The Tax Foundation again has issued its study identifying "Tax Freedom Day" as April 9.
"Americans will work well over three months of the year—from January 1 to April 9—before they have earned enough money to pay this year's tax obligations at the federal, state and local levels," the study says.
A compelling concept, but it's deeply flawed, an analysis from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities finds.
"The Tax Foundation’s 'Tax Freedom Day' report is plagued by two major problems," the Center on Budget says. "First, its estimates of state and local tax burdens suffer from a number of serious methodological flaws (see the box on page 4). Second, over the years, many journalists and policymakers have misinterpreted the Tax Foundation’s report as reflecting the tax burdens faced by typical middle-income workers."
Check out both studies if you get a chance. The debate is pretty interesting, at least for nerds like us.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Deal to sell Pinnacol is dead, for now
Good morning. Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy for Wednesday, March 31, 2010.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Buckle up; debate is here to stay
If you trust the polls — and it's good to be trusting occasionally — a slight majority of Americans still oppose health care reform. According to Monday's USA Today/Gallup poll, 50 percent of Americans said passing the bill was a "bad thing" and 47 percent called it a "good thing."
Also: Denver Post editorial: Health care hit didn't take long
Also: Denver Post commentary: Health care reform stifles innovation
Also: Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Fewer doctors won't mean more health care
Colorado Springs Gazette: Retirement plans may complicate talk of selling Memorial system
The retirement plan of thousands of Memorial Health System employees and retirees could loom large in discussions about whether the city-owned enterprise should be sold.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Memorial commission grapples with legal issues
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Pinnacol deal is dead — for now
The workers'-comp fund would've paid the state hundreds of millions, but some lawmakers objected.
Also: Denver Business Journal: Colorado lawmakers drop plan to privatize Pinnacol Assurance
SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Potential ballot measures target rent control, energy-efficiency mandate
A Highlands Ranch man who owns rental property in Boulder has filed two ballot measures dealing with rent control and energy-efficient building codes.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Daily News: Putting a face to financial reform
Bennet holds roundtable with people affected by financial industry.
FISCAL POLICY
Greeley Tribune editorial: Lifting tax limit not the answer
We wholeheartedly support reforms to our state budget system that will give K-12 and higher education the money needed to operate successful systems. But we don't think a proposal by a Democratic lawmaker will do that.
Associated Press via Summit Daily News: Colo. lawmakers call for reform in budget debate
DENVER — Colorado lawmakers say they're tired of going from crisis to crisis in the budget debate and they're offering a package of reforms they say will serve as a roadmap for future lawmakers.
KOAA-TV: Pueblo District 60 braces for budget cuts
School districts across the state have to tighten their belts and brace for budget cuts across the board. You can now add Pueblo School District 60 to that growing list. Many teachers in District 60 are not happy about proposed budget cuts. It has many worried they could lose money or even worse, their job.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Buckle up; debate is here to stay
If you trust the polls — and it's good to be trusting occasionally — a slight majority of Americans still oppose health care reform. According to Monday's USA Today/Gallup poll, 50 percent of Americans said passing the bill was a "bad thing" and 47 percent called it a "good thing."
Also: Denver Post editorial: Health care hit didn't take long
Also: Denver Post commentary: Health care reform stifles innovation
Also: Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Fewer doctors won't mean more health care
Colorado Springs Gazette: Retirement plans may complicate talk of selling Memorial system
The retirement plan of thousands of Memorial Health System employees and retirees could loom large in discussions about whether the city-owned enterprise should be sold.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Memorial commission grapples with legal issues
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Pinnacol deal is dead — for now
The workers'-comp fund would've paid the state hundreds of millions, but some lawmakers objected.
Also: Denver Business Journal: Colorado lawmakers drop plan to privatize Pinnacol Assurance
SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Potential ballot measures target rent control, energy-efficiency mandate
A Highlands Ranch man who owns rental property in Boulder has filed two ballot measures dealing with rent control and energy-efficient building codes.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Daily News: Putting a face to financial reform
Bennet holds roundtable with people affected by financial industry.
FISCAL POLICY
Greeley Tribune editorial: Lifting tax limit not the answer
We wholeheartedly support reforms to our state budget system that will give K-12 and higher education the money needed to operate successful systems. But we don't think a proposal by a Democratic lawmaker will do that.
Associated Press via Summit Daily News: Colo. lawmakers call for reform in budget debate
DENVER — Colorado lawmakers say they're tired of going from crisis to crisis in the budget debate and they're offering a package of reforms they say will serve as a roadmap for future lawmakers.
KOAA-TV: Pueblo District 60 braces for budget cuts
School districts across the state have to tighten their belts and brace for budget cuts across the board. You can now add Pueblo School District 60 to that growing list. Many teachers in District 60 are not happy about proposed budget cuts. It has many worried they could lose money or even worse, their job.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Colorado loses race for federal education money
Good morning. Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy for Tuesday, March 30, 2010.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: CU bumps up tuition again
The University of Colorado regents' decision Monday to raise tuition — the fourth year in a row they've taken such a step — should make parents think hard about putting aside money early for their children's education, financial planners say.
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: CU regents approve 9% tuition increase for in-state students
The Denver Post: Colorado loses out in first round of Race to the Top education funding
Colorado lost in the first round of the $4 billion federal education grant competition known as Race to the Top — coming in 14th out of 16 finalists.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel: That doesn’t mean Colorado has given up hope for some education reform money
Also: Denver Post editorial: A lesson from Race winners, http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_14780847
Also: Denver Daily News: State loses round 1 on Race to Top dollars
Also: The Associated Press via KUSA-TV: Colo. misses out on first 'Race to the Top' awards
Also: KDVR-TV: Colorado education: Cuts for K-12, hikes in higher ed tuition
The Denver Post: Colorado lawmakers digest new budget
Lawmakers on Monday began a round of hearings on the proposed 2010-11 state budget, a spending plan that anticipates a revenue shortfall of as much as $1.3 billion.
Also: Pueblo Chieftain: House committees tackle budget bill
Also: Durango Herald: State budget debate begins
Boulder Daily Camera: Budget panel: Boulder needs to change its culture and expectations
Boulder needs to take a tough look at itself and make fundamental changes in the way it does business, according to a panel of experts who have just completed more than a year of work evaluating the city's financial woes.
Pueblo Chieftain: City Schools board to discuss budget-busting measures tonight
With the discussion planned for laying off 60 teachers next year, furlough days and other cuts, the Pueblo City Schools Board of Education has moved tonight’s meeting to the Centennial High School auditorium.
Also: Steamboat Today: Steamboat Springs School Board cuts staff
Also: Greeley Tribune: District 6 dives into budget-balancing process
Also: Durango Herald editorial: None of the fiscal news from Colorado's education community is good
Colorado Pols: Gardner's All-Purpose "Rainy Day Fund" Excuse
The House this week approved HB 1369, the school finance act, but it was a vote that brought some legislators to tears.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Colorado uses $17 million in Recovery Act funds to rehabilitate public housing
Colorado housing authorities made good on a promise to put people back to work with Recovery Act funds for public housing improvements, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said.
Colorado Pols: "How Did I Get Myself In This Payday Loan Mess?"
I just got a bonus from work, of $1,500.00 I am vowing to cut myself off payday loans.
HEALTH POLICY
KRDO-TV: Sen. Michael Bennet Reacts To Health Care Bills Passing
"I'm please that a bill passed," said Bennet. "I'm sorry in the way that it passed. I think the process from the very beginning to the end in the Congress was horrible."
Greeley Tribune editorial: Partisan hysteria doesn't serve voters; casting a ballot does
The passage of the health care reform bill last week was heralded by many as either the savior for many uninsured and underinsured residents or the end of the world as we know it.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: America ‘muddles along,’ even with health reform
Denver Business Journal: Ritter signs law for gender equality in Colorado health insurance rates
Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter signed a law Monday that bans providers of individual insurance policies from charging different rates to men and women for identical products.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Longmont Times-Call editorial: It’s wrong to reward inept regulators
This news comes as debate heats up over President Barack Obama’s proposed Consumer Financial Protection Agency, whose responsibility would be to protect consumers from exploitation by banks and other sources of credit. From the consumer’s point of view, the idea might look good on paper. But knowing the kind of failed protection for which government regulators were rewarded in the past is plenty reason to be skeptical.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: CU bumps up tuition again
The University of Colorado regents' decision Monday to raise tuition — the fourth year in a row they've taken such a step — should make parents think hard about putting aside money early for their children's education, financial planners say.
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: CU regents approve 9% tuition increase for in-state students
The Denver Post: Colorado loses out in first round of Race to the Top education funding
Colorado lost in the first round of the $4 billion federal education grant competition known as Race to the Top — coming in 14th out of 16 finalists.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel: That doesn’t mean Colorado has given up hope for some education reform money
Also: Denver Post editorial: A lesson from Race winners, http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_14780847
Also: Denver Daily News: State loses round 1 on Race to Top dollars
Also: The Associated Press via KUSA-TV: Colo. misses out on first 'Race to the Top' awards
Also: KDVR-TV: Colorado education: Cuts for K-12, hikes in higher ed tuition
The Denver Post: Colorado lawmakers digest new budget
Lawmakers on Monday began a round of hearings on the proposed 2010-11 state budget, a spending plan that anticipates a revenue shortfall of as much as $1.3 billion.
Also: Pueblo Chieftain: House committees tackle budget bill
Also: Durango Herald: State budget debate begins
Boulder Daily Camera: Budget panel: Boulder needs to change its culture and expectations
Boulder needs to take a tough look at itself and make fundamental changes in the way it does business, according to a panel of experts who have just completed more than a year of work evaluating the city's financial woes.
Pueblo Chieftain: City Schools board to discuss budget-busting measures tonight
With the discussion planned for laying off 60 teachers next year, furlough days and other cuts, the Pueblo City Schools Board of Education has moved tonight’s meeting to the Centennial High School auditorium.
Also: Steamboat Today: Steamboat Springs School Board cuts staff
Also: Greeley Tribune: District 6 dives into budget-balancing process
Also: Durango Herald editorial: None of the fiscal news from Colorado's education community is good
Colorado Pols: Gardner's All-Purpose "Rainy Day Fund" Excuse
The House this week approved HB 1369, the school finance act, but it was a vote that brought some legislators to tears.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Colorado uses $17 million in Recovery Act funds to rehabilitate public housing
Colorado housing authorities made good on a promise to put people back to work with Recovery Act funds for public housing improvements, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said.
