UCHealth reports half a billion dollars in uncompensated care in 2023
UCHealth provided more than half a billion dollars’ worth of uncompensated care in fiscal year 2023, and representatives for the health care system on Tuesday said they expect to spend even more this year.
Three factors increased uncompensated care: increased migration to the Denver area, Medicaid unwinding following the COVID-19 public health emergency, and a new state law that allows people with incomes less than 250% of the poverty line to apply for financial aid, said Tom Gronow, president and CEO of the health system’s University of Colorado Hospital. Coloradans had some right to apply for financial assistance before the 2021 law passed, but hospitals varied in how they handled discounted care.
The hospital in Aurora provided the largest share of UCHealth’s uncompensated care, accounting for about $237 million of the $580 million total between July 2022 and June 2023. Uncompensated care increased systemwide by about $24 million compared to the previous fiscal year, UCHealth said.
The health system’s fiscal year 2023 budget was about $6.9 billion.
https://www.denverpost.com/2024/03/27/uchealth-uncompensated-care-2023-university-colorado-hospital/
UCHealth provided more than half a billion dollars’ worth of uncompensated care in fiscal year 2023, and representatives for the health care system on Tuesday said they expect to spend even more this year.
Three factors increased uncompensated care: increased migration to the Denver area, Medicaid unwinding following the COVID-19 public health emergency, and a new state law that allows people with incomes less than 250% of the poverty line to apply for financial aid, said Tom Gronow, president and CEO of the health system’s University of Colorado Hospital. Coloradans had some right to apply for financial assistance before the 2021 law passed, but hospitals varied in how they handled discounted care.
The hospital in Aurora provided the largest share of UCHealth’s uncompensated care, accounting for about $237 million of the $580 million total between July 2022 and June 2023. Uncompensated care increased systemwide by about $24 million compared to the previous fiscal year, UCHealth said.
The health system’s fiscal year 2023 budget was about $6.9 billion.
https://www.denverpost.com/2024/03/27/uchealth-uncompensated-care-2023-university-colorado-hospital/
The Denver Post
UCHealth reports half a billion dollars in uncompensated care in 2023
Three factors increased uncompensated care: increased migration to the Denver area, Medicaid unwinding and a new state law that allows people with incomes less than 250% of the poverty line to appl…
Should I Ditch the Pot Shop, and Go Underground?
Dear Stoner: I've had a hard time finding consistently good dispensary weed that isn't $300 an ounce. My neighbor just showed me his home grow, and the plants were impressive. Should I ditch the pot shop and buy underground?
Amir
Dear Amir: Hey, $300 an ounce for top-tier stuff isn't terrible if you never have to worry about the quality. Even the best commercial growers send out duds every once in a while, though. Underground growers do, too, but you might have more choice or sway with them, especially if you're friends. And if Mr. Neighbor is showing you his secret garden, then you guys must be friendly enough. Still, just because plants look nice as they're blooming doesn't mean they'll have the same aroma and bud structure when the pot reaches you.
Drying and curing play huge roles in the final product, and then there's all of the contaminant testing your neighbor isn't doing. Still, it doesn't take a botanist to realize that smaller operations usually give more attention and care to individual plants, and underground and hobby growers can grow some amazing stuff. Give your neighbor a test run, but don't walk away from the dispensary forever, either. Having options is good.
https://www.westword.com/marijuana/should-i-ditch-the-dispensary-buy-weed-underground-20154806
Dear Stoner: I've had a hard time finding consistently good dispensary weed that isn't $300 an ounce. My neighbor just showed me his home grow, and the plants were impressive. Should I ditch the pot shop and buy underground?
Amir
Dear Amir: Hey, $300 an ounce for top-tier stuff isn't terrible if you never have to worry about the quality. Even the best commercial growers send out duds every once in a while, though. Underground growers do, too, but you might have more choice or sway with them, especially if you're friends. And if Mr. Neighbor is showing you his secret garden, then you guys must be friendly enough. Still, just because plants look nice as they're blooming doesn't mean they'll have the same aroma and bud structure when the pot reaches you.
Drying and curing play huge roles in the final product, and then there's all of the contaminant testing your neighbor isn't doing. Still, it doesn't take a botanist to realize that smaller operations usually give more attention and care to individual plants, and underground and hobby growers can grow some amazing stuff. Give your neighbor a test run, but don't walk away from the dispensary forever, either. Having options is good.
https://www.westword.com/marijuana/should-i-ditch-the-dispensary-buy-weed-underground-20154806
Westword
Should I Ditch the Pot Shop, and Go Underground?
Having options is good.
New Study Reveals THC Potency Inflation in Colorado Weed
A majority of cannabis flower products purchased at licensed retail pot shops in Colorado contained less THC than indicated on the label, according to a study performed by a researcher at the University of Colorado Boulder. The study showed that THC levels indicated on the label of approximately 70% of products tested were at least 15% higher than those reported by a third-party lab after purchase.
The research was conducted by Anna Schwabe, an associate lecture professor of modern cannabis science at the University of Colorado Boulder. To complete the study, Scwabe collected 23 cannabis flower samples from 10 licensed dispensaries located across the northern Colorado Front Range, which includes the cities of Denver, Fort Collins and Garden City.
The samples represented 12 different cannabis strains including sativas, indicas and hybrids, with different THC potency levels reported on the product packaging. Some THC potency levels were reported as a range from 12.8%-19.3% on the lower end and 28.07%-31.28% on the higher limit, while others were reported as a single value such as 16.4% or 17.4%.
https://hightimes.com/study/new-study-reveals-thc-potency-inflation-in-colorado-weed/
A majority of cannabis flower products purchased at licensed retail pot shops in Colorado contained less THC than indicated on the label, according to a study performed by a researcher at the University of Colorado Boulder. The study showed that THC levels indicated on the label of approximately 70% of products tested were at least 15% higher than those reported by a third-party lab after purchase.
The research was conducted by Anna Schwabe, an associate lecture professor of modern cannabis science at the University of Colorado Boulder. To complete the study, Scwabe collected 23 cannabis flower samples from 10 licensed dispensaries located across the northern Colorado Front Range, which includes the cities of Denver, Fort Collins and Garden City.
The samples represented 12 different cannabis strains including sativas, indicas and hybrids, with different THC potency levels reported on the product packaging. Some THC potency levels were reported as a range from 12.8%-19.3% on the lower end and 28.07%-31.28% on the higher limit, while others were reported as a single value such as 16.4% or 17.4%.
https://hightimes.com/study/new-study-reveals-thc-potency-inflation-in-colorado-weed/
High Times
New Study Reveals THC Potency Inflation in Colorado Weed
A new study has found that 70% of Colorado samples had THC potency levels on product packaging that were at least 15% higher than testing results from an independent lab.
Parker citizens’ initiative to cut grocery tax underway, town staff investigate impacts
The Committee of Parker Citizens for Fair Taxes, including Mayor Jeff Toborg, is pushing to eliminate the town’s sales tax on groceries, saying that it is regressive and costly. As Toborg advocates for the measure, he steps aside as mayor and says he is acting as a private citizen.
The committee is looking to collect 7,500 signatures from registered voters in the town by the end of June. That would be a buffer – more than the 6,820 valid signatures needed – to put the question of repealing the tax to voters on the ballot in November.
“This should be the citizens of Parker deciding how they want to be taxed,” Toborg told the Parker Chronicle.
