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, June 30, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
HEALTH POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Panel gets an earful on options for Memorial Health System
Should the city sell Memorial Health System? The commission charged with recommending what to do with Memorial Health System got an earful Tuesday night.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado News Agency: Last year’s backlash over late fees made for modest rollback in 2010
Lawmakers settled for half a loaf–some say less–amid competing attempts during the 2010 legislative session to soothe public sentiments over last year’s hike in late fees on vehicle registrations.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Bruce avoids a ‘perp walk,’ but discredits his initiatives
It appears that Attorney General John Suthers has finally found the right threat to intimidate Douglas Bruce into showing up for a court date. Bruce doesn’t want to be photographed in an orange jumpsuit doing the “perp walk” if he is arrested. Just why he should be entitled to such genteel treatment will baffle anyone who has followed his shenanigans over the past two months.
Colorado Statesman: Revenue forecasts show state is not done cutting for 2010-11
Colorado’s June revenue forecasts, released on Monday, showed the state is going to have to make more cuts in the 2010-11 budget, on top of the more than $1 billion already slashed from the state budget during the most recent legislative session. The next round of cuts will be much smaller, to the tune of $75 million.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Facing more trouble maintaining vital services, Colorado has plenty of company
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities issued a grim report today detailing how vital public services, and economic recovery, are at risk in many states. The headline: "New fiscal year brings more grief for state budgets, economic recovery at risk." It includes a good summary of what's going on in Colorado.
Municipal League says the 'Bad Three' would be bad for cities
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, June 29, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Westminster budget shortfall spells job, program cuts
Budget woes are forcing city officials to cut jobs, re-evaluate a domestic- violence prevention program and eliminate family-friendly activities such as the annual Easter egg hunt and holiday elf village. It is all part of an effort to make up for an estimated $5.1 million budget shortfall in 2011.
The Denver Post: 2012 ballot measures filed to adjust income tax, eliminate business tax
Two tax ballot measures for the 2012 ballot — yes, 2012 — were filed Friday, including a provision that eliminates the hated business personal-property tax.
Grand Junction Sentinel: League warns of ballot measures’ effects
The Colorado Municipal League is trying to let local and special governments know how three controversial questions on this fall’s ballot would affect them.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Power grab
The latest power grab over the American economy and Americans’ lives came at the bewitching hour of 5:40 a.m. on Friday when House and Senate negotiators came up with an agreement on what is being sold as financial “reform.”
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Westminster budget shortfall spells job, program cuts
Budget woes are forcing city officials to cut jobs, re-evaluate a domestic- violence prevention program and eliminate family-friendly activities such as the annual Easter egg hunt and holiday elf village. It is all part of an effort to make up for an estimated $5.1 million budget shortfall in 2011.
The Denver Post: 2012 ballot measures filed to adjust income tax, eliminate business tax
Two tax ballot measures for the 2012 ballot — yes, 2012 — were filed Friday, including a provision that eliminates the hated business personal-property tax.
Grand Junction Sentinel: League warns of ballot measures’ effects
The Colorado Municipal League is trying to let local and special governments know how three controversial questions on this fall’s ballot would affect them.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Power grab
The latest power grab over the American economy and Americans’ lives came at the bewitching hour of 5:40 a.m. on Friday when House and Senate negotiators came up with an agreement on what is being sold as financial “reform.”
Monday, June 28, 2010
Ready for another $1 billion cut from state services? How would you do it?
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, June 28, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: How would you cut $1 billion?
With yet another possible $1 billion shortfall looming for the state of Colorado, we got out our sharpened pencils to see if we could determine what it would take to make up the deficit.
The Denver Post: Looking down the road: Tax measures proposed for 2012 ballot
Two tax ballot measures for the 2012, yes 2012, ballot were filed today, including a provision that eliminates the hated business personal property tax.
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Draconian
There is no free lunch, but if two statewide ballot issues aimed at cutting property taxes and vehicle taxes were to pass, Puebloans’ hunger for knowledge would suffer.
Colorado News Agency: Open-government advocates say legislature moved the ball, a bit, in 2010\
Spurred on by the Internet, government transparency has become a recurring theme at the General Assembly in recent years, yet some lawmakers say we still have a long way to go in making the public’s business publicly accessible. Their goal: someday to see the day-to-day operation of all government functions available online.
Greeley Tribune editorial: CSU tuition plan will help families now, but state needs long-term solution
Colorado State University's recent announcement that it will reduce tuition for students from middle- and low-income families strikes us as a great idea. Sort of. Our concern is that it strikes us as putting a Band-Aid on a deep and potentially fatal wound. It might help stop the bleeding for a little while, but sooner or later, major surgery will be required.
HEALTH CARE POLICY
Denver Post commentary: How health care reform will impact children
The status quo in American Health Care is not sustainable. While many receive outstanding care from the best-trained physicians in the world utilizing the most advanced technology, insurance coverage is repeatedly denied to those in greatest need, and others can not afford even basic services.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Daily News: Congress takes swipe at ‘swipe fees’
Financial-overhaul includes limits on interchange fees, which could help consumers save.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado gets on-the-job training grant for long-time unemployed
Colorado received a $1.14 million federal grant Friday that will assist businesses in providing on-the-job training to individuals who have been out of work for a long time.
GENERAL
Grand Junction Sentinel: Tea party rally denounces government bailouts
Hoisting signs and occasionally waving flags, tea party enthusiasts and their candidates vowed Sunday to wrest control of the U.S. from politicians they painted as greedy and dishonest and give it back to the citizens.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: How would you cut $1 billion?
With yet another possible $1 billion shortfall looming for the state of Colorado, we got out our sharpened pencils to see if we could determine what it would take to make up the deficit.
The Denver Post: Looking down the road: Tax measures proposed for 2012 ballot
Two tax ballot measures for the 2012, yes 2012, ballot were filed today, including a provision that eliminates the hated business personal property tax.
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Draconian
There is no free lunch, but if two statewide ballot issues aimed at cutting property taxes and vehicle taxes were to pass, Puebloans’ hunger for knowledge would suffer.