Colorado Pols: "How Did I Get Myself In This Payday Loan Mess?"
I just got a bonus from work, of $1,500.00 I am vowing to cut myself off payday loans.
HEALTH POLICY
KRDO-TV: Sen. Michael Bennet Reacts To Health Care Bills Passing
"I'm please that a bill passed," said Bennet. "I'm sorry in the way that it passed. I think the process from the very beginning to the end in the Congress was horrible."
Greeley Tribune editorial: Partisan hysteria doesn't serve voters; casting a ballot does
The passage of the health care reform bill last week was heralded by many as either the savior for many uninsured and underinsured residents or the end of the world as we know it.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: America ‘muddles along,’ even with health reform
Denver Business Journal: Ritter signs law for gender equality in Colorado health insurance rates
Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter signed a law Monday that bans providers of individual insurance policies from charging different rates to men and women for identical products.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Longmont Times-Call editorial: It’s wrong to reward inept regulators
This news comes as debate heats up over President Barack Obama’s proposed Consumer Financial Protection Agency, whose responsibility would be to protect consumers from exploitation by banks and other sources of credit. From the consumer’s point of view, the idea might look good on paper. But knowing the kind of failed protection for which government regulators were rewarded in the past is plenty reason to be skeptical.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Weak economy, flawed computer system strain human services
Good morning. Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy for Monday, March 29, 2010.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: As demand for state aid grows, counties' human services toil
As Colorado nears 17 straight months of year-over-year job losses, county human services workers continue to cope with growing caseloads -- and the hard tales that accompany each one.
The Denver Post: Increasing need for state assistance linked to underemployment
Despite few job losses over the past four months in Colorado, the number of people seeking food and medical assistance continues to grow -- something policy experts attribute to underemployment.
The Denver Post: Developers hold up Colorado bill on affordable-housing
A bill supporters hope will preserve affordable housing, especially in pricey ski-resort towns, has stoked the ire of developers and landlords, who equate it to New York-style rent control.
Also: The Associated Press via KOAA-TV: Affordable housing bill faces opposition
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post commentary: GOP lights matches, hopes for no fire
This won't shock you, but Republicans are dealing with a serious anger-control problem.
The Denver Post: Markey a polarizing force in 4th Congressional District
Markey has worn a bull's-eye since she unseated a congresswoman in a Republican-leaning district, but her vote for health care reform ramped up an already high-stakes race.
Denver Post commentary: Health care lawsuit on shaky ground
President Obama's signature wasn't dry on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act last week before our own John Suthers joined about a dozen other state attorneys general in filing a constitutional challenge.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Government can't force people to buy insurance they don’t want
The Associated Press via KOAA-TV: Governor to sign health legislation
Gov. Bill Ritter is set to sign a bill that prohibits gender discrimination in setting health insurance rates. The bill will be signed on Monday, the annual Health Care Day of Action at the Capitol.
KUSA-TV: AG Suthers says health care law impacts personal freedom
The state's top attorney says if the health care law is allowed to stand, someday the federal government could regulate the food on your table and the car in your driveway.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Precedent suggests court will uphold mandate in health care legislation
Summit Daily News: How the health care bill may impact local services in Summit County
Providers weigh in on potential changes to county care options.
Aurora Sentinel: Let common sense prevail on Colorado health measures
Colorado residents could be asked, again, to lean heavily on their common sense on at least two issues when the 2010 state ballot comes out this fall.
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Forced to buy a house
We've all heard that President Barack Obama is smarter than the average mortal, so we should trust. Yet his solutions to problems seem too good to be true. If they work, then we've all been needlessly over-complicating some of society's most difficult dilemmas.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Health care reform, how Christian
The Republican Party wasn't the only group hit hard a week ago by the passage of U.S. health care legislation. The Christian right, led for years by Focus on the Family Founder James Dobson, is also reeling.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Post editorial: Don't overthink fiscal oversight
Rather than creating a new financial watchdog agency within the Federal Reserve, why not strengthen the existing system?
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Business Journal: Construction joins Capitol fight
Colorado's construction industry has joined the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and other business groups in pleading with legislative leaders to kill a handful of proposed new laws they believe will hamper job growth and stifle economic development.
Also: Denver Daily News: Biz leaders oppose bills
Denver Post editorial: End run is the wrong way to take on TABOR
Rather than trying to skirt the Taxpayer's Bill of Right to raise education taxes, it would be better to take on broader reforms.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: Lawmakers need education on TABOR
Denver Post commentary: Colorado's budget: What's left to cut?
There are five major state programs that are under constant threat. Which one will have to be targeted to balance Colorado's next budget?
KRDO-TV: Douglas Bruce Files Lawsuit Against Governor Bill Ritter
Anti-tax crusader Doug Bruce is suing Gov. Bill Ritter and state lawmakers. He claims they stole $200 million from a TABOR reserve fund.
The Associated Press via KDVR-TV: Univ. of Colo. to consider 9 percent tuition hike Monday
The University of Colorado is considering a 9 percent tuition increase for in-state students next year.
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: More CU-Boulder, other college students expect to pay their own tuition
KMGH-TV: Denver Examines Way To Help Troubled Homeowners
Denver officials are examining whether banks facing the prospect of losing city deposits might do more to help homeowners facing foreclosure.
Aurora Sentinel: Party divisions over budget and sustaining economic recovery grow at Capitol
Colorado is on the road to economic recovery, but the journey will be sluggish.
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Senator: Cuts have schools at 'the cliff'
Colorado lawmakers are very close to finalizing a 6.35 percent reduction for school funding for the 2010-11 school year, Sen. Bob Bacon told a group gathered Sunday.
Longmont Times-Call editorial: Mining bill would protect state taxpayers
Colorado taxpayers have been saddled with about a billion dollars in costs because previous operators have left the public on the hook for cleanup costs.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: As demand for state aid grows, counties' human services toil
As Colorado nears 17 straight months of year-over-year job losses, county human services workers continue to cope with growing caseloads -- and the hard tales that accompany each one.
The Denver Post: Increasing need for state assistance linked to underemployment
Despite few job losses over the past four months in Colorado, the number of people seeking food and medical assistance continues to grow -- something policy experts attribute to underemployment.
The Denver Post: Developers hold up Colorado bill on affordable-housing
A bill supporters hope will preserve affordable housing, especially in pricey ski-resort towns, has stoked the ire of developers and landlords, who equate it to New York-style rent control.
Also: The Associated Press via KOAA-TV: Affordable housing bill faces opposition
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post commentary: GOP lights matches, hopes for no fire
This won't shock you, but Republicans are dealing with a serious anger-control problem.
The Denver Post: Markey a polarizing force in 4th Congressional District
Markey has worn a bull's-eye since she unseated a congresswoman in a Republican-leaning district, but her vote for health care reform ramped up an already high-stakes race.
Denver Post commentary: Health care lawsuit on shaky ground
President Obama's signature wasn't dry on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act last week before our own John Suthers joined about a dozen other state attorneys general in filing a constitutional challenge.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Government can't force people to buy insurance they don’t want
The Associated Press via KOAA-TV: Governor to sign health legislation
Gov. Bill Ritter is set to sign a bill that prohibits gender discrimination in setting health insurance rates. The bill will be signed on Monday, the annual Health Care Day of Action at the Capitol.
KUSA-TV: AG Suthers says health care law impacts personal freedom
The state's top attorney says if the health care law is allowed to stand, someday the federal government could regulate the food on your table and the car in your driveway.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Precedent suggests court will uphold mandate in health care legislation
Summit Daily News: How the health care bill may impact local services in Summit County
Providers weigh in on potential changes to county care options.
Aurora Sentinel: Let common sense prevail on Colorado health measures
Colorado residents could be asked, again, to lean heavily on their common sense on at least two issues when the 2010 state ballot comes out this fall.
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Forced to buy a house
We've all heard that President Barack Obama is smarter than the average mortal, so we should trust. Yet his solutions to problems seem too good to be true. If they work, then we've all been needlessly over-complicating some of society's most difficult dilemmas.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Health care reform, how Christian
The Republican Party wasn't the only group hit hard a week ago by the passage of U.S. health care legislation. The Christian right, led for years by Focus on the Family Founder James Dobson, is also reeling.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Post editorial: Don't overthink fiscal oversight
Rather than creating a new financial watchdog agency within the Federal Reserve, why not strengthen the existing system?
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Business Journal: Construction joins Capitol fight
Colorado's construction industry has joined the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and other business groups in pleading with legislative leaders to kill a handful of proposed new laws they believe will hamper job growth and stifle economic development.
Also: Denver Daily News: Biz leaders oppose bills
Denver Post editorial: End run is the wrong way to take on TABOR
Rather than trying to skirt the Taxpayer's Bill of Right to raise education taxes, it would be better to take on broader reforms.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: Lawmakers need education on TABOR
Denver Post commentary: Colorado's budget: What's left to cut?
There are five major state programs that are under constant threat. Which one will have to be targeted to balance Colorado's next budget?
KRDO-TV: Douglas Bruce Files Lawsuit Against Governor Bill Ritter
Anti-tax crusader Doug Bruce is suing Gov. Bill Ritter and state lawmakers. He claims they stole $200 million from a TABOR reserve fund.
The Associated Press via KDVR-TV: Univ. of Colo. to consider 9 percent tuition hike Monday
The University of Colorado is considering a 9 percent tuition increase for in-state students next year.
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: More CU-Boulder, other college students expect to pay their own tuition
KMGH-TV: Denver Examines Way To Help Troubled Homeowners
Denver officials are examining whether banks facing the prospect of losing city deposits might do more to help homeowners facing foreclosure.
Aurora Sentinel: Party divisions over budget and sustaining economic recovery grow at Capitol
Colorado is on the road to economic recovery, but the journey will be sluggish.
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Senator: Cuts have schools at 'the cliff'
Colorado lawmakers are very close to finalizing a 6.35 percent reduction for school funding for the 2010-11 school year, Sen. Bob Bacon told a group gathered Sunday.
Longmont Times-Call editorial: Mining bill would protect state taxpayers
Colorado taxpayers have been saddled with about a billion dollars in costs because previous operators have left the public on the hook for cleanup costs.
