Colorado Senate 2026 Legislative Day 098

Let's do this.

Mr. Minority Leader, would you please lead us, Mr. Minority Leader, in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Approval of the journal. Senator Weissman.

You've heard the motion. All those in favor say aye. Opposed? No. That sounds about right, but the I still have it, and that motion is adopted. Senate Services.

Committee reports.

Members, before we go on to moments of personal privilege, we have a special guest with us in the building. He may be recognized later, but I want to make sure that we have an opportunity to acknowledge someone, not from the upper chamber, but still did serve in this legislature, and that would be Representative Lang Syas. Please join me in welcoming him to the chamber.

The motion is to proceed out of order for moments of personal privilege. All those in favor say aye. Opposed, no. What? But the ayes have it, and that motion is adopted.

Granted.

Welcome again to the Senate. And I just want to confirm, I asked for a medium. Okay, all right, we don't know if we have it or not.

Granted.

Mr. Majority, any further announcements? Okay. Mr. Majority Leader.

resolutions. All in favor, please say aye. All opposed, no. Thank you. So, consideration of resolutions. Will the clerk please read the title of SR006?

Senator Kolker. Thank you, Madam President. I move Resolution SR 26006 and ask that it be read at length.

Whereas this April 2026 marks the 23rd annual National Donate Life Month, a time to raise awareness of organ, eye, and tissue donation, encourage Americans to register as donors and honor those who have saved and healed lives through the gift of donation. And whereas Colorado has been a leader in the nation with nearly 900,000 Coloradans registered as organ, eye, and tissue donors at the DMV, a decision that reflects deep commitment to one another and confirms that there is good in all of us. And whereas Donor Alliance, in collaboration with community partners, educates Colorado residents on the life-saving benefits of organ and tissue donation, inspiring them to register as donors, and encouraging them to share their decision with their families. When you register to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor, you are giving hope to those awaiting life-saving and healing transplants. And whereas one donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation, restore sight and up to two people through cornea transplants, and save and heal more than 75 people through tissue donation. And whereas in Colorado and Wyoming in 2025, over 300 heroic organ donors provided over 1,000 life-saving transplants, and over 1,800 heroic tissue donors saved and healed more than 140,000 people with tissue grafts. And whereas registering to donate organs, eyes, and tissue gives hope to over 1,300 people currently waiting for a life-saving transplant in Colorado, and over 100,000 waiting nationwide. And whereas organ, eye, and tissue donation would not be possible without our community coming together for one united purpose. Saying yes to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor means you're not just checking a box. You're saving and healing lives. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate of the 75th General Assembly of the State of Colorado, one, that the Senate recognizes April 2026 as National Donate Life Month, and two, the Senate recognizes the organ and tissue donors and all the people and families positively impacted by the heroic acts of donors. Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be sent to Donor Alliance President and CEO Jennifer Prince.

Thank you, Madam President. Members, please be seated. Audience, you can please be seated. Thank you. Audience and members, fellow senators, we're very fortunate that our state sees the benefit of organ, eye, and tissue donation, and that our community has stepped up to register to be organ and tissue donors. Thanks to the efforts of Donor Alliance, our hospital system, local tissue banks, and the DMV, for the 11th consecutive year, we've seen growth in our region for organ donation and life-saving transplants, which has been about a 9.5% increase. When a donation occurs in a hospital, a donate life flag is often flown to honor the gift of life. Across the country flags are on display to honor deceased donors and their families This year in fact just two couple two three weeks ago we raised a flag on the west steps of the Capitol for the first time in honor of the observance. It was a privilege to be a part of the ceremony, which included representatives from the DMV and Donor Alliance, as well as several of our colleagues from the Senate and House. I could say a lot more, kind of in conclusion, for my comments, I want to encourage all of us to light our own light to help awareness here in the month of April and May. There's some things we can do. We can say yes the next time that you obtain your driver's license to renew and make sure that you too are a donor. You can register at DonateLife.org. And it's also important to discuss this decision with your family. Thank you, members, for listening. I'll turn it over to my good colleague. Senator Colker.

Any further discussion on SR006? Senator Danielson. Senator Danielson.

THANK YOU. THE MOTION IS THE ADOPTION OF SR006. Are there any no votes? With a vote of 34 ayes, 0 no, 0 absent, and 1 excused, the SR006 is adopted. Cosponsors, Senator Kolker.

Thank you. Seeing no objection, the current roll call will be added as cosponsors. Will the clerk please read the title of SR007?

Senator Marchman. Thank you, Madam President. I move resolution SR007 and ask that it be read at length.