He added the effort would “modernize” the Parker Tax Code by eliminating local sales taxes on grocery items in several categories: food for home consumption, feminine hygiene products and diapers.
“It really does come down to a moral issue: Do you want to tax these necessities?” said Toborg. “We don’t tax pharmaceuticals for this exact reason.”
https://coloradocommunitymedia.com/2024/03/27/parker-citizens-initiative-to-cut-grocery-tax-underway-town-staff-investigate-impacts/
The Committee of Parker Citizens for Fair Taxes, including Mayor Jeff Toborg, is pushing to eliminate the town’s sales tax on groceries, saying that it is regressive and costly. As Toborg advocates for the measure, he steps aside as mayor and says he is acting as a private citizen.
The committee is looking to collect 7,500 signatures from registered voters in the town by the end of June. That would be a buffer – more than the 6,820 valid signatures needed – to put the question of repealing the tax to voters on the ballot in November.
“This should be the citizens of Parker deciding how they want to be taxed,” Toborg told the Parker Chronicle.
He added the effort would “modernize” the Parker Tax Code by eliminating local sales taxes on grocery items in several categories: food for home consumption, feminine hygiene products and diapers.
“It really does come down to a moral issue: Do you want to tax these necessities?” said Toborg. “We don’t tax pharmaceuticals for this exact reason.”
https://coloradocommunitymedia.com/2024/03/27/parker-citizens-initiative-to-cut-grocery-tax-underway-town-staff-investigate-impacts/
Parker Chronicle
Parker citizens’ initiative to cut grocery tax underway, town staff investigate impacts - Parker Chronicle
The Committee of Parker Citizens for Fair Taxes, including Mayor Jeff Toborg, is pushing to eliminate the town’s sales tax on groceries, saying that it is regressive and costly. As Toborg advocates for the measure, he steps aside as mayor and says he is acting…
Appeals court clarifies water conservancy districts must follow TABOR
Colorado's second-highest court clarified last week that water conservancy districts must seek voter approval pursuant to the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights, or TABOR, before increasing their tax rates.
Previously, a Logan County judge believed the law creating water conservancy districts, which existed prior to voters' enactment of TABOR in 1992, mandated district boards to set tax rates within a fluctuating range based on their budgetary needs. Based on that established "formula," he concluded districts may raise their rates within the range without a popular vote.
Incorrect, responded a three-judge panel for the Court of Appeals.
"TABOR clearly requires any tax policy change of a district that results or would result in a net tax revenue gain to 'have voter approval in advance,'" wrote Judge Robert D. Hawthorne in the March 21 opinion.
https://www.coloradopolitics.com/courts/appeals-court-clarifies-water-conservancy-districts-must-follow-tabor/article_87fee7ae-ec47-11ee-be29-234c4d4fdbe8.html
Colorado's second-highest court clarified last week that water conservancy districts must seek voter approval pursuant to the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights, or TABOR, before increasing their tax rates.
Previously, a Logan County judge believed the law creating water conservancy districts, which existed prior to voters' enactment of TABOR in 1992, mandated district boards to set tax rates within a fluctuating range based on their budgetary needs. Based on that established "formula," he concluded districts may raise their rates within the range without a popular vote.
Incorrect, responded a three-judge panel for the Court of Appeals.
"TABOR clearly requires any tax policy change of a district that results or would result in a net tax revenue gain to 'have voter approval in advance,'" wrote Judge Robert D. Hawthorne in the March 21 opinion.
https://www.coloradopolitics.com/courts/appeals-court-clarifies-water-conservancy-districts-must-follow-tabor/article_87fee7ae-ec47-11ee-be29-234c4d4fdbe8.html
Colorado Politics
Appeals court clarifies water conservancy districts must follow TABOR
Colorado's second-highest court clarified last week that water conservancy districts must seek voter approval before increasing their tax rates pursuant to the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
Lawmakers considering different bills affecting charter schools in Colorado
Colorado lawmakers are once again considering changes to charter schools this legislative session, but unlike in past years, there’s now one big bill calling for a comprehensive list of changes that critics say will weaken charter schools.
Under the bill, charter schools, which are publicly funded but independently run, could have to pay more to use buildings owned by school districts. School districts would be allowed to keep more of the per-student funding for charters, and they would have more control over decisions to close the schools.
Lawmakers backing the bill say it’s needed to hold charter schools accountable. But charter school supporters have called the bill “harmful.”
A separate bill seeks to pave the way for more charter schools to get local funding for construction projects.
The issues addressed in the new comprehensive bill aren’t new concerns for critics of charter schools, but this may be the first time they’re all addressed in a single bill. It may be a sign of growing division on the merits of charter schools.
https://www.chalkbeat.org/colorado/2024/03/27/colorado-charter-school-proposed-bill-changes/
Colorado lawmakers are once again considering changes to charter schools this legislative session, but unlike in past years, there’s now one big bill calling for a comprehensive list of changes that critics say will weaken charter schools.
Under the bill, charter schools, which are publicly funded but independently run, could have to pay more to use buildings owned by school districts. School districts would be allowed to keep more of the per-student funding for charters, and they would have more control over decisions to close the schools.
Lawmakers backing the bill say it’s needed to hold charter schools accountable. But charter school supporters have called the bill “harmful.”
A separate bill seeks to pave the way for more charter schools to get local funding for construction projects.
The issues addressed in the new comprehensive bill aren’t new concerns for critics of charter schools, but this may be the first time they’re all addressed in a single bill. It may be a sign of growing division on the merits of charter schools.
https://www.chalkbeat.org/colorado/2024/03/27/colorado-charter-school-proposed-bill-changes/
Chalkbeat
Two different bills would impact charter schools in Colorado. Here’s what each might do.
One proposes to improve accountability. The other would open up a source of construction funds.
What's inside Colorado's $41B budget bill for fiscal year 2024-25
A $420 increase in per-pupil spending, a key legislative priority that brings the individual total to $8,496.
$229 million to increase state employee pay 3% across the board and add 3.7% bonuses for longevity, amounting to the largest increase in at least a decade.
A 3% tuition increase for Colorado residents at public colleges and universities and a 4% hike for out-of-state students.
$56 million to cover a shortfall in the Proposition FF program to provide free lunches to all students
https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/03/27/colorado-state-budget-bill-2024-2025
A $420 increase in per-pupil spending, a key legislative priority that brings the individual total to $8,496.
$229 million to increase state employee pay 3% across the board and add 3.7% bonuses for longevity, amounting to the largest increase in at least a decade.
A 3% tuition increase for Colorado residents at public colleges and universities and a 4% hike for out-of-state students.
$56 million to cover a shortfall in the Proposition FF program to provide free lunches to all students
https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/03/27/colorado-state-budget-bill-2024-2025
Axios
Take a look inside Colorado's new $41B budget legislation
Legislative budget writers set aside $49 million to spur affordable housing projects.
Baltimore's bridge collapse expected to disrupt Colorado's car industry
Threat level: "If you're driving a Hyundai or you're driving a Toyota, it's probably not going to impact you too much. But if you drive a Porsche or Audi, you're going to see a slowdown" if you need a repair, Colorado Auto Dealers Association CEO and president Matthew Groves tells us.
https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/03/27/baltimore-bridge-collapse-colorado-car-industry-disruptions
Threat level: "If you're driving a Hyundai or you're driving a Toyota, it's probably not going to impact you too much. But if you drive a Porsche or Audi, you're going to see a slowdown" if you need a repair, Colorado Auto Dealers Association CEO and president Matthew Groves tells us.
https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/03/27/baltimore-bridge-collapse-colorado-car-industry-disruptions
Axios
How Baltimore's bridge collapse will disrupt Colorado's car supply
The tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge will have economic impacts in Colorado.