Friday, March 26, 2010
More observers challenge AG's judgment on health reform
Good morning. Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy for Friday, March 26, 2010.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Last piece of health reform package clears Congress
WASHINGTON -- Congress passed the last piece of the health care reform package Thursday, the final act in an epic legislative battle that both Democrats and Republicans believed would play their way in November.
Also: Huffington Post Denver: Senate Bill Going Back to the House - Can We Now Get a Public Option Vote?
Also: Colorado Pols: Obstruction: It's What's For Dinner
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: Petulance on parade
Denver Post commentary: Public option wasn't truly an option
It's finally over. The health care bill, with the last-minute fixes, has passed both houses of Congress. And everyone in the land is happy and content. Well, nearly everyone.
Denver Post commentary: Betsy Markey: Why I voted for this health care bill
Before I was a public servant I was a small-business owner, keeping the books in the Web-development firm my husband and I started. I crunched numbers, evaluated costs and always looked for solutions that combined good budgeting with good management. Every time we made a major business decision, we evaluated that decision on its own merit.
Denver Daily News: Proposal to allow health deductions killed
A Republican state lawmaker is frustrated with Democrats for rejecting her proposal to encourage Congress to allow a federal tax deduction for purchasing health insurance.
Pueblo Chieftain: Senate candidate answers questions
Buck, the Weld County district attorney, said he believed the group of state attorneys general who have sued to block the new health care bill as unconstitutional may have a better shot arguing that the bill forces unfunded mandate on the state.
Colorado Independent: Colo. Supreme Court Justice Dubofsky questions legitmacy of Suthers' health reform lawsuit
Former Colorado Supreme Court Justice Jean Dubofsky, a founding member and current chair of the Board of Directors of the Bell Policy Center, issued a statement today critical of the reasoning guiding the lawsuit filed by Republican attorneys general in roughly a dozen states. The controversial suit challenges the constitutionality of the federal health reform legislation signed into law Tuesday.
Also: The Denver Post: Former justice: AG's health care bill lawsuit has 'little chance of success'
KUSA-TV: Health care fallout: Tanning salons and fast food
There are dozens of small items associated with the extensive health care reform law that will affect many of Americans, especially if they like to tan or dine out.
KDVR-TV: Local Tea Party leaders condemn threats to Markey and others
Colorado Tea Party and 9.12 group leaders are responding to reports that conservative activists are continuing to make violent threats to some members of Congress who voted in favor of health care reform last week, including Colorado's Rep. Betsy Markey, a Democrat from Fort Collins.
KMGH-TV: Forced Coverage Challenges Some Spiritual And Religious Beliefs
There are still serious questions about requiring people to buy health insurance even when mainstream medicine is against their religious or spiritual beliefs.
Summit Daily News editorial: Politics at their worst
When State Sen. Dan Gibbs flew to Washington earlier this week to testify before Congress about funding to help counter effects of the pine beetle epidemic, little did he know he was going to be affected by a seemingly unrelated issue: health care. In the wake of President Obama's signing of the national health care bill Tuesday, Republicans furious with the passage of legislation they've vigorously opposed lashed out with parliamentary tricks and games.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: HUD rates Denver a national model for helping homeless
Denver is a national model for helping the homeless get better access to mainstream services like Medicaid and food stamps, according to a study released Thursday by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The Denver Post: Proposed ballot measures target payday lenders
Coloradans upset with high interest rates charged by payday lenders want voters in November to cap the amount the businesses can charge on loans.
Pueblo Chieftain: April 30 deadline looms for heating aid
The number of Coloradans seeking help with their heating bills soared this past winter.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Independent: Benefield looking to ask voters to approve tax hike for schools
An official snow day at the capitol Wednesday didn't stop education advocates from filing into the West Foyer where lawmakers unveiled a desperate plan to raise taxes to shore up the state's struggling education system. The upbeat note struck by the speakers, though, mostly succeeded at conjuring images of the wide stormy seas they are setting out to sail. Captained by state Rep. Debbie Benefield, D-Arvada, the group is asking voters in a recession to amend the constitution to lift tax limits set by Colorado's revered Taxpayers Bill of Rights.
Summit Daily News: Summit School District may pull back on programs, instruction
Resources may be taken away from International Baccalaureate program in school budget cuts.
Summit Daily News commentary: What kind of Colorado do we want?
Not only have a pair of recent recessions taken their toll, but anti-tax initiatives over the years -- TABOR, Gallagher and others -- have hobbled state and municipal government to the point where Colorado is on its way from the Switzerland of America to, perhaps, the Swaziland.
Aurora Sentinel: Will city sell or shelve closed library materials, real estate?
The closure of four Aurora libraries -- shuttered early this year amid shrinking budgets and after voters rejected a tax hike to keep them open -- has left the city's library officials with a daunting task.
Grand Junction Sentinel: 102 employees leaving District 51 with early retirement
This June, the equivalent of 102 full-time employees will leave their School District 51 jobs with the promise of an early-retirement payout.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Last piece of health reform package clears Congress
WASHINGTON -- Congress passed the last piece of the health care reform package Thursday, the final act in an epic legislative battle that both Democrats and Republicans believed would play their way in November.
Also: Huffington Post Denver: Senate Bill Going Back to the House - Can We Now Get a Public Option Vote?
Also: Colorado Pols: Obstruction: It's What's For Dinner
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: Petulance on parade
Denver Post commentary: Public option wasn't truly an option
It's finally over. The health care bill, with the last-minute fixes, has passed both houses of Congress. And everyone in the land is happy and content. Well, nearly everyone.
Denver Post commentary: Betsy Markey: Why I voted for this health care bill
Before I was a public servant I was a small-business owner, keeping the books in the Web-development firm my husband and I started. I crunched numbers, evaluated costs and always looked for solutions that combined good budgeting with good management. Every time we made a major business decision, we evaluated that decision on its own merit.
Denver Daily News: Proposal to allow health deductions killed
A Republican state lawmaker is frustrated with Democrats for rejecting her proposal to encourage Congress to allow a federal tax deduction for purchasing health insurance.
Pueblo Chieftain: Senate candidate answers questions
Buck, the Weld County district attorney, said he believed the group of state attorneys general who have sued to block the new health care bill as unconstitutional may have a better shot arguing that the bill forces unfunded mandate on the state.
Colorado Independent: Colo. Supreme Court Justice Dubofsky questions legitmacy of Suthers' health reform lawsuit
Former Colorado Supreme Court Justice Jean Dubofsky, a founding member and current chair of the Board of Directors of the Bell Policy Center, issued a statement today critical of the reasoning guiding the lawsuit filed by Republican attorneys general in roughly a dozen states. The controversial suit challenges the constitutionality of the federal health reform legislation signed into law Tuesday.
Also: The Denver Post: Former justice: AG's health care bill lawsuit has 'little chance of success'
KUSA-TV: Health care fallout: Tanning salons and fast food
There are dozens of small items associated with the extensive health care reform law that will affect many of Americans, especially if they like to tan or dine out.
KDVR-TV: Local Tea Party leaders condemn threats to Markey and others
Colorado Tea Party and 9.12 group leaders are responding to reports that conservative activists are continuing to make violent threats to some members of Congress who voted in favor of health care reform last week, including Colorado's Rep. Betsy Markey, a Democrat from Fort Collins.
KMGH-TV: Forced Coverage Challenges Some Spiritual And Religious Beliefs
There are still serious questions about requiring people to buy health insurance even when mainstream medicine is against their religious or spiritual beliefs.
Summit Daily News editorial: Politics at their worst
When State Sen. Dan Gibbs flew to Washington earlier this week to testify before Congress about funding to help counter effects of the pine beetle epidemic, little did he know he was going to be affected by a seemingly unrelated issue: health care. In the wake of President Obama's signing of the national health care bill Tuesday, Republicans furious with the passage of legislation they've vigorously opposed lashed out with parliamentary tricks and games.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: HUD rates Denver a national model for helping homeless
Denver is a national model for helping the homeless get better access to mainstream services like Medicaid and food stamps, according to a study released Thursday by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The Denver Post: Proposed ballot measures target payday lenders
Coloradans upset with high interest rates charged by payday lenders want voters in November to cap the amount the businesses can charge on loans.
Pueblo Chieftain: April 30 deadline looms for heating aid
The number of Coloradans seeking help with their heating bills soared this past winter.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Independent: Benefield looking to ask voters to approve tax hike for schools
An official snow day at the capitol Wednesday didn't stop education advocates from filing into the West Foyer where lawmakers unveiled a desperate plan to raise taxes to shore up the state's struggling education system. The upbeat note struck by the speakers, though, mostly succeeded at conjuring images of the wide stormy seas they are setting out to sail. Captained by state Rep. Debbie Benefield, D-Arvada, the group is asking voters in a recession to amend the constitution to lift tax limits set by Colorado's revered Taxpayers Bill of Rights.
Summit Daily News: Summit School District may pull back on programs, instruction
Resources may be taken away from International Baccalaureate program in school budget cuts.
Summit Daily News commentary: What kind of Colorado do we want?
Not only have a pair of recent recessions taken their toll, but anti-tax initiatives over the years -- TABOR, Gallagher and others -- have hobbled state and municipal government to the point where Colorado is on its way from the Switzerland of America to, perhaps, the Swaziland.
Aurora Sentinel: Will city sell or shelve closed library materials, real estate?
The closure of four Aurora libraries -- shuttered early this year amid shrinking budgets and after voters rejected a tax hike to keep them open -- has left the city's library officials with a daunting task.
Grand Junction Sentinel: 102 employees leaving District 51 with early retirement
This June, the equivalent of 102 full-time employees will leave their School District 51 jobs with the promise of an early-retirement payout.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Health reform fallout continues; opponents target Markey with threats, vandalism
Good morning. Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy for Thursday, March 25, 2010. Note most of these reports were written before news broke that the reconciliation bill will have to go back to the House for a final vote.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Group wants to free education from limits of TABOR
Should the legislature be allowed to raise taxes without a vote of the people if the money goes to help education?
Also: Denver Daily News: School revenue sought
The Denver Post: Denver Metro Chamber targets six bills as anti-business
In a letter to Colorado legislative leaders, the Denver Metro Chamber this week outlined six bills it considers damaging to the business community and future economic investments, asking that they be amended or dumped.