Colorado News Agency: Open-government advocates say legislature moved the ball, a bit, in 2010\
Spurred on by the Internet, government transparency has become a recurring theme at the General Assembly in recent years, yet some lawmakers say we still have a long way to go in making the public’s business publicly accessible. Their goal: someday to see the day-to-day operation of all government functions available online.
Greeley Tribune editorial: CSU tuition plan will help families now, but state needs long-term solution
Colorado State University's recent announcement that it will reduce tuition for students from middle- and low-income families strikes us as a great idea. Sort of. Our concern is that it strikes us as putting a Band-Aid on a deep and potentially fatal wound. It might help stop the bleeding for a little while, but sooner or later, major surgery will be required.
HEALTH CARE POLICY
Denver Post commentary: How health care reform will impact children
The status quo in American Health Care is not sustainable. While many receive outstanding care from the best-trained physicians in the world utilizing the most advanced technology, insurance coverage is repeatedly denied to those in greatest need, and others can not afford even basic services.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Daily News: Congress takes swipe at ‘swipe fees’
Financial-overhaul includes limits on interchange fees, which could help consumers save.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado gets on-the-job training grant for long-time unemployed
Colorado received a $1.14 million federal grant Friday that will assist businesses in providing on-the-job training to individuals who have been out of work for a long time.
GENERAL
Grand Junction Sentinel: Tea party rally denounces government bailouts
Hoisting signs and occasionally waving flags, tea party enthusiasts and their candidates vowed Sunday to wrest control of the U.S. from politicians they painted as greedy and dishonest and give it back to the citizens.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Even more cuts coming for Colorado's budget, threatening the state's most vulnerable
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, June 22, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Pot shops boosting city tax collections
Since Colorado's attorney general cleared cities to start taxing medical marijuana businesses late last year, cities across the state have seen an extra shot of cash go into their ever-tightening budgets.
The Denver Post: Colorado's ailing budget faces potentially treacherous fiscal 2011-12
The state of Colorado will barely scrape by with a balanced budget when the current fiscal year ends on June 30, and it will start the next budget year in July with up to a $72 million shortfall, prompting more cuts.
Also: Denver Daily News: Further state budget cuts needed
Also: Associated Press via Pueblo Chieftain: State eyes deeper cuts in budget
Also: Durango Herald: State budget needs modest cuts this year
Colorado News Agency: Budgeting on promise of federal dollars could leave state in the lurch
A panel of lawmakers at the Capitol was told today that even though the federal government gave every indication that “the check is in the mail”–a check for $245 million, due for delivery next year, might not be en route after all.
Denver Post editorial: Privatizing is just trash talk
Unless they want to pay more, Denver residents still have it pretty good when it comes to getting their garbage hauled off.
Aurora Sentinel editorial: Need a budget fix? Solve Colorado's costly prison system
There could be one good thing that comes from the state’s ever-increasing budget crisis: The state may be forced to deal with its costly and ineffective prison system.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado lost 62,600 jobs in 2000s
Colorado has lost 62,600 private-sector jobs in the first decade of the 21st century -- 3.38 percent of the total.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Pot shops boosting city tax collections
Since Colorado's attorney general cleared cities to start taxing medical marijuana businesses late last year, cities across the state have seen an extra shot of cash go into their ever-tightening budgets.
The Denver Post: Colorado's ailing budget faces potentially treacherous fiscal 2011-12
The state of Colorado will barely scrape by with a balanced budget when the current fiscal year ends on June 30, and it will start the next budget year in July with up to a $72 million shortfall, prompting more cuts.
Also: Denver Daily News: Further state budget cuts needed
Also: Associated Press via Pueblo Chieftain: State eyes deeper cuts in budget
Also: Durango Herald: State budget needs modest cuts this year
Colorado News Agency: Budgeting on promise of federal dollars could leave state in the lurch
A panel of lawmakers at the Capitol was told today that even though the federal government gave every indication that “the check is in the mail”–a check for $245 million, due for delivery next year, might not be en route after all.
Denver Post editorial: Privatizing is just trash talk
Unless they want to pay more, Denver residents still have it pretty good when it comes to getting their garbage hauled off.
Aurora Sentinel editorial: Need a budget fix? Solve Colorado's costly prison system
There could be one good thing that comes from the state’s ever-increasing budget crisis: The state may be forced to deal with its costly and ineffective prison system.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado lost 62,600 jobs in 2000s
Colorado has lost 62,600 private-sector jobs in the first decade of the 21st century -- 3.38 percent of the total.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Jobs and the economy are the top concern, poll finds
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, June 21, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Poll: Coloradans say jobs a No. 1 concern in U.S.
No matter their political leanings, a majority of Coloradans believe the most pressing issue facing the country today is "jobs and the economy."
The Denver Post: Tea Party activism hasn't boosted GOP voter rolls; numbers slipped for them and Dems
Tea Party activists have stormed the GOP state assembly, scrutinized candidates at forums across Colorado and regularly protested policies and politicians they dislike since first splashing into the political pool about 15 months ago. What they haven't done is deliver more voters to the GOP ranks, which have instead dwindled a bit and left the much-hyped movement's impact on the general election even less clear.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: CSU tuition plan is family-friendly
We applaud the university for making higher education costs more transparent, especially for lower-income families.
Also: Colorado News Agency: Guv, CSU unveil effort to slash costs for some students
Colorado Springs Gazette commentary: Bruce's Amendment 61 just plain wacky
Amendment 61 is the latest insane, mean-spirited attack on Coloradans. It would effectively end large publicly financed projects, from schools and highways to light rail and airports.
Denver Daily News: Would ‘crash tax’ be fair
City Council expected to introduce bill creating fees for non-residents in accidents.
Pueblo Chieftain: Voters may get say on pot tax
Pueblo voters may get to voice their opinions on medical marijuana in November, including whether to levy a 4.3 percent sales tax on the drug and its related paraphernalia.
Pueblo Chieftain: Council to discuss far-reaching state ballot measures
City Council is scheduled to have a two-hour briefing and discussion Monday evening on three far-reaching state ballot initiatives that would require sharp cuts in the property taxes that support public schools while also curtailing the ability of state and local governments to issue bonds for capital construction projects.
