in Colorado.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

Just Cause Requirement Eviction Of Residential Tenant

House Bill 23-1171, which has been signed into law, requires landlords in Colorado to have a valid reason before evicting residential tenants. Valid reasons include non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms that aren't fixed within 10 days, and refusal to allow entry for maintenance or inspection after proper notice. Landlords can also evict tenants without cause if they are renovating the property, selling it, or moving in themselves, but must provide financial assistance equivalent to three months' rent to certain vulnerable tenants like those with disabilities or low-income individuals. This law protects tenants from arbitrary eviction and ensures that landlords follow specific procedures when ending a lease.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

Legal Representation And Students With Disabilities

HB 23-1168, titled "Legal Representation and Students with Disabilities," ensures that parents of students with disabilities who win a dispute against an educational provider can get free legal help if the school files a counter-suit. The Colorado Department of Education will work with a nonprofit to create a list of lawyers ready to assist these parents for five years. Parents will be informed about this service and how to access it, and the state will provide funding to cover costs related to these legal services. This bill was signed into law on May 25, 2023, and is now in effect.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

Reporting Of Emergency Overdose Events

House Bill 23-1167, which has been signed into law and is now effective, provides legal immunity from arrest and prosecution for certain drug offenses if a person reports an overdose or helps someone experiencing one. This includes situations where people possess drugs containing dangerous substances like fentanyl or distribute these drugs to consume together immediately after the transfer. The bill aims to encourage more people to seek help during emergencies without fear of legal consequences, potentially saving lives by reducing barriers to reporting overdoses.

Last action: 2023-02-02 · House

Consumer Legal Funding Transactions

House Bill 23-1162, also known as the "Consumer Legal Funding Transactions" bill, allows Colorado officials to create rules about fees for a type of loan where consumers borrow money using their potential legal settlement or judgment payouts as collateral. This affects people who might need quick cash while waiting for a lawsuit resolution and are considering this kind of financing. The bill was signed into law by the governor on June 1, 2023, and will take effect on August 7, 2023, meaning new rules can be implemented to regulate these transactions starting from that date.

Last action: 2023-02-01 · House

Family Courts Study Commission

HB 23-1159 establishes a Family Courts Study Commission in Colorado. The commission will include parents, children who have been involved in family court cases, legal professionals, and lawmakers. Its job is to review how family courts work in the state and suggest ways to improve them so they better serve people. The commission will start meeting by September 30, 2023, and submit a report with its findings and recommendations by September 30, 2024. Since the bill has been signed into law, the commission is now set up and can begin its work to study family courts and make improvements based on their findings.

Last action: 2023-02-01 · House

Uniform Unregulated Child Custody Transfer Act

House Bill 23-1157, known as the "Uniform Unregulated Child Custody Transfer Act," aims to prevent unregulated transfers of child custody. It bans parents or guardians from transferring a child's custody through means other than legal adoption, guardianship, court orders, or safe haven laws. The bill also requires agencies facilitating adoptions to provide adoptive families with detailed information and support services to help maintain the adoption. This law is now in effect since it was signed by the governor on April 17, 2023.

Last action: 2023-02-01 · House

Environmental Standards For Appliances

HB 23-1161, also known as the Environmental Standards for Appliances bill in Colorado, aims to improve energy and water efficiency by setting stricter standards for various household and commercial appliances. The bill updates existing rules for items like showerheads, faucets, lamps, and heating systems, while introducing new requirements for products such as air purifiers, electric vehicle chargers, and certain windows starting from 2026. It also bans the sale of mercury-containing fluorescent light bulbs by 2025. The bill was signed into law on June 1, 2023, and took effect on August 7, 2023. This means manufacturers, retailers, and distributors will need to comply with these new standards when selling appliances in Colorado starting from the specified dates.

Last action: 2023-02-01 · House

Colorado TRAILS System Requirements

House Bill 23-1160, also known as the Colorado TRAILS System Requirements, aims to protect individuals suspected of child abuse or neglect by ensuring they receive a written notice and an opportunity for a hearing before being added to the state's automated child welfare system. The bill requires that any findings against these individuals can only be shared with third parties after all appeals are completed, and it mandates specific actions based on whether there is enough evidence to support allegations. If there isn't sufficient evidence, the record must be marked as unsubstantiated and not released for public or employment background checks. This legislation applies to anyone suspected of child abuse or neglect but excludes those under 13 years old from having findings entered against them. Since it has been signed into law, these protections are now in place to safeguard individuals' rights during the investigation process.

Last action: 2023-02-01 · House

Colorado Commodity Supplemental Food Grant Program

House Bill 23-1158, also known as the Colorado Commodity Supplemental Food Grant Program, provides $1 million in funding for grants that help county public health agencies and food banks buy and distribute food packages to low-income older adults in Colorado. The bill also includes a separate program to give grants to food banks so they can provide more nutritious food to people who need it. This bill was signed into law on June 7, 2023, meaning the programs are now active and operational with funding available for the 2023-24 fiscal year.

