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, July 30, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
HEALTH CARE
The Denver Post: Experts say patients are focus in future health care system
The future of health care is a patient-centered system with one-stop shops for medical, mental and dental care, and health care teams to handle middle-of-the-night e-mails, said experts at a health symposium Thursday.
Denver Daily News: Signatures for 'right to health care choice" being dropped off today
Proponents of a ballot initiative that would exempt Coloradans from a federal mandate requiring all citizens to buy insurance or pay a penalty intend on dropping off signatures today for the so-called “Right to Health Care Choice” proposal. Proponents say Coloradans shouldn’t be required to purchase an insurance plan.
Sterling Journal-Advocate: Local impact of health reform uncertain
Just how the new Affordable Care Act health care reform will impact Colorado, Morgan County and the eastern plains is not certain yet. Analysts are still trying to figure it all out, said Terri Hurst of the Colorado Rural Health Center, who was reporting to Progressive 15 members at the organization's annual standing committees meetings last week.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Pueblo health official ponders 'worst-case' budget for next year
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, July 29, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
GENERAL
Denver Post commentary: The Coffee Party's first six months
The Coffee Party movement began in February with a "rant" on Facebook by its founder Annabel Park. Since then it has grown into a phenomenon with over 250,000 followers and it looks as if it is here to stay. It may have started as a reaction to the Tea Party, but it is turning into something more thoughtful and powerful - a movement for good government.
FISCAL POLICY
Pueblo Chieftain: Pueblo health officials get ‘worst-case’ budget
A lot could change over the next five months, and the $6.3 million budget did not include any new grant money, which goes a long way to funding programs, many of them mandated by state law.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Business group grills council on tax proposal
Instead of trying to influence a decision that had already been made, members of the North Fort Collins Business Association on Wednesday peppered city staff and council members with questions about the proposed 0.85 percent sales tax increase slated to go to voters in November.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Colorado News Agency: Food program targets Colorado’s neediest urban, rural kids
The meals program is administered by the Colorado Department of Education and promoted by the Campaign to End Childhood Hunger, launched in November of 2009 by Ritter and O’Brien. The meals are hosted by nonprofit groups including local schools, food banks, and faith-based organizations, with the funding coming from the federal government in the form of reimbursements for the meals provided.
Fort Collins Coloradoan editorial: Colorado must prove that kids really do count
Colorado can do better than this. A national report known as Kids Count has ranked Colorado 20th in the nation in overall child well-being. While the state improved two slots since the last report was released in 2009, the ranking demonstrates that Colorado has a long way to go when it comes to prioritizing the welfare of its children.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel: Study: State’s child poverty rate rising
GENERAL
Denver Post commentary: The Coffee Party's first six months
The Coffee Party movement began in February with a "rant" on Facebook by its founder Annabel Park. Since then it has grown into a phenomenon with over 250,000 followers and it looks as if it is here to stay. It may have started as a reaction to the Tea Party, but it is turning into something more thoughtful and powerful - a movement for good government.
FISCAL POLICY
Pueblo Chieftain: Pueblo health officials get ‘worst-case’ budget
A lot could change over the next five months, and the $6.3 million budget did not include any new grant money, which goes a long way to funding programs, many of them mandated by state law.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Business group grills council on tax proposal
Instead of trying to influence a decision that had already been made, members of the North Fort Collins Business Association on Wednesday peppered city staff and council members with questions about the proposed 0.85 percent sales tax increase slated to go to voters in November.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Colorado News Agency: Food program targets Colorado’s neediest urban, rural kids
The meals program is administered by the Colorado Department of Education and promoted by the Campaign to End Childhood Hunger, launched in November of 2009 by Ritter and O’Brien. The meals are hosted by nonprofit groups including local schools, food banks, and faith-based organizations, with the funding coming from the federal government in the form of reimbursements for the meals provided.
Fort Collins Coloradoan editorial: Colorado must prove that kids really do count
Colorado can do better than this. A national report known as Kids Count has ranked Colorado 20th in the nation in overall child well-being. While the state improved two slots since the last report was released in 2009, the ranking demonstrates that Colorado has a long way to go when it comes to prioritizing the welfare of its children.
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel: Study: State’s child poverty rate rising
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
106,000 more children insured under Medicaid and CHP+ since 2007
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, July 28, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Colorado a finalist again in "Race to the Top"
For the second round, Colorado scaled back its $377 million request, asking for $175 million over four years. About $90 million would go directly to the participating districts, while the rest would go to statewide support of the districts.
Also: Denver Daily News: Second time’s the charm?
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Pueblo Chieftain: Poverty problem
The percentage of children living in poverty statewide climbed by half between 2000 and 2008, to 15 percent from 10 percent — tied with New Hampshire for the most drastic increase in the nation during that time. Colorado ranks 18th in the nation in the percentage of children living in poverty, and the state still registers better in that dubious category than the nation overall, which saw childhood poverty grow to 18 percent from 17 percent during the same span.
Also: Steamboat Today: Report: Child poverty down in Routt County, up in state
HEALTH CARE
Colorado News Agency: Progress praised on kids’ coverage; others note much work lies ahead
A coalition of organizations housed under the umbrella of the “All Kids Covered Initiative” organized the event in recognition of the 106,000 children who have been insured through Medicaid and CHP+ since Ritter took office in January of 2007.
Summit Daily News: Local health care meeting a big deal for the industry
With so much changing in the United States health care industry, state professionals — everyone from doctors to insurance agents — want to learn how Colorado will be impacted. The 29th annual Colorado Health Symposium aims to do just that.
KUSA: State aid computer program facing glitches
For months, frustrations have run high at a computer benefit program that filters benefits for many of Colorado's neediest residents.
FISCAL POLICY
Durango Herald: Area officials blast Nov. tax measures
"Devastating." "Disastrous." "Superficial." "Short-sighted." The Southwest Colorado Council of Governments hosted a news conference Tuesday to discuss the economic impact of three anti-tax ballot measures in the November election.
Sterling Journal-Advocate: Ballot issues worry local governments
Even some very fiscally conservative people are worried about how Amendment 60, Amendment 61 and Initiative 101 would hurt Colorado.
Aspen Daily News: County prepares for ‘Armageddon’ if tax questions pass
If three statewide anti-tax ballot initiatives pass in November, Pitkin County would lose more than $10 million in revenue for its budget, according to a county analysis. That would constitute a cut of about 40 percent of county tax revenue and force reductions in basic public services.
ECONOMY
Grand Junction Sentinel: June sales tax collections up from June 2009
Finally, an inkling of hope that Grand Junction consumers may be feeling more comfortable about dipping into their wallets. For the first month this year, sales tax collections in June in Grand Junction were slightly higher than the previous year, according to city figures.
GENERAL
The Denver Post: Colorado a finalist again in "Race to the Top"
For the second round, Colorado scaled back its $377 million request, asking for $175 million over four years. About $90 million would go directly to the participating districts, while the rest would go to statewide support of the districts.
Also: Denver Daily News: Second time’s the charm?
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Pueblo Chieftain: Poverty problem
The percentage of children living in poverty statewide climbed by half between 2000 and 2008, to 15 percent from 10 percent — tied with New Hampshire for the most drastic increase in the nation during that time. Colorado ranks 18th in the nation in the percentage of children living in poverty, and the state still registers better in that dubious category than the nation overall, which saw childhood poverty grow to 18 percent from 17 percent during the same span.
Also: Steamboat Today: Report: Child poverty down in Routt County, up in state
HEALTH CARE
Colorado News Agency: Progress praised on kids’ coverage; others note much work lies ahead
A coalition of organizations housed under the umbrella of the “All Kids Covered Initiative” organized the event in recognition of the 106,000 children who have been insured through Medicaid and CHP+ since Ritter took office in January of 2007.
Summit Daily News: Local health care meeting a big deal for the industry
With so much changing in the United States health care industry, state professionals — everyone from doctors to insurance agents — want to learn how Colorado will be impacted. The 29th annual Colorado Health Symposium aims to do just that.
KUSA: State aid computer program facing glitches
For months, frustrations have run high at a computer benefit program that filters benefits for many of Colorado's neediest residents.
FISCAL POLICY
Durango Herald: Area officials blast Nov. tax measures
"Devastating." "Disastrous." "Superficial." "Short-sighted." The Southwest Colorado Council of Governments hosted a news conference Tuesday to discuss the economic impact of three anti-tax ballot measures in the November election.
Sterling Journal-Advocate: Ballot issues worry local governments
Even some very fiscally conservative people are worried about how Amendment 60, Amendment 61 and Initiative 101 would hurt Colorado.
Aspen Daily News: County prepares for ‘Armageddon’ if tax questions pass
If three statewide anti-tax ballot initiatives pass in November, Pitkin County would lose more than $10 million in revenue for its budget, according to a county analysis. That would constitute a cut of about 40 percent of county tax revenue and force reductions in basic public services.
ECONOMY
Grand Junction Sentinel: June sales tax collections up from June 2009
Finally, an inkling of hope that Grand Junction consumers may be feeling more comfortable about dipping into their wallets. For the first month this year, sales tax collections in June in Grand Junction were slightly higher than the previous year, according to city figures.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Child poverty up 50 percent in Colorado from 2000 to 2008
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, July 27, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Report: Child-poverty rate increases 50 percent in Colorado
The rate of Colorado children living in poverty increased 50 percent between 2000 and 2008, compared with a 6 percent increase nationwide, according to 2010 Kids Count Data Book, an annual report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation that tracks how states have progressed — or regressed — over time in protecting the well-being of children.