Whereas approximately 77 million American citizens possess a criminal record, and whereas between incarceration, parole, probation, and youth services, there are roughly 100,000 individuals in Colorado alone who are under the supervision of the state's Department of Corrections, and whereas over 95% of the individuals in Colorado's state prisons are ultimately released and returned to their communities, with an estimated 6,000 individuals released annually, this number is equivalent to 20% of the number of new entrants into Colorado's workforce each year. And whereas individuals with a criminal record, however, often face a second prison in the form of collateral consequences, which are the legal and regulatory restrictions, non-court imposed penalties, and significant social barriers that result from a conviction. And whereas one of the most impactful collateral consequences, the enhanced difficulty in finding gainful employment, inhibits the economic mobility of people with a criminal record, which has severe negative impacts on the well-being of their children AND FAMILIES FOR GENERATIONS. AND WHEREAS OTHER COLLATERAL CONSEQUENCES INCLUDE INELIGIBILITY FOR CERTAIN PUBLIC BENEFITS AND HOUSING, LIMITED ACCESS TO EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATION AND A RESTRICTED ABILITY TO VOLUNTEER, VOTE AND ENGAGE IN OTHER FORMS OF CIVIC PARTICIPATION. AND WHEREAS MANY COLLATERAL CONSEQUENCES ARE MANDATORY, AUTOMATIC AND INDEFINITE, TAKING EFFECT REGARDLESS OF THE LACK OF ANY PROVEN PUBLIC SAFETY BENEFIT AND WITHOUT ANY CONSIDERATION TOWARD THE SERIOUSNESS OF AN OFFENSE, THE The time passed since the offense or an individual's efforts to make amends and earn back the public's trust. And whereas collateral consequences contribute to recidivism, increase victimization, decrease public safety, result in lost economic output for Colorado and the United States, and limit opportunities for individuals with a criminal record to honor their second chance, contribute to their community, and help others in their situation, as many choose to do. And whereas, for example, Charles Colson, who was convicted of Watergate-related crimes, dedicated his second chance following his incarceration to founding Prison Fellowship, the nation's largest Christian faith-based nonprofit for prisoners, former prisoners, and their families, which has the mission of advocating for criminal justice reforms that validate victims, help transform those responsible for crime, and create safer communities. And whereas redemption and second chances are longstanding American values, as is the principle that every individual is endowed with human dignity and deserving of respect. and whereas designating April 2026 as second chance month will increase public awareness of the need to help provide second chances for those with criminal records so they may achieve closure, embrace hope, and pursue a brighter future. Now therefore, be it resolved by the Senate of the 75th General Assembly of the State of Colorado that we, the members of the Colorado Senate, one designate April 2026 as second chance month two honor the work of communities governmental institutions nonprofits congregations employers and individuals in removing the unnecessary collateral consequences that impede individuals with a criminal record from becoming productive members of society. And three, call upon the citizens of Colorado to observe Second Chance Month through actions and programs that promote awareness of the second prison and provide second chances for those who have paid their debt. Be it further resolved that copies of this Senate resolution be sent to Donald Trump, President of the United States, J.D. Vance, Vice President of the United States, Todd Blanche, Acting Attorney General of the United States, Jared Polis, Governor of Colorado, Diane Primavera, Lieutenant Governor of Colorado, and Andre Stancil, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections, Katie Rusk, Manager of the Office of Community Corrections in the Colorado Department of Public Safety's Division of Criminal Justice, Prison Fellowship, the Second Chance Center, and the members of the Colorado's congressional delegation.

Thank you. Any further discussion? The motion is the adoption of SR007. Are there any no votes? Seeing none with a vote of 34 I 0 no 0 absent and one excused SR 007 is adopted co Senator Marchman Thank you Madam President I request the current role be added as co Seeing no objection the current roll call will be added as co Will the clerk please read the title of SJR 023?

Senator Coleman. Thank you, Madam President. We move SJR 2623 and ask to be ready to length. Thank you.

Whereas the General Assembly enacted House Bill 25-1192 to strengthen financial literacy education in Colorado and to require that beginning with the 2027-28 school year, each school district board of education incorporate financial literacy standards into a course that is required for a high school graduation. And whereas financial literacy education equips students with essential knowledge and practical skills related to saving, budgeting, credit, investing, entrepreneurship, and responsible financial decision-making, helping prepare young people for future educational, career, and economic opportunities. And whereas financial literacy education plays an important role in strengthening economic mobility and workforce readiness by equipping young people with the skills necessary to manage money responsibly, build savings, pursue entrepreneurship, and participate successfully in Colorado's economy. And whereas Colorado has a strong interest in ensuring that students not only learn financial concepts in the classroom, but also have opportunities to apply those concepts through real-world experiences that reinforce learning and build lifelong financial capability. And whereas Young Americans Bank and Young Americans Center for Financial Education were founded in Colorado, and for more than 37 years have served as pioneering institutions dedicated to youth financial education, youth entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity for young people. And whereas Young Americans Bank was founded in 1987 by cable television pioneer and philanthropist Bill Daniels, whose deep commitment to free enterprise, personal responsibility, and financial literacy led him to create the world's only bank dedicated exclusively to young people, and Daniels founded Young American Center for Financial Education a year later. And whereas Daniels believed that financial education is essential to expanding opportunity and empowering future generations, a vision that also led to the establishment of the Daniels Fund Scholarship Program, which has provided life-changing educational opportunities to thousands of students across Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. And whereas the enduring legacy of Daniels continues to guide the mission and impact of Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education, reflecting his belief that equipping young people with financial knowledge and real-world experience is critical to building strong individuals, communities, and a thriving economy. And whereas Young Americans Bank represents a uniquely Colorado innovation and a nationally recognized model for experiential financial literacy education, providing young people with access to financial services in an environment specifically designed to teach responsible financial decision making. And whereas Colorado has long demonstrated leadership in advancing innovative approaches to education and economic opportunity for young people, and the work of Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education represents a nationally recognized Colorado model for experiential financial literacy education. and whereas through an integrated model of youth banking, financial education programming, and experiential learning opportunities, Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education provide students with opportunities to apply financial literacy concepts in real-life settings that reinforce classroom instruction. And whereas since their founding Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education have provided educational programming financial literacy training and entrepreneurship experiences to more than 600 young people including thousands of Colorado students each year And whereas over nearly four decades of service, Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education have become trusted Colorado institutions with lasting generational impacts, as parents and grandparents who once participated in youth financial education programs return with their own children and grandchildren to provide them the same opportunities to build financial knowledge, confidence, and responsible financial habits. And whereas Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education work in partnership with schools, educators, and community organizations across urban, suburban, and rural communities throughout Colorado, expanding access to meaningful financial education opportunities for students statewide. And whereas Young American Center for Financial Education supports educators across Colorado through a train-the-teacher model that equips classroom teachers with the tools, curriculum, and resources necessary to deliver high-quality financial literacy instruction, helping ensure consistency, scalability, and sustained impact within school communities. And whereas Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education serve as a statewide resource for educators and school districts seeking to strengthen financial literacy instruction and provide students with meaningful opportunities to apply financial concepts through experiential learning. and whereas curriculum and programming developed by Young American Center for Financial Education are designed to align with Colorado's academic standards and grade-level expectations in personal financial literacy, supporting schools and educators in integrating financial literacy concepts into the core educational experience of Colorado students. And whereas programs delivered by Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education support Colorado's broader goals of economic mobility, workforce readiness, and entrepreneurial development by helping young people understand financial systems, develop saving habits, and building the skills necessary to navigate the modern economy. And whereas the experiential learning model developed by Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education provides Colorado students with a unique opportunity to apply financial literacy skills learned in the classroom through real-world engagement, thereby reinforcing the objectives of House Bill 25-1192. And whereas the General Assembly recognizes that the activities carried out and supported by Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education make a significant and distinctive contribution to advancing the financial literacy education of young people in the state by providing students the opportunity to take financial literacy skills, learn in the classroom, and apply them in real-world settings through a one-of-a-kind education-centered banking institution and related programming designed specifically to educate young people. And whereas through 37 years of service and impact, including programming delivered to more than 600,000 young people since inception and in partnership with schools and community organizations across urban, suburban, and rural communities throughout Colorado, Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education are uniquely positioned to assist Colorado school districts and educators in advancing the objectives of House Bill 25-1192 and strengthening financial literacy education for Colorado students. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate of the 75th General Assembly of the State of Colorado, the House of Representatives concurring herein, one, that the General Assembly recognizes and commends Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education for their longstanding contributions to youth financial literacy education, entrepreneurship education, and economic opportunity for young people in Colorado. Two, that the General Assembly acknowledges the important role that experiential financial education plays in reinforcing classroom-based instruction and supporting the successful implementation of House Bill 25-1192. Three, that the General Assembly recognizes Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education as uniquely positioned partners in advancing financial literacy education for Colorado students through programs, partnerships, and real-world learning opportunities. Four, that the General Assembly encourages continued collaboration among the state, school districts, education, and community organizations and institutions such as Young American Banks and Young American Center for Financial Education to expand access to meaningful financial literacy education for all Colorado students. Be it further resolved, the copies of this joint resolution be sent to the Governor of Colorado, Jared Polis, the Colorado Department of Education, the Colorado State Board of Education, and the leadership of Young Americans Bank and Young American Center for Financial Education.

