Capitol Week in Review Archives

Capitol Week In Review: Week 14

Capitol Week in Review | 04/14/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

Welcome to Capitol Week In Review, our newsletter keeping you informed about policy concerning educational equity and criminal justice reform. You will also hear from us about opportunities to engage in advocacy on topics important to you.

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Legislation of Interest

We’re excited to share several priority bill updates:

HB 25-1214, Appropriate Use of Prison Beds, reforms sentencing and parole by requiring courts to review key information before sentencing and notifying them when individuals near parole eligibility are sentenced. It expands treatment options to certified recovery residences, removes payment requirements for mandated treatment after positive drug or alcohol tests, and presumes parole for low-risk inmates with mandated monthly status reports. This bill passed out of the House Finance Committee with a 7-6 vote.

HB 25-1146, Juvenile Detention Bed Caps, was adjusted by a “strike below” amendment which has changed this bill to overhaul juvenile detention funding in Colorado. Starting in 2025-26, $1.98 million annually will support alternatives to detention, while the $1.36 million requirement for emergency beds is repealed. The detention bed cap rises to 254 in 2025-26, then adjusts to 125% of projected need starting in 2026-27, excluding youth charged with class 1 felony-level acts. The Division of Criminal Justice must report detention projections, and the General Assembly must fund beds accordingly.

HB 25-1116, Reporting Statistics on Restitution, is off the Governor to sign! This bill would ensure the Department of Corrections regularly checks for outstanding warrants on inmates and notifies them, courts, and public defenders. It encourages timely resolution, including virtual court appearances, to prevent legal issues from delaying reentry.

SB25-208, Department of Corrections Inmate Phone Costs, proposes adjustments to the Department of Corrections’ (DOC) responsibility for covering inmate phone call costs. Under current law, the DOC is required to cover 100% of these costs starting July 1, 2025. This bill modifies that requirement by mandating the DOC to cover 75% of inmate phone call costs beginning July 1, 2025, and then increasing to 100% coverage on and after July 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill appropriates $1,436,165 from the general fund to the DOC for inmate telephone calls. This bill is passed third reading in the House.

SB25-001, Colorado Voting Rights Act , strengthens protections against voter discrimination, expands multilingual ballot access, improves accessibility for tribal and disabled voters, and creates a statewide election data office. The bill is scheduled to be heard in the House State, Civic, Military, & Veterans Affairs Committee on April 14th at 1:30pm.

HB 25-1204 Colorado Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), aligns with federal ICWA while adding stronger state protections. It ensures tribal involvement in child welfare cases, prioritizes placement with family or tribe, and mandates reporting and oversight starting in 2027. This bill is scheduled to be heard in the Senate Health & Human Services Committee on April 23rd upon adjournment.

Our Take: HB25- 1116 Heads to the Governor: Advancing Justice with Stand’s Relentless Advocacy

We are thrilled to announce that HB25-1116, a bipartisan bill aimed at reducing re-incarceration by ensuring individuals in the Department of Corrections (DOC) custody address outstanding warrants or pending cases before release, has passed both chambers of the Colorado legislature and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.

This legislation mandates the DOC to conduct comprehensive searches of court records at key points during an offender’s incarceration to identify any unresolved legal matters. By proactively addressing these issues, the bill seeks to facilitate smoother reintegration into the community and prevent unnecessary re-incarceration due to overlooked legal obligations.

We have been a steadfast advocate for HB25-1116, working tirelessly to advance this critical reform. Our efforts included organizing community support, providing testimony, and engaging with legislators to highlight the importance of this bill in promoting fair and safe reintegration for returning community members.

The passage of HB25-1116 represents a significant step forward in our commitment to criminal justice reform and the well-being of our communities. . We appreciate the support of the many advocates who engaged along the way to getting this bill passed.

Take Action: Eliminate Medical Co-Pays for Incarcerated People: Support HB25-1026

Our priority bill, HB 25-1026, Repeal Co-payment for Department of Corrections (DOC) Inmate Health Care, would eliminate medical co-pays for incarcerated individuals in Colorado—fees that currently range from $3 to $5 per visit. While that might seem small, incarcerated people earn just $0.69 to $1.81 per day, making access to basic healthcare a major financial burden. It’s the equivalent of charging a $900 co-pay to someone earning minimum wage.

The House of Representatives is considering this bill – Ask them to Eliminate Needless and Inefficient Fees.

Email House representatives now!