Colorado lawmakers propose $2 billion budget hike
Colorado lawmakers are proposing to spend $40.6 billion in the next fiscal year — $2 billion more than last year — driven by bigger allocations for health care, a significant expansion in the state's workforce and more money for schools seeing increased enrollment of immigrant students.
Lawmakers began tackling the spending proposal on Wednesday, with the House Appropriations Committee reviewing House Bill 1430 and its accompanying measures.
The House then broke into caucuses to discuss the budget and lawmakers' proposed amendments with each caucus's Joint Budget Committee members. The budget bill will then head to the House floor for debate on Thursday, with a final vote expected on Monday.
Once the budget bill clears the House, the process is repeated in the Senate, with the the budget committee removing House amendments to start. Once the bill clears the Senate, the budget committee will consider amendments from both chambers to create a consensus bill. Should the budget head to the governor before the end of April, which is likely, Gov. Jared Polis will have 10 days to sign it.
https://www.coloradopolitics.com/news/colorado-lawmakers-propose-2-billion-budget-hike/article_086aa578-ebac-11ee-900d-53a0d9832c62.html
Colorado lawmakers are proposing to spend $40.6 billion in the next fiscal year — $2 billion more than last year — driven by bigger allocations for health care, a significant expansion in the state's workforce and more money for schools seeing increased enrollment of immigrant students.
Lawmakers began tackling the spending proposal on Wednesday, with the House Appropriations Committee reviewing House Bill 1430 and its accompanying measures.
The House then broke into caucuses to discuss the budget and lawmakers' proposed amendments with each caucus's Joint Budget Committee members. The budget bill will then head to the House floor for debate on Thursday, with a final vote expected on Monday.
Once the budget bill clears the House, the process is repeated in the Senate, with the the budget committee removing House amendments to start. Once the bill clears the Senate, the budget committee will consider amendments from both chambers to create a consensus bill. Should the budget head to the governor before the end of April, which is likely, Gov. Jared Polis will have 10 days to sign it.
https://www.coloradopolitics.com/news/colorado-lawmakers-propose-2-billion-budget-hike/article_086aa578-ebac-11ee-900d-53a0d9832c62.html
Colorado Politics
Colorado lawmakers propose $2 billion budget hike
Colorado lawmakers are proposing to spend $40.6 billion in the next fiscal year — $2 billion more than last year — driven by bigger allocations for health care, a significant
Colorado launches a $450 e-bike rebate for everyone. So why aren’t many bike shops participating?
Colorado is set to launch a statewide e-bike tax credit on April 1, offering every resident a $450 point-of-sale discount off the purchase of a battery-powered bicycle.
The statewide program marks one of the country’s most ambitious efforts to cut climate-warming emissions using taxpayer-funded e-bike discounts. There’s just one major problem: Most major retailers have yet to sign up to participate.
A list assembled by the Colorado Energy Office shows only 24 bike sellers are guaranteed to honor the rebates. That means residents could struggle to redeem the discount at local bike shops and major online retailers after the program launches next week.
Like other shop managers, MacKenzie Hardt, the owner of Hardt Family Cyclery in Aurora, won’t participate due to the state’s reimbursement plan. The program currently requires a retailer to front the cost of the rebate, which it can’t recover until filing its 2024 taxes. Hardt said that’s an unreasonable delay given his business’ small margins and limited cash flow.
“I have to be able to support myself, my family and my one employee,” Hardt told CPR News. “This program doesn’t allow for that, which is really unfortunate.”
https://www.the-journal.com/articles/colorado-launches-a-450-e-bike-rebate-for-everyone-so-why-arent-many-bike-shops-participating/
Colorado is set to launch a statewide e-bike tax credit on April 1, offering every resident a $450 point-of-sale discount off the purchase of a battery-powered bicycle.
The statewide program marks one of the country’s most ambitious efforts to cut climate-warming emissions using taxpayer-funded e-bike discounts. There’s just one major problem: Most major retailers have yet to sign up to participate.
A list assembled by the Colorado Energy Office shows only 24 bike sellers are guaranteed to honor the rebates. That means residents could struggle to redeem the discount at local bike shops and major online retailers after the program launches next week.
Like other shop managers, MacKenzie Hardt, the owner of Hardt Family Cyclery in Aurora, won’t participate due to the state’s reimbursement plan. The program currently requires a retailer to front the cost of the rebate, which it can’t recover until filing its 2024 taxes. Hardt said that’s an unreasonable delay given his business’ small margins and limited cash flow.
“I have to be able to support myself, my family and my one employee,” Hardt told CPR News. “This program doesn’t allow for that, which is really unfortunate.”
https://www.the-journal.com/articles/colorado-launches-a-450-e-bike-rebate-for-everyone-so-why-arent-many-bike-shops-participating/
The Journal
Colorado launches a $450 e-bike rebate for everyone. So why aren’t many bike shops participating?
Colorado is set to launch a statewide e-bike tax credit on April 1, offering every resident a $450 point-of-sale discount off the purchase of a battery-powered bicycle.
The statewide program marks one...
The statewide program marks one...
10 States Still Tax Social Security Benefits. Is Yours One of Them?
1. Colorado
Social Security benefits are fully deductible on state tax returns for beneficiaries ages 65 and older. But Colorado only allows residents ages 55 to 64 to deduct $20,000 of retirement income, so Social Security benefits above this amount may be taxable at the state level.
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/markets-news/Motley%20Fool/25139014/10-states-still-tax-social-security-benefits-is-yours-one-of-them/
1. Colorado
Social Security benefits are fully deductible on state tax returns for beneficiaries ages 65 and older. But Colorado only allows residents ages 55 to 64 to deduct $20,000 of retirement income, so Social Security benefits above this amount may be taxable at the state level.
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/markets-news/Motley%20Fool/25139014/10-states-still-tax-social-security-benefits-is-yours-one-of-them/
The Globe and Mail
Motley Fool Press Release.
Colorado man who pleaded guilty to bear poaching receives fines, deferred sentence
DENVER (KDVR) — A Fremont County man who pleaded guilty to killing a mother bear and her two cubs before sawing off their heads and paws was sentenced on Monday, according to court documents.
Paul Stromberg, 53, was sentenced after pleading guilty on Jan. 8 to one felony count of willful destruction of wildlife and a misdemeanor offense of failure to properly dress wildlife.
Stromberg was originally arrested on Sept. 30, 2023, on 10 charges, including taking a black bear out of season and illegal possession of wildlife, both misdemeanors.
Stromberg was sentenced to a two-year deferred sentence in the Department of Corrections and was fined $19,000. In addition, Stromberg must pay $750 in restitution to the Colorado Division of Wildlife and donate $1,000 to Operation Game Thief, a program operated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife that pays rewards to citizens who turn in poachers.
https://kdvr.com/news/local/colorado-man-who-pleaded-guilty-to-bear-poaching-receives-fines-deferred-sentence/
DENVER (KDVR) — A Fremont County man who pleaded guilty to killing a mother bear and her two cubs before sawing off their heads and paws was sentenced on Monday, according to court documents.
