The clock is ticking; there are just 10 calendar days until the 69th Session of the Colorado General Assembly adjourns.
This point in the legislative session is always hectic, with long days that continue into the evening and shortened tempers as the most challenging issues often are left to the final days of dialogue and debate.
Currently, 314 bills remain in process - and measures continue to be introduced. One hundred forty eight have been signed by the Governor, and 146 have been postponed indefinitely - a euphemistic term for died along the way.
Two key issues of interest to Colorado Concern remain in the mix. First, changes to the worker's compensation system have been the focus of organized labor for several years. You will recall that conversations around a series of options occurred during the summer and fall, and we - like others in the business community - were opposed to any modifications. Labor scaled back its approach substantially, pulling two issues off the table and outlining a proposal that increases doctor choice for injured workers, but allows employers to control the network of physicians, which will be critical for cost containment. Organized labor also agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU), which is in process, that states labor will not seek legislative changes in the worker's compensation statutes for a set period of time should this measure pass the General Assembly and be signed by the Governor. Colorado Concern is neutral on the bill, HB14-1383Workers Compensation/Physician Choice - Williams/Tochtrop,which has passed the House and begins its journey through the Senate.
Second, efforts to ensure attainable multifamily housing units are built in Colorado remains stalled in the Senate President's office. Senator Jessie Ulibarri's proposal awaits introduction.
Meanwhile, thank you to those of you who utilized our ENGAGE system to urge legislative leadership to move this measure forward. For those of you who have not yet done so, click here to share your support.
Should you have questions or concerns about these measures, or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected].
Warmly,
Tamra
Colorado Concern Legislative Tracking
Click hereto find out what legislation Colorado Concern is tracking. The report includes links to bill text, sponsors, Colorado Concern's positions, bill status, and additional notes.
Click here to download the Colorado Concern At a Glance Status Sheet for quick tracking of Colorado Concern's bills of interest.
Join Colorado Concern for a Membership Networking Breakfast May 22 hosted by John Ikard and featuring Ken Lund, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. Click herefor details and to register. ___________