Also: Colorado Springs Gazette: Report: Well-being of state's kids improved, at least before economy tanked
FISCAL POLICY
Boulder Daily Camera: Boulder County puts property tax hike on ballot to bolster social services
Ballot measure aims to backfill state budget cuts.
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: Boulder County to ask for tax increase to buy more open space
Pueblo Chieftain: Colorado lawmakers not alone in tax raises
Some state legislatures imposed new fees and hiked taxes to replace falling revenues and balance their budgets during the economic downturn. Colorado was one of nine states that fell into that category, according to a study of state budgets released Monday by the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Face the State: Feds to Colorado: Get drunk (but not high) during recession
While owners of medical marijuana establishments are locked out of government-backed small-business loans, nothing has stopped millions of dollars in federal assistance from flowing into one of Colorado's other so-called "sin business" industries. That would be the booze business.
Durango Herald editorial: Stimulus money at work locally
It hardly fits the profligate image so often tied to federal spending, but stimulus money is funding good work around Durango.
Durango Herald editorial: Taxes
Round four in Washington is about to begin, and its outcome will be far more significant than the effects of its predecessors. There was plenty of partisan disagreement over health-care legislation, the regulations to reduce banks' risk-taking and the energy bill - which failed to even reach final form - but what to do with federal tax rates is certain to trump them all.
ECONOMY
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: There are jobs
Pueblo's jobless rate is estimated by the state at 9.9 percent — uncomfortably high. Yet there are jobs to be had, as attested in the “Help Wanted” ads in Sunday’s Chieftain, which contained two pages of jobs needing to be filled. These ran the gamut from health care professionals to radio technicians to painters, plumbers and drain technicians.
HEALTH CARE
Aurora Sentinel editorial: Health reforms still too slow, limited
Yet more shadiness by health insurance companies makes it clear how important this fall’s congressional elections are, and how important it is for Washington to stay on top of the health care reform behemoth brought to life earlier this year.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Report: Child-poverty rate increases 50 percent in Colorado
The rate of Colorado children living in poverty increased 50 percent between 2000 and 2008, compared with a 6 percent increase nationwide, according to 2010 Kids Count Data Book, an annual report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation that tracks how states have progressed — or regressed — over time in protecting the well-being of children.
Also: Colorado Springs Gazette: Report: Well-being of state's kids improved, at least before economy tanked
FISCAL POLICY
Boulder Daily Camera: Boulder County puts property tax hike on ballot to bolster social services
Ballot measure aims to backfill state budget cuts.
Also: Boulder Daily Camera: Boulder County to ask for tax increase to buy more open space
Pueblo Chieftain: Colorado lawmakers not alone in tax raises
Some state legislatures imposed new fees and hiked taxes to replace falling revenues and balance their budgets during the economic downturn. Colorado was one of nine states that fell into that category, according to a study of state budgets released Monday by the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Face the State: Feds to Colorado: Get drunk (but not high) during recession
While owners of medical marijuana establishments are locked out of government-backed small-business loans, nothing has stopped millions of dollars in federal assistance from flowing into one of Colorado's other so-called "sin business" industries. That would be the booze business.
Durango Herald editorial: Stimulus money at work locally
It hardly fits the profligate image so often tied to federal spending, but stimulus money is funding good work around Durango.
Durango Herald editorial: Taxes
Round four in Washington is about to begin, and its outcome will be far more significant than the effects of its predecessors. There was plenty of partisan disagreement over health-care legislation, the regulations to reduce banks' risk-taking and the energy bill - which failed to even reach final form - but what to do with federal tax rates is certain to trump them all.
ECONOMY
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: There are jobs
Pueblo's jobless rate is estimated by the state at 9.9 percent — uncomfortably high. Yet there are jobs to be had, as attested in the “Help Wanted” ads in Sunday’s Chieftain, which contained two pages of jobs needing to be filled. These ran the gamut from health care professionals to radio technicians to painters, plumbers and drain technicians.
HEALTH CARE
Aurora Sentinel editorial: Health reforms still too slow, limited
Yet more shadiness by health insurance companies makes it clear how important this fall’s congressional elections are, and how important it is for Washington to stay on top of the health care reform behemoth brought to life earlier this year.
Monday, July 26, 2010
More opposition to Amendment 60, Amendment 61 and Proposition 101 emerges
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, July 26, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Denver needs long-term fixes for its budget
Why is the city of Denver cutting $100 million from its budget next year even though revenues are up? Part of the reason is that our budget, like that of many other cities, has long-term structural problems.
The Denver Post: Even conservatives shun 3 controversial ballot measures
Opponents of the Big Three on the November ballot, take heart: Even Republicans running for the state legislature from conservative Douglas County are leery of them.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado mass layoffs rise in June
The number of Colorado businesses that laid off 50 or more employees at a time rose in June to 14, four more companies than in May, the U.S. Department of Labor reported Friday.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Big goals needed in effort to end homelessness
Homelessness is an issue that has vexed our country for decades. It's a challenge because the causes of homelessness are complex - the economy, mental health, substance abuse and fracturing families, among others.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Denver needs long-term fixes for its budget
Why is the city of Denver cutting $100 million from its budget next year even though revenues are up? Part of the reason is that our budget, like that of many other cities, has long-term structural problems.
The Denver Post: Even conservatives shun 3 controversial ballot measures
Opponents of the Big Three on the November ballot, take heart: Even Republicans running for the state legislature from conservative Douglas County are leery of them.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado mass layoffs rise in June
The number of Colorado businesses that laid off 50 or more employees at a time rose in June to 14, four more companies than in May, the U.S. Department of Labor reported Friday.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Big goals needed in effort to end homelessness
Homelessness is an issue that has vexed our country for decades. It's a challenge because the causes of homelessness are complex - the economy, mental health, substance abuse and fracturing families, among others.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Amendments 60 and 61, and Proposition 101 would be a disaster for the state, review 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 Friday, July 23, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Colo. firms spend millions fighting tax-cutting ballot measures
Colorado companies and business groups are spending about $2.6 million to fight three tax-cutting ballot measures that executives say could damage businesses and derail the state economy.
Pueblo Chieftain: Jobless needn't accept all offers to keep benefits
Jobless workers in Colorado are accepting positions that might not be ideal for their skill sets and professional histories, even though they needn't take those jobs to keep their unemployment benefits.
Denver Business Journal: Legislative Council: 3 anti-tax measures could cost state $2.1 billion
The state of Colorado would lose $2.1 billion in revenue and local government budgets would be thrown into chaos if all three anti-tax measures on the November election ballot become law.
Vail Daily News: County's fiscal crunch coming
The general fund revenue forecast indicates a 15 percent decline from the 2010 budget to those projected for 2012. In addition, projections indicate nearly flat revenue for the ensuing three to five years. That translates into a reduction of the county's general fund budget of $5 million, essentially bringing the county back to 2005 revenue levels.
Canon City Daily Record: Police Chief McNeill proposes fees for services
During the General Government meeting Wednesday, Cañon City Police Chief Duane McNeill discussed the possibility of a fee schedule for the general public. “There are services that are not normal services that are provided to the general public that are not covered by the Colorado Revised Statutes,” he said.
HEALTH CARE
The Denver Post: Colorado wants more rate info from Anthem
Unsatisfied with the information collected as part of a state review of whether a premium rate hike by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield was justified, state insurance officials Thursday demanded more data from the company, effectively delaying the analysis even longer than previously expected.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Insurance division extends Anthem review
ECONOMY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Economist: Springs' economic recovery is losing steam
Colorado Springs’ economic recovery is losing momentum as federal stimulus spending and tax credits run out and private job growth remains nearly nonexistent, an economist from the Southern Colorado Economic Forum said Thursday.
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Groups look for new approach to ending area homelessness
A new effort to end homelessness, Homeward 2020, is crafting a 10-year plan that would better connect both the chronic, visible homeless and the far larger invisible homeless population with existing services. There are about 140 different churches, nonprofits and government entities offering some sort of aid to the homeless in Fort Collins, according to advocates.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Panel on the homeless begins effort by exploring who they are trying to help
http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/panel_on_the_homeless_begins_e
A Grand Junction City Council subcommittee formed to discuss local homeless issues had its first meeting last week. So far, the subcommittee’s only move has been to decide to have more meetings.
Longmont Times-Call editorial: Getting Ahead gives hand up, not a handout
The OUR Center sends clients to Getting Ahead’s series of classes on how to become more self-sufficient, then provides $25 in “farmer’s bucks” to spend at the Farmers Market. This effort falls squarely within the Outreach United Resource Center’s mission: “We help people in the St. Vrain region move toward self-sufficiency by unifying community resources.”
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Help for the homeless: New Loveland resource center to open in September
In September, the House of Neighborly Service will open 137 Homeless Connection, which will operate in the same city-leased building on South Lincoln Avenue used for the inclement day warming center. Yet instead of just providing shelter, the building will be transformed to house an in-depth program that offers homeless residents case management, support and the connections to resources they need to improve their lives.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Colo. firms spend millions fighting tax-cutting ballot measures
Colorado companies and business groups are spending about $2.6 million to fight three tax-cutting ballot measures that executives say could damage businesses and derail the state economy.