Also: Denver Post commentary: Democrats against business
Grand Junction Sentinel: District 51 considers cutting Friday classes
With millions of dollars in cuts headed their way, the next thing to go at some Colorado school districts could be Fridays.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Markey, other health care reform backers report threats, vandalism
U.S. Rep. Betsy Markey of Fort Collins and other Democrats nationwide have reported receiving threats or having offices vandalized in the days before and after passage of sweeping health care legislation.
Also: Colorado Independent: Markey target of threatening calls in wake of health care vote
Also: The Associated Press via the Greeley Tribune: Betsy Markey's office asks police for extra patrols around her Fort Collins home
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Attorney General Suthers takes on health care law
Attorney General John Suthers should be commended for taking quick action this week to join fellow attorneys general from other states in suing to stop the federal takeover of health care. Was the decision to sue politically motivated? Absolutely. Should we care? Absolutely not.
Also: Colorado Springs Gazette commentary: Something 'historical' should be something we all support
Also: Pueblo Chieftain editorial: First shot
Durango Herald: Bennet won't ask for option
Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., plans to vote for the bill and fend off any attempts to change it. That has dismayed liberal activists and brought criticism from his primary challenger, Andrew Romanoff.
Also: Durango Herald: Is there anything in the health-care bill that affects you?
Colorado Pols: Open letter to Senators Bennet and Udall: "No" on amendments is a "Yes" for healthcare reform
Urge our Senators to pass the reconciliation package of health reform "fixes" that is presented to them without further amendment, thus ensuring their passage without creating undue delay by sending the measure back to the House.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: $200,000 union ad campaign thanks Markey for health care vote
The Service Employees International Union has begun a television advertising campaign in six congressional districts to thank potentially vulnerable Democrats for their vote in favor of health care reform. About $200,000 of the $700,000 budgeted for the campaign will go to commercials thanking Rep. Betsy Markey, the SEIU tells me.
Colorado Springs Independent: Memorial Hospital works against the odds to instill a new culture
As pressure builds to cut costs while improving patient outcomes, a team approach to health care is gaining traction at city-owned Memorial Health System. The concept is relatively simple — get all caregivers on the same page for the benefit of the patient.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Gap found in health care law for children’s coverage
The health care package adopted this week wouldn’t require an insurance company to cover young Alex Lange, even after the national publicity of late last year when he was denied coverage.
KUSA-TV: Hospitals react to health care reform bill
DENVER - If you're still not clear on all of the changes to expect from the health care reform bill, you're not alone. Hospitals across the country are still trying to figure out exactly how the new law will affect them.
Denver Post editorial: Latest Pinnacol plan goes too far
As tempting as the latest big-money offer from Pinnacol Assurance is during difficult economic times, Colorado lawmakers ought to take a pass on it this legislative session.
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Insurance division fines companies
The Colorado Division of Insurance has fined three health insurance companies for violating the state’s insurance laws.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Post commentary: Shield consumers from abuses
Despite benefitting from trillions of dollars in U.S. taxpayer support, Wall Street still believes nothing has changed.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
Colorado Independent: Colorado payday loan regulation battle moves backstage
DENVER– The war to regulate payday loans in Colorado continues behind the scenes at the capitol here. Lobbyists and lawmakers are working hard to shore up votes for and against legislation introduced by Denver Democrats Rep. Mark Ferrandino and Sen. Chris Romer weeks ago. The bill is stalled for now as negotiations over proposed amendments continue.
Also: Colorado Pols: Payday D-Day is today, people
ECONOMY
Colorado springs Business Journal: Springs housing price declines put it on double-dip list
Colorado Springs earned a new distinction this week. It was named by Zillow.com among 12 twelve U.S. cities showing extended declines in housing values, reversing signs of a sustained recovery last year.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Group wants to free education from limits of TABOR
Should the legislature be allowed to raise taxes without a vote of the people if the money goes to help education?
Also: Denver Daily News: School revenue sought
The Denver Post: Denver Metro Chamber targets six bills as anti-business
In a letter to Colorado legislative leaders, the Denver Metro Chamber this week outlined six bills it considers damaging to the business community and future economic investments, asking that they be amended or dumped.
Also: Denver Post commentary: Democrats against business
Grand Junction Sentinel: District 51 considers cutting Friday classes
With millions of dollars in cuts headed their way, the next thing to go at some Colorado school districts could be Fridays.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Markey, other health care reform backers report threats, vandalism
U.S. Rep. Betsy Markey of Fort Collins and other Democrats nationwide have reported receiving threats or having offices vandalized in the days before and after passage of sweeping health care legislation.
Also: Colorado Independent: Markey target of threatening calls in wake of health care vote
Also: The Associated Press via the Greeley Tribune: Betsy Markey's office asks police for extra patrols around her Fort Collins home
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Attorney General Suthers takes on health care law
Attorney General John Suthers should be commended for taking quick action this week to join fellow attorneys general from other states in suing to stop the federal takeover of health care. Was the decision to sue politically motivated? Absolutely. Should we care? Absolutely not.
Also: Colorado Springs Gazette commentary: Something 'historical' should be something we all support
Also: Pueblo Chieftain editorial: First shot
Durango Herald: Bennet won't ask for option
Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., plans to vote for the bill and fend off any attempts to change it. That has dismayed liberal activists and brought criticism from his primary challenger, Andrew Romanoff.
Also: Durango Herald: Is there anything in the health-care bill that affects you?
Colorado Pols: Open letter to Senators Bennet and Udall: "No" on amendments is a "Yes" for healthcare reform
Urge our Senators to pass the reconciliation package of health reform "fixes" that is presented to them without further amendment, thus ensuring their passage without creating undue delay by sending the measure back to the House.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: $200,000 union ad campaign thanks Markey for health care vote
The Service Employees International Union has begun a television advertising campaign in six congressional districts to thank potentially vulnerable Democrats for their vote in favor of health care reform. About $200,000 of the $700,000 budgeted for the campaign will go to commercials thanking Rep. Betsy Markey, the SEIU tells me.
Colorado Springs Independent: Memorial Hospital works against the odds to instill a new culture
As pressure builds to cut costs while improving patient outcomes, a team approach to health care is gaining traction at city-owned Memorial Health System. The concept is relatively simple — get all caregivers on the same page for the benefit of the patient.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Gap found in health care law for children’s coverage
The health care package adopted this week wouldn’t require an insurance company to cover young Alex Lange, even after the national publicity of late last year when he was denied coverage.
KUSA-TV: Hospitals react to health care reform bill
DENVER - If you're still not clear on all of the changes to expect from the health care reform bill, you're not alone. Hospitals across the country are still trying to figure out exactly how the new law will affect them.
Denver Post editorial: Latest Pinnacol plan goes too far
As tempting as the latest big-money offer from Pinnacol Assurance is during difficult economic times, Colorado lawmakers ought to take a pass on it this legislative session.
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Insurance division fines companies
The Colorado Division of Insurance has fined three health insurance companies for violating the state’s insurance laws.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Post commentary: Shield consumers from abuses
Despite benefitting from trillions of dollars in U.S. taxpayer support, Wall Street still believes nothing has changed.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
Colorado Independent: Colorado payday loan regulation battle moves backstage
DENVER– The war to regulate payday loans in Colorado continues behind the scenes at the capitol here. Lobbyists and lawmakers are working hard to shore up votes for and against legislation introduced by Denver Democrats Rep. Mark Ferrandino and Sen. Chris Romer weeks ago. The bill is stalled for now as negotiations over proposed amendments continue.
Also: Colorado Pols: Payday D-Day is today, people
ECONOMY
Colorado springs Business Journal: Springs housing price declines put it on double-dip list
Colorado Springs earned a new distinction this week. It was named by Zillow.com among 12 twelve U.S. cities showing extended declines in housing values, reversing signs of a sustained recovery last year.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Post says lawsuit to stop health reform is 'without merit'
Good morning. Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy for Wednesday, March 24, 2010.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Markey says she voted her conscience on health bill
It took a while, but I finally caught up with Betsy Markey on Tuesday. The woman has guts.
Also: Fort Collins Coloradoan: Sarah Palin targets Betsy Markey, other House Dems
Denver Post editorial: Health care suit is without merit
The landmark health care legislation passed Sunday has serious issues, but the legality of its personal mandate isn't one of them.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Attorney General Suthers should serve Colorado, not GOP
Denver Post commentary: The mugging of personal freedom
What does it say about your cause that nearly every policy idea you cook up is based in some form or another on coercing the American people?
Colorado Independent: Norton communicates position on health care bill via Facebook status update
U.S. Senate candidate Jane Norton apparently committed Tuesday to working to repeal the federal health care bill passed Sunday. In a Facebook status update, she wrote vaguely that the “country must elect leaders this November who will work to repeal ObamaCare.”
Huffington Post Denver: A Major Victory, But the Fight Continues
While Washington spent the past year arguing, more than 120,000 Coloradans saw double digit increases in their health insurance. And 57,000 more Coloradans became uninsured.
Also: Colorado Pols: Earth to Sen. Bennet: You Now Have Absolutely No Reason to Not Offer the Public Option Amendment
Longmont Times-Call editorial: Easy-to-read policies good for consumers
It’s fitting that while Colorado students wrap up their Colorado Student Assessment Program tests for another year, lawmakers are looking at ways to make insurance contracts easier to read.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
The Denver Post: Colo. Division of Insurance tackles mountain of work
Seven employees at the Colorado Division of Insurance are responsible for reviewing more than 14,000 filings a year from insurance carriers offering coverage on everything from health and life policies to property and casualty plans.
Denver Daily News: Main St. vs. Wall St.
Debate continues over a regulatory overhaul of the financial industry
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Ailing Greeley school district takes tech fix out of mix
The Greeley-Evans School District is lacking in even the basic technologies needed to educate contemporary kids, but big budget cuts already forcing the closure of small schools will keep the fixes on the shelf for now.
Also: Durango Herald: 9-R suggests grueling budget cuts
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: Boulder Valley schools plan for larger classrooms, fewer teachers
The Associated Press via the Greeley Tribune: Education group to announce budget ballot measure
DENVER — A coalition of education groups worried about proposed budget cuts for Colorado schools want lawmakers to take the issue to voters.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Colorado Springs residents weigh in on police and fire cuts
Closing a substation and further reducing staff through attrition are cards on the table for the Colorado Springs Police Department’s 2011 budget, police officials said Tuesday night.