What We’re Reading

The Colorado Sun, Supreme Court allows Trump to cut teacher-training money. How might it affect Colorado?
Chalkbeat, Colorado delays rules aimed at ensuring high-quality preschool — again
Chalkbeat, Colorado lawmakers reject bill on child care chains backed by private equity

Capitol Week In Review: Week 13

Capitol Week in Review | 04/5/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

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Legislation of Interest

We’re excited to share several new priority bills and important updates to key priority legislation:

HB25-1320, School Finance Act, extends the transition to Colorado’s new school funding formula by one year, now fully implementing it in 2031-32. This bill increases funding for education by nearly $256 million. This bill is scheduled to be heard in the House Education Committee on April 7th at 1:30pm.

HB 25-1116, Reporting Statistics on Restitution, is scheduled to be heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee on April 7th at 1:30pm. This bill would ensure the Department of Corrections regularly checks for outstanding warrants on inmates and notifies them, courts, and public defenders. It encourages timely resolution, including virtual court appearances, to prevent legal issues from delaying reentry.

HB 25-1146, Juvenile Detention Bed Caps, proposes increasing Colorado’s juvenile detention bed cap for the 2025-26 fiscal year and, in subsequent years, setting the cap at 125% of the projected average daily juvenile detention population. The bill also mandates annual appropriations to fund these beds. We are in strong opposition; after several delays, this bill will be heard in the Health and Human Services Committee on April 8th at 1:30pm. We are not asking for testimony as there will likely be a compromise.

HB 25-1026, Repeal Co-payment for Department of Corrections (DOC) Inmate Health Care, stops the Department of Corrections from charging medical fees to incarcerated individuals seeking healthcare, separate from what is billed to insurance and already provided by the state. This bill passed out of the House Appropriations Committee with a vote of 8-3.

SB25-200 Dyslexia Screening and READ Act Requirements, updates Colorado’s READ Act to include stronger screening for dyslexia by 2025-26. This bill passed second readings in the Senate.

HB25-1147 Fairness & Transparency in Municipal Court, aligns municipal courts with state legal standards by ensuring sentencing parity, improving access to indigent defense, and enhancing transparency in court proceedings, passed the Senate and is off to the Governor’s desk!

HB 25-1204 Colorado Indian Child Welfare Act, aligns with federal ICWA while adding stronger state protections. It ensures tribal involvement in child welfare cases, prioritizes placement with family or tribe, and mandates reporting and oversight starting in 2027. This bill is scheduled to be heard in the Senate Health & Human Services Committee on April 23rd upon adjournment.

Our Take: Let’s talk budget- where we were, where we are, and where we are going!

Last week, the long-anticipated Colorado state budget—also known as the “long bill”—was introduced. But if you thought that was the end of the ride, think again. The real action kicked off this week, and it’s been a whirlwind in the State Capitol. As you will recall, Colorado is facing a $1.2 billion shortfall, so legislators have been hard at work identifying ways to balance the budget.

We started with the budget being presented to the Committee of the Whole, where lawmakers dug into the details and debated priorities. From there, it moved into the Senate Appropriations Committee, where amendments and negotiations shaped the next version.

Next came the public caucuses, giving lawmakers from both parties the chance to share their positions and concerns more openly. Then we hit second readings, a critical moment where the Senate debated the bill on the floor—sometimes line by line. It has now passed third readings and is now in the House, bringing the bill one step closer to final passage.

And now, we wait until we get to the final vote on the long bill—arguably the biggest budget moment of the year.

Stay tuned. The twists and turns aren’t over yet, and this budget will shape funding for schools, healthcare, transportation, and so much more across our state.

Take Action: Let’s Ensure Fair and Safe Reintegration for Returning Community Members!

HB25-1116, a bill that seeks to reduce the likelihood of re-incarceration by ensuring that offenders in the custody of the Department of Corrections (DOC) address any outstanding warrants or pending cases before their release, is being heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee on April 7th at 1:30pm.

HB25-1116 will:

ensure that before an individual leaves prison, the DOC conducts thorough checks for any outstanding in-state or out-of-state warrants or pending cases in Colorado courts.
gives individuals the opportunity to address legal matters before they return home.
require the DOC to notify the individual, a public defender liaison, and the relevant court in case an outstanding warrant or pending case is identified.

Email the Senate Judiciary COmmittee!