Durango Herald editorial: 9-R's ballot
It is heartening news that a survey found broad support for the idea that Durango School District 9-R might ask voters to approve a mill-levy override to make up, in part at least, for dwindling state funds. But before actually taking such a measure to the polls, the district needs to provide clear and specific plans as to why it needs the money and what it will do with it.
Fort Collins Coloradoan commentary: Proposition would hurt tax revenues
You might not be surprised to learn that the "guiding force" behind an extreme but landmark proposition is the instigator of the notorious 1992 TABOR Amendment, Douglas Bruce.
Grand Junction Sentinel: State plans to restore impact funds
The Colorado Department of Local Affairs is tentatively planning to offer about $76 million in energy and mineral impact grants and loans over the next state fiscal year. The distribution would be the first in more than a year because funds instead have been diverted to help balance the state’s budget. It’s still contingent on the state’s future budget situation, but department officials are hoping none of the $76 million will have to be diverted.
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Summer food programs lack participation despite growing needy population
Katarina Lowe estimates she’s feeding only about 60 to 65 people per day in a cafeteria equipped to serve as many as 300. Asked what happens to the leftover food, she simply pointed to the trash can.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado personal income up for 3rd straight quarter
Personal income in Colorado rose 0.43 percent in this year's first quarter from the final quarter of 2009 -- the third straight quarterly increase for the state, the U.S. Department of Commerce reports.
Also: Denver Business Journal: Colorado unemployment rate stays at 8% in May; 1,100 more working
HEALTH CARE POLICY
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Doctors discuss the ‘good, bad and ugly’
There will be winners and losers. There will be the good, the bad and the ugly. And there will be lots and lots of paperwork. This is how three health care experts described reformed health care Thursday afternoon during a panel discussion sponsored by the McKee Medical Center Foundation as part of its seminar series.
Summit Daily News: Summit medical providers may collaborate and share electronic medical records
Roundtable of stakeholders brainstorm ideas on working together in Summit County.
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Poll: Coloradans say jobs a No. 1 concern in U.S.
No matter their political leanings, a majority of Coloradans believe the most pressing issue facing the country today is "jobs and the economy."
The Denver Post: Tea Party activism hasn't boosted GOP voter rolls; numbers slipped for them and Dems
Tea Party activists have stormed the GOP state assembly, scrutinized candidates at forums across Colorado and regularly protested policies and politicians they dislike since first splashing into the political pool about 15 months ago. What they haven't done is deliver more voters to the GOP ranks, which have instead dwindled a bit and left the much-hyped movement's impact on the general election even less clear.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: CSU tuition plan is family-friendly
We applaud the university for making higher education costs more transparent, especially for lower-income families.
Also: Colorado News Agency: Guv, CSU unveil effort to slash costs for some students
Colorado Springs Gazette commentary: Bruce's Amendment 61 just plain wacky
Amendment 61 is the latest insane, mean-spirited attack on Coloradans. It would effectively end large publicly financed projects, from schools and highways to light rail and airports.
Denver Daily News: Would ‘crash tax’ be fair
City Council expected to introduce bill creating fees for non-residents in accidents.
Pueblo Chieftain: Voters may get say on pot tax
Pueblo voters may get to voice their opinions on medical marijuana in November, including whether to levy a 4.3 percent sales tax on the drug and its related paraphernalia.
Pueblo Chieftain: Council to discuss far-reaching state ballot measures
City Council is scheduled to have a two-hour briefing and discussion Monday evening on three far-reaching state ballot initiatives that would require sharp cuts in the property taxes that support public schools while also curtailing the ability of state and local governments to issue bonds for capital construction projects.
Durango Herald editorial: 9-R's ballot
It is heartening news that a survey found broad support for the idea that Durango School District 9-R might ask voters to approve a mill-levy override to make up, in part at least, for dwindling state funds. But before actually taking such a measure to the polls, the district needs to provide clear and specific plans as to why it needs the money and what it will do with it.
Fort Collins Coloradoan commentary: Proposition would hurt tax revenues
You might not be surprised to learn that the "guiding force" behind an extreme but landmark proposition is the instigator of the notorious 1992 TABOR Amendment, Douglas Bruce.
Grand Junction Sentinel: State plans to restore impact funds
The Colorado Department of Local Affairs is tentatively planning to offer about $76 million in energy and mineral impact grants and loans over the next state fiscal year. The distribution would be the first in more than a year because funds instead have been diverted to help balance the state’s budget. It’s still contingent on the state’s future budget situation, but department officials are hoping none of the $76 million will have to be diverted.
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Summer food programs lack participation despite growing needy population
Katarina Lowe estimates she’s feeding only about 60 to 65 people per day in a cafeteria equipped to serve as many as 300. Asked what happens to the leftover food, she simply pointed to the trash can.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado personal income up for 3rd straight quarter
Personal income in Colorado rose 0.43 percent in this year's first quarter from the final quarter of 2009 -- the third straight quarterly increase for the state, the U.S. Department of Commerce reports.
Also: Denver Business Journal: Colorado unemployment rate stays at 8% in May; 1,100 more working
HEALTH CARE POLICY
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Doctors discuss the ‘good, bad and ugly’
There will be winners and losers. There will be the good, the bad and the ugly. And there will be lots and lots of paperwork. This is how three health care experts described reformed health care Thursday afternoon during a panel discussion sponsored by the McKee Medical Center Foundation as part of its seminar series.
Summit Daily News: Summit medical providers may collaborate and share electronic medical records
Roundtable of stakeholders brainstorm ideas on working together in Summit County.
Friday, June 18, 2010
A new batch of misguided attacks on health reform, and some reasoned argument on TABOR
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, June 18, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Delays in state refunds taxing some Coloradans' patience
Some Coloradans have reported lengthy and mysterious delays in receiving their state income-tax refunds, although statistics show all but a fraction of the 2008 and 2009 returns were processed within the 45 days required by state law.
The Denver Post: Suthers gets OK to act against Doug Bruce
A Denver judge has approved a motion by Colorado Attorney General John Suthers that clears the way for him to try to have anti-tax activist Doug Bruce held in contempt of court.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Why employers should not pay for health care
Fewer Colorado employers are providing health insurance to employees. While many are lamenting this fact, it is actually a step in the right direction.
Denver Daily News: Medicaid reform needed?
GOP calls for ‘entitlement reform’ following Medicaid payment delay.