Denver Business Journal: Colorado business groups ask Legislature to kill bills
A trio of influential Colorado business groups sent a letter to General Assembly leaders Tuesday asking them to kill a half-dozen bills currently moving through the legislative process or risk harming the state’s ability to grow industry and jobs.
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Tea party groups talk health care strategy
Tea-party groups are mobilizing to form a new strategy after months of protesting a health care overhaul in Congress appear to have failed.
Also: Aurora Sentinel: Tea Party braces storm for confab
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: A sign of relief for state budget
Three cheers may not be in order for the latest state budget numbers, released last Friday. But a collective sigh of relief certainly is. At least this wasn’t another instance in which the revenue forecast took another nosedive, and more state budget cuts are immediately required.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Markey says she voted her conscience on health bill
It took a while, but I finally caught up with Betsy Markey on Tuesday. The woman has guts.
Also: Fort Collins Coloradoan: Sarah Palin targets Betsy Markey, other House Dems
Denver Post editorial: Health care suit is without merit
The landmark health care legislation passed Sunday has serious issues, but the legality of its personal mandate isn't one of them.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Attorney General Suthers should serve Colorado, not GOP
Denver Post commentary: The mugging of personal freedom
What does it say about your cause that nearly every policy idea you cook up is based in some form or another on coercing the American people?
Colorado Independent: Norton communicates position on health care bill via Facebook status update
U.S. Senate candidate Jane Norton apparently committed Tuesday to working to repeal the federal health care bill passed Sunday. In a Facebook status update, she wrote vaguely that the “country must elect leaders this November who will work to repeal ObamaCare.”
Huffington Post Denver: A Major Victory, But the Fight Continues
While Washington spent the past year arguing, more than 120,000 Coloradans saw double digit increases in their health insurance. And 57,000 more Coloradans became uninsured.
Also: Colorado Pols: Earth to Sen. Bennet: You Now Have Absolutely No Reason to Not Offer the Public Option Amendment
Longmont Times-Call editorial: Easy-to-read policies good for consumers
It’s fitting that while Colorado students wrap up their Colorado Student Assessment Program tests for another year, lawmakers are looking at ways to make insurance contracts easier to read.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
The Denver Post: Colo. Division of Insurance tackles mountain of work
Seven employees at the Colorado Division of Insurance are responsible for reviewing more than 14,000 filings a year from insurance carriers offering coverage on everything from health and life policies to property and casualty plans.
Denver Daily News: Main St. vs. Wall St.
Debate continues over a regulatory overhaul of the financial industry
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Ailing Greeley school district takes tech fix out of mix
The Greeley-Evans School District is lacking in even the basic technologies needed to educate contemporary kids, but big budget cuts already forcing the closure of small schools will keep the fixes on the shelf for now.
Also: Durango Herald: 9-R suggests grueling budget cuts
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: Boulder Valley schools plan for larger classrooms, fewer teachers
The Associated Press via the Greeley Tribune: Education group to announce budget ballot measure
DENVER — A coalition of education groups worried about proposed budget cuts for Colorado schools want lawmakers to take the issue to voters.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Colorado Springs residents weigh in on police and fire cuts
Closing a substation and further reducing staff through attrition are cards on the table for the Colorado Springs Police Department’s 2011 budget, police officials said Tuesday night.
Denver Business Journal: Colorado business groups ask Legislature to kill bills
A trio of influential Colorado business groups sent a letter to General Assembly leaders Tuesday asking them to kill a half-dozen bills currently moving through the legislative process or risk harming the state’s ability to grow industry and jobs.
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Tea party groups talk health care strategy
Tea-party groups are mobilizing to form a new strategy after months of protesting a health care overhaul in Congress appear to have failed.
Also: Aurora Sentinel: Tea Party braces storm for confab
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: A sign of relief for state budget
Three cheers may not be in order for the latest state budget numbers, released last Friday. But a collective sigh of relief certainly is. At least this wasn’t another instance in which the revenue forecast took another nosedive, and more state budget cuts are immediately required.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Adjustment to Internet sales tax law doesn't threaten privacy
The hubbub over Amazon.com's firing of its Colorado-based affiliates has given rise to a number of myths, chiefly that the Legislature's action created a new tax (it doesn't) and that the firing the affiliates in some way lets Amazon off the hook (again, no). The Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute spelled out what the law actually does in great detail in a whitepaper issued last week.
One interesting side issue arose from a resident who e-mailed policy analyst Alec Harris. The question: "Does this mean that when I purchase anything from Amazon.com, the company is obligated to let the state know what I purchased and at what price so the state can tax me? That really feels big-brotherish and scary – and not OK."
Again, excellent question. Here's Harris' response:
"Well actually it doesn’t work quite like that. The law requires two year-end notices to be produced by remote retailers:
"The first notice goes to customers. This notice must include (1) the total amount paid to the retailer in the previous year, and (2) a statement informing the customer that tax is owed on this amount. The notice must also include, if available, (3) dates of purchases, (4) amounts of each purchase, and (5) if any purchases are tax-exempt.
"The second year-end notice goes to the Colorado Department of Revenue. This notice shall only include the total amount paid to the retailer for purchases made by the individual in the previous year (i.e. #1 from above). No purchase dates, amounts, or descriptions are in this report. Just a grand total for the year.
"This is very similar to the federal 1099-INT process. As you are probably aware, the IRS requires interest-granting institutions (e.g. banks) to report total interest gains in the past calendar year simultaneously to customers and the IRS. In other words, Wells Fargo sends you a notice at the end of every year letting you know how much your savings account earned in interest, and also sends that amount to the IRS. The CO internet sales law does the same thing, but sends a detailed account to customers and only a total to the DOR."
Still confused, on this or some other sales tax issue? Send me your question, and I'll pursue an answer.
One interesting side issue arose from a resident who e-mailed policy analyst Alec Harris. The question: "Does this mean that when I purchase anything from Amazon.com, the company is obligated to let the state know what I purchased and at what price so the state can tax me? That really feels big-brotherish and scary – and not OK."
Again, excellent question. Here's Harris' response:
"Well actually it doesn’t work quite like that. The law requires two year-end notices to be produced by remote retailers:
"The first notice goes to customers. This notice must include (1) the total amount paid to the retailer in the previous year, and (2) a statement informing the customer that tax is owed on this amount. The notice must also include, if available, (3) dates of purchases, (4) amounts of each purchase, and (5) if any purchases are tax-exempt.
"The second year-end notice goes to the Colorado Department of Revenue. This notice shall only include the total amount paid to the retailer for purchases made by the individual in the previous year (i.e. #1 from above). No purchase dates, amounts, or descriptions are in this report. Just a grand total for the year.
"This is very similar to the federal 1099-INT process. As you are probably aware, the IRS requires interest-granting institutions (e.g. banks) to report total interest gains in the past calendar year simultaneously to customers and the IRS. In other words, Wells Fargo sends you a notice at the end of every year letting you know how much your savings account earned in interest, and also sends that amount to the IRS. The CO internet sales law does the same thing, but sends a detailed account to customers and only a total to the DOR."
Still confused, on this or some other sales tax issue? Send me your question, and I'll pursue an answer.
Almost all health care, almost all the time
Good morning. Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy for Tuesday, March 23, 2010.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Colorado AG will join lawsuit to stop health-care plan
Colorado Attorney General John Suthers said Monday that he was joining with attorneys general from at least 11 states who are mounting a legal challenge to the health care overhaul that Congress passed Sunday.
Also: The Denver Post: Small-business owners uncertain about health bill's effects
Also: The Denver Post: Bennet urged to add public option
Also: Denver Post commentary: Landmark change of health reform will be a defining moment
Also: Denver Post editorial: Political failure on health care
Also: The Associated Press via the Colorado Springs Gazette: Colorado will join suit to block health care bill
Also: Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Passage of health care won't make it so
Also: Boulder Daily Camera editorial: A historic first step
Also: Denver Daily News: GOP sick over health bill
Also: Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Ticking clock
Also: Colorado News Agency, Colorado joins lawsuit against new federal health-reform bill
Also: Colorado Independent: Norton yet to pledge to repeal Obamacare
Also: Colorado Independent: Colorado’s Suthers to join A.G.s challenging health reform bill
Also: Huffington Post Denver: Colorado Health Care Backlash: AG John Suthers To Challenge Bill; Right Wingers Go To Ballot
Also: Huffington Post Denver: Will Romanoff's Move Put the Public Option Back On the Table?
Also: Huffington Post Denver: Betsy Markey Singled Out By Barack Obama At Address To House Democrats
Also: Denver Business Journal: Colorado AG Suthers to join lawsuit against health reform law
Also: Denver Business Journal: Udall attends health reform signing
Also: Fort Collins Coloradoan: Markey says yes vote was about bringing down costs
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel: State to sue Congress on health care
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: Historic health vote
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Some companies pressure employees to lobby legislators
The feverish legislative agenda to balance the state budget in recent weeks has flushed out more desperate political strategies by private businesses to protect their turf.
ECONOMY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Loan problems remain a drag on area banks
Last year was a rough one for area banks — and it’s not clear when things will get better.
Durango Herald: City cuts could expand
Sales-tax revenue in Durango for the first two months of 2010 was down 10.3 percent, and City Manager Ron LeBlanc wants to cut $1.05 million from the general fund ahead of what could be another rough budget year.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Building activity in Fort Collins shows signs of rebound
The game may be shifting, but building activity in Fort Collins through February is showing signs of a rebound.
POLITICS
Craig Daily Press: Resident interested in bringing new party to Craig
Jim Blevins decided to try and bring a new political movement to Moffat County — the Coffee Party.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Colorado AG will join lawsuit to stop health-care plan
Colorado Attorney General John Suthers said Monday that he was joining with attorneys general from at least 11 states who are mounting a legal challenge to the health care overhaul that Congress passed Sunday.