Pueblo Chieftain: Jobless needn't accept all offers to keep benefits
Jobless workers in Colorado are accepting positions that might not be ideal for their skill sets and professional histories, even though they needn't take those jobs to keep their unemployment benefits.
Denver Business Journal: Legislative Council: 3 anti-tax measures could cost state $2.1 billion
The state of Colorado would lose $2.1 billion in revenue and local government budgets would be thrown into chaos if all three anti-tax measures on the November election ballot become law.
Vail Daily News: County's fiscal crunch coming
The general fund revenue forecast indicates a 15 percent decline from the 2010 budget to those projected for 2012. In addition, projections indicate nearly flat revenue for the ensuing three to five years. That translates into a reduction of the county's general fund budget of $5 million, essentially bringing the county back to 2005 revenue levels.
Canon City Daily Record: Police Chief McNeill proposes fees for services
During the General Government meeting Wednesday, Cañon City Police Chief Duane McNeill discussed the possibility of a fee schedule for the general public. “There are services that are not normal services that are provided to the general public that are not covered by the Colorado Revised Statutes,” he said.
HEALTH CARE
The Denver Post: Colorado wants more rate info from Anthem
Unsatisfied with the information collected as part of a state review of whether a premium rate hike by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield was justified, state insurance officials Thursday demanded more data from the company, effectively delaying the analysis even longer than previously expected.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Insurance division extends Anthem review
ECONOMY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Economist: Springs' economic recovery is losing steam
Colorado Springs’ economic recovery is losing momentum as federal stimulus spending and tax credits run out and private job growth remains nearly nonexistent, an economist from the Southern Colorado Economic Forum said Thursday.
ECONOMIC SELF SUFFICIENCY
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Groups look for new approach to ending area homelessness
A new effort to end homelessness, Homeward 2020, is crafting a 10-year plan that would better connect both the chronic, visible homeless and the far larger invisible homeless population with existing services. There are about 140 different churches, nonprofits and government entities offering some sort of aid to the homeless in Fort Collins, according to advocates.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Panel on the homeless begins effort by exploring who they are trying to help
http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/panel_on_the_homeless_begins_e
A Grand Junction City Council subcommittee formed to discuss local homeless issues had its first meeting last week. So far, the subcommittee’s only move has been to decide to have more meetings.
Longmont Times-Call editorial: Getting Ahead gives hand up, not a handout
The OUR Center sends clients to Getting Ahead’s series of classes on how to become more self-sufficient, then provides $25 in “farmer’s bucks” to spend at the Farmers Market. This effort falls squarely within the Outreach United Resource Center’s mission: “We help people in the St. Vrain region move toward self-sufficiency by unifying community resources.”
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Help for the homeless: New Loveland resource center to open in September
In September, the House of Neighborly Service will open 137 Homeless Connection, which will operate in the same city-leased building on South Lincoln Avenue used for the inclement day warming center. Yet instead of just providing shelter, the building will be transformed to house an in-depth program that offers homeless residents case management, support and the connections to resources they need to improve their lives.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Denver City Council shelves plan to fee non-resident drivers involved in car wrecks
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, July 22, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: ‘Crash tax’ proposal crashes
A proposal to charge a fee to at fault non-resident drivers who are involved in an accident came to a crashing end yesterday when City Council members decided to shelve the controversial proposal.
Steamboat Today: Hayden to ask voters for mill levy override
School Board to consider ballot language for proposed tax increase at August meeting.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Pueblo Chieftain: Bennet authored pieces of new law
Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., was among the crowd of lawmakers invited to witness President Barack Obama's signing of the financial regulationlegislationThursday thatis intended to preventafuture Wall Street collapse — at least at taxpayer expense.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Grand Junction Sentinel: Share Colorado food bank files for bankruptcy
Share Colorado, an organization that provided food for residents in several western Colorado counties, recently filed for bankruptcy protection.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: ‘Crash tax’ proposal crashes
A proposal to charge a fee to at fault non-resident drivers who are involved in an accident came to a crashing end yesterday when City Council members decided to shelve the controversial proposal.
Steamboat Today: Hayden to ask voters for mill levy override
School Board to consider ballot language for proposed tax increase at August meeting.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Pueblo Chieftain: Bennet authored pieces of new law
Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., was among the crowd of lawmakers invited to witness President Barack Obama's signing of the financial regulationlegislationThursday thatis intended to preventafuture Wall Street collapse — at least at taxpayer expense.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Grand Junction Sentinel: Share Colorado food bank files for bankruptcy
Share Colorado, an organization that provided food for residents in several western Colorado counties, recently filed for bankruptcy protection.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Extended jobless benefits will boost economy while giving a hand to unemployed 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, July 21, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post commentary: As jobless kept up the search, Senate acted lost
I have never actually measured it, but I suspect the distance between the Senate floor in Washington, D.C., and the unemployment office downtown where I spent Tuesday afternoon must be at least a dozen or so light years.
The Denver Post: Extension of jobless benefits pumps aid into Colorado economy, analysis says
If the past is any indication, Congress would reap a good return on its investment by extending jobless benefits through November, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute.
Also: Denver Daily News: Jobless benefits deadlock broken
Also: Durango Herald editorial: Money where it will help workers and nation
Also: KUSA: 80,000 Coloradans could get benefits back
Denver Daily News: Privatization debate goes on
Markey: Privatization a ‘scheme’; Norton: Social Security a ‘scheme.’
Summit Daily News: State budget shortfalls will soon show on Summit County roads
Shrinking funds could cause local highways to deteriorate in the next few years as the Colorado Department of Transportation feels the punch of state budget shortfalls.
HEALTH CARE
The Denver Post: Colo. social workers say state computer changes hurting benefits system
Social workers across the state say that attempts to fix the long-troubled Colorado Benefits Management System — a database that processes applications for public assistance like Medicaid, food stamps and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families — are actually making the system worse.
ECONOMY
Colorado Springs Independent: Where the money is ... and isn't
El Paso County's average weekly wage was among the lowest among the state's nine largest counties in December 2009, according to data released today by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Denver Post: Colo. jobless rate flat in June as tourism jobs make up for census cuts
A surge in tourism-related hiring helped offset the loss of census jobs last month and kept the state's unemployment rate level, according to the June employment report, which was released Tuesday.
Also: Pueblo Chieftain: Pueblo jobless rate hits new high
Also: Denver Business Journal: Colorado unemployment rate remains at 8% in May; 7,100 fewer Coloradans working
Also: Craig Daily Press: Moffat County unemployment hovering at 8.7 percent
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel: Unemployment rate hits 9.5% in Mesa County, same as in U.S.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: City's sales tax revenues increase
The city's sales tax increased 0.3 percent in May, bolstered, in part, by the medical marijuana industry, according to June's sales-tax report.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post commentary: As jobless kept up the search, Senate acted lost
I have never actually measured it, but I suspect the distance between the Senate floor in Washington, D.C., and the unemployment office downtown where I spent Tuesday afternoon must be at least a dozen or so light years.
The Denver Post: Extension of jobless benefits pumps aid into Colorado economy, analysis says
If the past is any indication, Congress would reap a good return on its investment by extending jobless benefits through November, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute.
Also: Denver Daily News: Jobless benefits deadlock broken
Also: Durango Herald editorial: Money where it will help workers and nation
Also: KUSA: 80,000 Coloradans could get benefits back
Denver Daily News: Privatization debate goes on
Markey: Privatization a ‘scheme’; Norton: Social Security a ‘scheme.’
Summit Daily News: State budget shortfalls will soon show on Summit County roads
Shrinking funds could cause local highways to deteriorate in the next few years as the Colorado Department of Transportation feels the punch of state budget shortfalls.
HEALTH CARE
The Denver Post: Colo. social workers say state computer changes hurting benefits system
Social workers across the state say that attempts to fix the long-troubled Colorado Benefits Management System — a database that processes applications for public assistance like Medicaid, food stamps and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families — are actually making the system worse.
ECONOMY
Colorado Springs Independent: Where the money is ... and isn't
El Paso County's average weekly wage was among the lowest among the state's nine largest counties in December 2009, according to data released today by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Denver Post: Colo. jobless rate flat in June as tourism jobs make up for census cuts
A surge in tourism-related hiring helped offset the loss of census jobs last month and kept the state's unemployment rate level, according to the June employment report, which was released Tuesday.
Also: Pueblo Chieftain: Pueblo jobless rate hits new high
Also: Denver Business Journal: Colorado unemployment rate remains at 8% in May; 7,100 fewer Coloradans working
Also: Craig Daily Press: Moffat County unemployment hovering at 8.7 percent
Also: Grand Junction Sentinel: Unemployment rate hits 9.5% in Mesa County, same as in U.S.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: City's sales tax revenues increase
The city's sales tax increased 0.3 percent in May, bolstered, in part, by the medical marijuana industry, according to June's sales-tax report.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
At least 30,000 Coloradans could be affected as Senate debates unemployment benefits
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, July 20, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Taxes paid by Colorado casinos rise
Tax revenues paid by Colorado casinos during the fiscal year that ended June 30 increased 13.4 percent from the previous year, the state Division of Gaming said Monday.
Denver Daily News: Unemployment vote & Colo.