Last action: 2023-02-01 · House

Prosthetic Devices For Recreational Activity

House Bill 23-1136, which has been approved by the governor and is now law, requires health insurance companies in Colorado to cover additional prosthetic devices if a doctor says they are needed for physical or recreational activities. This new coverage will start applying to large employer plans from January 1, 2025, and to individual and small group plans after federal approval or confirmation that the state can cover these costs without violating federal health benefit rules. If there's no response from the federal government within a year, the requirement will automatically apply to all relevant insurance plans starting in 2025. This means people with prosthetic needs for recreational activities could get better coverage and support from their insurance providers.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Special Education Funding

Senate Bill 23-099 increases state funding for special education by $40.2 million annually. This extra money will help support children with disabilities who receive special education services from various educational institutions in Colorado, including school districts and charter schools. The bill was signed into law on May 15, 2023, and became effective immediately, meaning that these additional funds are now available to support special education programs starting right away.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · Senate

Prohibit Foreign Ownership Agricultural and Natural Resources

House Bill 23-1152 prohibits foreign citizens, entities, or governments from China, Russia, and countries designated by the U.S. as state sponsors of terrorism from buying controlling shares in agricultural land, mineral rights, or water rights in Colorado starting January 1, 2024. If these groups already own such properties before this date, they can keep them but cannot buy more. They must also register with the state if they have any ownership interest after March 1, 2024, and face penalties for non-compliance. This bill has been signed into law, meaning it is now enforceable in Colorado.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Public Employees' Retirement Association Defined Benefit Plan Payments To Ex-spouse

House Bill 23-1144, which has been signed into law, affects public employees in Colorado who are part of the Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA) and have divorced. Under this bill, if a PERA member's ex-spouse remarries, the member and their ex-spouse must agree to end the monthly retirement benefits that were being shared due to their divorce agreement. The terminated benefit will then go back to the original PERA member instead of continuing to be paid to the ex-spouse. This change requires both parties to sign a written agreement detailing the division of benefits.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Ensure Equal Pay For Equal Work

Senate Bill 23-105, titled "Ensure Equal Pay For Equal Work," requires Colorado employers to provide detailed compensation information for job postings and disclose career progression requirements. It also mandates the state labor director to set up a process by July 1, 2024, to investigate wage inequity complaints and enforce compliance with penalties. The bill received approval from Governor Jared Polis on June 5, 2023, and will take effect on January 1, 2024. This means that starting next year, employers must follow new guidelines to ensure fair pay practices and transparency in job postings and career advancement opportunities.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · Senate

Public Airport Authority Act Modernization

HB 23-1156, also known as the Public Airport Authority Act Modernization, updates Colorado’s laws regarding airport authorities. It clarifies how local governments can create and manage airport authorities, including rules for terminating an authority and assuming its responsibilities. The bill also specifies that board members of these authorities do not receive compensation and must follow ethics guidelines. Additionally, it changes voting requirements and procurement processes to ensure better governance and transparency. This act was signed by the governor on April 10, 2023, and will take effect on August 7, 2023. It affects counties, municipalities, and airport authorities in Colorado.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Uniform Community Property Disposition At Death Act

Senate Bill 23-100, also known as the Uniform Community Property Disposition at Death Act, updates Colorado’s laws regarding how property acquired by spouses during their marriage is divided after one spouse passes away. It assumes that any property bought while living in a community property state belongs jointly to both spouses unless they specifically agree otherwise. When one spouse dies, this law ensures that half of the shared property goes to the deceased and the other half to the surviving spouse. The bill was signed into law by the governor on March 23, 2023, and will take effect on July 1, 2023.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · Senate

Clarifications To 48-hour Bond Hearing Requirement

House Bill 23-1151 in Colorado clarifies when the requirement for a bond hearing within 48 hours of arrest can be delayed, specifically if an individual cannot attend court due to circumstances like emergencies. It requires sheriffs to keep detailed records of any delays and their reasons. The bill ensures that the 48-hour rule applies even if the person is held in another jurisdiction or has missed a previous appearance. Signed into law by the governor on April 20, 2023, it will take effect on October 1, 2023.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Public Employees' Workplace Protection

Senate Bill 23-111, also known as the Public Employees' Workplace Protection Act, grants public employees in Colorado various rights that were previously not covered by existing labor laws. These rights include discussing workplace issues, organizing unions, and participating in political activities without fear of discrimination or retaliation from their employers. The bill applies to a wide range of public sector workers including those in counties, municipalities, schools, universities, hospitals, and more. It also sets up enforcement mechanisms through the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. Parts of the law will start taking effect on August 7, 2023, with additional provisions becoming active on July 1, 2024. Governor Jared Polis signed this bill into law, meaning it is now official state legislation.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · Senate

Powersports Vehicle Dealer Business Place

House Bill 23-1140, which has been signed into law and will take effect on August 7, 2023, clarifies that powersports vehicle dealers in Colorado can perform certain activities outside their main business location without violating existing laws. These activities include delivering vehicles for test drives, dropping off or picking up documents for customers, and delivering purchased vehicles to customer locations. This bill affects powersports vehicle dealers and their customers by providing more flexibility in how transactions are conducted.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Transparency For Metropolitan Districts