What We’re Reading

The Colorado Sun, Minimal cuts next year: School funding proposal promises districts more stable funding — for now
Chalkbeat, Colorado House Speaker’s school finance plan seeks a compromise on enrollment-averaging

Capitol Week In Review: Week 12

Capitol Week in Review | 03/28/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

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Legislation of Interest

We’re excited to announce that two of our key criminal justice reform policies passed their own legislative hurdles:

HB 25-1081, Reporting Statistics on Restitution, was signed into law by the Governor this week! As you may recall, this bill requires enhanced data collection on restitution demographics, prioritizing transparency and accountability. It seeks to address systemic inequities by revealing who owes restitution, who receives payment, and any potential barriers in the process.

HB25-1135 Communication Devices in Schools, requires all public and charter schools in Colorado to establish policies on student use of communication devices during school hours by July 1, 2026. These policies must specify any restrictions and exceptions for device use throughout the school day. The bill passed the Senate Education Committee unanimously.

SB25-200 Dyslexia Screening and READ Act Requirements, aims to enhance early elementary education in Colorado by making school readiness assessments optional and allowing, rather than requiring, individualized readiness plans for preschool and kindergarten students. It mandates that parental communications about READ plans include information on dyslexia characteristics when applicable. This bill is being heard in the Senate Education Committee on March 31st at 1:30pm.

HB25-1147 Fairness & Transparency in Municipal Court, aligns municipal courts with state legal standards by ensuring sentencing parity, improving access to indigent defense, and enhancing transparency in court proceedings, is scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 31st at 1:30pm.

HB25-1148 Criminal Protection Order & Protection Order Violation, revises Colorado’s criminal protection orders by clarifying required elements and limiting conditions to victim safety. It ensures courts inform defendants of penalties for violations and restricts substance-use prohibitions to relevant cases. Courts must review orders at case resolution, and officers get discretion in enforcing certain violations. This bill is scheduled to be heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 31st at 1:30pm.

SB25-155 Legislation Inside Advisory Council, establishes the Legislation Inside Advisory Council to advise the Colorado General Assembly on issues affecting incarcerated individuals. The council will contract with a nonprofit for support, define its membership, and outline duties, including reporting during the Department of Corrections’ annual “SMART Act” presentation. Additionally, an advisory review committee will recommend up to three bills each interim session. This bill is being heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 31st at 1:30pm.

Our Take: Protecting Progress, Funding Colorado’s Future: Supporting the Forthcoming 2025 School Finance Act

Last year, our state made historic progress by eliminating the Budget Stabilization Factor and updating the school funding formula for the first time in 30 years. These changes promised much-needed resources for students in poverty, English learners, and students with special needs. However, with a $1.2 billion budget shortfall, this progress seemed at risk.

Fortunately, the newly released state budget proposal protects K-12 funding, ensuring no cuts to public schools despite fiscal challenges. The forthcoming 2025 School Finance Act builds on this commitment by increasing school funding while

At a time of financial uncertainty, this proposal strikes a fair balance between the state’s budget constraints and its promise to fully and equitably fund public education. Our schools cannot afford to go backward—and this budget ensures they won’t.

Take Action: Let’s Ensure Sustainable and Equitable Funding for Colorado Public Schools, Act Now!

Your voice is crucial in safeguarding Colorado’s commitment to public education. Here’s how you can make a difference:

Encourage legislators to back the 2025 School Finance Act Proposal, which maintains progress while ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Let’s stand together for stable, equitable school funding—no compromises, no setbacks.

What We’re Reading

The Colorado Sun, Colorado lawmakers finalize budget proposal. Here’s what they cut to close $1.2B gap — and what they didn’t.
CPR News, New school funding proposal in Colorado would soften the cuts for K-12

Capitol Week In Review: Week 11

Capitol Week in Review | 03/21/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

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Legislation of Interest

We’re excited to announce that one of our key criminal justice reform policies is scheduled for it’s hearing next week. In addition, there has been another scheduling update, read below for more information:

HB 25-1214, Appropriate Use of Prison Beds, reforms sentencing and parole by requiring courts to review key information before sentencing and notifying them when individuals near parole eligibility are sentenced. It expands treatment options to certified recovery residences, removes payment requirements for mandated treatment after positive drug or alcohol tests, and presumes parole for low-risk inmates with mandated monthly status reports. A public defender liaison will also address outstanding warrants for eligible inmates. This bill is being heard in the House Judiciary Committee on March 26th at 1:30pm.