At least 30,000 Coloradans affected by Senate vote as spending debate continues.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Unemployment fraud on the rise in Colorado
Colorado Independent: Buck budget proposals would do little to limit ‘out-of-control spending’
Cutting the National Endowment of the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities doesn’t do much to the federal budget. The NEA had a $167.5 million budget for FY 2010, and President Obama requested $161 million for NEH. Put together, that’s $328.5 million out of a $3.7 trillion budget, or 0.0089 percent of the federal budget (and 0.023 percent of the federal budget deficit for FY 2010).
Fort Collins Coloradoan editorial: Unspent earmarks for transportation should be returned
Markey's bill calling for funds to be put toward deficit deserves support.
Grand Junction Sentinel: West Star more competitive with a sales tax exemption
It may mean fewer sales tax dollars. But the benefit to the local business economy will be worth exempting aircraft parts installed in Grand Junction from sales tax, according to Grand Junction City Councilman Gregg Palmer.
HEALTH CARE POLICY
Pueblo Chieftain: McInnis calls health care changes ‘very painful’
He says ‘ObamaCare’ will cause education funding cuts, other program losses.
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Fit for fraud
Guess what? Medicare is rife with fraud. Last week 94 people, including several doctors and nurses, were charged in scams totaling $251 million. And the feds say that’s only a drop in the bucket compared to the breadth of the problem.
Greeley Tribune editorial: Battle between GMC and NCMC will bring changes in care
The gloves have apparently come off in the battle between Greeley Medical Clinic and North Colorado Medical Center. Problem is, we don't really know what that means for patients.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Taxes paid by Colorado casinos rise
Tax revenues paid by Colorado casinos during the fiscal year that ended June 30 increased 13.4 percent from the previous year, the state Division of Gaming said Monday.
Denver Daily News: Unemployment vote & Colo.
At least 30,000 Coloradans affected by Senate vote as spending debate continues.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Unemployment fraud on the rise in Colorado
Colorado Independent: Buck budget proposals would do little to limit ‘out-of-control spending’
Cutting the National Endowment of the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities doesn’t do much to the federal budget. The NEA had a $167.5 million budget for FY 2010, and President Obama requested $161 million for NEH. Put together, that’s $328.5 million out of a $3.7 trillion budget, or 0.0089 percent of the federal budget (and 0.023 percent of the federal budget deficit for FY 2010).
Fort Collins Coloradoan editorial: Unspent earmarks for transportation should be returned
Markey's bill calling for funds to be put toward deficit deserves support.
Grand Junction Sentinel: West Star more competitive with a sales tax exemption
It may mean fewer sales tax dollars. But the benefit to the local business economy will be worth exempting aircraft parts installed in Grand Junction from sales tax, according to Grand Junction City Councilman Gregg Palmer.
HEALTH CARE POLICY
Pueblo Chieftain: McInnis calls health care changes ‘very painful’
He says ‘ObamaCare’ will cause education funding cuts, other program losses.
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Fit for fraud
Guess what? Medicare is rife with fraud. Last week 94 people, including several doctors and nurses, were charged in scams totaling $251 million. And the feds say that’s only a drop in the bucket compared to the breadth of the problem.
Greeley Tribune editorial: Battle between GMC and NCMC will bring changes in care
The gloves have apparently come off in the battle between Greeley Medical Clinic and North Colorado Medical Center. Problem is, we don't really know what that means for patients.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Another budget bomb is ticking in Colorado, a Colorado Springs Gazette commentary reports
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, July 19, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Trio of ballot measures a threat to Colorado's future
Three of those ballot questions — Amendments 60 and 61 and Proposition 101 — pose dire consequences for Colorado's future. These initiatives threaten to devastate our economy, kill jobs and drive businesses out of our state just at a time when we can least afford it. Any early signs of recovery would be erased, and our competitive edge would be lost.
Also: Fort Collins Coloradoan commentary: Ballot item would disrupt tax structure
Denver Post commentary: Tuition flexibility will benefit Colorado higher ed
Colorado higher education got a tool recently that will help it help itself. More than a year and a half in the making, the higher education flexibility bill (Senate Bill 3) received bipartisan support in the legislature and from the governor, as well as unanimous endorsement from college and university leaders.
Colorado Springs Gazette commentary: A budget bomb is on its way
For any school, fire district or county highly dependent upon property tax, a budgetary time bomb is set to go off inside of two years.
Denver Daily News: Vote on anti-tax measures
The Denver City Council tonight will vote on a proclamation opposing three anti-tax ballot proposals that opponents say will cripple government’s ability to provide vital public services.
Colorado News Agency: State Republicans hope to thwart amendment to federal bill
Republican lawmakers sent a strongly worded letter last week to Washington in an effort to thwart a proposal tacked on to an appropriations bill in Congress requiring state and local governments to participate in collective bargaining with labor groups representing police officers, firefighters, and emergency responders. The letter claimed the proposal would stifle economic recovery in Colorado.
HEALTH CARE POLICY
The Denver Post: State review of Anthem health-insurance rate hikes drags on
A state review of insurance premium increases by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield that was to end this month is now expected to drag on for several more weeks, officials say.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Trio of ballot measures a threat to Colorado's future
Three of those ballot questions — Amendments 60 and 61 and Proposition 101 — pose dire consequences for Colorado's future. These initiatives threaten to devastate our economy, kill jobs and drive businesses out of our state just at a time when we can least afford it. Any early signs of recovery would be erased, and our competitive edge would be lost.
Also: Fort Collins Coloradoan commentary: Ballot item would disrupt tax structure
Denver Post commentary: Tuition flexibility will benefit Colorado higher ed
Colorado higher education got a tool recently that will help it help itself. More than a year and a half in the making, the higher education flexibility bill (Senate Bill 3) received bipartisan support in the legislature and from the governor, as well as unanimous endorsement from college and university leaders.
Colorado Springs Gazette commentary: A budget bomb is on its way
For any school, fire district or county highly dependent upon property tax, a budgetary time bomb is set to go off inside of two years.
Denver Daily News: Vote on anti-tax measures
The Denver City Council tonight will vote on a proclamation opposing three anti-tax ballot proposals that opponents say will cripple government’s ability to provide vital public services.
Colorado News Agency: State Republicans hope to thwart amendment to federal bill
Republican lawmakers sent a strongly worded letter last week to Washington in an effort to thwart a proposal tacked on to an appropriations bill in Congress requiring state and local governments to participate in collective bargaining with labor groups representing police officers, firefighters, and emergency responders. The letter claimed the proposal would stifle economic recovery in Colorado.
HEALTH CARE POLICY
The Denver Post: State review of Anthem health-insurance rate hikes drags on
A state review of insurance premium increases by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield that was to end this month is now expected to drag on for several more weeks, officials say.
Friday, July 16, 2010
2011 ballot measure would boost education spending
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, July 16, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: Education ballot initiative pushed
Education spending advocates yesterday announced that they will push for a 2011 ballot initiative that would create a steady funding source for P-20 education.
The Denver Post: Five-year timeout on TABOR refunds comes to an end
Supporters of the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights this week celebrated the recent expiration of Referendum C, the measure voters approved in 2005 that imposed a five-year timeout from taxpayer refunds under TABOR. But as critics of TABOR pointed out, Referendum C isn't exactly over.
Also: Colorado Statesman: Ref C is over, but ramifications live on in political world
Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: Government officials decry controversial ballot issues
A review of three controversial questions on the November ballot — constitutional amendments 60 and 61, and Proposition 101 — drew mostly negative reactions from local government officials this week. “It just doesn't make any sense,” said Commissioner Trési Houpt, a Democrat, about aspects of the proposed state constitutional Amendment 61, which would redefine the types and amounts of debt that local governments could incur.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Business Journal: Report: 83% of small Colorado businesses will qualify for health-reform tax credits
Nearly 83 percent of Colorado's smallest businesses will qualify for tax credits under the federal healthcare reform act, but less than 25 percent of state businesses with 25 or less workers will be able to receive the maximum tax benefits, according to a report released Thursday.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Colo. Bankers Assn.: Reform will burden banks, consumers
Don Childears, CEO of the bankers association, which represents 90 percent of the $103 billion in assets held by 193 Colorado banks, said that Congress, rather than focusing on the reform that the nation needed, filled the bill with unnecessary and harmful provisions.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Grand Junction Sentinel: Group protests loss of affordable housing
Twenty studio apartments and a small house will soon be demolished to make way for a Mesa State College parking lot or storage unit at 1241 Elm Ave.
KMGH: Food Share Program Declares Bankruptcy
A Colorado food share program that gives discounted meals to needy families has declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy, leaving thousands of people who depend on it with one fewer place to get help.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Daily News: Education ballot initiative pushed
Education spending advocates yesterday announced that they will push for a 2011 ballot initiative that would create a steady funding source for P-20 education.
The Denver Post: Five-year timeout on TABOR refunds comes to an end
Supporters of the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights this week celebrated the recent expiration of Referendum C, the measure voters approved in 2005 that imposed a five-year timeout from taxpayer refunds under TABOR. But as critics of TABOR pointed out, Referendum C isn't exactly over.
Also: Colorado Statesman: Ref C is over, but ramifications live on in political world
Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: Government officials decry controversial ballot issues
A review of three controversial questions on the November ballot — constitutional amendments 60 and 61, and Proposition 101 — drew mostly negative reactions from local government officials this week. “It just doesn't make any sense,” said Commissioner Trési Houpt, a Democrat, about aspects of the proposed state constitutional Amendment 61, which would redefine the types and amounts of debt that local governments could incur.