senator mullica thank you madam president thank you uh mr schafer that was a resolution if i've ever heard one um members i stand before you today as a daniels scholar i'm a husband a father a state senator a member of this chamber because one man in colorado believed every kid deserves a shot without bill daniels in the daniels fund i would not be where i am today bill daniels built his life on a simple conviction. Every young Colorado, no matter their zip code or their family's means, deserves the tools to build a good life. A scholarship for one child, a mentor for another, and for so many, a bank account in their own name. Opened the first time they ever walked into a bank. The Daniels Fund invested in me in a way the Young Americans Bank and Center invests in kids today. They're offering real support, real life skills, leading TO REAL DOORS BEING OPENED. I'M JUST ONE EXAMPLE OF WHAT A COLORADO INVESTMENT IN A YOUNG LIFE LOOKS LIKE DECADES LATER. IN 1987, THE SAME BILL DANIELS WHO WOULD ONE DAY HELP SEND ME TO COLLEGE OPENED THE DOORS FOR YOUNG AMERICANS BANK AND CENTER, A PLACE WHERE A 12-YEAR-OLD DEPOSITS A FIRST PAYCHECK, WHERE A HIGH SCHOOL APPLY, HIGH SCHOOLER APPLIES FOR A FIRST LOAN, WHERE A YOUNG PERSON LEARNS IN THE MOST HANDS-ON WAY POSSIBLE WHAT FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE FEELS LIKE LONG BEFORE ADULT When we honor Young Americans Bank and Center today, we honor Bill Daniels. We honor a vision of Colorado where every child is worth investing in. His legacy lives on in every scholar, every young saver, and every Coloradan who got their first chance because one man believed in them. Senator Coleman.

The motion is the adoption of SJR 023. Are there any no votes? Seeing none, with a vote of 34 ayes, 0 no, 0 absent, and 1 excused, SJR 23 is adopted.

Seeing no objection, the current roll call will be added as co-sponsors комm ty Sports

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you. . . Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. . . Thank you. Thank you. And we're back in the game.

1021.

You've heard the motion. The motion is to take up those bills in special order to the Senate at the hour of 1021 a.m. This requires a two-thirds vote. All those in favor, say aye. Aye. Post no. What? But the ayes have it. That motion is adopted. The Senate will take up those bills. Listen on special orders. Consent at the hour of 1021 a.m. Special orders. Take me to the bill's consent calendar. Senator Roberts.

You're in the motion. All those in favor, say aye.

Opposed no. The motion is adopted. The Senate will resolve itself. Committee of the Hope. Considered a race special order. Secondary Bill's consent counter. And Senator Roberts will take the chair.

OF BILLS CONSENT CALENDAR Thank you

Thank you.

Senate Bill 133 by Senators Bridges and Catlin and Representatives Martinez and Taggart concerning the authorization to establish an artist company in the state and in connection therewith enacting the Colorado Artist Company Act. House Bill 1181 by Representatives Ricks and Richardson and Senators Marchman concerning the continuation of the Barber and Cosmetologist Act and in connection therewith implementing the recommendations of the Department of Regulatory AGENCIES IN THE DEPARTMENT'S 2025 SUNSET REPORT. HOUSE BILL 1197 BY REPRESENTATIVE Morrow AND SENATOR KIPP CONCERNING THE CONTINUATION OF THE VESSEL REGISTRATION PROGRAM. HOUSE BILL 1280 BY REPRESENTATIVE LEADER AND HAMRICK AND SENATORS JUDA AND MULICA CONCERNING THE CONTINUATION OF THE REGULATION OF THE HEMODYALYSIS TREATMENT BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT AND CONNECTION THEREWITH, IMPLEMENTING THE RECOMMENDATION CONTAINING THE 2025 SUNSET REPORT BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REGULATORY AGENCIES. MR. MAJORITY LEADER.

Is there any discussion on the committee reports? The motion before the body is the adoption of all the committee reports on the special order, second reading of bill's consent calendar. All those in favor say aye.

Those opposed no. The ayes have it, and the committee reports are adopted. Is there any discussion on any of the bills on the consent calendar? Seeing none, the motion for the body is the adoption of all the bills on the special order second reading of bills consent calendar. All those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. The ayes have it, and those bills are adopted. Majority Leader Rodriguez.