Paul Stromberg, 53, was sentenced after pleading guilty on Jan. 8 to one felony count of willful destruction of wildlife and a misdemeanor offense of failure to properly dress wildlife.
Stromberg was originally arrested on Sept. 30, 2023, on 10 charges, including taking a black bear out of season and illegal possession of wildlife, both misdemeanors.
Stromberg was sentenced to a two-year deferred sentence in the Department of Corrections and was fined $19,000. In addition, Stromberg must pay $750 in restitution to the Colorado Division of Wildlife and donate $1,000 to Operation Game Thief, a program operated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife that pays rewards to citizens who turn in poachers.
https://kdvr.com/news/local/colorado-man-who-pleaded-guilty-to-bear-poaching-receives-fines-deferred-sentence/
88 Drive-in Theatre to Reopen After Last Year's Closure Reports
The show will go on at the 88 Drive-In Theatre — at least for one more season.
The Commerce City theater will reopen for another season this spring, according to a March 25 social media announcement. The drive-in, open since 1972, was expected to shut down for good last summer after the owner revealed plans to sell the property to First Industrial Realty Trust and turn it into a warehouse.
At the time, developers said they wanted to begin construction in the spring of 2024. But now the land at 88th and Rosemary will continue to host moviegoers, prolonging the legacy of metro Denver's last drive-in movie theater.
The 88 Drive-In has not revealed a reopening date but said "it's almost time" in the announcement. It is unclear whether this will be the theater's last season; representatives of 88 Drive-In, First Industrial Realty Trust and the Commerce City government did not immediately respond to inquiries about the future of the theater.
Susan Kochevar, who ran the drive-in, wanted to sell it to "step away" from the movie theater business, Commerce City officials said last summer. Her family had owned the 88 Drive-In since 1976.
"Our family grieves the loss of the drive-in, but it is what is best for us and for the community," Kochevar told Westword in June. "This decision was not made lightly and was a joint decision of the family. We are not a big, greedy corporation. We are one small family with a family-run business. ...We feel the land is at its highest and best use for the community in the re-development plan the buyer has created."
https://www.westword.com/news/commerce-citys-88-drive-in-theatre-to-reopen-this-spring-20196448
The show will go on at the 88 Drive-In Theatre — at least for one more season.
The Commerce City theater will reopen for another season this spring, according to a March 25 social media announcement. The drive-in, open since 1972, was expected to shut down for good last summer after the owner revealed plans to sell the property to First Industrial Realty Trust and turn it into a warehouse.
At the time, developers said they wanted to begin construction in the spring of 2024. But now the land at 88th and Rosemary will continue to host moviegoers, prolonging the legacy of metro Denver's last drive-in movie theater.
The 88 Drive-In has not revealed a reopening date but said "it's almost time" in the announcement. It is unclear whether this will be the theater's last season; representatives of 88 Drive-In, First Industrial Realty Trust and the Commerce City government did not immediately respond to inquiries about the future of the theater.
Susan Kochevar, who ran the drive-in, wanted to sell it to "step away" from the movie theater business, Commerce City officials said last summer. Her family had owned the 88 Drive-In since 1976.
"Our family grieves the loss of the drive-in, but it is what is best for us and for the community," Kochevar told Westword in June. "This decision was not made lightly and was a joint decision of the family. We are not a big, greedy corporation. We are one small family with a family-run business. ...We feel the land is at its highest and best use for the community in the re-development plan the buyer has created."
https://www.westword.com/news/commerce-citys-88-drive-in-theatre-to-reopen-this-spring-20196448
Westword
88 Drive-in Theatre to Reopen After Last Year's Closure Reports
It's unclear whether plans to turn the property into a warehouse will move forward, but metro Denver's last drive-in movie theater is still alive for now.
Colorado voters will decide in November whether people charged with first-degree murder should be denied bail
Colorado voters will decide in November whether to amend the state constitution to once again allow judges to prohibit people charged with first-degree murder from being released on bail from jail ahead of their trial.
The legislature placed the question on the ballot Thursday by passing House Concurrent Resolution 1002 after the measure cleared its final hurdle in the Senate by a 35-0 vote. It previously passed the House on a 59-5 vote. Resolutions placing a question on the ballot that would change the state constitution require the support of two-thirds of the members in each chamber to advance.
The ballot measure will need the support of 55% of voters Nov. 5 to pass since it would amend the state constitution. The Colorado constitution can only be changed through a vote of the people.
People charged with first-degree murder used to be denied bail in Colorado when a judge found that the proof was evident or the presumption was great that they committed the offense. But the state Supreme Court ruled last year that the legislature’s 2020 decision to repeal Colorado’s death penalty meant that those defendants were eligible for pretrial release and that judges had to set their bail.
That’s because the state constitution requires that bail be denied for people charged with capital offenses, which at the time the death penalty was repealed was only first-degree murder. Since the death penalty is no longer on the books in Colorado, the Colorado Supreme Court found that bail could no longer be denied for people charged with first-degree murder — no matter how heinous their alleged crimes.
https://coloradosun.com/2024/03/28/colorado-first-degree-murder-bail-ballot-measure/
Colorado voters will decide in November whether to amend the state constitution to once again allow judges to prohibit people charged with first-degree murder from being released on bail from jail ahead of their trial.
The legislature placed the question on the ballot Thursday by passing House Concurrent Resolution 1002 after the measure cleared its final hurdle in the Senate by a 35-0 vote. It previously passed the House on a 59-5 vote. Resolutions placing a question on the ballot that would change the state constitution require the support of two-thirds of the members in each chamber to advance.
The ballot measure will need the support of 55% of voters Nov. 5 to pass since it would amend the state constitution. The Colorado constitution can only be changed through a vote of the people.
People charged with first-degree murder used to be denied bail in Colorado when a judge found that the proof was evident or the presumption was great that they committed the offense. But the state Supreme Court ruled last year that the legislature’s 2020 decision to repeal Colorado’s death penalty meant that those defendants were eligible for pretrial release and that judges had to set their bail.
That’s because the state constitution requires that bail be denied for people charged with capital offenses, which at the time the death penalty was repealed was only first-degree murder. Since the death penalty is no longer on the books in Colorado, the Colorado Supreme Court found that bail could no longer be denied for people charged with first-degree murder — no matter how heinous their alleged crimes.
https://coloradosun.com/2024/03/28/colorado-first-degree-murder-bail-ballot-measure/
The Colorado Sun
Colorado voters will decide in November whether people charged with first-degree murder should be denied bail
People charged with first-degree murder used to be denied bail in Colorado when a judge found that the proof was evident or the presumption was great that they committed the offense. But a state Supreme Court decision changed that.
Tattered Cover parent company puts Denver bookstore chain up for sale
The Tattered Cover — Colorado’s largest independent bookstore and an iconic destination for Denverites and tourists alike — is officially up for grabs as the owners consider selling.
Bended Page LLC, which owns and operates the Tattered Cover Book Store, asked the court Friday to postpone an upcoming bankruptcy reorganization hearing so the company could respond to potential buyers, according to a Friday news release from Tattered Cover.
While the store did not name the interested buyers that had already reached out, the company is in discussions with multiple individuals and businesses across the country, the release stated.
The store also “expects additional interest from other potential buyers as word spreads that Colorado’s iconic independent bookstore is open to being acquired,” the release stated.
Kwame Spearman, ex-CEO of Tattered Cover and a minority investor in the store, said he has had some conversation with people who would be interested in potentially acquiring the chain.