HEALTH POLICY
Denver Business Journal: Report: 83% of small Colorado businesses will qualify for health-reform tax credits
Nearly 83 percent of Colorado's smallest businesses will qualify for tax credits under the federal healthcare reform act, but less than 25 percent of state businesses with 25 or less workers will be able to receive the maximum tax benefits, according to a report released Thursday.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Colo. Bankers Assn.: Reform will burden banks, consumers
Don Childears, CEO of the bankers association, which represents 90 percent of the $103 billion in assets held by 193 Colorado banks, said that Congress, rather than focusing on the reform that the nation needed, filled the bill with unnecessary and harmful provisions.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Grand Junction Sentinel: Group protests loss of affordable housing
Twenty studio apartments and a small house will soon be demolished to make way for a Mesa State College parking lot or storage unit at 1241 Elm Ave.
KMGH: Food Share Program Declares Bankruptcy
A Colorado food share program that gives discounted meals to needy families has declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy, leaving thousands of people who depend on it with one fewer place to get help.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Could anti-government mood from some voters be enough for 60, 61 and 101 to pass?
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, July 15, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Problems remain with city's budget structure
The city has admirably bridged budget gaps with creative fixes and spending cuts, but work remains on long-term solutions.
Denver Daily News: Conservatives disagree on stimulus progress
Challenge White House report that stimulus is creating jobs and boosting growth.
Colorado News Agency: Do state auditing methods go far enough?
A routine briefing at the Capitol this week by the state’s auditor’s office aroused the curiosity of several lawmakers as they questioned some of the methods employed by the state’s constitutionally required watchdog agency.
Colorado Springs Independent: The campaign for Amendments 60 and 61 and Prop 101 sounds bad, but it may just work
In a normal election, violating the law, refusing to identify your supporters, and rudely disregarding media requests seeking information about your campaign might qualify as "political self-destruction." But maybe not this time.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: County eyes personnel cuts
With the goal of trimming next year's budget, Larimer County officials are exploring ways to cut their payroll without resorting to layoffs.
Summit Daily News: Breckenridge eyes lodging tax increase
Town officials are considering a lodging tax increase for the November ballot to create a more sustainable source for marketing revenue.
Salida Mountain Mail: Commissioners quash countywide sales tax
In a unanimous vote during their regular meeting Tuesday, Chaffee County Commissioners agreed not to place the countywide sales tax issue on the November ballot.
KDVR: Thousands still waiting for their Colorado income tax refunds
It's mid July and some people in Colorado are still waiting for their state income tax refund and frustrated because they can't find out why it's been delayed.
GENERAL
Durango Herald: Social Security
A plan to delay paying full Social Security retirement benefits until recipients are 70 years old is gaining momentum in Washington. The plan makes perfect sense in terms of nursing along the ailing Social Security Trust. Because recipients would pay in longer before they could collect, the ratio between income and outgo would be improved.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Problems remain with city's budget structure
The city has admirably bridged budget gaps with creative fixes and spending cuts, but work remains on long-term solutions.
Denver Daily News: Conservatives disagree on stimulus progress
Challenge White House report that stimulus is creating jobs and boosting growth.
Colorado News Agency: Do state auditing methods go far enough?
A routine briefing at the Capitol this week by the state’s auditor’s office aroused the curiosity of several lawmakers as they questioned some of the methods employed by the state’s constitutionally required watchdog agency.
Colorado Springs Independent: The campaign for Amendments 60 and 61 and Prop 101 sounds bad, but it may just work
In a normal election, violating the law, refusing to identify your supporters, and rudely disregarding media requests seeking information about your campaign might qualify as "political self-destruction." But maybe not this time.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: County eyes personnel cuts
With the goal of trimming next year's budget, Larimer County officials are exploring ways to cut their payroll without resorting to layoffs.
Summit Daily News: Breckenridge eyes lodging tax increase
Town officials are considering a lodging tax increase for the November ballot to create a more sustainable source for marketing revenue.
Salida Mountain Mail: Commissioners quash countywide sales tax
In a unanimous vote during their regular meeting Tuesday, Chaffee County Commissioners agreed not to place the countywide sales tax issue on the November ballot.
KDVR: Thousands still waiting for their Colorado income tax refunds
It's mid July and some people in Colorado are still waiting for their state income tax refund and frustrated because they can't find out why it's been delayed.
GENERAL
Durango Herald: Social Security
A plan to delay paying full Social Security retirement benefits until recipients are 70 years old is gaining momentum in Washington. The plan makes perfect sense in terms of nursing along the ailing Social Security Trust. Because recipients would pay in longer before they could collect, the ratio between income and outgo would be improved.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Activists hail return of TABOR, a constitutional amendment that never really left
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, July 14, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: TABOR faithful celebrate passage of Ref C, but it ain’t exactly over
Stalwart supporters of the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights gathered at the Capitol on Tuesday to cheer the expiration of Referendum C, the measure voters approved in 2005 that imposed a five-year timeout from taxpayer refunds under TABOR.
Also: Denver Daily News: Referendum C timeout timed out
Also: Pueblo Chieftain: End of TABOR time-out celebrated
Denver Daily News: Touting jobs, smaller gov’t
In what may end up being his last State of the City address if elected governor, Mayor John Hickenlooper yesterday delivered remarks similar to that of a campaign speech, pointing to a desire to limit government and create jobs.
Also: KCNC: State Of Denver: Budget Deficit Is More
KMGH: Boulder To Spend $12M On Building Upgrades
Is it worth the extra investment, or bad timing?
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado No. 3 on CNBC’s 2010 list of ‘top states for business’
Colorado placed in the top 10 in three of the categories among the 50 states: quality of life (No, 2), business friendliness (No. 4) and workforce (No. 10). It also ranks above the 50-state average in technology & innovation (No. 12) and access to capital (No. 15). Colorado’s lowest rankings are in transportation & infrastructure (No. 36), cost of living (No. 35) and education (No. 29).
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: TABOR faithful celebrate passage of Ref C, but it ain’t exactly over
Stalwart supporters of the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights gathered at the Capitol on Tuesday to cheer the expiration of Referendum C, the measure voters approved in 2005 that imposed a five-year timeout from taxpayer refunds under TABOR.
Also: Denver Daily News: Referendum C timeout timed out
Also: Pueblo Chieftain: End of TABOR time-out celebrated
Denver Daily News: Touting jobs, smaller gov’t
In what may end up being his last State of the City address if elected governor, Mayor John Hickenlooper yesterday delivered remarks similar to that of a campaign speech, pointing to a desire to limit government and create jobs.
Also: KCNC: State Of Denver: Budget Deficit Is More
KMGH: Boulder To Spend $12M On Building Upgrades
Is it worth the extra investment, or bad timing?
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: Colorado No. 3 on CNBC’s 2010 list of ‘top states for business’
Colorado placed in the top 10 in three of the categories among the 50 states: quality of life (No, 2), business friendliness (No. 4) and workforce (No. 10). It also ranks above the 50-state average in technology & innovation (No. 12) and access to capital (No. 15). Colorado’s lowest rankings are in transportation & infrastructure (No. 36), cost of living (No. 35) and education (No. 29).
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Federal appointment is good news for advocates on low-income issues
Terry Scanlon, a fiscal policy analyst for the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute, filed this report today from Washington, D.C., where he's attending a conference:
Robert Greenstein, the director of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, has good news for for those who are concerned that Washington hasn't been progresssive enough. Greenstein Tuesday praised President Obama’s choice of Jack Lew to serve as director of the Office of Management and Budget, a position Lew held under President Clinton for a few years. Greenstein, who has worked on federal budget issues since the 1970s, told a group of progressive advocates in Baltimore that of all the OMB directors he has known, Lew is “the most progressive and the most focused on low-income issues.”
Robert Greenstein, the director of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, has good news for for those who are concerned that Washington hasn't been progresssive enough. Greenstein Tuesday praised President Obama’s choice of Jack Lew to serve as director of the Office of Management and Budget, a position Lew held under President Clinton for a few years. Greenstein, who has worked on federal budget issues since the 1970s, told a group of progressive advocates in Baltimore that of all the OMB directors he has known, Lew is “the most progressive and the most focused on low-income issues.”
Unemployment insurance program needs an overhaul, audit says
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, July 13, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Schools wise to spread stimulus
The Obama administration wants schools to speed up stimulus spending, but Colo. districts need to save some for the future.
Denver Post editorial: City should ax pot tax hike
A City Council member should drop his idea of funding teen programs with an additional levy on medical marijuana.
The Denver Post: Colorado must overhaul unemployment-insurance program, audit says
After becoming insolvent in January, the Colorado Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund has borrowed federal funds to pay benefits to workers during their first 26 weeks of unemployment.
Also: Denver Business Journal: Audit sees business rates as key to Colorado unemployment fund’s health
Denver Daily News: Union issue addressed in spending bill
Thirty-nine Republican state lawmakers have sent a letter to the state’s Congressional delegation asking them to reject a federal proposal that would provide law enforcement officers with collective bargaining rights.