The motion is for the committee to rise and report. All those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. The ayes have it, and the committee will rise and report. Senator will come to order.

Will the clerk please read the report April 21 2026 Mr President the committee that holds leave to report has had under consideration the following attached bills being the second reading thereof and makes the following recommendations thereon Senate Bill 133 as amended passed on second reading in order to engrossed and placed in the calendar for third reading and final passage House Bill 1181, House Bill 1197, House Bill 1280, passed on second reading in order to revise and placed in the calendar for third reading and final passage.

The motion is the adoption of the Committee of the Whole Report. Are there any no votes? with a vote of 34 eyes, 0 no, 0 absent, and 1 excuse committee. The whole report is adopted. Senate Bill 133 is amended, passed, second reading, order grows, place a count of third reading, and final passage of House Bill 1181, 1197, 1280. Passed, second reading, order reviled, place a count of third reading, and final passage. Majority of Rodriguez.

The motion is to take up those bills on special orders at the hour of 1027 a.m. It requires two-thirds vote. All those in favor say aye.

Those no. What? But the ayes have it. The motion is adopted. Senate will take up those bills on special orders at the hour of 1027 a.m. Special orders. Second reading of the bills, Senator Bridges.

You are the motion. All is in favor say aye. Opposed, no. The motion is adopted. The Senate was the Office of the Committee of the Health and the Special Order Secondary Bill and Senator Bridges will take the chair.

Will the clerk please read the title of Senate Bill 124? Senate Bill 124 by Senator Wallace concerning measures to provide legal

Committee report. To the report is there any discussion? Senator Wallace. In

that's what the report. Seeing no further discussion the question before is the adoption of the Judiciary Committee report all those in favor say aye opposed no eyes have it and that report is adopted to the bill any discussion

There is an amendment at the desk. There is an amendment at the desk.

Senator Wallace. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I move amendment L002.

So DPS wants to remove a section of the previously mentioned law specific to CBI data gathering that implicates federal form 4473. The information of those forms is completed by independent FFLs and is not received, reviewed, or readily available to the Bureau. Therefore, DPS does not have the ability to gather it. There is another data provision within 1098 that will help law enforcement identify if a restrained person has been denied a firearm and that information is accessible. So we're not limiting what is being gathered. We're keeping on with the data and information they need. We're just changing where that source is coming from. And with that, I ask for an aye vote on amendment L02. Any further discussion of L002? Seeing none,

House Bill 1183 by Representatives McCormick and Duran and Senators Cutter and Pelton B. concerning the continuation of the licensing of pet animal facilities by the Commissioner of Agriculture in accordance with the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act and in connection therewith implementing the recommendations contained in the 2025 sunset report by the Department of Regulatory Agencies.

To the committee report.

Seeing no further discussion the question before us is the adoption of the committee report all those in favor say aye. Aye. Opposed no. Ayes have it. The

Seeing no further discussion, the question before us is the adoption of House Bill 1183. All those IN FAVOR SAY AYE. OKAY. OPPOSED NO. THE AYES HAVE IT AND THAT BILL IS ADOPTED. WILL THE CLERK PLEASE

in the Ag and Natural Resource Report. To the committee report.

the commissioner of Ag or the commissioner's designee, and I'd ask for an aye vote. Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question before us is the adoption

Aye.

Will the clerk please read L-004. Amendment L-004 in the re-engross bill, page 3.

To the amendment.

All those in favor say aye. Aye. Opposed, no. Ayes have it. L-004 is adopted. To the bill, any further discussion? Seeing none, the question before us is the adoption of House Bill 1184. All those in favor say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it, and that bill is adopted. Will the clerk please read the title of House Bill 1187?

Senator Snyder. Thank you. I move House Bill 26-1187. To the bill.

Aye.

Will the clerk please read the title to House Bill 1188? House Bill 1188 by Representatives Camacho and Titone and Senator Colker. Concerning the continuation of the regulation of securities and in connection therewith, implementing the recommendations of the Department of Regulatory Agencies and the Department's 2025 Sunset Report.

I move House Bill 1188 to the bill Any discussion No discussion Seeing no discussion the question before us is the adoption of House Bill 1188 All those in favor say aye Aye Opposed no No. Ayes have it, and that bill is adopted.

Senator Hendrickson, let's not make a fight out of this.

To the committee report.

Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the motion before this is the adoption of the committee report. All those in favor say aye. Opposed, no. The aye has it, and that report is adopted. To the bill, any discussion?

Them's fighting words.

Senator Kolker. Thank you, Mr. Chair. To answer the good senator from Denver's question, it's only in the House that it applies. I was a little punchy this morning in a probes.

One pun, just one. Seeing no further discussion, the question before is the adoption of House Bill 1194. All those in favor say aye. All those opposed. Punching above its weight. That bill is adopted. Will the clerk please read the title of the Senate Bill 140?

The motion is to proceed out of order and take up Senate Bill 147. All those in favor say aye. Opposed, no. Ayes have it, and we will proceed out of order. Will the clerk please read the title of the Senate Bill 147?

Senator Cutter. Thank you Mr Chair I move Senate Bill 147 and the Appropriations and State Veterans and Military Affairs Report To the SVMA report Seeing no discussion the question before us is the adoption of the SVMA report

Amendment L-9, amend printed bill page 7, line 2, strike 24-6-303.

Thank you. To the amendment.

Seeing none, the motion before us is the adoption of L-009. All those in favor say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it, and that amendment is adopted. In the future, would sponsors please vote aye or nay on their bill and amendments and whatnot? Thank you. To the bill, is there any further discussion of Senate Bill 147?

There is an amendment at the desk.

Amendment printed bill page 5, mark 11. Senator Linstead. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I move L6.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. L6 is a pretty simple amendment what it will do is require that our professional lobbyists we engage with every day are liable for Reporting amounts of money that is spent to advocate or oppose bills in this chamber within 24 hours So pretty simple amendment that I think the lobby Could use transparency on so I asked for an aye vote and would love to hear from the sponsors any further discussion Senator Cutter. Thank you. While we appreciate the intention of the good Senator, this hasn't been stakeholder, and we don't want to add to our fiscal note, so we request a no vote. Senator Linstead. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I withdraw my request.