SB25- 190, Offender Release from Custody, aims to improve processes for releasing offenders from custody. It allows individuals to remain in jail overnight to facilitate connections with service providers and revises eligibility criteria for special needs parole, particularly for inmates aged 55 or older with severe cognitive impairments. Additionally, the bill mandates a study on options for releasing aging and seriously ill offenders to appropriate care facilities or alternative programs better suited to their medical needs. This bill is being heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 26th at 1:30pm.

HB25-1293, Drug Overdose Education & Opioid Antagonists in Schools, mandates the State Board of Education to incorporate standards into high school health education that address drug overdose risks, recognition, prevention, and response. Additionally, it permits educational institutions to seek external funding to maintain and administer opioid antagonists. This bill passed out of the House Education Committee with a vote of 13-0.

Our Take:

Last year, our state made historic progress by eliminating the Budget Stabilization Factor and updating the school funding formula for the first time in 30 years. These changes promised much-needed resources for students in poverty, English learners, and students with special needs. However, with a $1.2 billion budget shortfall, this progress is at risk.

The draft 2025 School Finance Act (that isn’t introduced yet) offers a responsible solution by ensuring funding increases for schools while:

Our schools cannot afford to go backward. This proposal strikes a fair balance between the state’s fiscal constraints and its commitment to fully and equitably funding public education.

Take Action: Let’s Ensure Sustainable and Equitable Funding for Colorado Public Schools, Act Now!

We need your voice to help protect Colorado’s commitment to public education. Here’s how you can help:

Urge legislators to support the 2025 School Finance Act Proposal, which balances progress with fiscal responsibility.

Colorado’s students deserve progress. Let’s demand stable, equitable funding for our public schools—no exceptions, no excuses.

What We’re Reading

Capitol Week In Review: Week 9

Capitol Week in Review | 03/10/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

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Legislation of Interest

We’re excited to share a celebratory update and a scheduling update on our key criminal justice reform policies.

HB 25-1116, Department of Corrections Search Court Records Before Offender Release, was passed by the House unanimously and is on its way to the Senate chamber! This bill would ensure the Department of Corrections regularly checks for outstanding warrants on inmates and notifies them, courts, and public defenders. It encourages timely resolution, including virtual court appearances, to prevent legal issues from delaying reentry.

HB 25-1146, Juvenile Detention Bed Caps, proposes increasing Colorado’s juvenile detention bed cap for the 2025-26 fiscal year and, in subsequent years, setting the cap at 125% of the projected average daily juvenile detention population. The bill also mandates annual appropriations to fund these beds. We are in opposition and it been has delayed to be heard in the Health and Human Services Committee for March 18th.

HB25-1274 Healthy School Meals for All Program, refers two ballot issues to the voters in November to allow the state retain a portion of TABOR refunds and to increase taxes by $95 million annually by increasing state taxable income to support the healthy school meals for all program. This bill passed out the House Education Committee on March 6th with a vote of 7-5.

HB25-1192, Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement, mandates that Colorado high school students successfully complete a financial literacy course. Additionally, the bill requires students to submit either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA). The bill includes an opt-out provision for families who choose not to complete these applications. This bill passed out the House Education Committee on March 6th with a vote of 8-5.

HB25-1167, Alternative Education Campuses, enhances support for Colorado’s Alternative Education Campuses (AECs) by prioritizing them for state grants, allowing high-risk students (21 and under) in enrollment counts, requiring reports on AEC trends, and protecting their designation from single-year enrollment drops. This bill passed the House Education Committee on March 5th with a vote of 12-1.

Our Take:

Legislators just took a major step toward empowering students with essential life skills! HB25-1192, the bill that would make financial literacy a high school graduation requirement, has officially passed the House Education Committee—a huge victory for students, families, and communities across the state.

This bill is more than just an education reform; it’s a game-changer for future generations. By ensuring students graduate with a strong understanding of budgeting, credit, loans, saving, and financial planning, HB25-1192 equips young people with the tools they need to navigate real-world financial challenges. For too long, financial literacy has been an afterthought in our education system, leaving many young adults unprepared for managing their finances. With student debt rising and financial insecurity affecting many families, this bill helps bridge the gap, ensuring every Colorado student enters adulthood prepared to make informed financial decisions.

The support in the House Education Committee proves that financial literacy is a bipartisan priority. Now, as HB25-1192 moves forward, we must continue to push for its passage to ensure all students—regardless of background—have access to the knowledge they need for financial independence and success.