Colorado Independent: Higher ed cuts would hit community colleges, minority students hardest
A potential 50 percent cut to higher education funding next year could jeopardize a system that is tasked with helping underprivileged and minority students make their way into four-year institutions, as well as with providing a trained workforce for Colorado businesses.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Drilling slowdown cuts assessed value of property by 7 percent
The assessed value of oil and gas development in Mesa County plummeted 70 percent this year compared to last year, a drop that likely will slice into the county’s 2011 budget.
Steamboat Today: Steamboat Chamber opposes anti-tax measures
Board takes position against Proposition 101, Amendments 60, 61
KUSA: Truth Test: Congress is considering $80 billion in new energy taxes
Throughout the election season, 9News will hold those entities that make political statements on its networks accountable for what they say.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Colorado Springs Business Journal: County opposes state ‘takeover’ of human services
The El Paso Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution Friday opposing a plan to relinquish control of its human services program to the state.
Longmont Times-Call: $6.8M goes to senior housing
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced a $6.8 million grant to the Longmont Housing Development Corp. for a 50-bedroom facility for very low-income seniors.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Schools wise to spread stimulus
The Obama administration wants schools to speed up stimulus spending, but Colo. districts need to save some for the future.
Denver Post editorial: City should ax pot tax hike
A City Council member should drop his idea of funding teen programs with an additional levy on medical marijuana.
The Denver Post: Colorado must overhaul unemployment-insurance program, audit says
After becoming insolvent in January, the Colorado Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund has borrowed federal funds to pay benefits to workers during their first 26 weeks of unemployment.
Also: Denver Business Journal: Audit sees business rates as key to Colorado unemployment fund’s health
Denver Daily News: Union issue addressed in spending bill
Thirty-nine Republican state lawmakers have sent a letter to the state’s Congressional delegation asking them to reject a federal proposal that would provide law enforcement officers with collective bargaining rights.
Colorado Independent: Higher ed cuts would hit community colleges, minority students hardest
A potential 50 percent cut to higher education funding next year could jeopardize a system that is tasked with helping underprivileged and minority students make their way into four-year institutions, as well as with providing a trained workforce for Colorado businesses.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Drilling slowdown cuts assessed value of property by 7 percent
The assessed value of oil and gas development in Mesa County plummeted 70 percent this year compared to last year, a drop that likely will slice into the county’s 2011 budget.
Steamboat Today: Steamboat Chamber opposes anti-tax measures
Board takes position against Proposition 101, Amendments 60, 61
KUSA: Truth Test: Congress is considering $80 billion in new energy taxes
Throughout the election season, 9News will hold those entities that make political statements on its networks accountable for what they say.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Colorado Springs Business Journal: County opposes state ‘takeover’ of human services
The El Paso Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution Friday opposing a plan to relinquish control of its human services program to the state.
Longmont Times-Call: $6.8M goes to senior housing
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced a $6.8 million grant to the Longmont Housing Development Corp. for a 50-bedroom facility for very low-income seniors.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Use school stimulus money and save jobs, feds urge
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, July 12, 2010. Listing does not implly endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: School districts slow to tap into federal stimulus funds
Federal authorities are encouraging school districts to spend education stimulus money to save jobs and blunt the effects of statewide budget cuts, but districts have been slow to draw their share of the funds.
Denver Post editorial: City should ax tax hike for pot
A City Council member should drop his idea of funding teen programs with an additional levy on medical marijuana.
Denver Post commentary: Where are the job killers?
Perhaps it's because Republicans are trying to deflect attention away from National Chairman Michael Steele in the wake of his Afghanistan remarks, but in recent days I often hear GOP stalwarts complain about "job-killing tax increases" or the like. Curious about the relationship between taxes and employment, I checked recent history.
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Budget woes aggravate tax season
Furloughs and a hiring freeze at the state Department of Revenue have slowed the processing of income-tax refunds in a year already plagued by delays that some blame on a new computer system.
ECONOMY
The Aspen Times via The Denver Post: Financial experts at Aspen Ideas Festival clash on whether crisis is over
David Stockman, budget director for former President Ronald Reagan, on Friday told the crowd to find a cabin in the mountains, stock it with canned beans and bottled water and prepare for even tougher times. The financial crisis will get worse instead of better, said Stockman, who labeled himself "right-wing libertarian." He was only half-joking.
GENERAL
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Surveys: Transportation major concern for city, county residents
Fort Collins and Larimer County residents believe transportation is a major issue that should be addressed more by city and county governments, according to survey results released last week by the city of Fort Collins and Larimer County.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Aurora Sentinel: Aurora gets $436K to house homeless vets
U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter, D-Golden, presented a $436,272 federal grant to the Aurora Housing Authority on Friday to help homeless veterans get off Aurora’s streets and into permanent housing.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: School districts slow to tap into federal stimulus funds
Federal authorities are encouraging school districts to spend education stimulus money to save jobs and blunt the effects of statewide budget cuts, but districts have been slow to draw their share of the funds.
Denver Post editorial: City should ax tax hike for pot
A City Council member should drop his idea of funding teen programs with an additional levy on medical marijuana.
Denver Post commentary: Where are the job killers?
Perhaps it's because Republicans are trying to deflect attention away from National Chairman Michael Steele in the wake of his Afghanistan remarks, but in recent days I often hear GOP stalwarts complain about "job-killing tax increases" or the like. Curious about the relationship between taxes and employment, I checked recent history.
Colorado Springs Business Journal: Budget woes aggravate tax season
Furloughs and a hiring freeze at the state Department of Revenue have slowed the processing of income-tax refunds in a year already plagued by delays that some blame on a new computer system.
ECONOMY
The Aspen Times via The Denver Post: Financial experts at Aspen Ideas Festival clash on whether crisis is over
David Stockman, budget director for former President Ronald Reagan, on Friday told the crowd to find a cabin in the mountains, stock it with canned beans and bottled water and prepare for even tougher times. The financial crisis will get worse instead of better, said Stockman, who labeled himself "right-wing libertarian." He was only half-joking.
GENERAL
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Surveys: Transportation major concern for city, county residents
Fort Collins and Larimer County residents believe transportation is a major issue that should be addressed more by city and county governments, according to survey results released last week by the city of Fort Collins and Larimer County.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Aurora Sentinel: Aurora gets $436K to house homeless vets
U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter, D-Golden, presented a $436,272 federal grant to the Aurora Housing Authority on Friday to help homeless veterans get off Aurora’s streets and into permanent housing.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Springs hospital commission keen on nonprofit ownership
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, July 9, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Small Colorado firms get health perks
Workers at small businesses in Colorado soon can earn extra vacation time, wear-jeans-to-work days and discounts on their insurance premiums by improving their health. Before recent changes in state law, insurance companies were forbidden from offering incentives to small businesses that set up wellness programs for their employees.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Memorial commission knocks status quo, likes nonprofit option
What’s good about the current governance structure of Memorial Health System? Not much, according to the commission weighing what to do with the city-owned hospital system.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Independent: Springs mayor says TABOR timeout response ‘positive’
Colorado Springs Mayor Lionel Rivera Wednesday told the Colorado Independent the response to his call last week for a three-year timeout from the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) has been totally positive.
Fort Collins Coloradoan commentary: Low taxes linked to unemployment
... We are in economic dire straits because tax rates are too low.
ECONOMY
Fort Collins Coloradoan: 2009 county job losses greater than expected
Larimer County ended 2009 with a 4.2 percent job loss, a decline that took more than $50 million out of the local economy in lost wages in the last three months of the year.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Summit Daily News: Summit County awarded $99,776 for down-payment assistance program
Gov. Bill Ritter has announced that $99,776 has been awarded to Summit County to continue funding for an existing down-payment assistance program operated by the Summit Combined Housing Authority.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Small Colorado firms get health perks
Workers at small businesses in Colorado soon can earn extra vacation time, wear-jeans-to-work days and discounts on their insurance premiums by improving their health. Before recent changes in state law, insurance companies were forbidden from offering incentives to small businesses that set up wellness programs for their employees.
Colorado Springs Gazette: Memorial commission knocks status quo, likes nonprofit option
What’s good about the current governance structure of Memorial Health System? Not much, according to the commission weighing what to do with the city-owned hospital system.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Independent: Springs mayor says TABOR timeout response ‘positive’
Colorado Springs Mayor Lionel Rivera Wednesday told the Colorado Independent the response to his call last week for a three-year timeout from the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) has been totally positive.
Fort Collins Coloradoan commentary: Low taxes linked to unemployment
... We are in economic dire straits because tax rates are too low.
ECONOMY
Fort Collins Coloradoan: 2009 county job losses greater than expected
Larimer County ended 2009 with a 4.2 percent job loss, a decline that took more than $50 million out of the local economy in lost wages in the last three months of the year.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Summit Daily News: Summit County awarded $99,776 for down-payment assistance program
Gov. Bill Ritter has announced that $99,776 has been awarded to Summit County to continue funding for an existing down-payment assistance program operated by the Summit Combined Housing Authority.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Even more folks lining up to oppose misguided ballot initiatives set for November election
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, July 8, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Denver council briefed on expected $100 million deficit
The heads of city agencies briefed the council in committee on the impact of overcoming the deficit and gave preliminary strategies for closing the gap. City budget officials project operating spending, once the deficit is overcome, will come in at $836 million next year.
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Loveland to file lawsuit in hopes of regaining lost vNet incentive
A sharply divided City Council late Tuesday directed the city attorney to file suit to recover $500,000 in economic incentives to Colorado vNet, a once promising company that sold its assets to a competitor last fall.