Denver Business Journal: Court ruling could be a tonic for health-law foes
Don’t want to have to purchase health insurance? Your slim chance of avoiding that upcoming federal mandate has gotten a new breath of life.
Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: County’s health clinic won’t destroy local system
Mesa County is contracting with the private sector for the management of a health clinic for county employees. As far as “weakening” the rest of the system, Mesa County has 1,800 members (employees and dependents) on the county medical plan. This is approximately 1.2 percent of the 145,000-plus individuals in Mesa County.
ECONOMY
The Denver Post: Colorado foreclosure filings at 18-month low
New filings in metropolitan Colorado counties fell to 2,633 in May, a 17.7 percent decline from the same month last year, according to the state Division of Housing.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: TABOR math is fatal, and it's killing us
A deep recession followed by a nice rebound brings out the worst in the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: CSU unveils plan to cut tuition for struggling students
Jim Rawlins worries about the kids he never gets to meet - the kids who think their families just can't afford to send them to college, and who never even try.
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Kids Cafe strives to feed low-income Loveland youths in summer
On-site manager Melissa Hernandez likes knowing that the children living in a low-income apartment complex in Loveland are getting their meals.
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Delays in state refunds taxing some Coloradans' patience
Some Coloradans have reported lengthy and mysterious delays in receiving their state income-tax refunds, although statistics show all but a fraction of the 2008 and 2009 returns were processed within the 45 days required by state law.
The Denver Post: Suthers gets OK to act against Doug Bruce
A Denver judge has approved a motion by Colorado Attorney General John Suthers that clears the way for him to try to have anti-tax activist Doug Bruce held in contempt of court.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Why employers should not pay for health care
Fewer Colorado employers are providing health insurance to employees. While many are lamenting this fact, it is actually a step in the right direction.
Denver Daily News: Medicaid reform needed?
GOP calls for ‘entitlement reform’ following Medicaid payment delay.
Denver Business Journal: Court ruling could be a tonic for health-law foes
Don’t want to have to purchase health insurance? Your slim chance of avoiding that upcoming federal mandate has gotten a new breath of life.
Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: County’s health clinic won’t destroy local system
Mesa County is contracting with the private sector for the management of a health clinic for county employees. As far as “weakening” the rest of the system, Mesa County has 1,800 members (employees and dependents) on the county medical plan. This is approximately 1.2 percent of the 145,000-plus individuals in Mesa County.
ECONOMY
The Denver Post: Colorado foreclosure filings at 18-month low
New filings in metropolitan Colorado counties fell to 2,633 in May, a 17.7 percent decline from the same month last year, according to the state Division of Housing.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: TABOR math is fatal, and it's killing us
A deep recession followed by a nice rebound brings out the worst in the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: CSU unveils plan to cut tuition for struggling students
Jim Rawlins worries about the kids he never gets to meet - the kids who think their families just can't afford to send them to college, and who never even try.
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Kids Cafe strives to feed low-income Loveland youths in summer
On-site manager Melissa Hernandez likes knowing that the children living in a low-income apartment complex in Loveland are getting their meals.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Declaring a fiscal emergency, Colorado delays Medicaid payments to doctors and clinics
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, June 17, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Colorado delays Medicaid payments
Temporarily short on money, Colorado has declared a fiscal emergency and delayed payments to doctors and clinics taking care of the state's neediest patients.
Huffington Post Denver: Health Care Reform Repeal Less Popular In Colorado Than Nationally: Rasmussen
A new survey from Rasmussen shows 53% of Coloradans support a repeal of the federal health care reform law passed in March. That's 5 points lower than the national average, and 8 points lower than last month, when Rasmussen asked likely voters the same question.
Craig Daily Press: Moffat County awarded funds for rural health care
In a recent round of rural health care grants, Moffat County institutions received more than $90,000 in state funds, the most awarded to any Colorado county.
GENERAL
Denver Post editorial: Issue backers thumbing noses at ballot process
By not cooperating with officials about who is behind three measures, Douglas Bruce and gang threaten vital principles.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Budget cuts mean school bus fees in Woodland Park
Students in Woodland Park School District RE-2 will pay $50 to ride a school bus in the coming school year.
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Colorado state budget might face more cuts
Colorado might face still more budget cuts if the federal government doesn’t come through with additional money for Medicaid.
Fort Collins Coloradoan editorial: Voters need details to decide on tax increase
The Fort Collins City Council made the correct decision Tuesday in deciding to let city voters decide in November whether to increase the sales tax.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Legislator wants to ax benefits for part-timers
Rep. Laura Bradford is calling on the state to end its practice of offering benefits to part-time workers. The Collbran Republican said the practice isn’t done in the private sector and that the state may be wasting taxpayers’ money by offering it.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Colorado delays Medicaid payments
Temporarily short on money, Colorado has declared a fiscal emergency and delayed payments to doctors and clinics taking care of the state's neediest patients.
Huffington Post Denver: Health Care Reform Repeal Less Popular In Colorado Than Nationally: Rasmussen
A new survey from Rasmussen shows 53% of Coloradans support a repeal of the federal health care reform law passed in March. That's 5 points lower than the national average, and 8 points lower than last month, when Rasmussen asked likely voters the same question.
Craig Daily Press: Moffat County awarded funds for rural health care
In a recent round of rural health care grants, Moffat County institutions received more than $90,000 in state funds, the most awarded to any Colorado county.
GENERAL
Denver Post editorial: Issue backers thumbing noses at ballot process
By not cooperating with officials about who is behind three measures, Douglas Bruce and gang threaten vital principles.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Budget cuts mean school bus fees in Woodland Park
Students in Woodland Park School District RE-2 will pay $50 to ride a school bus in the coming school year.
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Colorado state budget might face more cuts
Colorado might face still more budget cuts if the federal government doesn’t come through with additional money for Medicaid.