Take Action: Prioritize Financial Literacy for COlorado Students

Colorado students deserve the skills to thrive after high school, but many graduate without essential financial literacy to navigate adulthood. House Bill 25-1192 seeks to change that by requiring all students to complete a financial literacy course and submit the FAFSA or CASFA form to access potential financial aid opportunities. The bill passed the House Education Committee recently. Email your representative and ask them to support this bill when it comes to the floor.

What We’re Reading

Capitol Week In Review: Week 8

Capitol Week in Review | 02/28/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

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Legislation of Interest

We’re excited to share a celebratory update on one of our key criminal justice reform policies.

HB 25-1081, Reporting Statistics on Restitution, was passed by the Senate and is on its way to the Governor’s desk! This bill requires enhanced data collection on restitution demographics, prioritizing transparency and accountability. It seeks to address systemic inequities by revealing who owes restitution, who receives payment, and any potential barriers in the process.

HB25-1274 Healthy School Meals for All Program, refers two ballot issues to the voters in November to allow the state retain a portion of TABOR refunds and to increase taxes by $95 million annually by increasing state taxable income to support the healthy school meals for all program. It is scheduled to be heard in the House Education Committee on March 6th at 1:30pm.

SB25-047 Enforcement of Federal Immigration Law, aims to reinstate provisions from the repealed SB06-090, enhancing cooperation between local government and federal immigration authorities, bringing back the “show me your papers” policy. This bill was introduced in the Senate State, Veterans, & Military Committee on February 25th and failed to pass.

Our Take: HB25-1081 Reporting Statistics on Restitution: On It’s Way To The Governor’s Desk

We are thrilled to announce the passage of House Bill 25-1081, a significant step toward enhancing transparency and accountability in Colorado’s judicial system. This legislation mandates that, beginning with the Judicial Department’s 2026 “SMART Act” hearing, the state court administrator will report detailed statistics on restitution payments received and owed over the previous five fiscal years. This initiative aims to provide a clearer picture of restitution dynamics, revealing who owes restitution, who receives payment, and any potential barriers in the process.

The bill, championed by Representatives Matthew Martinez and Matt Soper, along with Senator Mike Weissman, reflects a bipartisan commitment to justice and transparency. Its successful passage underscores the collaborative efforts of our legislators to address critical issues within our legal framework. We are grateful to the sponsors and supporters of HB25-1081 for their dedication to improving our state’s judicial processes. This law represents a meaningful advancement in our ongoing efforts to uphold justice and support victims’ rights in Colorado.

Take Action: Ensure Financial Success for Colorado Students!

The House Education Committee is considering this bill, and they need to hear from YOU. Urge legislators to support HB25-1192 and help empower our students with the knowledge they need to build a financially secure future.

What We’re Reading

Chalkbeat, Colorado voters may get another say in funding free school meals for all
Colorado Sun, Dozens of school leaders urge Colorado House speaker to adopt new funding formula despite error
Colorado Sun, Rural Colorado schools already hurting for resources could be choked by proposed funding cuts

Capitol Week In Review: Week 7

Capitol Week in Review | 02/23/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

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Legislation of Interest

We’re excited to share that we have added two criminal justice reform policies to our priorities. Make sure to read “Our Take” to learn more about one of these policies and our stance on it.

HB 25-1214, Appropriate Use of Prison Beds, reforms sentencing and parole by requiring courts to review key information before sentencing and notifying them when individuals near parole eligibility are sentenced. It expands treatment options to certified recovery residences, removes payment requirements for mandated treatment after positive drug or alcohol tests, and presumes parole for low-risk inmates with mandated monthly status reports. A public defender liaison will also address outstanding warrants for eligible inmates. This bill was introduced in the House.

HB 25-1146, Juvenile Detention Bed Cap, proposes increasing Colorado’s juvenile detention bed cap from 215 to 254 for the 2025-26 fiscal year and, in subsequent years, setting the cap at 125% of the projected average daily juvenile detention population. The bill also mandates annual appropriations to fund these beds. We are in opposition and is scheduled to be heard in the Health and Human Services Committee on March 4th.

SB25-001, Colorado Voting Rights Act establishes the Colorado Voting Rights Act (CVRA) and updates election-related statutes in four key areas: (1) Election and voting provisions for Indian tribes. (2) Enhanced voting services for individuals with disabilities. (3) Improved language access in election processes. (4) Strengthened election-related data collection practices. It passed with a vote of 3-2 out of the Senate Committee on State, Veterans, and Military Affairs.