Also: The Denver Post: Small-business owners uncertain about health bill's effects
Also: The Denver Post: Bennet urged to add public option
Also: Denver Post commentary: Landmark change of health reform will be a defining moment
Also: Denver Post editorial: Political failure on health care
Also: The Associated Press via the Colorado Springs Gazette: Colorado will join suit to block health care bill
Also: Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Passage of health care won't make it so
Also: Boulder Daily Camera editorial: A historic first step
Also: Denver Daily News: GOP sick over health bill
Also: Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Ticking clock
Also: Colorado News Agency, Colorado joins lawsuit against new federal health-reform bill
Also: Colorado Independent: Norton yet to pledge to repeal Obamacare
Also: Colorado Independent: Colorado’s Suthers to join A.G.s challenging health reform bill
Also: Huffington Post Denver: Colorado Health Care Backlash: AG John Suthers To Challenge Bill; Right Wingers Go To Ballot
Also: Huffington Post Denver: Will Romanoff's Move Put the Public Option Back On the Table?
Also: Huffington Post Denver: Betsy Markey Singled Out By Barack Obama At Address To House Democrats
Also: Denver Business Journal: Colorado AG Suthers to join lawsuit against health reform law
Also: Denver Business Journal: Udall attends health reform signing
Also: Fort Collins Coloradoan: Markey says yes vote was about bringing down costs
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel: State to sue Congress on health care
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: Historic health vote
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Some companies pressure employees to lobby legislators
The feverish legislative agenda to balance the state budget in recent weeks has flushed out more desperate political strategies by private businesses to protect their turf.
ECONOMY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Loan problems remain a drag on area banks
Last year was a rough one for area banks — and it’s not clear when things will get better.
Durango Herald: City cuts could expand
Sales-tax revenue in Durango for the first two months of 2010 was down 10.3 percent, and City Manager Ron LeBlanc wants to cut $1.05 million from the general fund ahead of what could be another rough budget year.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Building activity in Fort Collins shows signs of rebound
The game may be shifting, but building activity in Fort Collins through February is showing signs of a rebound.
POLITICS
Craig Daily Press: Resident interested in bringing new party to Craig
Jim Blevins decided to try and bring a new political movement to Moffat County — the Coffee Party.
Friday, March 19, 2010
News roundup for March 19, 2010
Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Markey says she'll vote for health care bill
WASHINGTON — Colorado Rep. Betsy Markey announced Thursday that she will support a compromise bill on health care reform, helping create a sense of momentum among Democrats that they will have the votes to pass the bill in a rare Sunday vote.
Also: Denver Post commentary: Markey faces music, trumpets vote
Also: Denver Post commentary: Does process matter?
Also: Colorado Independent: How reconciliation irons out the House and Senate health bills
Also: Greeley Tribune: Markey signs on to health care reform
Grand Junction Sentinel: Congressman says he’ll cast ‘aye’ vote on bill
U.S. Rep. John Salazar, D-Colo., will support a health care measure that he described as “probably the single largest deficit-reduction measure I will probably ever vote on.”
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: About that mandate
Instead of saying everyone must obtain health insurance and those who don’t will have to pay a hefty fine, Congress could decide that no one is required to buy insurance, but those who do will receive a tax break.
Denver Post editorial: State immigrant pension loophole is outrageous
Lawmakers should have worked to prevent abuse of the Old Age Pension fund, which costs as much as $24 million a year.
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: States try to stop health care oppression
As congressional Democrats prepare to fundamentally change the United States this weekend, with an act of political suicide that would force each American to buy health insurance, Jon Caldara and his colleagues at the Independence Institute work to protect Colorado citizens from nationalized health care oppression.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: Mayor: tax ‘wrongheaded’
Says he will look into occupational tax and new registration fee.
Denver Daily news: Ed cuts coming?
Fewer teachers and staff, four-day school weeks could be Colorado schools’ future.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Mesa County fiscally sound despite rough economy, officials say
Despite plummeting sales-tax revenue, soaring foreclosures and a steady decline in building permits, Mesa County leaders insisted Thursday the county is on solid financial footing due to a healthy fund balance and plans to expedite capital projects.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
Colorado News Agency via Denver Daily News: Affordable housing or rent control?
A panel of lawmakers were divided yesterday over whether a proposed measure was about allowing local governments to negotiate affordable housing contracts with developers or a slippery slope to rent control.
GENERAL
Denver Business Journal: Pinnacol ups buyout offer to Colorado government
Worker’s-compensation insurer Pinnacol Assurance increased its buyout offer to Colorado by $130 million Thursday, offering to pay $330 million to receive its autonomy from state government.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Markey says she'll vote for health care bill
WASHINGTON — Colorado Rep. Betsy Markey announced Thursday that she will support a compromise bill on health care reform, helping create a sense of momentum among Democrats that they will have the votes to pass the bill in a rare Sunday vote.
Also: Denver Post commentary: Markey faces music, trumpets vote
Also: Denver Post commentary: Does process matter?
Also: Colorado Independent: How reconciliation irons out the House and Senate health bills
Also: Greeley Tribune: Markey signs on to health care reform
Grand Junction Sentinel: Congressman says he’ll cast ‘aye’ vote on bill
U.S. Rep. John Salazar, D-Colo., will support a health care measure that he described as “probably the single largest deficit-reduction measure I will probably ever vote on.”
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: About that mandate
Instead of saying everyone must obtain health insurance and those who don’t will have to pay a hefty fine, Congress could decide that no one is required to buy insurance, but those who do will receive a tax break.
Denver Post editorial: State immigrant pension loophole is outrageous
Lawmakers should have worked to prevent abuse of the Old Age Pension fund, which costs as much as $24 million a year.
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: States try to stop health care oppression
As congressional Democrats prepare to fundamentally change the United States this weekend, with an act of political suicide that would force each American to buy health insurance, Jon Caldara and his colleagues at the Independence Institute work to protect Colorado citizens from nationalized health care oppression.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: Mayor: tax ‘wrongheaded’
Says he will look into occupational tax and new registration fee.
Denver Daily news: Ed cuts coming?
Fewer teachers and staff, four-day school weeks could be Colorado schools’ future.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Mesa County fiscally sound despite rough economy, officials say
Despite plummeting sales-tax revenue, soaring foreclosures and a steady decline in building permits, Mesa County leaders insisted Thursday the county is on solid financial footing due to a healthy fund balance and plans to expedite capital projects.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
Colorado News Agency via Denver Daily News: Affordable housing or rent control?
A panel of lawmakers were divided yesterday over whether a proposed measure was about allowing local governments to negotiate affordable housing contracts with developers or a slippery slope to rent control.
GENERAL
Denver Business Journal: Pinnacol ups buyout offer to Colorado government
Worker’s-compensation insurer Pinnacol Assurance increased its buyout offer to Colorado by $130 million Thursday, offering to pay $330 million to receive its autonomy from state government.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
News roundup for March 18, 2010
Here's a look at news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy for Thursday, March 18, 2010.
FISCAL POLICY
KMGH-TV: Proposed Colorado Budget Cuts Hit Speed Bump
DENVER -- The Colorado House killed a bill Wednesday that would have limited the ability of legal immigrants to collect state pensions after Democrats said it would cause a hardship, possibly causing pensioners to lose their medical benefits and their homes.
Colorado Springs Gazette: D-11 board cuts deeper, but refuses to raise student parking fees
Another $2.58 million was cut from the preliminary 2010-11 budget for Colorado Springs School District 11 on Wednesday, but one thing won't change: student parking fees.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Springs offers streetlight adoption program
For a price, Colorado Springs residents can restore power to some of the 8,000 to 10,000 streetlights being turned off by the city to save money.
Also: Colorado Springs Independent: As assets dwindle, Coloado Springs finds corporate sponsorships are a tougher sell
Denver Daily News: Blasting a fee for a tax
Many Denver business owners have been notified this month that they must pay a new $50 registration fee so the city can process a business tax that they have been required to pay for decades.
HEALTH POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Loss on health care could strengthen push on financial reform, speaker says
Legislation to rewrite the nation’s financial regulations may be more likely to gain congressional approval if health care reform efforts fail, the chairman of a trade association for financial planners said Wednesday in Colorado Springs.
Colorado Independent: Markey targeted by new pro-health reform campaign
Moderate Democratic U.S. Rep. Betsy Markey is being targeted by a pro-health reform campaign that will run in the districts of 17 members of Congress for the rest of the week in advance of a vote in Washington.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Salazar waiting for details on health bill
U.S. Rep. John Salazar, D-Colo., was awaiting the final health care reconciliation package from the Senate and a budget analysis before deciding how to vote on the measure, Salazar’s Washington, D.C., office said Wednesday.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
Denver Daily News: Activists storm payday lending store
Progressive activists and church leaders stormed into a payday lending store on Broadway yesterday and demanded that the lender stop charging interest as high as 521 percent.
Also: Colorado Pols: Rep. Sue Schafer's Vote May Kill Payday Lending Bill
ECONOMY
Pueblo Chieftain: What jobs?
When the economy was recovering from a mild recession during the administration of George W. Bush, Democrats beat the drum of a “jobless recovery.” Indeed, employment lagged behind other economic indicators of a strengthening economy following a round of tax cuts.
Denver Business Journal: Colorado foreclosures up in February
Both real estate foreclosure filings and sales in Colorado rose in February year over year, largely because a moratorium on foreclosures no longer is in place this year, according to a report Wednesday by the Colorado Division of Housing.
Also: Fort Collins Coloradoan: Larimer tops February's decline in foreclosure
Also: Greeley Tribune: Weld foreclosure sales decrease, filings increase in February
Also: KMGH-TV: February Colorado Foreclosure Filings Rise 6.5 Percent
FISCAL POLICY
KMGH-TV: Proposed Colorado Budget Cuts Hit Speed Bump
DENVER -- The Colorado House killed a bill Wednesday that would have limited the ability of legal immigrants to collect state pensions after Democrats said it would cause a hardship, possibly causing pensioners to lose their medical benefits and their homes.
Colorado Springs Gazette: D-11 board cuts deeper, but refuses to raise student parking fees
Another $2.58 million was cut from the preliminary 2010-11 budget for Colorado Springs School District 11 on Wednesday, but one thing won't change: student parking fees.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Springs offers streetlight adoption program
For a price, Colorado Springs residents can restore power to some of the 8,000 to 10,000 streetlights being turned off by the city to save money.
Also: Colorado Springs Independent: As assets dwindle, Coloado Springs finds corporate sponsorships are a tougher sell
Denver Daily News: Blasting a fee for a tax
Many Denver business owners have been notified this month that they must pay a new $50 registration fee so the city can process a business tax that they have been required to pay for decades.