Fort Collins Coloradoan editorial: Voters need details to decide on tax increase
The Fort Collins City Council made the correct decision Tuesday in deciding to let city voters decide in November whether to increase the sales tax.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Legislator wants to ax benefits for part-timers
Rep. Laura Bradford is calling on the state to end its practice of offering benefits to part-time workers. The Collbran Republican said the practice isn’t done in the private sector and that the state may be wasting taxpayers’ money by offering it.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Some signs point to strengthening of economic recovery
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, June 16, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
ECONOMY
Colorado Springs Gazette: City sales tax collections jump in May by biggest percentage in 2½ years
In a sign that the local economic recovery is gaining strength, Colorado Springs sales tax collections jumped in May by the biggest percentage in 2½ years when compared with a year earlier, helped by big gains in auto and building materials sales.
Denver Business Journal: 19% of Denver-area employers plan Q3 hiring, while 8% plan job cuts, survey says
Nineteen percent of Denver-area employers plan to hire in the third quarter, while 8 percent expect to cut their payrolls, according to a new quarterly survey by Manpower Inc.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Daily News: Perlmutter urges limits on executive compensation
Rep. Ed Perlmutter, D-Colo., yesterday urged members of the Wall Street Reform bill conference committee to give shareholders of public companies more authority to determine how top corporate executives are paid.
Aurora Sentinel editorial: Credit controls keep crisis threat at bay
Good news came Tuesday when the Federal Reserve adopted new rules to help rein in costly — and completely unnecessary — credit card fees.
GENERAL
Colorado News Agency: Business group presses for change in statehouse
One of the state’s most prominent business lobbies is moving forward with its promise last month–at the end of a disappointing legislative session–to see that Colorado elects a more business-friendly legislature in November. The first step: to vet this year’s crop of statehouse candidates.
Colorado Pols commentary: Battle Brewing over Ballot Issue Petitons
Recently the Independence Institute brought a challenge to court over a perceived conflict in law, but it was only one part of a larger suit and was not addressed by the court when the court ruled on another issue making the rest of the suit moot. The unresolved issue is what is the deadline to file a petition to put a ballot question on the ballot?
FISCAL POLICY
Durango Herald: School district finds tax hike support
A survey of likely voters in Durango School District 9-R showed they are surprisingly willing to approve a property-tax increase to fund the school district, a consultant told the school board Tuesday.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Fort Collins council gives preliminary OK for voters to consider tax increase
The council has until Aug. 17 to decide the language of the measure and spell out how much the tax would be, how long it would last and where the money would go.
Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: Garfield County expands senior rebate program
County commissioners on Monday approved a resolution that will allow senior citizens to make a case for receiving one of the $163 payments if they can provide proof other than the county's voter registration rolls that they've been in the county for 10 years or more.
Summit Daily News: Summit County School District eyes Nov. ballot
Poll finds majority of voters support tax for school funding.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Study finds 518 homeless in city
A new study that found more than 500 homeless people in Fort Collins is being used to develop a plan to eliminate homelessness in the community in 10 years.
ECONOMY
Colorado Springs Gazette: City sales tax collections jump in May by biggest percentage in 2½ years
In a sign that the local economic recovery is gaining strength, Colorado Springs sales tax collections jumped in May by the biggest percentage in 2½ years when compared with a year earlier, helped by big gains in auto and building materials sales.
Denver Business Journal: 19% of Denver-area employers plan Q3 hiring, while 8% plan job cuts, survey says
Nineteen percent of Denver-area employers plan to hire in the third quarter, while 8 percent expect to cut their payrolls, according to a new quarterly survey by Manpower Inc.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Denver Daily News: Perlmutter urges limits on executive compensation
Rep. Ed Perlmutter, D-Colo., yesterday urged members of the Wall Street Reform bill conference committee to give shareholders of public companies more authority to determine how top corporate executives are paid.
Aurora Sentinel editorial: Credit controls keep crisis threat at bay
Good news came Tuesday when the Federal Reserve adopted new rules to help rein in costly — and completely unnecessary — credit card fees.
GENERAL
Colorado News Agency: Business group presses for change in statehouse
One of the state’s most prominent business lobbies is moving forward with its promise last month–at the end of a disappointing legislative session–to see that Colorado elects a more business-friendly legislature in November. The first step: to vet this year’s crop of statehouse candidates.
Colorado Pols commentary: Battle Brewing over Ballot Issue Petitons
Recently the Independence Institute brought a challenge to court over a perceived conflict in law, but it was only one part of a larger suit and was not addressed by the court when the court ruled on another issue making the rest of the suit moot. The unresolved issue is what is the deadline to file a petition to put a ballot question on the ballot?
FISCAL POLICY
Durango Herald: School district finds tax hike support
A survey of likely voters in Durango School District 9-R showed they are surprisingly willing to approve a property-tax increase to fund the school district, a consultant told the school board Tuesday.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Fort Collins council gives preliminary OK for voters to consider tax increase
The council has until Aug. 17 to decide the language of the measure and spell out how much the tax would be, how long it would last and where the money would go.
Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: Garfield County expands senior rebate program
County commissioners on Monday approved a resolution that will allow senior citizens to make a case for receiving one of the $163 payments if they can provide proof other than the county's voter registration rolls that they've been in the county for 10 years or more.
Summit Daily News: Summit County School District eyes Nov. ballot
Poll finds majority of voters support tax for school funding.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Study finds 518 homeless in city
A new study that found more than 500 homeless people in Fort Collins is being used to develop a plan to eliminate homelessness in the community in 10 years.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Post praises Ritters veto of automatic pay raises for state workers
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, June 9, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Wrong way to fix pay system
Gov. Ritter acted for all Coloradans with his fiscally responsible veto of a bill pushing automatic pay increases for state workers.
Boulder Daily Camera: Gov. Ritter to sign bill that will give CU tuition flexibility
Gov. Bill Ritter is scheduled to sign a bill into law Wednesday morning that will loosen the state's reins on Colorado's public colleges, partly giving them the flexibility to raise tuition on their own and recruit more international students.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Officials: Ballot issues could cut millions from county budget
A trio of issues on the November ballot could end up forcing Larimer County to cut million of dollars from its budget as soon as next year, officials say.
Sterling Journal-Advocate editorial: Bad timing to say the least
Even the best of ideas need a no-vote when the timing is wrong, and that is the least we see for three proposals waiting for November voters.