Aye.

Senate Bill 36 by Senators Gonzalez and Weissman and Representatives Bacon and Zucay concerning increasing operational efficiency of existing prison population management measures.

reflecting three months-ish of negotiation with the first floor about how to make prison

Any further discussion of the Judiciary Committee report? Seeing none, the motion before us is the adoption of that report. All those in favor say aye.

Opposed, no. Ayes have it. That report is adopted. To the Appropriations Report.

As a result of that, the net effect of 36 as amended is actually to reduce total required expenditures for fiscal year 27, which is a helpful thing. We ask for your support on the approves report.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Colleagues, we bring forward for your consideration Senate Bill 36, recognizing and understanding that we have a prison capacity crisis on our hands, thinking intentionally about how do we ensure that we are using every tool available in our toolbox to ensure that we are effectively managing our prison population. That is why we bring forward this bill for your consideration today. Let me start by talking about what led us to this moment. Back in 2018, unanimous support, Republicans and Democrats working together agreed that we should establish prison population management measures. Those were triggered for the first time this past fall. Suddenly, in the midst of figure setting by the Joint Budget Committee earlier this year, our dear governor came forward and said, hey, we might need to fund not just one, but potentially two new prisons in order to address the capacity crisis. I'm sorry, what? We have been working for months to actually get to the bottom of how do we create a prison population management system that works, that does not continue to rely on and require this sort of crisis mode budgeting and policymaking. And so that's what you see reflected before you in the pre-amended version of Senate Bill 36. Mechanisms to ensure that we are effectively managing Colorado's prison population, that we are addressing the jail backlog, that when people leave the Department of Corrections, that they can actually go forward and become contributing members of our society. That requires work, that requires input and insight from all of us. And with that, I will turn it over to my colleague, my co-prime sponsor from Aurora. Senator Weissman.

Senator Carson.

It's coming to the desk. It's on its way. It's now at the desk. Being handed around. Will the clerk please read L-8.

I move Amendment L-8 to the amendment. All right. This amendment removes the parole board's authority to release certain inmates up to 90 days before their established parole eligibility date, requiring them to serve until that date before considering them for release. So that's really one of the key provisions of this bill is based on the argument that, you know, the capacity is getting too tight in the prisons. We need to take a look at folks we want to release before their parole, their normal parole eligibility date, release them 90 days before that. And so this amendment quite simply would just strike that provision from the Judiciary Committee report in the bill. And striking this provision upholds truth in sentencing by ensuring that parole eligibility dates remain meaningful and not undermined by early release. Prioritizes public safety and respects victims' expectations by aligning release decisions with the timelines that were communicated at sentencing. and again this is something that's often kind of overlooked in these discussions is you know the victims you know they've anticipated that we're going to have a certain period of time that the offenders are going to serve and yet here we have a bill which basically changes the rules of the game there and so the victims once again are left there dealing with that situation. This change promotes consistency and fairness by applying a uniform standard for parole timing rather than allowing variability based on discretionary early release decisions. It maintains appropriate checks on the parole board's authority by keeping release decisions anchored to established eligibility dates instead of expanding early release discretion. So I think this would be the most significant change in the bill, which, in my opinion, needs to be made. Again, I go back to the fact that I don't see the necessity for this piece of legislation. You know, 4% vacancy rate now is going to be the new standard for having these sentences reviewed and the parole eligibility reviewed and changed. I don't think that's fair to victims. I don't think it's fair to the victims' families. I don't think it's fair to the public at large. And this amendment really is, once again, built around ensuring public safety out there and making sure that sentences are carried out as was agreed at the beginning of the process So I would urge an aye vote for Amendment L

Thanks, Mr. Chair. Members, I'm going to ask for a no vote on L-8, and I want to explain a little bit about why. The provision that we're talking about here, page 7, lines 13 to 16, fits in a specific and limited way in the overall architecture of PPMM as amended. IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. SO WE HAVE A TRIGGERING THRESHOLD WHICH IS IF WE GO BELOW 4% AND WE HAVE A SET OF ENTIRELY DISCRETIONARY MEASURES THAT MAY HAPPEN. I MEAN THE POINT IS WE LOOK AT WHO'S INSIDE. WE LOOK AT WHY THEY'RE INSIDE. WE SCREEN CERTAIN PEOPLE OUT BASED ON THEIR OFFENSE. ESSENTIALLY THE PAROLE BOARD GETS A LOOK AT THEM AND THEY MIGHT SAY NO TO 100% OF PEOPLE. AND IF THAT'S WHERE THE FACTS LEAD THE PAROLE BOARD, THEN FRANKLY THAT'S THE RIGHT OUTCOME. Starting at the bottom of page six, we have sort of a second level of measures. If everything we've been doing, to summarize, does not result in getting us above 5%, which is the point where PPMN would turn off 120 days after we trigger all the mechanism, so four months, then you have a second set of discretionary measures. So again, are we in PPMN at all, first question. after four months are we not out of the woods, so to speak. Only if after four months other measures haven't worked, then we phase into the second tranche of measures that are set forth in sub D, pages 6 to 7, one of which is this idea of an additional list of folks going to the parole board. Not that they're going to be released, only that they may be considered. A challenge that I think that we have throughout all questions, DOC, all questions, correctional philosophy. When we send somebody inside, that's based on who they were at the time. It can't really be anything but based on that. But the question of when somebody comes out and under what condition somebody comes out, really, I think, is more appropriately to be based on who they are right now, whether that's two years later or 42 years later. because, again, I think all things correctional law and philosophy need to encompass two realities that were set forth for us in the Judiciary Committee by one of the people seeking confirmation to serve, again, on the parole board. People can do pretty horrible, messed up things sometimes. It's true, and they need to be punished for that. And at the same time, people can change. And we want to both support and acknowledge the reality of that change where it happens, and that's kind of what we're talking about here with this 90-day mechanism. There may be somebody who's passed their PED, and they're not eligible here at all because of what they've done, or maybe they're not per se excluded, but they've been acting in other ways or failing to act in ways, complete classes and so forth, such that they go to the parole board, they don't get a favorable look. But maybe you have somebody else in this situation of capacity crunch who is the model inmate, and, you know, maybe they're not at PED, maybe they're PED, you know, minus 40, just to make up a number. And objectively, that person might be less of a risk. They might have done more to earn beginning their parole tale, which is anywhere between a year and three, depending on the offense class. Again, subject only to the discretion of the parole board. The parole board can say no for these folks, as with other folks. So we're just talking about broadening the net, getting a little bit more of a possible universe of folks before the parole board so that they can make their decision as a reminder. THEIR PUREL BOARD ARE FOLKS WITH CORRECTIONAL EXPERIENCE BY STATUTE. Actually, if you look at who's on the board now, I would say they're even heavier toward correctional system prior experience than they've tended to be in the past. So we're just talking about a discretionary mechanism in a sort of second order, only if necessary way. For that reason, I think it makes sense to leave it in the bill, and I'm going to ask for a no but only amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I appreciate the explanation. Yes, people can change, but there's also consequences for their actions, and we must also hold that because that's also that, if you want to call it, is an incentive in itself to prevent reoccurrence of those crimes if the penalty is appropriate. We also have to think about the victims. When a person is going to be released, the victim is also preparing themselves mentally and physically. Some may increase their security. And when that time frame is shortened, that can cause an incredible anxiety for that victim. And so I support this amendment, and I think it's beneficial. We need to think of the victims and remember what they're going to go through during these early releases. The anxiety, the extra protection, and also the feeling of there was no justice. They didn't serve their time. So I rise in support of what are we at? At L-008? Thank you.