Senate Bill 23-110, also known as the Transparency for Metropolitan Districts Act, aims to increase transparency and accountability in metropolitan districts by requiring them to disclose financial information and hold annual public meetings. Starting January 1, 2024, sellers of residential properties within these districts must provide buyers with the district's official website during the property sale process. The bill also mandates that metropolitan districts include specific financial details like maximum mill levies and debt limits in their service plans when seeking approval from county commissioners or city officials. This legislation is now signed into law and will take effect on August 7, 2023, meaning it will start impacting how these districts operate and interact with the public soon after this date.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · Senate

Driver's License Examination Reimbursement

HB 23-1147 is a Colorado bill that changes the requirements for getting a driver's license for minors under 18 and young adults up to age 20. It requires these groups to complete specific driving education courses and behind-the-wheel training, either with an instructor or a parent/guardian. The bill also sets up a voucher program to help low-income individuals pay for these courses and exams. However, the governor vetoed this bill on May 16, 2023, which means it did not become law despite being signed initially. This affects anyone in Colorado who needs to get their driver's license and qualifies for financial assistance through the voucher program.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Employees May Accept Cash Tips

House Bill 23-1146, which was vetoed by the governor, would have allowed employees in most industries to keep cash tips given by customers without fear of retaliation from their employers. This bill would not apply to certain workers like those in gambling, healthcare, and specific elderly care programs. Despite being signed into law, because it was vetoed, the bill did not become an active law in Colorado.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Ballot Issue Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report

HB 23-1154, also known as the Ballot Issue Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report, requires that any proposed ballot initiative in Colorado be analyzed for its impact on greenhouse gas emissions over a ten-year period. This analysis will cover various sectors like electricity, transportation, and agriculture to determine if the measure increases or decreases emissions. If an initiative is found to significantly change emissions, its title must clearly state whether it leads to an increase or decrease in greenhouse gases. The bill has been signed into law, meaning that future ballot initiatives will now be subject to this emission impact analysis before they can proceed to a vote.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

History Colorado Authority To Sell Property

House Bill 23-1141 allows History Colorado to sell three properties that are no longer aligned with its mission. These properties include the McFarlane House in Central City, the Pearce-McAllister Cottage in Denver, and a storage facility in Pueblo. The money from these sales will go into a state fund to help build or improve a new storage facility for better access by staff. This bill was signed into law on March 31, 2023, meaning History Colorado can now proceed with selling the properties as needed.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Update Colorado Recreational Use Statute

Senate Bill 23-103 updates Colorado’s Recreational Use Statute (CRUS) by clarifying and modifying certain aspects of the law. It changes how landowners are protected from liability when people use their property for recreational activities, such as hiking or biking. The bill removes some limitations on damages that can be recovered from private landowners who lease their land to public entities for recreation and updates definitions related to inherent dangers and risks. Signed into law, this means the updated statute is now in effect and impacts how landowners manage their property for recreational use and handle potential legal liabilities associated with it.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · Senate

Advisement During Custodial Interrogation

House Bill 23-1155, now approved and set to take effect on July 1, 2023, requires police to inform individuals in custody of their rights before questioning them. This includes the right to remain silent, the right to have a lawyer present during questioning, and the right to stop the interview at any time. The bill impacts anyone who is questioned by law enforcement while in custody, ensuring they are aware of these protections. Since it has been signed into law, this new requirement will apply to all future custodial interrogations starting from its effective date.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House

Income Tax Deduction For Military Retirement Benefits

Senate Bill 23-106 extends a tax deduction for military retirement benefits in Colorado. Currently, individuals under 55 can deduct up to $15,000 from their federal taxable income when calculating state taxes; this bill removes the age limit and adjusts the cap annually for inflation starting January 1, 2024. This change will benefit current and future military retirees by allowing them to continue claiming deductions without an age restriction. Since the bill has been signed into law, it is now in effect and applicable for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2024.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · Senate

Allowing Temporary Reductions In Property Tax Due

Senate Bill 23-108 allows local governments in Colorado to offer temporary property tax relief by reducing taxes or providing credits. This relief must be renewed each year and cannot lower school district taxes below a set minimum. The bill was signed into law on June 5, 2023, and will take effect on August 7, 2023. This means that starting in August, local governments can start implementing temporary property tax reductions for residents.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · Senate

Solar Garden Net Metering Credits Stabilization

HB 23-1137, also known as the Solar Garden Net Metering Credits Stabilization bill, aims to adjust how solar garden credits are calculated for utility customers. If a community solar garden's subscribers want their bill credits to remain fixed each year instead of changing annually, this bill provides a new method for calculating those credits. It also allows utilities to recover costs related to managing these billing systems. The bill was signed into law by the governor and will take effect on August 7, 2023. This affects solar garden subscribers and utility companies in Colorado.

Last action: 2023-01-31 · House