Greeley Tribune: Greeley plans survey to gauge what residents are willing to pay for road repairs
Greeley City Council is going the survey route to gauge what level of funding increase — be it a street utility fee, sales tax hike or diversion of quality-of-life funds — residents are willing to shoulder to upgrade the city's crumbling streets.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Colorado Pols commentary: Why the Bank Regulations Matter
Here's the key issue we need to face, if we don't bring in real regulation, then the banks will continue to place large bets, keep the profits, leave us with the losses, and continue to drive us into deep recessions. And if we continue to merely pretend to address the core issues, while leaving the banks to fuck with our economy for their short-term profit, they will continue to wreak devastation on the economy and on people's lives.
ECONOMY
Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: Glenwood sales tax drop not as bad as expected
While city revenues have continued to decline for 23 consecutive months, Glenwood Springs City Manager Jeff Hecksel said that the declines in March and April weren't as bad as he expected.
HEALTH POLICY
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: County clinic could harm local health care network
Mesa County is trying to save money in health care. The county recently decided to set up its own primary care clinic in an effort to control ever increasing health insurance costs incurred by Mesa County taxpayers. The county commissioners should be applauded for those goals. We should thank them for addressing the problem. Our gratitude should stop there, however. They have not seen the forest through the trees.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Wrong way to fix pay system
Gov. Ritter acted for all Coloradans with his fiscally responsible veto of a bill pushing automatic pay increases for state workers.
Boulder Daily Camera: Gov. Ritter to sign bill that will give CU tuition flexibility
Gov. Bill Ritter is scheduled to sign a bill into law Wednesday morning that will loosen the state's reins on Colorado's public colleges, partly giving them the flexibility to raise tuition on their own and recruit more international students.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Officials: Ballot issues could cut millions from county budget
A trio of issues on the November ballot could end up forcing Larimer County to cut million of dollars from its budget as soon as next year, officials say.
Sterling Journal-Advocate editorial: Bad timing to say the least
Even the best of ideas need a no-vote when the timing is wrong, and that is the least we see for three proposals waiting for November voters.
Greeley Tribune: Greeley plans survey to gauge what residents are willing to pay for road repairs
Greeley City Council is going the survey route to gauge what level of funding increase — be it a street utility fee, sales tax hike or diversion of quality-of-life funds — residents are willing to shoulder to upgrade the city's crumbling streets.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Colorado Pols commentary: Why the Bank Regulations Matter
Here's the key issue we need to face, if we don't bring in real regulation, then the banks will continue to place large bets, keep the profits, leave us with the losses, and continue to drive us into deep recessions. And if we continue to merely pretend to address the core issues, while leaving the banks to fuck with our economy for their short-term profit, they will continue to wreak devastation on the economy and on people's lives.
ECONOMY
Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: Glenwood sales tax drop not as bad as expected
While city revenues have continued to decline for 23 consecutive months, Glenwood Springs City Manager Jeff Hecksel said that the declines in March and April weren't as bad as he expected.
HEALTH POLICY
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: County clinic could harm local health care network
Mesa County is trying to save money in health care. The county recently decided to set up its own primary care clinic in an effort to control ever increasing health insurance costs incurred by Mesa County taxpayers. The county commissioners should be applauded for those goals. We should thank them for addressing the problem. Our gratitude should stop there, however. They have not seen the forest through the trees.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Recovery Act includes money to improve health information technology
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, June 4, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Caldara gets kick out of deadline change
House Bill 09-1326 moved up the deadline set out in the state Constitution for turning in signatures by three weeks to July 12 – an odd move considering laws passed by legislators are always trumped by the Constitution.
Denver Business Journal: Colorado managed care network gets $1M from stimulus for health IT
Colorado Community Managed Care Network, which operates 12 non-profit health care centers across the state, got a $1 million federal grant from the federal stimulus program to improve its health information technology systems.
FISCAL POLICY
Aurora Sentinel commentary: Coffman: Fight for a balanced budget amendment
A system that allows the government to spend money it does not have, and then to cover up the true cost of such spending to the American people, is no longer serving the people. A government of the people, by the people, and for the people is one that is responsible with the people’s money. It not only just spends what it has to, but also only spends what it actually has.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Caldara gets kick out of deadline change
House Bill 09-1326 moved up the deadline set out in the state Constitution for turning in signatures by three weeks to July 12 – an odd move considering laws passed by legislators are always trumped by the Constitution.
Denver Business Journal: Colorado managed care network gets $1M from stimulus for health IT
Colorado Community Managed Care Network, which operates 12 non-profit health care centers across the state, got a $1 million federal grant from the federal stimulus program to improve its health information technology systems.
FISCAL POLICY
Aurora Sentinel commentary: Coffman: Fight for a balanced budget amendment
A system that allows the government to spend money it does not have, and then to cover up the true cost of such spending to the American people, is no longer serving the people. A government of the people, by the people, and for the people is one that is responsible with the people’s money. It not only just spends what it has to, but also only spends what it actually has.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Durango Herald on the Bad Three ballot initiatives: 'This is nuts.'
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, June 3, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Candidates in Colorado AG race debate health care lawsuit
In the first debate leading up to their November showdown, state attorney general candidate Stan Garnett blasted incumbent John Suthers for joining a lawsuit challenging the federal health care overhaul, calling the action a waste of time.
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: Civility marks first AG debate between Suthers, Garnett
Also: Durango Herald: Attorney general candidates debate
Durango Herald: Activists want judge to toss petition law
U.S. District Judge Phillip Brimmer isn't likely to rule until Friday at the earliest. Each passing day makes it harder for Jon Caldara to gather signatures for his ballot initiative to overturn the federal health-care reform law in Colorado.
The Denver Post: New hospice, end-of-life laws put Colorado at forefront of care
A host of new Colorado laws intended to expand hospice care and make it easier for people to communicate their dying wishes will push the state to the forefront in end-of-life care, say advocates who asked for the reforms.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Memorial settles Spanish-translation suit for $1 million
The parents “did not understand the very significant risks of the procedure, including complete kidney failure and a life of dialysis and kidney transplants, nor were they informed of alternatives to the surgery, including monitoring the kidney for months,” documents state.
Also: Colorado Springs Independent: System failure [Translation: falla del sistema]
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Health center nixed at Loveland school; school board still plans for clinic in district
School board members reluctantly aborted plans Wednesday to open a school-based health center at Ferguson High School in the fall.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: Anti-tax proposals blasted
Business community lines up to oppose 3 anti-tax proposals; calls initiatives ‘crazy.’