“As I mentioned in a [court] proceeding, I want to do everything I can to ensure that Tattered Cover survives,” he said. “… There’s still a lot of due diligence that needs to occur, and frankly if anyone is interested they should let me know. It’s going to take a lot of coordination and resources to get Tattered Cover out of bankruptcy.”
https://www.denverpost.com/2024/03/29/tattered-cover-for-sale-bended-page/
The Tattered Cover — Colorado’s largest independent bookstore and an iconic destination for Denverites and tourists alike — is officially up for grabs as the owners consider selling.
Bended Page LLC, which owns and operates the Tattered Cover Book Store, asked the court Friday to postpone an upcoming bankruptcy reorganization hearing so the company could respond to potential buyers, according to a Friday news release from Tattered Cover.
While the store did not name the interested buyers that had already reached out, the company is in discussions with multiple individuals and businesses across the country, the release stated.
The store also “expects additional interest from other potential buyers as word spreads that Colorado’s iconic independent bookstore is open to being acquired,” the release stated.
Kwame Spearman, ex-CEO of Tattered Cover and a minority investor in the store, said he has had some conversation with people who would be interested in potentially acquiring the chain.
“As I mentioned in a [court] proceeding, I want to do everything I can to ensure that Tattered Cover survives,” he said. “… There’s still a lot of due diligence that needs to occur, and frankly if anyone is interested they should let me know. It’s going to take a lot of coordination and resources to get Tattered Cover out of bankruptcy.”
https://www.denverpost.com/2024/03/29/tattered-cover-for-sale-bended-page/
The Denver Post
Tattered Cover parent company puts Denver bookstore chain up for sale
The Tattered Cover — Colorado’s largest independent bookstore and an iconic destination for Denverites and tourists alike — is officially up for grabs as the owners consider selli…
CUT Bill Positions 3.25.2024
CUT continues its objection to the inappropriate use of the Safety Clause and the Gifts, Grants, and Donations (GGD) Clause.
--------------------
The Colorado 2024-2025 Budget Long Bill was introduced on 3.25.2024. The budget should be posted online soon. It may be historical that there are 45 orbital bills (HB24-1384 thru HB24-1429) accompanying this bill.
Initial comments from trusted sources notes that the spending in this proposed budget would put a drunken sailor to shame. And no offense to a drunken sailor.
Stay tuned!!!
--------------------
Thank you to the all-volunteer CUT Board for the hours you spend to research and take positions on proposed legislation with the CUT pledge as our guide:
Rob Knuth, Vice-President
Wendy Warner, Secretary
Bill Hammel, Treasurer & Rating Statistician
Marty Neilson, Assistant Treasurer
Steve Dorman
Greg Golyansky
Russ Haas
Karl Honegger
Mary Janssen
Ramey Johnson
John Nelson
Joseph O'Loughlin
--------------------
SENATE BILLS
SB24-070
Prime Sponsors: Sen. Lundeen, Sen. Zenzinger
Rep. McLachlan, Rep. Pugliese
Remote Testing & Online Education Programs
Concerning allowing online education programs to offer remote state assessment testing to students who attend online education programs, and, in connection therewith, making an appropriation.
CUT VOTE NO
While we support the benefits of online classes, testing should be done in person, otherwise testing could be open to cheating and abuse. And the use of the Safety Clause that online testing is necessary for the safety and well-being of the people of Colorado? We think not.
--------------------
SB24-174
Prime Sponsors: Sen. Kirkmeyer, Sen. Zenzinger
Rep. Bird
Sustainable Affordable Housing Assistance
Concerning state support for sustainable affordable housing, and, in connection therewith, making an appropriation.
CUT VOTE NO
Why should the government be involved in "conducting statewide, regional, and local housing needs assessments?" The free market does it so much better. Safety Clause? Really?
--------------------
SB24-183
Prime Sponsors: Sen. Simpson, Sen. Jaquez-Lewis
Mobile Home Taxation Task Force
Concerning the distraint sale of a mobile home to collect delinquent property taxes, and, in connection therewith, temporarily suspending the distraint sale of mobile homes and creating a task force on mobile home ownership and taxation.
CUT VOTE YES
They have to comply with Supreme Court's decision. There is no need for the Safety Clause.
--------------------
SB24-184
Prime Sponsors: Sen. Fenberg, Sen. Marchman
Rep. McCluskie, Rep. Boesenecker
Support Surface Transportation Infrastructure Development
Concerning support for the development of surface transportation infrastructure, and, in connection therewith, providing funding and operational flexibility needed to support the development of transit and rail infrastructure.
CUT VOTE NO
Colorado Politicians, Bureaucrats, and Interested Parties (PBIs) continue wasteful spending on the perpetually unpopular "public" transportation. Coloradan's "vote" every day for personal vehicles that are reliable and safe. The additional "congestion impact fee" on rental cars is a tax by a different name and violates TABOR. And the Safety Clause is included once again to prevent Coloradan's review of the bill.
------------------------------------------------------------------
HOUSE BILLS
HB24-1068
Prime Sponsor: Rep. Weinberg
Air Conditioning in Schools & School Buses
Concerning air conditioning in schools, and, in connection therewith, air conditioning in school buses.
CUT VOTE NO
CUT continues its objection to the inappropriate use of the Safety Clause and the Gifts, Grants, and Donations (GGD) Clause.
--------------------
The Colorado 2024-2025 Budget Long Bill was introduced on 3.25.2024. The budget should be posted online soon. It may be historical that there are 45 orbital bills (HB24-1384 thru HB24-1429) accompanying this bill.
Initial comments from trusted sources notes that the spending in this proposed budget would put a drunken sailor to shame. And no offense to a drunken sailor.
Stay tuned!!!
--------------------
Thank you to the all-volunteer CUT Board for the hours you spend to research and take positions on proposed legislation with the CUT pledge as our guide:
Rob Knuth, Vice-President
Wendy Warner, Secretary
Bill Hammel, Treasurer & Rating Statistician
Marty Neilson, Assistant Treasurer
Steve Dorman
Greg Golyansky
Russ Haas
Karl Honegger
Mary Janssen
Ramey Johnson
John Nelson
Joseph O'Loughlin
--------------------
SENATE BILLS
SB24-070
Prime Sponsors: Sen. Lundeen, Sen. Zenzinger
Rep. McLachlan, Rep. Pugliese
Remote Testing & Online Education Programs
Concerning allowing online education programs to offer remote state assessment testing to students who attend online education programs, and, in connection therewith, making an appropriation.
CUT VOTE NO
While we support the benefits of online classes, testing should be done in person, otherwise testing could be open to cheating and abuse. And the use of the Safety Clause that online testing is necessary for the safety and well-being of the people of Colorado? We think not.
--------------------
SB24-174
Prime Sponsors: Sen. Kirkmeyer, Sen. Zenzinger
Rep. Bird
Sustainable Affordable Housing Assistance
Concerning state support for sustainable affordable housing, and, in connection therewith, making an appropriation.
CUT VOTE NO
Why should the government be involved in "conducting statewide, regional, and local housing needs assessments?" The free market does it so much better. Safety Clause? Really?
--------------------
SB24-183
Prime Sponsors: Sen. Simpson, Sen. Jaquez-Lewis
Mobile Home Taxation Task Force
Concerning the distraint sale of a mobile home to collect delinquent property taxes, and, in connection therewith, temporarily suspending the distraint sale of mobile homes and creating a task force on mobile home ownership and taxation.