HEALTH POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Loss on health care could strengthen push on financial reform, speaker says
Legislation to rewrite the nation’s financial regulations may be more likely to gain congressional approval if health care reform efforts fail, the chairman of a trade association for financial planners said Wednesday in Colorado Springs.
Colorado Independent: Markey targeted by new pro-health reform campaign
Moderate Democratic U.S. Rep. Betsy Markey is being targeted by a pro-health reform campaign that will run in the districts of 17 members of Congress for the rest of the week in advance of a vote in Washington.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Salazar waiting for details on health bill
U.S. Rep. John Salazar, D-Colo., was awaiting the final health care reconciliation package from the Senate and a budget analysis before deciding how to vote on the measure, Salazar’s Washington, D.C., office said Wednesday.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
Denver Daily News: Activists storm payday lending store
Progressive activists and church leaders stormed into a payday lending store on Broadway yesterday and demanded that the lender stop charging interest as high as 521 percent.
Also: Colorado Pols: Rep. Sue Schafer's Vote May Kill Payday Lending Bill
ECONOMY
Pueblo Chieftain: What jobs?
When the economy was recovering from a mild recession during the administration of George W. Bush, Democrats beat the drum of a “jobless recovery.” Indeed, employment lagged behind other economic indicators of a strengthening economy following a round of tax cuts.
Denver Business Journal: Colorado foreclosures up in February
Both real estate foreclosure filings and sales in Colorado rose in February year over year, largely because a moratorium on foreclosures no longer is in place this year, according to a report Wednesday by the Colorado Division of Housing.
Also: Fort Collins Coloradoan: Larimer tops February's decline in foreclosure
Also: Greeley Tribune: Weld foreclosure sales decrease, filings increase in February
Also: KMGH-TV: February Colorado Foreclosure Filings Rise 6.5 Percent
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
News roundup for March 17, 2010
Good morning. Today we begin a daily feature on the Policy Matters blog, a roundup of news reports from around the state on issues of interest to the Colorado Center on Law and Policy. The same information has been distributed internally, to our staff, each weekday for about the past month. Now we're sharing the compilation on our blog. Our hope is to provide a one-stop shop for people who want to be informed on these issues, and to stimulate discussion about solutions to the problems highlighted in news stories.
Listing a news story here doesn't mean we endorse its content. In some cases, we might reply to a news account we consider particularly misleading. The comments section with each blog post is your chance to do the same thing.
Remember, the blog software offers a number of ways to have the weekday news roundup delivered to directly to you, so please take advantage of those features. Here's the news roundup for Wednesday, March 17, 2010.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Colorado officials make pitch in D.C. for education grant
Colorado's bid for a chunk of the $4.4 billion Race to the Top education grant came down to the final push Tuesday, as representatives from 16 finalist states made their last pitches here before the federal grants are awarded early next month.
Boulder Daily Camera: CU regents will vote on tuition March 29
University of Colorado regents will vote March 29 on a 9 percent tuition increase for in-state students.
Colorado Pols opinion: Amazon "Job Loss" Fiction Continues
We're not unsympathetic to any loss of income in these tough economic times, to be sure, but we don't know anybody who would consider the loss of seven dollars a month to be a "lost job" in any realistic sense of the term.
Fort Collins Coloradoan commentary: State abusing power with tax measure
In the early days of promoting my books, I had an Amazon associates account. I did not utilize it to the degree some Colorado business people did, but many wound up making that program a substantial part of their business model, some generating hundreds of dollars a month through affiliate sales with Amazon. Now, that income stream has abruptly dried up, leaving the affiliates looking to make up the earnings.
Longmont Times-Call editorial:Another school district moves to 4-day weekIt’s no secret that school districts around the state are facing financial challenges.
ECONOMY
The Denver Post: Mountain states slower to snap back in this recession, report finds
The current recovery is challenging the Mountain West's reputation for accelerating out of recessions faster than the rest of the country, according to the most recent "Mountain Monitor" from the Brookings Institute.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Springs faring better than many as region's economic recovery spreads
Colorado Springs is weathering the economic crisis better than many cities in the six-state mountain region, according to a survey of conditions in the fourth quarter of last year.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Education proves recession proof
Fort Collins and Boulder are two of the top performing metro areas in the Mountain West as well as the best educated, according to Mountain Monitor study.
Grand Junction Sentinel: GJ economy lagging, but moving, report says
The Grand Junction economy was one of the worst performing in the Intermountain West over the last year, according to Brookings Mountain West, a partnership of the Brookings Institution and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post editorial: A new low for health care bill?
House Democrats are weighing use of a so-called "self-executing rule" to pass — without actually voting on — the health care bill the Senate squeaked through on Christmas Eve. A leading legal scholar says such a move is unconstitutional. We think, at the very least, that it's an affront to our representative form of democracy.
Denver Post commentary: We can't afford to wait on health care
John Q. Public, out of work and without health insurance, awakes with a life-threatening asthma attack. He must go to the emergency room or may call 911. He gets "stabilizing" treatment. And who pays his bill? Care to guess? We do not have time to complete all those actions above before implementing reform. Now is the time. Who will realize the necessary savings while John Q. waits, and we pay?
Colorado Springs Gazette: Health care report: Middle-class Coloradans slipping through the cracks
The wealthy are likely to have access to health insurance or can pay for their own coverage. The poor can find relief through government programs like Medicaid. It’s America’s middle class that’s falling through the cracks faster than any other group, according to a report released today by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a nonpartisan independent philanthropy that focuses on health care issues.
Huffington Post Denver: Does Defeating Marilyn Musgrave Give Betsy Markey the Okay to Vote "No" on Health Care Reform?
Rep. Betsy Markey voted against the initial House bill on health care reform. She voted "no" when it was clear that the bill would pass the House. After considerable thought, I would be dismayed if Markey's upcoming vote was about political positioning rather than a vote of her convictions.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Poll: Majority of 4th District voters oppose health-reform bill
A majority of 4th Congressional District voters oppose the health-care reform bill the House is scheduled to vote on this month, according to a poll released Tuesday by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which also opposes the effort.
Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Local chamber should speak for itself on health care reform
While the national Chamber of Commerce continues to resist these reforms, local chamber members should send a message to the Washington lobbyists that Coloradans can speak for themselves about health care reform.
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: House may Slaughter Constitution’s rules
Regardless of one’s views on health care reform, all Americans should be appalled at this maneuver. We hope 3rd District Rep. John Salazar will have the political courage to oppose it.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
Denver Post commentary: Halt the return of local rent control
Colorado may still have an alarming number of homes and rental properties in foreclosure, but at least the state is well positioned for an eventual rebound in housing investment.Naturally, some lawmakers are determined to change that happy prospect.
Listing a news story here doesn't mean we endorse its content. In some cases, we might reply to a news account we consider particularly misleading. The comments section with each blog post is your chance to do the same thing.
Remember, the blog software offers a number of ways to have the weekday news roundup delivered to directly to you, so please take advantage of those features. Here's the news roundup for Wednesday, March 17, 2010.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Colorado officials make pitch in D.C. for education grant
Colorado's bid for a chunk of the $4.4 billion Race to the Top education grant came down to the final push Tuesday, as representatives from 16 finalist states made their last pitches here before the federal grants are awarded early next month.
Boulder Daily Camera: CU regents will vote on tuition March 29
University of Colorado regents will vote March 29 on a 9 percent tuition increase for in-state students.
Colorado Pols opinion: Amazon "Job Loss" Fiction Continues
We're not unsympathetic to any loss of income in these tough economic times, to be sure, but we don't know anybody who would consider the loss of seven dollars a month to be a "lost job" in any realistic sense of the term.
Fort Collins Coloradoan commentary: State abusing power with tax measure
In the early days of promoting my books, I had an Amazon associates account. I did not utilize it to the degree some Colorado business people did, but many wound up making that program a substantial part of their business model, some generating hundreds of dollars a month through affiliate sales with Amazon. Now, that income stream has abruptly dried up, leaving the affiliates looking to make up the earnings.
Longmont Times-Call editorial:Another school district moves to 4-day weekIt’s no secret that school districts around the state are facing financial challenges.
ECONOMY
The Denver Post: Mountain states slower to snap back in this recession, report finds
The current recovery is challenging the Mountain West's reputation for accelerating out of recessions faster than the rest of the country, according to the most recent "Mountain Monitor" from the Brookings Institute.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Springs faring better than many as region's economic recovery spreads
Colorado Springs is weathering the economic crisis better than many cities in the six-state mountain region, according to a survey of conditions in the fourth quarter of last year.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Education proves recession proof
Fort Collins and Boulder are two of the top performing metro areas in the Mountain West as well as the best educated, according to Mountain Monitor study.
Grand Junction Sentinel: GJ economy lagging, but moving, report says
The Grand Junction economy was one of the worst performing in the Intermountain West over the last year, according to Brookings Mountain West, a partnership of the Brookings Institution and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post editorial: A new low for health care bill?
House Democrats are weighing use of a so-called "self-executing rule" to pass — without actually voting on — the health care bill the Senate squeaked through on Christmas Eve. A leading legal scholar says such a move is unconstitutional. We think, at the very least, that it's an affront to our representative form of democracy.
Denver Post commentary: We can't afford to wait on health care
John Q. Public, out of work and without health insurance, awakes with a life-threatening asthma attack. He must go to the emergency room or may call 911. He gets "stabilizing" treatment. And who pays his bill? Care to guess? We do not have time to complete all those actions above before implementing reform. Now is the time. Who will realize the necessary savings while John Q. waits, and we pay?
Colorado Springs Gazette: Health care report: Middle-class Coloradans slipping through the cracks
The wealthy are likely to have access to health insurance or can pay for their own coverage. The poor can find relief through government programs like Medicaid. It’s America’s middle class that’s falling through the cracks faster than any other group, according to a report released today by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a nonpartisan independent philanthropy that focuses on health care issues.
Huffington Post Denver: Does Defeating Marilyn Musgrave Give Betsy Markey the Okay to Vote "No" on Health Care Reform?
Rep. Betsy Markey voted against the initial House bill on health care reform. She voted "no" when it was clear that the bill would pass the House. After considerable thought, I would be dismayed if Markey's upcoming vote was about political positioning rather than a vote of her convictions.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Poll: Majority of 4th District voters oppose health-reform bill
A majority of 4th Congressional District voters oppose the health-care reform bill the House is scheduled to vote on this month, according to a poll released Tuesday by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which also opposes the effort.
Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Local chamber should speak for itself on health care reform
While the national Chamber of Commerce continues to resist these reforms, local chamber members should send a message to the Washington lobbyists that Coloradans can speak for themselves about health care reform.
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: House may Slaughter Constitution’s rules
Regardless of one’s views on health care reform, all Americans should be appalled at this maneuver. We hope 3rd District Rep. John Salazar will have the political courage to oppose it.
SELF SUFFICIENCY
Denver Post commentary: Halt the return of local rent control
Colorado may still have an alarming number of homes and rental properties in foreclosure, but at least the state is well positioned for an eventual rebound in housing investment.Naturally, some lawmakers are determined to change that happy prospect.
Monday, March 15, 2010
How do you grade the Legislature's work so far?
It's common to hear the current session of Colorado's Legislature is among the most polarized anyone can remember. Polarized, that is, in terms of Republicans and Democrats rarely, if ever, cooperating to get the people's work done. That kind of environment puts the Colorado Center on Law and Policy and the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute in an interesting situation, since we're not alligned with either party.
Yes, yes, we know some people will call us a bunch of liberal tools of the Democratic Party, but that view ignores the many times we've differed with the Democrats, and the many times we've worked constructively with Republicans. The partisanship in the Capitol is sometimes so fierce that people have a hard time imagining that an advocacy group could avoid allignment with one party or the other.
At any rate, we figure it's been a good session at least from the perspective that there's been a lot of discussion about the role government plays in our lives and how policies can be shaped to help (or hurt) families with low incomes.
News reports from the Denver Business Journal, the Associated Press and KOAA-TV offered other perspectives.
Now it's time to share what you think. Vote in the poll below, or share your view in the comments section with this blog.
Yes, yes, we know some people will call us a bunch of liberal tools of the Democratic Party, but that view ignores the many times we've differed with the Democrats, and the many times we've worked constructively with Republicans. The partisanship in the Capitol is sometimes so fierce that people have a hard time imagining that an advocacy group could avoid allignment with one party or the other.
At any rate, we figure it's been a good session at least from the perspective that there's been a lot of discussion about the role government plays in our lives and how policies can be shaped to help (or hurt) families with low incomes.
News reports from the Denver Business Journal, the Associated Press and KOAA-TV offered other perspectives.
Now it's time to share what you think. Vote in the poll below, or share your view in the comments section with this blog.
Friday, March 12, 2010
How rising unemployment swept the country
Numbers are fine all by themselves, at least for data nerds like the folks at the Colorado Center on Law and Policy. But numbers are frequently better when they're displayed visually. A great demonstration of that dynamic comes from a new online map that uses color coding for all counties across the United States to show where unemployment hit first in the current recession and how it spread.
Props to my friend Pam Zubeck at the Colorado Springs Independent for calling this map to my attention.
By the way the folks over at Slate did a similar presentation last December. And don't forget the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute's long-term look at employment trends issued last month, the State of Working Colorado. Here's a screenshot from the map:
Props to my friend Pam Zubeck at the Colorado Springs Independent for calling this map to my attention.
By the way the folks over at Slate did a similar presentation last December. And don't forget the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute's long-term look at employment trends issued last month, the State of Working Colorado. Here's a screenshot from the map:
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Amazon's perplexing move to fire Colorado-based affiliates
The move by Amazon.com yesterday to fire its Colorado-based affiliates caught a lot of media attention, and understandably so. The first concern for many people was how the Internet giant's move would affect people whose income is at least partly reliant on commissions from Amazon.
Amazon said it fired its Colorado affiliates in response to a measure the Colorado Legislature passed recently that requires all Internet retailers to collect sales tax or at least alert their customers to the sales tax liability associated with a purchase. The move was perplexing to many observers, including analysts at the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute, because firing Colorado-based affiliates has no effect on Amazon's obligations under the new law.
That point was reflected to varying degrees in the news coverage. Here are links:
The Denver Post: Amazon.com drops Colorado retailers after tax law enacted
Denver Post commentary: Hickenlooper missed his chance on Amazon tax
The Associated Press via the Boulder Daily Camera: Amazon cuts off Colorado affiliates because of new Internet tax
Colorado News Agency via Denver Daily News: Amazon pushes back after state moves to tax online sales
Colorado Independent: Amazon's baffling response to Colorado's web sales tax suggests a legal strategy
Coloradopols.com: A Lesson To The Others
Denver Business Journal: Amazon.com to drop Colorado affiliates in response to tax law
Durango Herald: Amazon fires Colorado marketers
Amazon said it fired its Colorado affiliates in response to a measure the Colorado Legislature passed recently that requires all Internet retailers to collect sales tax or at least alert their customers to the sales tax liability associated with a purchase. The move was perplexing to many observers, including analysts at the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute, because firing Colorado-based affiliates has no effect on Amazon's obligations under the new law.
That point was reflected to varying degrees in the news coverage. Here are links:
The Denver Post: Amazon.com drops Colorado retailers after tax law enacted
Denver Post commentary: Hickenlooper missed his chance on Amazon tax
The Associated Press via the Boulder Daily Camera: Amazon cuts off Colorado affiliates because of new Internet tax
Colorado News Agency via Denver Daily News: Amazon pushes back after state moves to tax online sales
Colorado Independent: Amazon's baffling response to Colorado's web sales tax suggests a legal strategy
Coloradopols.com: A Lesson To The Others
Denver Business Journal: Amazon.com to drop Colorado affiliates in response to tax law
Durango Herald: Amazon fires Colorado marketers
Friday, March 5, 2010
Feds developing a new way to measure poverty
The U.S. Commerce Department announced Tuesday that experts from the U.S. Census Bureau will develop a new, more sophisticated measurement of poverty to supplement an outdated poverty measurement that's been in use since the 1960s.
The new measurement will not replace the existing definition of poverty, and it won't be used to determine eligibility for government programs. That's too bad, since researchers have understood for years that the official poverty guidelines are not an accurate measurement of the income required to subsist without outside assistance.
The Colorado Center on Law and Policy has been the leader in this state in advancing a "self-sufficiency standard" as a better measurement of poverty. The self-sufficiency standard accounts for many variables such as child care costs to estimate the income required to get by without outside help. The agency released an online calculator a couple of years ago that helps people understand these variables.
The new measurement will not replace the existing definition of poverty, and it won't be used to determine eligibility for government programs. That's too bad, since researchers have understood for years that the official poverty guidelines are not an accurate measurement of the income required to subsist without outside assistance.
The Colorado Center on Law and Policy has been the leader in this state in advancing a "self-sufficiency standard" as a better measurement of poverty. The self-sufficiency standard accounts for many variables such as child care costs to estimate the income required to get by without outside help. The agency released an online calculator a couple of years ago that helps people understand these variables.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Tax cuts won't stimulate the economy
Our friends at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities routinely put out great research that adds context to debates over policy and the economy. They did it again with a report issued yesterday demonstrating, as the title says, "States Cannot Stimulate Their Economies by Cutting Taxes."
The point the authors make might not be intuitive, but it's very simple. First, it's true that tax cuts can in some cases create jobs by stimulating demand for goods and services. That's the argument many have used to advocate for tax cuts, and several have been proposed in Colorado during the current session of the state Legislature.
If only creating jobs were so simple. The trouble is Colorado's state government must have a balanced budget. Deficit spending is illegal. That means any tax cuts must result in reduced spending somewhere in the government's budget. The result of reduced spending is often layoffs of people like teachers, firefighters or government office workers. In other words, fewer jobs. Cuts to government services such as child-care assistance can also result in people losing their jobs.
So while tax cuts can boost the economy for some, they can simultaneously hurt the economy for someone else.
The point the authors make might not be intuitive, but it's very simple. First, it's true that tax cuts can in some cases create jobs by stimulating demand for goods and services. That's the argument many have used to advocate for tax cuts, and several have been proposed in Colorado during the current session of the state Legislature.
If only creating jobs were so simple. The trouble is Colorado's state government must have a balanced budget. Deficit spending is illegal. That means any tax cuts must result in reduced spending somewhere in the government's budget. The result of reduced spending is often layoffs of people like teachers, firefighters or government office workers. In other words, fewer jobs. Cuts to government services such as child-care assistance can also result in people losing their jobs.
So while tax cuts can boost the economy for some, they can simultaneously hurt the economy for someone else.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
A covert campaign by payday lenders
Apparently, a mailer is being distributed around Colorado warning of "anti-jobs extremists" promoting tighter regulations on payday lending.
That would be us, the Colorado Center on Law and Policy, along with a large coalition of groups that are concerned about payday lending practices. But we can hardly be described as "anti-jobs extremists," given our long record of research pointing to constructive ways to strengthen Colorado's economy.
The odd thing about the mailer is it doesn't say exactly what proposal it's talking about. The Denver Post spelled out the details in a blog today.
The mailer concerns House Bill 1351, a measure now working its way through the Colorado Legislature that would cap the interest payday lenders can charge at an annual rate of 36 percent. That’s still high compared to the rates charged by many banks and other responsible lenders, but it’s a big improvement over the rates of up to 521 percent payday lenders are charging now.
That would be us, the Colorado Center on Law and Policy, along with a large coalition of groups that are concerned about payday lending practices. But we can hardly be described as "anti-jobs extremists," given our long record of research pointing to constructive ways to strengthen Colorado's economy.
The odd thing about the mailer is it doesn't say exactly what proposal it's talking about. The Denver Post spelled out the details in a blog today.
The mailer concerns House Bill 1351, a measure now working its way through the Colorado Legislature that would cap the interest payday lenders can charge at an annual rate of 36 percent. That’s still high compared to the rates charged by many banks and other responsible lenders, but it’s a big improvement over the rates of up to 521 percent payday lenders are charging now.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Examining the effects of health care reform
In case you missed it last week, the Colorado Center on Law and Policy issued a report that offers a lot of insight on national health care reform.
The report uses several case studies of people and businesses around Colorado to show how health care reform would look under bills passed by the House and the Senate. It also details the huge cost of letting reform die, which is useful to think about for our friends who get nervous about the scope of proposed reforms.
The report uses several case studies of people and businesses around Colorado to show how health care reform would look under bills passed by the House and the Senate. It also details the huge cost of letting reform die, which is useful to think about for our friends who get nervous about the scope of proposed reforms.
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