Durango Herald editorial: Ballot madness
Perhaps what is needed is another ballot initiative, one to give state government the power to deport people. We could begin with Douglas Bruce. Failing that, perhaps we could go to the polls this fall remembering that for all the admitted nonsense in government, somebody still has to pay the cops and foot the bill for educating our kids.
KUSA: Another district considers charging school bus fee
The district may charge each student $10 a month to ride the bus, for a total of $100 for a school year. The Douglas County School District has already approved a plan to charge a fee for school bus rides.
KCNC: 'Crash Tax' Could Soon Kick In For Non-Denverites
People who live outside Denver's city limits could soon have to pay a fee if they get into an accident in the city.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Candidates in Colorado AG race debate health care lawsuit
In the first debate leading up to their November showdown, state attorney general candidate Stan Garnett blasted incumbent John Suthers for joining a lawsuit challenging the federal health care overhaul, calling the action a waste of time.
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: Civility marks first AG debate between Suthers, Garnett
Also: Durango Herald: Attorney general candidates debate
Durango Herald: Activists want judge to toss petition law
U.S. District Judge Phillip Brimmer isn't likely to rule until Friday at the earliest. Each passing day makes it harder for Jon Caldara to gather signatures for his ballot initiative to overturn the federal health-care reform law in Colorado.
The Denver Post: New hospice, end-of-life laws put Colorado at forefront of care
A host of new Colorado laws intended to expand hospice care and make it easier for people to communicate their dying wishes will push the state to the forefront in end-of-life care, say advocates who asked for the reforms.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Memorial settles Spanish-translation suit for $1 million
The parents “did not understand the very significant risks of the procedure, including complete kidney failure and a life of dialysis and kidney transplants, nor were they informed of alternatives to the surgery, including monitoring the kidney for months,” documents state.
Also: Colorado Springs Independent: System failure [Translation: falla del sistema]
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Health center nixed at Loveland school; school board still plans for clinic in district
School board members reluctantly aborted plans Wednesday to open a school-based health center at Ferguson High School in the fall.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: Anti-tax proposals blasted
Business community lines up to oppose 3 anti-tax proposals; calls initiatives ‘crazy.’
Durango Herald editorial: Ballot madness
Perhaps what is needed is another ballot initiative, one to give state government the power to deport people. We could begin with Douglas Bruce. Failing that, perhaps we could go to the polls this fall remembering that for all the admitted nonsense in government, somebody still has to pay the cops and foot the bill for educating our kids.
KUSA: Another district considers charging school bus fee
The district may charge each student $10 a month to ride the bus, for a total of $100 for a school year. The Douglas County School District has already approved a plan to charge a fee for school bus rides.
KCNC: 'Crash Tax' Could Soon Kick In For Non-Denverites
People who live outside Denver's city limits could soon have to pay a fee if they get into an accident in the city.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Colorado enters second round for 'race to the top' education dollars
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, June 2, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Race to the Top, round 2: Colorado touts push for improvement
Colorado's application for $175 million in the competitive Race to the Top education grant program includes goals the state hopes to accomplish by 2014 if it wins the money.
Also: Denver Daily News: The race is on — again
Also: Pueblo Chieftain: Colo. submits revised Race to Top application
Colorado Independent: Doug Bruce has got to leave his house eventually
In a high profile campaign finance trial taking place in Denver, Bruce has been fingered as the not-so-secret “Mr X” who authored three tax-slashing ballot initiatives, tampered with witnesses and illegally paid petition gatherers to secure signatures.
Also: Durango Herald: Search on for sponsors of tax-related measures
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
Denver Post editorial: City shouldn't rewrite affordable housing rules
Some residents who bought low-income units in Denver are asking officials to make it easier for them to sell their homes.
ECONOMY
The Denver Post: Colorado among top in workforce development
Colorado's use of private- public partnerships has placed it among the top states in the country when it comes to workforce development and training, according to a new study from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Chamber Foundation.
Also: Denver Business Journal: Chamber report praises Colo.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Homebuilding improved during May while foreclosures dropped, reports show
Local homebuilders had a solid month in May, the latest in a string of better performances for the homebuilding industry.
Steamboat Today: Steamboat sales tax revenues drop to 5-year low
Although May 2009 and April 2006 were within $2,000 of this year’s April total, the month’s revenues of $907,743 represented a low the city hasn’t hit in five years. The preliminary April total represents a 5.6 percent decrease from sales tax revenues in April 2009.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado News Agency: Seniors lose property-tax exemption–yet again
The senior homestead exemption for property taxes, amended into the state constitution by voters in 2000, has once again been put on hold through a bill signed into law by the governor last week. The move continues a succession of legislative flip-flops over whether to allow the exemption amid the state’s budgetary straits.
Durango Herald: Ballot-box budgeting stresses group
La Plata County government and Durango School District 9-R will lose millions of dollars if some tax-related measures on November's ballot pass, according to a recent analysis by The Bell Policy Center.
Sterling Journal Advocate: Sonnenberg says Dems killed jobs in legislative session
Sonnenberg said that despite the distractions, they worked very hard to try to keep and stimulate jobs. He expressed concern that the Democrats had passed bills that ended up being job-killing bills.
Canon City Daily Record: School district makes best of tight budget
With an eye toward maintaining relationships and programs, Cañon City School District administrative staff reworked the 2010-11 school year budget to include $1.7 million in cuts.
HEALTH POLICY
Grand Junction Sentinel: Medical database raises privacy issues
It’s a maxim in the medical profession that every therapeutic rose has its thorns. Of course, the principle applies to more than just medicine, but the maxim is particularly to the point in the case of law enforcement officials in the Grand Valley working to deal with the abuse of prescription medications.
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Race to the Top, round 2: Colorado touts push for improvement
Colorado's application for $175 million in the competitive Race to the Top education grant program includes goals the state hopes to accomplish by 2014 if it wins the money.