One final comment, a couple of final comments on amendment L-008. You know, earlier today we passed a resolution titled Second Chances, and we voted for that unanimously. I think we all believe in that principle. People should have a second chance. But to me, that's based upon accountability as well. And the accountability part, you get the second chance when you've served your sentence, when you've been accountable to the public and to the victims for the crimes that have been committed. And this bill is just another measure to change the rules of the game there to eliminate that finality that we gave to the victims and to the public. And we're talking about the parole aspect here. We're not talking about, you know, I mean, parole is built around essentially that, whole area of second chances and being able to then demonstrate to the public that you're a responsible citizen and you're out on parole. You are confined, as the senator from Aurora has accurately pointed out. You've lost your freedom still in that situation, but it's obviously a very different situation than prison. And, you know, we're moving the goalpost here about when you're going to be eligible for parole. We already have measures in the law. We have actions that inmates can take while they in prison to move their parole date forward earn time good time certain behaviors that demonstrate they want that second chance And so again, I think this bill is unnecessary. I think it changes the rules of the game. It's unfair to victims and to the public. And I would urge an aye vote for Amendment L-008.

To the senator from El Paso County, let me just be clear. We don't pick and choose who gets to have access to rehabilitation. We don't pick and choose who gets access to redemption. I may have a particular policy disagreement with President Trump going and pardoning J6 protesters. But guess what? I don't make those decisions and neither do any of us here in this chamber. The parole board makes those decisions and determinations. So when it comes to L8, which seeks to strike even the parole board's ability to make the determinations on who has access to and when they ought to be able to seek release, those are decisions that are made by the parole board. This is an important factor to maintain within this bill. I ask for a no vote on the amendment.

Aye. Opposed no. No.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I also want to point out the obvious that in the past decade we've had seven prisons closed. I mean, so it's, are we surprised about the population? So just, it's something to think about as we have these discussions. So for those that argue that this bill reduces incarceration costs through early release mechanisms, those savings are uncertain and potentially offset by increased costs in parole supervision, community corrections programs, and re-entry services. Additionally, if early release results in higher recidivism rates, downstream costs to law enforcement, courts and victims could outweigh any short-term prison savings. There's also a risk of cost shifting rather than cost reduction, moving expenses from state prison systems to local governments, probation departments, and social services without actually reducing the total burden on taxpayers. From a policy standpoint, the bill raises concerns about consistency and predictability in sentencing. Expanding administrative discretion, particularly in awarding earned time or accelerating parole, can create unequal application of justice depending on institutional capacity rather than legal merit. There also public safety considerations Rapid releases or expedited parole decisions under capacity pressure may reduce the thoroughness of review processes potentially increasing risk to communities. Victims may feel justice is undetermined or, excuse me, undermined if sentences are effectively shortened due to system capacity instead of, rather than, legal standards. Additionally, the bill erodes trust in the criminal justice system by signaling that sentencing outcomes are flexible based on operational constraints rather than rule of law principles. And when we look at unintended consequences, the key unintended consequence is the creation of perverse incentives within the system. If capacity thresholds trigger early release mechanisms, then there may be less urgency to pursue long-term infrastructure or policy solutions to prison overcrowding. As I just mentioned, in the last decade, we've had seven prisons close. The bill could also lead to disparities in how inmates are treated, as those nearing release dates benefit disproportionately from earn-time expansions while others do not, raising equal protection concerns. And finally, local communities may bear increased burdens as more individuals are transitioned into parole or community correction programs without sufficient local resources to manage them effectively. So I have concerns about how this policy is structured. This bill shifts decision-making away from the courtroom and into administrative processes, allowing release timelines to be influenced by system capacity rather than the rule of law. That undermines consistency in sentencing and raises real concerns about fairness and accountability. It also creates additional bureaucracy on ongoing costs for taxpayers while shifting the burden from prisons to parole systems and local communities. We should be focused on solutions that uphold public safety, maintain the integrity of our justice system, and address root causes, not policies that risk uneven application of the law. And so I have another amendment. There's an amendment at the desk.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I move L-006 to SB-36. To the amendment. Thank you, Mr. Chair. So this amendment ensures that only inmates who are at or past their parole eligibility dates and who are serving only for low-level drug felonies or nonviolent class 3 through 6 felonies are considered eligible for release under this subsection. So this is an amendment requested by the DA's counsel stating that this provision applies only to nonviolent, lower level offenders who are already past their eligibility dates. Without this provision the bill could allow criminals convicted of more serious drug crimes such as Level 1 and Level 2 drug felonies to be considered for early release Level 1 and 2 drug felonies include large trafficking and manufacturing of drugs. This amendment would ensure that people convicted of less serious offenses already past their eligibility date are eligible for early release, excluding more serious and severe crimes. I urge a yes vote on L-006. Thank you.

