The State is now confronting the repercussions of its self-inflicted policies:
As small businesses and families struggle, the government continues to grow and outrageously spend the taxpayer’s money. HB26-1012 is another example of legislation that is trying to punish businesses and bypass the standards for consumer protections. Excessive regulations have driven the cost of business through the roof and consumers are paying for it every time they go to a ball game or a concert. Now they want to legislate and punish those very same businesses that are having to adjust to the excessive regulations by limiting prices with artificial price controls, further reducing their profit margins and driving them out of business. Consumers will have fewer choices or none at all.
As we fight the high cost of living and try to reduce taxes, we are also fighting legislation that will ultimately increase crime. SB26-097 is a prime example. I have run human trafficking legislation to reduce this scourge on society by increasing penalties for people convicted of human trafficking. But now legislation has been introduced that will have the opposite effect. SB26-097 will likely increase human trafficking due to legalization of prostitution. What kind of message does this send to our youth and the social fabric of our society? This is bad legislation.
The Colorado Legislature mandated aggressive closure timelines for coal‑fired power plants to meet their self-imposed climate goals. However, we don’t have enough energy generation to replace them. In addition, the workforce is being displaced, and coal communities are crumbling. Colorado has six remaining coal-fired power plants and all of them are scheduled to close by 2031. Today we passed SB26-052, Concerning coal transition communities, that uses taxpayer dollars and regulatory efforts to soften the blow for these families. I loved the analogy used by Minority Leader Caldwell, “It’s like the government breaks your leg, and then hands you a crutch.” This road to Perdition started back in 2018, when Governor Polis opposed Initiative 97 while running for office. However, he quickly changed his mind and now the State is layering regulations and mandates while leaving high paying jobs and strong communities struggling to make ends meet. The State of Colorado even created a new, yet dubious philanthropic department, the Office of Just Transition (OJT) to help solve the crisis it created. And then we wonder why we’re facing a budget crisis!
It was a pleasure to meet with the great individuals from the Colorado Dental Association. These professionals work hard to meet their patients needs, while also navigating the complex political landscape. I am proud that HB26-1070 Dental third party network lease agreements, passed the House Floor on Third Reading today.