Summit Daily News: Vail opposes tax-slashing state ballot initiatives
Officials say Vail will lose $5.3 million a year if Proposition 101 and Amendments 60 and 61 pass.
HEALTH POLICY
Colorado News Agency: Ritter touts plan for the uninsurable; GOP says it can’t last long
The health insurance program is paid for both by premiums–which range from as little as $120 per month for a nonsmoker under 18, to $806 a month for a 64-year-old smoker–and by a $90 million subsidy from the federal government. The subsidy is intended to cover the difference between the premiums paid by individuals and the actual cost of coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.
ECONOMY
Longmont Times-Call: City sees employment growth
Longmont is up a net 172 primary jobs through the first half of 2010, according to a report issued Wednesday by the Longmont Area Economic Council.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
KMGH-TV: Colorado Groups Get $1 Million To Help Homeless
It's part of $190 million in grants given by the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department to assist 550 local homeless assistance programs across the country.
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Denver council briefed on expected $100 million deficit
The heads of city agencies briefed the council in committee on the impact of overcoming the deficit and gave preliminary strategies for closing the gap. City budget officials project operating spending, once the deficit is overcome, will come in at $836 million next year.
Loveland Reporter-Herald: Loveland to file lawsuit in hopes of regaining lost vNet incentive
A sharply divided City Council late Tuesday directed the city attorney to file suit to recover $500,000 in economic incentives to Colorado vNet, a once promising company that sold its assets to a competitor last fall.
Summit Daily News: Vail opposes tax-slashing state ballot initiatives
Officials say Vail will lose $5.3 million a year if Proposition 101 and Amendments 60 and 61 pass.
HEALTH POLICY
Colorado News Agency: Ritter touts plan for the uninsurable; GOP says it can’t last long
The health insurance program is paid for both by premiums–which range from as little as $120 per month for a nonsmoker under 18, to $806 a month for a 64-year-old smoker–and by a $90 million subsidy from the federal government. The subsidy is intended to cover the difference between the premiums paid by individuals and the actual cost of coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.
ECONOMY
Longmont Times-Call: City sees employment growth
Longmont is up a net 172 primary jobs through the first half of 2010, according to a report issued Wednesday by the Longmont Area Economic Council.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
KMGH-TV: Colorado Groups Get $1 Million To Help Homeless
It's part of $190 million in grants given by the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department to assist 550 local homeless assistance programs across the country.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
High-risk pool will cover people who were denied because of pre-existing conditions
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, July 7, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Ritter details Colorado's new high-risk health-insurance pool
Colorado will receive $90 million in federal money to subsidize health insurance for up to 4,000 people rejected by private insurers because of pre-existing medical conditions, Gov. Bill Ritter announced Tuesday.
Also: Denver Business Journal: State offers plan for pre-existing conditions
Also: Associated Press via Colorado Springs Business Journal: Gov. Ritter unveils new health insurance plan
Also: KDVR-TV: Ritter rolls out first phase of health care reform
Also: KCNC-TV: Colo. Unveils Coverage For Pre-Existing Conditions
Also: KMGH-TV: New Health Plan Covers Those With Pre-Existing Conditions
Colorado Springs Gazette: Woman's health insurance coverage threatened by a penny
The problem started after Carrington, 52, lost her job as an admissions representative with Alta Colleges and COBRA kicked in. Under the federal COBRA law, people who lose their jobs under certain circumstances can temporarily keep their group health insurance from their employer, but they have to pick up a larger share of their premium — in her case, a little over $471.87 a month.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Ballot item could cripple Colorado
Amendment 61 is a dangerous measure that would prevent state and local governments from providing basic infrastructure.
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: More mud thrown at our frugal city
Another day, another hatchet job on Colorado Springs for declining a large tax increase last fall in the midst of recession — as voters have done throughout the country.
Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Punishing the unemployed is poor economic strategy
Republicans are more concerned about the $33 billion relief would add to the federal deficit than they are about the unemployed. Some Republicans have even argued that some of the $37 billion appropriated for job creation through stimulus spending should be used instead for paying unemployment.
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: Benefits extension a necessary action
Those who argue that extending benefits will simply provide a disincentive for people to find jobs apparently haven’t been job hunting themselves lately.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: Ritter details Colorado's new high-risk health-insurance pool
Colorado will receive $90 million in federal money to subsidize health insurance for up to 4,000 people rejected by private insurers because of pre-existing medical conditions, Gov. Bill Ritter announced Tuesday.
Also: Denver Business Journal: State offers plan for pre-existing conditions
Also: Associated Press via Colorado Springs Business Journal: Gov. Ritter unveils new health insurance plan
Also: KDVR-TV: Ritter rolls out first phase of health care reform
Also: KCNC-TV: Colo. Unveils Coverage For Pre-Existing Conditions
Also: KMGH-TV: New Health Plan Covers Those With Pre-Existing Conditions
Colorado Springs Gazette: Woman's health insurance coverage threatened by a penny
The problem started after Carrington, 52, lost her job as an admissions representative with Alta Colleges and COBRA kicked in. Under the federal COBRA law, people who lose their jobs under certain circumstances can temporarily keep their group health insurance from their employer, but they have to pick up a larger share of their premium — in her case, a little over $471.87 a month.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Ballot item could cripple Colorado
Amendment 61 is a dangerous measure that would prevent state and local governments from providing basic infrastructure.
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: More mud thrown at our frugal city
Another day, another hatchet job on Colorado Springs for declining a large tax increase last fall in the midst of recession — as voters have done throughout the country.
Grand Junction Sentinel commentary: Punishing the unemployed is poor economic strategy
Republicans are more concerned about the $33 billion relief would add to the federal deficit than they are about the unemployed. Some Republicans have even argued that some of the $37 billion appropriated for job creation through stimulus spending should be used instead for paying unemployment.
Grand Junction Sentinel editorial: Benefits extension a necessary action
Those who argue that extending benefits will simply provide a disincentive for people to find jobs apparently haven’t been job hunting themselves lately.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Extending unemployment benefits would help economy, Post says
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, July 6, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Colorado summer lunch program pushing to feed more needy kids
The summer food program has long flown under the radar nationally. But while other states have been increasing the number of needy kids they feed, Colorado's rate of participation has dropped.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Extend benefits for unemployed
The consequences of cutting off aid to Americans who are out of work could hurt the U.S. economy more than help it.
YourHub.com via The Denver Post: City's stimulus loan gives birth to SarahCare at DTC
Nearly a year and a half after the Obama administration enacted the stimulus plan, the first business in Denver has reaped the benefits of city stimulus funding. SarahCare at DTC — a franchise facility that provides health-related care and other day services for seniors — opened last week in southeast Denver at 8000 E. Quincy Ave.
The Denver Post: Colorado Springs experimenting with loss of local services
The buses stop running at 6:15 p.m. now, and most streetlights stay dark throughout the night. Three city pools have shut down, and turf is withering in more than 100 parks. What's a city to do when its museums are struggling to stay open and there aren't enough police officers to investigate crimes? Colorado Springs residents have met their city's attempts to get by with less on their own terms. For some, there is anger and lost jobs. For others, there are weary shrugs and mild complaints.
Denver Daily News: New tax on tanning
Some Denver salons are feeling burned over a new tax on tanning that went into effect Thursday.
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Cripplers
What if Colorado voters were to override the will of Puebloans who have approved the creation of our Urban Renewal Authority? Two ballot initiatives on November’s ballot could cripple the authority’s ability to bring new projects to the city’s blighted areas.
Colorado Independent: Hickenlooper would defy state Dems and reinstate tax-free ‘enterprise zones’
Democratic gubernatorial candidate John Hickenlooper presented his “road map” for Colorado job creation and economic growth last week. The road map puts him at odds with some Democratic members of the Colorado legislature who took pains this session to repeal the state’s so-called “enterprise zones” where businesses are exempted from paying taxes. Hickenlooper told the Colorado Independent that he strongly supported enterprise zones as a way to spur new business activity and that as governor he would look to promote them as a first order of business.
Face the State commentary: Online retailers will sue Colorado
The Direct Marketing Association says it plans to sue Colorado in federal court over a new law that requires online retailers from out of state to collect sales tax information from customers and forward it to the Revenue Department.
Associated Press via Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: McInnis vows to roll back Ritter's programs
“Car fees should go to a vote of the people. Elimination of tax exemptions, I'd roll back every one of them. Freezing the mill levy — that's a tax increase that should have gone to the voters,” McInnis said in an interview with The Associated Press.
HEALTH CARE POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Colorado in a good position for health care reform
Many nonprofit and non-partisan organizations already have stepped up with innovative health care solutions that hold much promise. By many indicators, we are well positioned to respond to the 2010 National Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
The Denver Post: Colorado summer lunch program pushing to feed more needy kids
The summer food program has long flown under the radar nationally. But while other states have been increasing the number of needy kids they feed, Colorado's rate of participation has dropped.
FISCAL POLICY
Denver Post editorial: Extend benefits for unemployed
The consequences of cutting off aid to Americans who are out of work could hurt the U.S. economy more than help it.
YourHub.com via The Denver Post: City's stimulus loan gives birth to SarahCare at DTC
Nearly a year and a half after the Obama administration enacted the stimulus plan, the first business in Denver has reaped the benefits of city stimulus funding. SarahCare at DTC — a franchise facility that provides health-related care and other day services for seniors — opened last week in southeast Denver at 8000 E. Quincy Ave.