Thanks, Mr. Chair. Members, we're going to ask for a no vote on this one. As a reminder, V-ray offenses are and always have been carved out of PPMM. Other offenses are carved out as well. I actually have a different amendment that I'll offer in a moment, but I need to ask for a no vote on 6 first.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to support the amendment by the Senator from the Air Force Academy, Amendment L-006. I think we should listen to the District Attorney's Council on this one. It simply says it's a very simple amendment. It basically says let's confine these early release provisions in this bill to the less serious, the nonviolent offenses. You know, right now you can have the early release apply to categories such as level one and two drug felonies, including large-scale trafficking and manufacturing of drugs. I don't see the argument there, the necessity there to put more early release provisions around those type of offenses. We all believe in second chances, but let's make sure we have the accountability as well. So I would urge an aye vote for Amendment 6.

this amendment would exclude from eligibility in the PPMM mechanism drug felony one that is the highest level drug offense we have with a presumptive range of eight to thirty two years. We didn't want to go as far as the prior amendment, but we're willing to make this concession. The top of the amendment also fixes a technical error from the Judiciary Committee report. Ask for a yes vote on five. Seeing no further discussion, the question before us is the adoption of Amendment L-005.

Opposed, no. Ayes have it.

Thank you. I do have one further amendment I'll offer in a moment here, And then I think we made the arguments on this bill that it's unnecessary, and we should stick to the sentences that we have in place for the victims and the public. So I offer an amendment here at the desk. There's an amendment at the desk.

Amendment L-7, amended Judiciary Committee report, dated April 13th. Senator Carson.

Senator Weissman.

SEEING NO FURTHER DISCUSSION. The question before us is the adoption of L007. All those in favor say aye Aye Opposed no No The no have it and 007 is lost To the bill is there any further discussion of Senate Bill 36 Seeing none the question before us is the adoption of Senate Bill 36. All those in favor say aye. Opposed no. Ayes have it and Senate Bill 36 is adopted. Will the

Senator Weissman. Senator Weissman.

To the finance report, any discussion?

Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question before us is the adoption of the finance committee report. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Opposed no. No. Ayes have it. That oversight will be corrected. To the approves report, Senator Weissman.

Are there any further discussion in the approved report? Seeing none, the question before is the adoption of the Appropriations Committee report. All those in favor say aye. Aye. Opposed, no. Ayes have it, and that report is adopted. To the bill, any discussion? Senator Mabula.

Seeing no further discussion. I'm kidding. Mr. Minority Leader.

Senator Frizzell. Thank you, Mr. Chair. As my minority leader indicated, I was also in the finance committee where we heard this bill. And, you know, we've been down the street, and I apologize, I was not in appropriations this morning, so I'm not really clear, without having those amendments that were passed, what particular portions of the bill were amended out. So I think I'm going to speak in more general terms. What we see continually in this chamber is an effort to really redefine Tabor. I get it. While some of us love the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, I think that it's an important piece of our Constitution. It was something that the voters voted on back in 1992 and passed. It has consistently, year after year after year in polling, been an extraordinarily positive measure. because what it fundamentally does is it restricts the growth of government. I think that's a great thing. I think it's fantastic to restrict the growth of government because I don't believe that government is the solution to all of our problems. but I'm in the minority in this chamber in my thoughts I suspect the taxpayer bill of rights restricts the growth of government and what we continue to do and what this particular piece of legislation does is it says you know what we're going to take this and move it over to this pile so that it's not part of a surplus that would have to be refunded. We can use this for fill-in-the-blank project. And we do this. It's kind of like this whittling away year after year. We see bills like this. I fundamentally disagree with this. With that, I have an amendment. There is an amendment at the desk.

Amendment L-6, amendment of the bill, page 8, strike 24.

To the amendment.

Senator Bright. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I rise in support of amendments L006, if that's what we're talking about. Tabor is very much voter approved very much voter prescribed. And as we make amendments to the things that are captured within or without of Tabor, it should go through the same process. The voters should be able to weigh in on this. And I believe that I heard this bill in Finance Committee, also heard this bill in Appropriations, And I do believe that this amendment would align the intent of Tabor with the voters, and the voters could weigh in on this provision as to what is and is not included. And so I feel like it's entirely appropriate that L006 be added to the bill to align those interests of the voters. So, again, I rise in support of Amendment L-006.

Senator Weissman. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Members, I'm going to ask for a no vote. We're not changing Tabor here because we can't, because Tabor is constitutional text and we don't do that by bill. Going all the way back to 1992, Tabor used certain words without providing definitions for those words, including, relevant here, collections for another government and damage awards. Starting since 1993, we have tried to make sense of what the words in Tabor were. all of Article 77 of Title 24 is the process of the General Assembly trying to make sense of Tabor and across all of government, across all of the budget, across all of our accounting to true up what we do here and how we account for what streams of money in ways consistent with Tabor. Whether we're talking about Article 10, Section 20 of the Constitution or anything else, We as a legislature have the power to define terms that are not otherwise defined in the Constitution so that they have sensible meaning. That's all we're doing here. For that reason, it is appropriately within the power of the General Assembly. And I think we're here to vote our values as sent here by our districts and when necessary, make some tough calls. So I'm asking that we vote no on this referendum clause amendment.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. You know, about the issue of confusion about what is to be included in Tabor, I think the taxpayers would simply view it at how much revenue is coming into the state government. If you look at the history, Tabor certainly hasn't restrained in any excessive way the growth of government. Any chart you look at shows you that government has gone up, enjoyed increased revenues in a very generous manner. 2009, the state budget was $18.5 billion. 2014, it's up to $22.4 billion. 2019, it's up to $31.2 billion. 2023, it's up to $41 billion, and it goes on and on. This year, we've just debated extensively a budget that's going to take us close to $50 billion. dollars. So I don't think what we have in place for Tabor is anything that restrains the ability to perform the roles it should perform. It simply says you live within your means, population, and inflation, growth, and that's what the taxpayers expect. So I have an amendment here.