Also: Denver Daily News: The race is on — again
Also: Pueblo Chieftain: Colo. submits revised Race to Top application
Colorado Independent: Doug Bruce has got to leave his house eventually
In a high profile campaign finance trial taking place in Denver, Bruce has been fingered as the not-so-secret “Mr X” who authored three tax-slashing ballot initiatives, tampered with witnesses and illegally paid petition gatherers to secure signatures.
Also: Durango Herald: Search on for sponsors of tax-related measures
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
Denver Post editorial: City shouldn't rewrite affordable housing rules
Some residents who bought low-income units in Denver are asking officials to make it easier for them to sell their homes.
ECONOMY
The Denver Post: Colorado among top in workforce development
Colorado's use of private- public partnerships has placed it among the top states in the country when it comes to workforce development and training, according to a new study from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Chamber Foundation.
Also: Denver Business Journal: Chamber report praises Colo.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Homebuilding improved during May while foreclosures dropped, reports show
Local homebuilders had a solid month in May, the latest in a string of better performances for the homebuilding industry.
Steamboat Today: Steamboat sales tax revenues drop to 5-year low
Although May 2009 and April 2006 were within $2,000 of this year’s April total, the month’s revenues of $907,743 represented a low the city hasn’t hit in five years. The preliminary April total represents a 5.6 percent decrease from sales tax revenues in April 2009.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado News Agency: Seniors lose property-tax exemption–yet again
The senior homestead exemption for property taxes, amended into the state constitution by voters in 2000, has once again been put on hold through a bill signed into law by the governor last week. The move continues a succession of legislative flip-flops over whether to allow the exemption amid the state’s budgetary straits.
Durango Herald: Ballot-box budgeting stresses group
La Plata County government and Durango School District 9-R will lose millions of dollars if some tax-related measures on November's ballot pass, according to a recent analysis by The Bell Policy Center.
Sterling Journal Advocate: Sonnenberg says Dems killed jobs in legislative session
Sonnenberg said that despite the distractions, they worked very hard to try to keep and stimulate jobs. He expressed concern that the Democrats had passed bills that ended up being job-killing bills.
Canon City Daily Record: School district makes best of tight budget
With an eye toward maintaining relationships and programs, Cañon City School District administrative staff reworked the 2010-11 school year budget to include $1.7 million in cuts.
HEALTH POLICY
Grand Junction Sentinel: Medical database raises privacy issues
It’s a maxim in the medical profession that every therapeutic rose has its thorns. Of course, the principle applies to more than just medicine, but the maxim is particularly to the point in the case of law enforcement officials in the Grand Valley working to deal with the abuse of prescription medications.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
City restrictions limit resell options for low-income housing program
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, June 1, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Low-income housing restrictions limiting owners' options to resell
Denver's affordable-housing program seemed like the perfect solution to help Kevin Kate Albizu and her husband, Ryan, buy a home three years ago. Now the Albizus, like scores of others in the program, say they find it nearly impossible to resell their homes because of city restrictions.
GENERAL
Denver Post editorial: Who is behind Colorado ballot issues?
Officials have unsuccessfully tried to contact Douglas Bruce 29 times about state Amendments 60 and 61 and Proposition 101.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: Fee for non-residents?
The City and County of Denver is procedurally moving forward with a plan that would charge a fee to non-residents of the city when the fire department or other emergency responders are dispatched to any traffic accident on a state highway within the city limits. According to Denver’s 2010 Final Budget Summary, the city projects that by charging such a fee, $1.13 million would be collected in a year.
Denver Business Journal: Business Pulse: Half say Colorado taxes are too high
What may be more surprising is that about a third of participating readers answered either that state and local taxes are "about right" or even that they should be higher.
Sterling Journal-Advocate: Prop 101 worries local officials
3 ballot measures would slash funds for local governments, schools.
HEALTH POLICY
Huffington Post Denver: How Democrats Killed Medical Privacy in Colorado
This year, Kefalas and other Democratic legislators tried a different approach. HB 1330, the All-Payer Health Care Cost Database was signed into law by Governor Ritter on May 26. The bill grants unlimited power to the Executive Director of Health Care Policy and Financing to mandate the collection of any and all health care data, to conduct audits, to give the data to third parties without seeking permission, and to impose unlimited fines for refusing to provide data to the database.
Denver Business Journal: Colorado Hospital Association sues state over regulations
The Colorado Hospital Association filed a lawsuit against the state on Friday, claiming that new regulations put forth by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) unreasonably raise hospital costs and threaten access to care for many Coloradans.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Hospital association files suit against state health department
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Low-income housing restrictions limiting owners' options to resell
Denver's affordable-housing program seemed like the perfect solution to help Kevin Kate Albizu and her husband, Ryan, buy a home three years ago. Now the Albizus, like scores of others in the program, say they find it nearly impossible to resell their homes because of city restrictions.
GENERAL
Denver Post editorial: Who is behind Colorado ballot issues?
Officials have unsuccessfully tried to contact Douglas Bruce 29 times about state Amendments 60 and 61 and Proposition 101.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: Fee for non-residents?
The City and County of Denver is procedurally moving forward with a plan that would charge a fee to non-residents of the city when the fire department or other emergency responders are dispatched to any traffic accident on a state highway within the city limits. According to Denver’s 2010 Final Budget Summary, the city projects that by charging such a fee, $1.13 million would be collected in a year.
Denver Business Journal: Business Pulse: Half say Colorado taxes are too high
What may be more surprising is that about a third of participating readers answered either that state and local taxes are "about right" or even that they should be higher.
Sterling Journal-Advocate: Prop 101 worries local officials
3 ballot measures would slash funds for local governments, schools.
HEALTH POLICY
Huffington Post Denver: How Democrats Killed Medical Privacy in Colorado
This year, Kefalas and other Democratic legislators tried a different approach. HB 1330, the All-Payer Health Care Cost Database was signed into law by Governor Ritter on May 26. The bill grants unlimited power to the Executive Director of Health Care Policy and Financing to mandate the collection of any and all health care data, to conduct audits, to give the data to third parties without seeking permission, and to impose unlimited fines for refusing to provide data to the database.
Denver Business Journal: Colorado Hospital Association sues state over regulations
The Colorado Hospital Association filed a lawsuit against the state on Friday, claiming that new regulations put forth by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) unreasonably raise hospital costs and threaten access to care for many Coloradans.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Hospital association files suit against state health department
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