HB25-1167, Alternative Education Campuses, enhances support for Colorado’s Alternative Education Campuses (AECs) by prioritizing them for state grants, allowing high-risk students (21 and under) in enrollment counts, requiring reports on AEC trends, and protecting their designation from single-year enrollment drops. This bill is scheduled to be heard in the House Education Committee on March 5th upon adjournment.

HB25-1192, Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement, mandates that Colorado high school students successfully complete a financial literacy course in the 11th or 12th grade as a condition for graduation. Additionally, the bill requires students to submit either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA). The bill includes an opt-out provision for families who choose not to complete these applications. This bill is scheduled to be heard in the House Education Committee on February 27th at 1:30p.

HB25-1135, Communication Devices in Schools, requires all public and charter schools in Colorado to establish policies on student use of communication devices during school hours by July 1, 2026. These policies must specify any restrictions and exceptions for device use throughout the school day. The bill passed the House Education Committee with a vote of 12-1 and passed second reading in the House.

Our Take: More Detention Beds Won’t Fix a Broken System

Stand firmly opposes HB25-1146 as it reinforces the school-to-prison pipeline rather than investing in mental health care, rehabilitation, and community-based solutions that keep youth out of the justice system.

HB 25-1146 proposes increasing the juvenile detention bed cap, despite evidence that the real issue isn’t space- it’s a lack of services. Youth are being held past their release dates due to underfunded treatment facilities, lack of foster placements, and transportation gaps, not a shortage of detention beds.

Each bed costs $174,000 per year, diverting funds from education and community-based programs that prevent incarceration. Tying future bed cap increases to projections creates an unpredictable financial burden with no clear funding plan.

HB 25-1146 is not the solution—real support is. Colorado’s youth deserve better than more cells. It’s time to invest in their future, not in unnecessary detention.

Take Action: Urge Policymakers to OPPOSE HB25-1446, Juvenile Detention Bed Cap

The House Health and Human Services committee is hearing HB25-1146, on Tuesday March 4th.

Tell the House Health and Human Services Committee to vote NO on HB 25-1146! Detention should be a last resort, not a default solution. Colorado must invest in rehabilitation, education, and community support, ensuring that our youth have the resources to grow, heal, and build a brighter future.

What We’re Reading

Capitol Week In Review: Week 5

Capitol Week in Review | 02/8/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

Legislation of Interest

As we continue on to the second month of this year’s session, here are a few updates on some of our criminal justice reform policy priorities!

HB 25-1081, Reporting Statistics on Restitution, passed out of the House on a vote of 44-20-1 As you may recall, this bill requires enhanced data collection on restitution demographics, prioritizing transparency and accountability. It seeks to address systemic inequities by revealing who owes restitution, who receives payment, and any potential barriers in the process. It is now headed to the Senate.

HB 25-1116, DOC Search Court Records Before Offender Release, which would ensure the Department of Corrections regularly checks for outstanding warrants on inmates and notifies them, courts, and public defenders. It encourages timely resolution, including virtual court appearances, to prevent legal issues from delaying reentry, and is scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary Committee on February 11 at 1:30pm.

HB25-1135, Communication Devices in Schools, requires all public and charter schools in Colorado to establish policies on student use of communication devices during school hours by July 1, 2026. These policies must specify any restrictions and exceptions for device use throughout the school day. The bill was introduced in the House and is scheduled to be heard in the House Education Committee on February 13.

HB25-1153, Statewide Government Language Access Assessment, requires a statewide language access assessment across Colorado’s principal departments to evaluate and improve services for non-English speakers. The assessment will review language access needs, existing resources, and expenditures. A final report with recommendations is due by December 31, 2026. It is scheduled to be heard in the State, Civic, Military, & Veterans Affairs Committee on February 10.

HB25-1049, Communications Rights for Persons in Custody, ensures individuals in custody can make and receive private, unrecorded legal telephone calls at no cost or use private, unrecorded audiovisual conferencing. Under current law, individuals in custody have the right to consult with an attorney. It passed the House Judiciary Committee unanimously.

Our Take: Advocates Join Stand’s Capitol Day of Action

This week, passionate advocates from across Colorado gathered at the Capitol to engage directly with legislators on critical policies affecting our communities. Their focus? Ensuring equitable school funding, advancing criminal justice reform, and improving high school graduation rates. It was also an opportunity to learn and experience first-hand the legislative process!