CUT VOTE YES
They have to comply with Supreme Court's decision. There is no need for the Safety Clause.
--------------------
SB24-184
Prime Sponsors: Sen. Fenberg, Sen. Marchman
Rep. McCluskie, Rep. Boesenecker
Support Surface Transportation Infrastructure Development
Concerning support for the development of surface transportation infrastructure, and, in connection therewith, providing funding and operational flexibility needed to support the development of transit and rail infrastructure.
CUT VOTE NO
Colorado Politicians, Bureaucrats, and Interested Parties (PBIs) continue wasteful spending on the perpetually unpopular "public" transportation. Coloradan's "vote" every day for personal vehicles that are reliable and safe. The additional "congestion impact fee" on rental cars is a tax by a different name and violates TABOR. And the Safety Clause is included once again to prevent Coloradan's review of the bill.
------------------------------------------------------------------
HOUSE BILLS
HB24-1068
Prime Sponsor: Rep. Weinberg
Air Conditioning in Schools & School Buses
Concerning air conditioning in schools, and, in connection therewith, air conditioning in school buses.
CUT VOTE NO
This is a local school board issue, not a state issue. It is not the proper role of the state to mandate that mountain communities (where the climate is much cooler) be forced to have air-conditioned schools and buses. This mandate increases local school district's costs, taking away financial resources that could be focused on teaching children reading, writing, arithmetic, history, civics, critical thinking, etc. Very inappropriate use of the Safety Clause.
--------------------
HB24-1271
Prime Sponsor: Rep. McCormick
State Income Tax Credit for Veterinary Professional
Concerning a state income tax credit for qualified individuals in the veterinary field.
CUT VOTE NO
It is not fair that one group gets a tax credit while other groups have to pay full fair. This cronyist legislation tacitly implies that taxes are too high, therefore that a tax break is necessary. The fairest action is to reduce taxes across the board for all groups and individuals.
--------------------
HB24-1299
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Bird, Rep. Mullica
Short-Term Rental Unit Property Tax Classification
Concerning the classification of short-term rental units for purposes of property tax treatment.
CUT VOTE NO
This bill increases the power of the state government to interfere and tax how people use their property.
--------------------
HB24-1326
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Ricks, Rep. Brown
Sen. Smallwood, Sen Zenzinger
Bingo-Raffle Licensing Sunset Review
Concerning continuation under the sunset law of the licensing of certain games of chance including bingo, and, in connection therewith, implementing the recommendations of the 2023 sunset report of the department of regulatory agencies.
CUT VOTE NO
It is not the proper role of the state government to regulate Bingo. Sunset this Bingo bill. Very inappropriate use of the Safety Clause. A Bingo bill is not necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety of Coloradans.
--------------------
HB24-1346
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Titone, Rep. McCormick
Sen. Hansen, Sen. Priola
Energy & Carbon Management Regulation
Concerning energy and carbon management regulation in Colorado, and, in connection therewith, broadening the energy and carbon management commission's regulatory authority to include regulation of direct air capture facilities and geologic storage operations.
CUT VOTE NO
Reliable, efficient, affordable, and abundant energy provided by oil, natural gas, and coal have provided energy sources for everyday Coloradans to thrive and prosper. This bill is directly attempting to close down those businesses who provide the energy sources that fuel Coloradan's hopes and dreams.
--------------------
HB24-1351
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Amabile, Rep. Lindstedt
Sen. Lundeen, Sen. Priola
Sunset Division Banking & Board
Concerning the continuation of functions related to banking, and, in connection therewith, implementing the recommendations in the 2023 sunset report from the department of regulatory agencies for the division of banking and the banking board.
CUT VOTE NO
Banking, like any other business, functions best in the free market. This is another attempt by Politicians, Bureaucrats, and Interested Parties (PBIs) to regulate something that they know almost nothing about.
--------------------
HB24-1355
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Mabrey, Rep. Amabile
Measures to Reduce the Competency Wait List
Concerning reducing the competency wait list, and, in connection therewith, creating a wraparound care program.
CUT VOTE NO
This bill allows those convicted of crime to avoid the consequences for what they did. This bill will lead to higher rates of crime in Colorado. 39 FTE's and a $5 million annual cost is an exorbitant use of taxpayers hard-earned money.
--------------------
HB24-1362
Measures to Incentivize Graywater Use
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Lukens, Rep. Catlin
Sen. Roberts, Sen. Simpson
Concerning measures to promote the use of graywater.
CUT VOTE NO
Tax relief should go to all taxpayers - not just people who follow a particular protocol in water use.
--------------------
HB24-1271
Prime Sponsor: Rep. McCormick
State Income Tax Credit for Veterinary Professional
Concerning a state income tax credit for qualified individuals in the veterinary field.
CUT VOTE NO
It is not fair that one group gets a tax credit while other groups have to pay full fair. This cronyist legislation tacitly implies that taxes are too high, therefore that a tax break is necessary. The fairest action is to reduce taxes across the board for all groups and individuals.
--------------------
HB24-1299
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Bird, Rep. Mullica
Short-Term Rental Unit Property Tax Classification
Concerning the classification of short-term rental units for purposes of property tax treatment.
CUT VOTE NO
This bill increases the power of the state government to interfere and tax how people use their property.
--------------------
HB24-1326
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Ricks, Rep. Brown
Sen. Smallwood, Sen Zenzinger
Bingo-Raffle Licensing Sunset Review
Concerning continuation under the sunset law of the licensing of certain games of chance including bingo, and, in connection therewith, implementing the recommendations of the 2023 sunset report of the department of regulatory agencies.
CUT VOTE NO
It is not the proper role of the state government to regulate Bingo. Sunset this Bingo bill. Very inappropriate use of the Safety Clause. A Bingo bill is not necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety of Coloradans.
--------------------
HB24-1346
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Titone, Rep. McCormick
Sen. Hansen, Sen. Priola
Energy & Carbon Management Regulation
Concerning energy and carbon management regulation in Colorado, and, in connection therewith, broadening the energy and carbon management commission's regulatory authority to include regulation of direct air capture facilities and geologic storage operations.
CUT VOTE NO
Reliable, efficient, affordable, and abundant energy provided by oil, natural gas, and coal have provided energy sources for everyday Coloradans to thrive and prosper. This bill is directly attempting to close down those businesses who provide the energy sources that fuel Coloradan's hopes and dreams.
--------------------
HB24-1351
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Amabile, Rep. Lindstedt
Sen. Lundeen, Sen. Priola
Sunset Division Banking & Board
Concerning the continuation of functions related to banking, and, in connection therewith, implementing the recommendations in the 2023 sunset report from the department of regulatory agencies for the division of banking and the banking board.
CUT VOTE NO
Banking, like any other business, functions best in the free market. This is another attempt by Politicians, Bureaucrats, and Interested Parties (PBIs) to regulate something that they know almost nothing about.
--------------------
HB24-1355
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Mabrey, Rep. Amabile
Measures to Reduce the Competency Wait List
Concerning reducing the competency wait list, and, in connection therewith, creating a wraparound care program.
CUT VOTE NO
This bill allows those convicted of crime to avoid the consequences for what they did. This bill will lead to higher rates of crime in Colorado. 39 FTE's and a $5 million annual cost is an exorbitant use of taxpayers hard-earned money.
--------------------
HB24-1362
Measures to Incentivize Graywater Use
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Lukens, Rep. Catlin
Sen. Roberts, Sen. Simpson
Concerning measures to promote the use of graywater.