The Denver Post: Colorado Springs experimenting with loss of local services
The buses stop running at 6:15 p.m. now, and most streetlights stay dark throughout the night. Three city pools have shut down, and turf is withering in more than 100 parks. What's a city to do when its museums are struggling to stay open and there aren't enough police officers to investigate crimes? Colorado Springs residents have met their city's attempts to get by with less on their own terms. For some, there is anger and lost jobs. For others, there are weary shrugs and mild complaints.
Denver Daily News: New tax on tanning
Some Denver salons are feeling burned over a new tax on tanning that went into effect Thursday.
Pueblo Chieftain editorial: Cripplers
What if Colorado voters were to override the will of Puebloans who have approved the creation of our Urban Renewal Authority? Two ballot initiatives on November’s ballot could cripple the authority’s ability to bring new projects to the city’s blighted areas.
Colorado Independent: Hickenlooper would defy state Dems and reinstate tax-free ‘enterprise zones’
Democratic gubernatorial candidate John Hickenlooper presented his “road map” for Colorado job creation and economic growth last week. The road map puts him at odds with some Democratic members of the Colorado legislature who took pains this session to repeal the state’s so-called “enterprise zones” where businesses are exempted from paying taxes. Hickenlooper told the Colorado Independent that he strongly supported enterprise zones as a way to spur new business activity and that as governor he would look to promote them as a first order of business.
Face the State commentary: Online retailers will sue Colorado
The Direct Marketing Association says it plans to sue Colorado in federal court over a new law that requires online retailers from out of state to collect sales tax information from customers and forward it to the Revenue Department.
Associated Press via Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: McInnis vows to roll back Ritter's programs
“Car fees should go to a vote of the people. Elimination of tax exemptions, I'd roll back every one of them. Freezing the mill levy — that's a tax increase that should have gone to the voters,” McInnis said in an interview with The Associated Press.
HEALTH CARE POLICY
Denver Post commentary: Colorado in a good position for health care reform
Many nonprofit and non-partisan organizations already have stepped up with innovative health care solutions that hold much promise. By many indicators, we are well positioned to respond to the 2010 National Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Colorado moving to implement federal 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, July 1, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: New Colorado health plan to cover those with pre-existing conditions
Coloradans denied health insurance because they are deemed too sick will soon have access to coverage through a new state program.
Also: Denver Daily News: Making insurance for some more affordable?
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Nationwide trade group sues over online-sales-tax statute
A nationwide trade group has filed a lawsuit in federal court in Denver challenging reporting requirements in Colorado's new online-sales-tax law.
Also: Denver Daily News: ‘Internet tax’ challenged
Also: Denver Business Journal: Marketing group sues over Colorado's 'Amazon tax'
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Mayor's proposals merit city support
Rivera suggested placing a measure on the November ballot that would ask voters to allow the city to retain TABOR surpluses, should there be any, for 2010-2012.
Colorado News Agency: New law lightens load for tardy trailers in tow
Beginning today, trailers tagging along behind the family vehicle or farm truck will carry a slightly lighter load. That’s because people who register their non-motorized vehicles—primarily trailers– past their registration deadlines will pay lower penalties under two new laws that just took effect.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: County departments face more budget cuts
In anticipation of having 6 percent to 8 percent less property tax revenue to work with in 2012, county departments will be asked to come up with reduced operating budgets in 2011 and expect to do it again the following year, officials say.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Change in lease law cuts county budgets
Millions of dollars in federal mineral-lease distributions for Mesa and Garfield counties last year are cutting sharply into the payments in lieu of taxes they are receiving from the U.S. government this year.
Longmont Times-Call: Benefits ax is about to fall
The U.S. Senate left Washington, D.C., for its weeklong Independence Day break Thursday without passing an extension of unemployment benefits for more than 1 million Americans.
Steamboat Today: Steamboat sales tax collections down 7.6 percent in May
Collections are down nearly 5 percent year to date, from about $7.6 million in 2009 to about $7.2 million in 2010, according to the figures. The city budgeted for a 10 percent decrease in collections, sales-and-use tax auditor Rachelle Summers said.
HEALTH POLICY
The Denver Post: New Colorado health plan to cover those with pre-existing conditions
Coloradans denied health insurance because they are deemed too sick will soon have access to coverage through a new state program.
Also: Denver Daily News: Making insurance for some more affordable?
FISCAL POLICY
The Denver Post: Nationwide trade group sues over online-sales-tax statute
A nationwide trade group has filed a lawsuit in federal court in Denver challenging reporting requirements in Colorado's new online-sales-tax law.
Also: Denver Daily News: ‘Internet tax’ challenged
Also: Denver Business Journal: Marketing group sues over Colorado's 'Amazon tax'
Colorado Springs Gazette editorial: Mayor's proposals merit city support
Rivera suggested placing a measure on the November ballot that would ask voters to allow the city to retain TABOR surpluses, should there be any, for 2010-2012.
Colorado News Agency: New law lightens load for tardy trailers in tow
Beginning today, trailers tagging along behind the family vehicle or farm truck will carry a slightly lighter load. That’s because people who register their non-motorized vehicles—primarily trailers– past their registration deadlines will pay lower penalties under two new laws that just took effect.
Fort Collins Coloradoan: County departments face more budget cuts
In anticipation of having 6 percent to 8 percent less property tax revenue to work with in 2012, county departments will be asked to come up with reduced operating budgets in 2011 and expect to do it again the following year, officials say.
Grand Junction Sentinel: Change in lease law cuts county budgets
Millions of dollars in federal mineral-lease distributions for Mesa and Garfield counties last year are cutting sharply into the payments in lieu of taxes they are receiving from the U.S. government this year.
Longmont Times-Call: Benefits ax is about to fall
The U.S. Senate left Washington, D.C., for its weeklong Independence Day break Thursday without passing an extension of unemployment benefits for more than 1 million Americans.
Steamboat Today: Steamboat sales tax collections down 7.6 percent in May
Collections are down nearly 5 percent year to date, from about $7.6 million in 2009 to about $7.2 million in 2010, according to the figures. The city budgeted for a 10 percent decrease in collections, sales-and-use tax auditor Rachelle Summers said.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Colorado Springs mayor seeks a TABOR timeout
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, July 1, 2010. Listing does not imply endorsement of the content.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Mayor wants vote on a TABOR timeout
Colorado Springs Mayor Lionel Rivera called Wednesday for a three-year timeout from the part of the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights that limits how much tax money the city of Colorado Springs can spend as the economy recovers.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Mayor: Suspend city TABOR, reform PERA
Denver Daily News: Seeking FMAP extension
Ritter: Without Medicaid reimbursement extension, state looking at additional $211 million shortfall.
Also: Colorado Independent: Ritter joins governors urging Congress to extend health spending
Colorado Independent: Unemployed Coloradans losing benefits fast, face foreclosures, jail time
Coloradans are suffering directly because lawmakers in Washington can not find a way to work together to pass vital federal unemployment insurance benefits extensions.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: CU’s Wobbekind cuts 2010 Colorado jobs forecast
University of Colorado at Boulder economist Richard Wobbekind has slashed his 2010 employment forecast amid sluggish Colorado job creation and continued job losses in manufacturing, construction and the information sectors.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Markey votes for overhaul on fiscal regulation
Rep. Betsy Markey, D-Fort Collins, voted with the Democratic majority Wed-nesday as the House approved a sweeping overhaul of financial regulations.
GENERAL
Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: Garfield County survey: Voters support RFTA, trails and land conservation
A recent survey of Garfield County voters showed majority support for a “trails and land conservation” program, but a reluctance to go along with a tax increase to pay for it, at least right now.
FISCAL POLICY
Colorado Springs Gazette: Mayor wants vote on a TABOR timeout
Colorado Springs Mayor Lionel Rivera called Wednesday for a three-year timeout from the part of the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights that limits how much tax money the city of Colorado Springs can spend as the economy recovers.
Also: Colorado Springs Business Journal: Mayor: Suspend city TABOR, reform PERA
Denver Daily News: Seeking FMAP extension
Ritter: Without Medicaid reimbursement extension, state looking at additional $211 million shortfall.
Also: Colorado Independent: Ritter joins governors urging Congress to extend health spending
Colorado Independent: Unemployed Coloradans losing benefits fast, face foreclosures, jail time
Coloradans are suffering directly because lawmakers in Washington can not find a way to work together to pass vital federal unemployment insurance benefits extensions.
ECONOMY
Denver Business Journal: CU’s Wobbekind cuts 2010 Colorado jobs forecast
University of Colorado at Boulder economist Richard Wobbekind has slashed his 2010 employment forecast amid sluggish Colorado job creation and continued job losses in manufacturing, construction and the information sectors.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Fort Collins Coloradoan: Markey votes for overhaul on fiscal regulation
Rep. Betsy Markey, D-Fort Collins, voted with the Democratic majority Wed-nesday as the House approved a sweeping overhaul of financial regulations.
GENERAL
Glenwood Springs Post-Independent: Garfield County survey: Voters support RFTA, trails and land conservation
A recent survey of Garfield County voters showed majority support for a “trails and land conservation” program, but a reluctance to go along with a tax increase to pay for it, at least right now.
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