The day began with opening statements from Senator Nick Hinrichsen and Representative Yara Zokaie. Following their remarks, our executive director, Krista, welcomed attendees, setting the stage for a day of meaningful discussions and advocacy with legislators like Representative Matthew Martinez, Representative Jen Bacon, Senator James Coleman, Representative Michael Carter and Representative Anthony Hartsook.

Take Action

You can still advocate alongside the parents, educators and community leaders who joined us on our Capitol Day of Action using our Virtual Capitol Day of Action Center. We invite you to click through our different policy priorities and the ways you can act now!

Ask lawmakers to ensure more schools can implement the proven ninth grade on-track approach through the Ninth Grade Success Grant.

Ask lawmakers to fund the implementation of our new school finance formula.

Email the Joint Budget Committee to keep families connected by fully funding free prison phone calls. Email the House Appropriations Committee to eliminate unnecessary medical fees for incarcerated individuals.

Your voice matters, and your advocacy makes a difference. Take action today and help build a brighter future for Colorado students, families, and communities!

What We’re Reading

CPR News, State Education Commissioner speaks on federal changes, chronic absenteeism and more
Colorado Sun, New funding formula that promises $500M for Colorado schools hits another legislative roadblock
Chalkbeat Colorado, ‘Angry and not afraid’: Denver students walk out to protest Trump policies on same day as ICE raids
Chalkbeat Colorado, Some Head Start programs still can’t access federal funds a week after Trump freeze memo rescinded
Colorado Sun, Colorado students are performing better in reading and math than kids in other states

Capitol Week In Review: Week 4

Capitol Week in Review | 02/2/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

Legislation of Interest

As we close out the first month of this year’s session, here are a few updates on some of our criminal justice reform policy priorities– including a newly introduced bill!

HB 25-1081, Reporting Statistics on Restitution, passed the House Judiciary Committee with a vote of 7-4 and passed second reading in the House. As you may recall, this bill requires enhanced data collection on restitution demographics, prioritizing transparency and accountability. It seeks to address systemic inequities by revealing who owes restitution, who receives payment, and any potential barriers in the process. HB 25-1116, DOC Search Court Records Before Offender Release, which would ensure the Department of Corrections regularly checks for outstanding warrants on inmates and notifies them, courts, and public defenders. It encourages timely resolution, including virtual court appearances, to prevent legal issues from delaying reentry, and was just introduced in the House.

HB25-1135, Communication Devices in Schools, requires all public and charter schools in Colorado to establish policies on student use of communication devices during school hours by July 1, 2026. These policies must specify any restrictions and exceptions for device use throughout the school day. The bill was introduced in the House and is scheduled to be heard in the House Education Committee on February 12.

SB25-001, Colorado Voting Rights Act, was introduced in the Senate and establishes the Colorado Voting Rights Act (CVRA) and updates election-related statutes in four key areas: (1) Election and voting provisions for Indian tribes. (2) Enhanced voting services for individuals with disabilities. (3) Improved language access in election processes. (4) Strengthened election-related data collection practices.

Our Take: Eliminating Medical Fees for Incarcerated People

We are thrilled that the House Judiciary Committee recently passed HB 25-1026, Repeal Co-payment for Department of Corrections (DOC) Inmate Health Care. This legislation stops the Department of Corrections from charging medical fees to incarcerated individuals seeking healthcare, separate from what is billed to insurance and already provided by the state.

Current law requires the DOC to assess a copayment for medical, dental, mental health, and optometric care services. Copays and fees charged for seeking medical care while incarcerated in Colorado, range from $3 to $5. While that amount does not sound excessive, we must consider the average wages paid to inmates incarcerated in Colorado of 69 cents to $1.81 per day. To contrast, this amounts to a $900 co-pay for the average Coloradan earning minimum wage.

Studies show these fees deter people from seeking necessary care. A 2018 study in the Journal for Evidence-Based Practice in Correctional Health found that 70% of incarcerated individuals avoided medical care due to copays. Similarly, a 2024 American Medical Association study found that in states where copays exceeded a week’s pay, individuals with chronic health conditions were half as likely to seek medical treatment. Delayed care leads to worsening health outcomes, increasing long-term costs for the state. HB 25-1026 would eliminate these fees for three years, allowing time to assess the impact of this policy while ensuring access to essential healthcare for incarcerated individuals.