CUT VOTE NO
Tax relief should go to all taxpayers - not just people who follow a particular protocol in water use.
--------------------
HB24-1366
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Froelich, Rep. Brown
Sustainable Local Government Community Planning
Concerning sustainable local government community planning.
CUT VOTE NO
This bill is another effort by the state to influence or take over local planning. Not the proper role of the state.
--------------------
HB24-1370
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Kipp, Rep. Willford
Reduce Cost of Use of Natural Gas
Concerning measures to reduce the cost of use of natural gas infrastructure.
CUT VOTE NO
The Colorado energy office wants to "explore opportunities for neighborhood-scale alternatives projects." The use of reliable, affordable, efficient and abundant natural gas is a market decision made by the millions of consumers. This decision is made without the "advice" of the Colorado energy office and we should keep it that way. Let the "invisible hand" of the free market do what it does best, regulate the quantity of the natural gas used.
--------------------
HB24-1374
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Marvin, Rep. Rutinel,
Sen. Michaelson-Jenet
Judicial Contractor Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
Concerning means of ensuring that independent contractors who perform legal services on behalf of independent judicial agencies are eligible for the federal public service loan forgiveness program.
CUT VOTE NO
Why should government contractors get their educational loans forgiven at the expense of the Colorado taxpayers? Government contractors often are paid more than their private sector colleagues, they have better benefits and more job security. This is UNFAIR. Safety Clause? Really?
--------------------------------------------------------------
SAFETY CLAUSE
The "Safety Clause" is being used and abused. It is attached to the end of a bill which in essence prevents review of the bill by Coloradans. The right to review bills in in the Colorado Constitution. This is the verbiage of the Safety Clause that is tacked onto legislation:
Safety clause. The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety or for appropriations for the support and maintenance of the departments of the state and state institutions.
We think it is important that you understand the Safety Clause. Here you go:
Safety Clauses and Act-Subject-to-Petition Clauses
AGENCY Office of Legislative Legal Services
PUBLISHED 11/27/2023
Article V, section 1(3) of the Colorado Constitution reserves to the people the power to refer all or a portion of an act to the ballot for voter approval. There is an exception to this power: if an act is necessary 1) "for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety"; or 2) for appropriations to support and maintain a state department or institution. The General Assembly invokes this exception by including language, referred to as a "safety clause", at the end of a bill. Further, the General Assembly is vested with the exclusive power to determine whether the exception to the referendum power applies, and the courts will not review or call into question the General Assembly's decision.
If an act does not include a safety clause, it is subject to the power of referendum, and an individual has 90 days after the General Assembly adjourns sine die to exercise that power by submitting a petition to the Secretary of State's office. Thus, an act that does not have a safety clause must include an act-subject-to-petition clause, and the act cannot take effect until at least 90 days after the General Assembly adjourns sine die.
Yours for lower taxes, human flourishing and the proper role of government!
Kim Monson
President
303-229-2400
coloradotaxpayer.org
HB24-1366
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Froelich, Rep. Brown
Sustainable Local Government Community Planning
Concerning sustainable local government community planning.
CUT VOTE NO
This bill is another effort by the state to influence or take over local planning. Not the proper role of the state.
--------------------
HB24-1370
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Kipp, Rep. Willford
Reduce Cost of Use of Natural Gas
Concerning measures to reduce the cost of use of natural gas infrastructure.
CUT VOTE NO
The Colorado energy office wants to "explore opportunities for neighborhood-scale alternatives projects." The use of reliable, affordable, efficient and abundant natural gas is a market decision made by the millions of consumers. This decision is made without the "advice" of the Colorado energy office and we should keep it that way. Let the "invisible hand" of the free market do what it does best, regulate the quantity of the natural gas used.
--------------------
HB24-1374
Prime Sponsors: Rep. Marvin, Rep. Rutinel,
Sen. Michaelson-Jenet
Judicial Contractor Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
Concerning means of ensuring that independent contractors who perform legal services on behalf of independent judicial agencies are eligible for the federal public service loan forgiveness program.
CUT VOTE NO
Why should government contractors get their educational loans forgiven at the expense of the Colorado taxpayers? Government contractors often are paid more than their private sector colleagues, they have better benefits and more job security. This is UNFAIR. Safety Clause? Really?
--------------------------------------------------------------
SAFETY CLAUSE
The "Safety Clause" is being used and abused. It is attached to the end of a bill which in essence prevents review of the bill by Coloradans. The right to review bills in in the Colorado Constitution. This is the verbiage of the Safety Clause that is tacked onto legislation:
Safety clause. The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety or for appropriations for the support and maintenance of the departments of the state and state institutions.
We think it is important that you understand the Safety Clause. Here you go:
Safety Clauses and Act-Subject-to-Petition Clauses
AGENCY Office of Legislative Legal Services
PUBLISHED 11/27/2023
Article V, section 1(3) of the Colorado Constitution reserves to the people the power to refer all or a portion of an act to the ballot for voter approval. There is an exception to this power: if an act is necessary 1) "for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety"; or 2) for appropriations to support and maintain a state department or institution. The General Assembly invokes this exception by including language, referred to as a "safety clause", at the end of a bill. Further, the General Assembly is vested with the exclusive power to determine whether the exception to the referendum power applies, and the courts will not review or call into question the General Assembly's decision.
If an act does not include a safety clause, it is subject to the power of referendum, and an individual has 90 days after the General Assembly adjourns sine die to exercise that power by submitting a petition to the Secretary of State's office. Thus, an act that does not have a safety clause must include an act-subject-to-petition clause, and the act cannot take effect until at least 90 days after the General Assembly adjourns sine die.
Yours for lower taxes, human flourishing and the proper role of government!
Kim Monson
President
303-229-2400
coloradotaxpayer.org
Is Colorado’s elections chief too political? Jena Griswold fights criticism of Trump-focused partisanship.
It is no secret that Jena Griswold, Colorado’s secretary of state since 2019, has a major problem with former President Donald Trump.
A quick scroll through her account on X, formerly known as Twitter, reveals dozens of condemnations of the former president, with Griswold repeatedly calling him an “oath-breaking insurrectionist” and a “threat to democracy.”
“It is up to American voters to save our country next November and vote for democracy over chaos,” she posted on Nov. 30.
Those sentiments find broad support in Colorado politics, which largely has been hostile to Trump. But the outspokenness of the Democratic secretary of state — both on social media and in numerous interviews on cable news — doesn’t play well with those who expect a more even-handed approach from Colorado’s top election official, especially in a year when Trump is on the ballot again for president.
Griswold’s social media posts generate plenty of pushback, and lately Colorado Republicans have gone after her more aggressively, including by launching a doomed impeachment bid. They also have criticized her decision to support an attempt to remove Trump from the ballot in a Colorado case the U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned.
https://www.julesburgadvocate.com/2024/03/26/jena-griswold-colorado-secretary-of-state-impeach-donald-trump-republicans/
It is no secret that Jena Griswold, Colorado’s secretary of state since 2019, has a major problem with former President Donald Trump.
A quick scroll through her account on X, formerly known as Twitter, reveals dozens of condemnations of the former president, with Griswold repeatedly calling him an “oath-breaking insurrectionist” and a “threat to democracy.”
“It is up to American voters to save our country next November and vote for democracy over chaos,” she posted on Nov. 30.