The print bill strike lines 2 through 16.

To the amendment.

Senator Weissman. Thanks, Mr. Chair. I'm going to ask for a no vote. Members, this is a ledge deck. We do that around here sometimes to set forth our reasoning. Obviously, the judicial branch can come to its own reasoning. Also, because we've amended the deck in conformity with standard amendments, the page and line references are no longer accurate in the amendment as a technical matter. But I'm asking for a no vote.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Again, just trying to improve this in any way that we can. You have great six cents. Fighty cents. It's coming. There is an amendment on its way.

Will the clerk please read L-007? Amendment L-007.

Senator Weissman. Thanks, Mr. Chair. Members, this morning in a probes we actually struck a lot but not all of what's alluded to here. And they introduced a number of things were proposed to be classified as damage awards. We took all but two of those out. What we're talking about in the form the bill is now really before us in is really just two things. One is victim parts of victim compensation. And the other is certain monetary fines that people pay, say, for violating traffic laws and that flow into be part of HUTF. That's all that's left for that reason I'm asking for a no vote on this amendment.

Mr. Majority Leader. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you.

Senator Bridges. Thank you, Madam President. The committee has met and had a number of bills under consideration. Will the clerk please read the report?

I move the report.

Senate Bill 26-124 as amended. Senate Bill 26-147 as amended. Senate Bill 26-36 as amended. Senate Bill 26-42 as amended. Passed on second reading and ordered engrossed and placed on the calendar for third reading and final passage. HB 26-1183 as amended. HB 26-1184 as amended. HB 26-1187. HB 26-1188. HB 26 1194 as amended passed on second reading and ordered revised and placed on the calendar for third reading and final passage.

Thank you. . Thank you. Thank you. Thank you Thank you.

Mr. Schaffler, please read the title of House Bill Mr. Majority Leader. Thank you, Mr. President. I move to lay over House Bill 1071 until Thursday, May the 14th.

Mr. Schaffler, please read the title of Senate Bill 150. Senate Bill 150 by Senators Ball and Judah and Representatives Froehlich and Jackson concerning reforms to the Regional Transportation District to increase accountability.

Further discussion? Seeing no further discussion in the motion is the passage of Senate Bill 150. Are there any no votes? Nice. I like that. Mr. Minority Leader. Senator.

Senators. Gonzalez, Kirkmeyer, Frizzell, Zamora Wilson, Fritch, and the majority leader again. Pelton B, Faisley, Wright, Carson, Benavidez, Pelton R. I wasn't sure if it was a thumbs up as in you like the bill or not. with a vote of 21 eyes, 13, no, zero, absent, one excuse. Senate Bill 150 is passed. Co-sponsors. Senators, Linsett, Henriksen, Cutter, Wallace.

PLEASE HELP ME WITH MY MAJORITY LEADER GOD HELP ME Second meeting of the bill is Mr Majority Leader

Mr. Majority Leader. Thank you, Mr. President. I move to lay over general order second reading of bills until Wednesday, April the 22nd. The motion is lay over general order second reading of bills to Wednesday, April 22nd. All in favor say aye. Opposed no. The ayes have it and general order second reading of bills will be laid over until Wednesday, April 22nd.

CLEAN FLEET ENTERPRISE REPLACE AGING DIESEL TRUCKS APPROVED ON MONDAY APRIL 20TH 2026 330 PM CENTER BILL 25 MONUMENT RECORDS PLACEMENT SUBMISSION MAINTENANCE APPROVED ON MONDAY APRIL 20TH 2026 330 PM CENTER BILL 26 WAVE FOR VEHICLES WITH CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM APPROVED ON MONDAY APRIL 20TH 2026 330 PM CENTER BILL 31 USE OF PRESCRIPTION PRODUCT WITH CONTROL SUBSTANCE APPROVED ON MONDAY APRIL 20TH 2026 330 PM CENTER BILL 47 COLORADO FIREFIGHER SAFETY ACT PETITION ELECTIONS APPROVED MONDAY APRIL 20TH 2026, 3.30 PM. Senate Bill 54, security deposits and post-closing occupancy agreements approved on Monday, April 20th, 2026, 3.30 PM. Senate Bill 61, publication counties with legal newspapers approved on Monday, April 20th, 2026, 3.30 PM. Senate Bill 77, epilepsy-related mortality awareness approved on Monday, April 20th, 2026, 3.30 PM. Senate Bill 84, no waiver for legal privileges. State auditor documents approved on Monday, April 20th, 2026, 3.30 PM. Senate Bill 88, funding for memorials and state capital grounds approved on Monday, April 20th, 2026, 3.30 PM. Senate Bill 110, revised public assistance. Final disposition expense term. Approved on Monday, April 20th, 2026, 3.30 p.m. Senate Bill 126, license year for experienced out-of-state teachers. Approved on Monday, April 20th, 2026 at 3.30 p.m. Sincerely, Jared Polis, Governor.

Very good.

Hey Senator Mowillet And speaking of exciting tomorrow we will have appropriations at 8 and we will be hearing and it will be exciting

Very good. Competency. Yay. Senator Wallace.

Thank you. Very nice. Senator Danielson.

See you there. See you there. Senator Exum.

Thank you. We will miss you. Thank you, sir. Senator Immobile.

What? Who knew? Who knew? Further announcements. Mr. Majority Leader.

I move the Senate recess until 1 p.m. today. For the motion, all those in favor, say aye. Aye. Opposed, no. No. The ayes have it. The Senate will recess until 1 p.m. today.