Take Action: Keep Families Connected

Delays in implementing this policy risk undermining efforts to reduce recidivism and support families. Let’s work together to protect this critical progress!

Contact members of the Joint Budget Committee and ask them to prioritize the funding needed to bring free prison phone calls to families this year, as outlined in HB23-1133. If you want to learn more about other advocacy opportunities in the Criminal Justice Reform space, register to attend our community information session happening February 13th from 5:30-7:00p, here !

What We’re Reading

Chalkbeat Colorado, Colorado parents, this new state tax credit could net you thousands of dollars
Chalkbeat Colorado, NAEP test results: Colorado’s scores are mostly stable, as gap between low and high performers widens
CPR News, A bill requiring schools to have cell phone policies aims to boost classroom learning

Capitol Week In Review: Week 3

Capitol Week in Review | 01/24/2025

Bri Buentello Government Affairs Director

Legislation of Interest

HB 25-1026, Repeal Co-payment for Department of Corrections (DOC) Inmate Health Care, which stops the DOC from charging medical fees to incarcerated individuals seeking healthcare, separate from what is billed to insurance and already provided by the state, passed the House Judiciary Committee with a vote of 8-3!
HB 25-1081, Reporting Statistics on Restitution, is scheduled to be heard this Tuesday, January 28th in the House Judiciary Committee. The bill requires enhanced data collection on restitution demographics, prioritizing transparency and accountability. It seeks to address systemic inequities by revealing who owes restitution, who receives payment, and any potential barriers in the process.

SB25-001, Colorado Voting Rights Act, was introduced in the Senate and establishes the Colorado Voting Rights Act (CVRA) and updates election-related statutes in four key areas: (1) Election and voting provisions for Indian tribes. (2) Enhanced voting services for individuals with disabilities. (3) Improved language access in election processes. (4) Strengthened election-related data collection practices.

SB25-004, Regulating Child Care Center Fees, limits the amount licensed child care centers can charge for various deposits and fees to no more than $25. It is scheduled to be heard in the Business, Labor, & Technology Committee on February 4th.

HB25-1013, Department of Corrections Visitation Rights, was introduced in the House and establishes social visitation as a right for individuals confined in correctional facilities.

HB25-1049, Communications Rights for Persons in Custody, ensures individuals in custody can make and receive private, unrecorded legal telephone calls at no cost or use private, unrecorded audiovisual conferencing. Under current law, individuals in custody have the right to consult with an attorney. It passed the House Judiciary Committee with a 9-1 vote and now moves to the House Appropriations Committee.

Our Take: Graduation Rates Increase

Colorado is celebrating increases in high school graduation rates, with 84.2% of students graduating in 2024, the state’s highest rate in more than a decade. At the same time, dropout rates declined to 1.9%. Colorado Education Commissioner, Susana Córdova, said, “While we are seeing promising progress, we are continuing to see our students of color and our students with the highest needs graduating below our statewide rates.”

In a Colorado Public Radio story, Englewood Public Schools Superintendent Joanna Polzin attributed growth in their graduation rates to several strategies, including their focus on ninth grade success and their partnership with the Colorado Center for High School Success (CHSS).

This year, one of our top priorities is to protect funding for the Ninth Grade Success Grant Program allowing more Colorado schools to implement the proven 9th grade success approach that changes the trajectory for high school students across Colorado by reducing absenteeism and dropouts and increasing on-time graduation.

Take Action: Keep Families Connected

HB23-1133, passed in 2023, ensures free communication in Colorado’s prisons to keep families connected. The law phases in funding over three years, cutting call costs by 25% in year one, 35% in year two, and making all calls free by July 1, 2025. However, the Joint Budget Committee is now considering cutting funding to only cover 50% of costs this year, jeopardizing full implementation. Delays in implementing this policy risk undermining efforts to reduce recidivism and support families. Let’s work together to protect this critical progress! Contact members of the Joint Budget Committee, and ask them to prioritize funding needed to bring free prison phone calls to families this year, as outlined in HB23-1133.

What We’re Reading

CPR News, More Colorado high school students are graduating, and fewer are dropping out
Chalkbeat Colorado, Districts share plans in case immigration officials show up at schools
Colorado Sun, Colorado schools may soon be required to have a cellphone policy
Boardhawk, Grade 4-12 cannot remain a reading ‘no man’s land’