Those sentiments find broad support in Colorado politics, which largely has been hostile to Trump. But the outspokenness of the Democratic secretary of state — both on social media and in numerous interviews on cable news — doesn’t play well with those who expect a more even-handed approach from Colorado’s top election official, especially in a year when Trump is on the ballot again for president.
Griswold’s social media posts generate plenty of pushback, and lately Colorado Republicans have gone after her more aggressively, including by launching a doomed impeachment bid. They also have criticized her decision to support an attempt to remove Trump from the ballot in a Colorado case the U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned.
https://www.julesburgadvocate.com/2024/03/26/jena-griswold-colorado-secretary-of-state-impeach-donald-trump-republicans/
Julesburg Advocate
Is Colorado’s elections chief too political? Jena Griswold fights criticism of Trump-focused partisanship.
It is no secret that Jena Griswold, Colorado’s secretary of state since 2019, has a major problem with former President Donald Trump. While she’s channeling popular sentiment in the sta…
Denver homeless hotel has 7 deaths since January
Seven people have died at a hotel-turned-shelter for Denver’s homeless people since it opened in December, according to the city's medical examiner.
The former DoubleTree by Hilton hotel serves hundreds of homeless people under a campaign by Mayor Mike Johnston to move 2,000 individuals out of the city's streets by the end of this year. That figure counts the 1,000-plus homeless individuals who moved into temporary shelters, including at the former DoubleTree hotel, last year.
The hotel, located at 4040 Quebec St., came under scrutiny following a double homicide on March 16, when police said two victims were found dead inside a room. The medical examiner’s office later determined they were shot to death.
In addition, five other deaths occurred at 4040 Quebec St. since Jan. 19, according to the data obtained by The Denver Gazette via a public records request.
The causes of death remained unclear, though the medical examiners said it is awaiting toxicology results.
A day prior to the double homicide on March 15, two other deaths were reported at the hotel’s location, according to the records.
Three other deaths happened between Jan. 19 and Jan. 30, the records also showed.
A spokesperson with the mayor’s office who contacted The Denver Gazette insisted not all deaths are related to the city’s “All In Mile High” program, the name adopted by the Johnston administration for the mayor's campaign to end homelessness.
The city’s homeless dashboard, which tracks "exits" from the city's "All In High Mile" program, shows that a total of nine people have died. Earlier, the dashboard showed that six people have died, and the mayor's office said four of those deaths occurred at the former DoubleTree hotel.
https://denvergazette.com/news/homelessness/denver-doubletree-homeless-hotel-deaths/article_b6664e66-ec88-11ee-aaf1-2340a0a4c099.html
Seven people have died at a hotel-turned-shelter for Denver’s homeless people since it opened in December, according to the city's medical examiner.
The former DoubleTree by Hilton hotel serves hundreds of homeless people under a campaign by Mayor Mike Johnston to move 2,000 individuals out of the city's streets by the end of this year. That figure counts the 1,000-plus homeless individuals who moved into temporary shelters, including at the former DoubleTree hotel, last year.
The hotel, located at 4040 Quebec St., came under scrutiny following a double homicide on March 16, when police said two victims were found dead inside a room. The medical examiner’s office later determined they were shot to death.
In addition, five other deaths occurred at 4040 Quebec St. since Jan. 19, according to the data obtained by The Denver Gazette via a public records request.
The causes of death remained unclear, though the medical examiners said it is awaiting toxicology results.
A day prior to the double homicide on March 15, two other deaths were reported at the hotel’s location, according to the records.
Three other deaths happened between Jan. 19 and Jan. 30, the records also showed.
A spokesperson with the mayor’s office who contacted The Denver Gazette insisted not all deaths are related to the city’s “All In Mile High” program, the name adopted by the Johnston administration for the mayor's campaign to end homelessness.
The city’s homeless dashboard, which tracks "exits" from the city's "All In High Mile" program, shows that a total of nine people have died. Earlier, the dashboard showed that six people have died, and the mayor's office said four of those deaths occurred at the former DoubleTree hotel.
https://denvergazette.com/news/homelessness/denver-doubletree-homeless-hotel-deaths/article_b6664e66-ec88-11ee-aaf1-2340a0a4c099.html
Denver Gazette
Denver homeless hotel has 7 deaths since January
Seven people have died at a hotel-turned-shelter for Denver’s homeless people since it opened in December, according to the city's medical examiner.
Schools don’t need a warrant to search students on safety plans for weapons, Colorado Supreme Court rules
The Colorado Supreme Court on Monday broadly affirmed that school safety plans give officials the right to search students on campus without a warrant, finding that staff at a Denver high school acted lawfully when they searched a 10th grader who brought a loaded gun to school on his third day of classes in 2019.
School safety plans that require students be searched daily drew significant attention last year after a 17-year-old student who was subject to such a plan shot and wounded two administrators at Denver’s East High School during his daily search.
The state Supreme Court justices on Monday found that such searches are constitutional and that school officials do not need to obtain a warrant authorized by a judge before searching a student who is subject to a safety plan.
“A search of a student conducted on school grounds in accordance with an individualized, weapons-related safety plan is reasonable under the Fourth Amendment,” Justice Melissa Hart wrote in the unanimous 21-page opinion.
School safety plans, which are common across the nation, aim to curb students’ problematic behavior. Some include daily searches for weapons, while others may be related to illicit drugs or fighting. The plans are typically put in place by a multi-disciplinary team that evaluates the best approach based on the student’s behavior, home life and mental health history.
The student at the center of the Colorado Supreme Court case, identified only by his initials J.G. in court filings, was put under a school safety plan as a ninth grader at Denver’s John F. Kennedy High School in 2019 after he was found guilty in juvenile court of carrying a gun and menacing in an off-campus incident.
https://www.denverpost.com/2024/03/25/colorado-school-safety-plans-searches-students-supreme-court/
The Colorado Supreme Court on Monday broadly affirmed that school safety plans give officials the right to search students on campus without a warrant, finding that staff at a Denver high school acted lawfully when they searched a 10th grader who brought a loaded gun to school on his third day of classes in 2019.
School safety plans that require students be searched daily drew significant attention last year after a 17-year-old student who was subject to such a plan shot and wounded two administrators at Denver’s East High School during his daily search.
The state Supreme Court justices on Monday found that such searches are constitutional and that school officials do not need to obtain a warrant authorized by a judge before searching a student who is subject to a safety plan.
“A search of a student conducted on school grounds in accordance with an individualized, weapons-related safety plan is reasonable under the Fourth Amendment,” Justice Melissa Hart wrote in the unanimous 21-page opinion.
School safety plans, which are common across the nation, aim to curb students’ problematic behavior. Some include daily searches for weapons, while others may be related to illicit drugs or fighting. The plans are typically put in place by a multi-disciplinary team that evaluates the best approach based on the student’s behavior, home life and mental health history.
The student at the center of the Colorado Supreme Court case, identified only by his initials J.G. in court filings, was put under a school safety plan as a ninth grader at Denver’s John F. Kennedy High School in 2019 after he was found guilty in juvenile court of carrying a gun and menacing in an off-campus incident.
https://www.denverpost.com/2024/03/25/colorado-school-safety-plans-searches-students-supreme-court/
The Denver Post
Schools don’t need a warrant to search students on safety plans for weapons, Colorado Supreme Court rules
School safety plans that require students be searched daily drew significant attention last year after a 17-year-old student subject to such a plan shot and wounded two administrators at Denver’s E…