February 2026 Newsletter

We as the Joint Budget Committee are in the thick of figure setting as we continue working through budgets and begin wrapping up the Long Bill. Throughout this process, I have fought tirelessly to protect essential services that matter most to our local community and to the people of Colorado. Outside of the JBC’s budget work, below is a brief overview of where my bills are within the legislative process.

Bill Updates

HB26-1015: Colorado Homeless Contribution Tax Credit Extension

This bill extends the Colorado Homeless Contribution Tax Credit through the year 2034, allowing taxpayers to continue claiming a 25% state credit for qualifying donations to approved nonprofits serving people experiencing homelessness. The extension is expected to generate roughly $30–35 million annually in private donations. We had several individuals testify in favor of this bill and with their support this bill passed the House Finance Committee on a vote of 10-1.

HB26-1008: Colorado Outdoor Opportunities Act

This bill expands the role of the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife in planning, coordinating, and managing outdoor recreation across the state, including support for regional infrastructure and conservation efforts. It facilitates regional planning by bringing stakeholders to the table, including agricultural producers, county commissioners, municipal leaders, federal land managers, conservation organizations, outdoor recreation industry representatives, private landowners, and other local partners. The goal is to ensure growth in outdoor recreation is coordinated with water use, wildlife habitat, working lands, and local community needs. The bill passed the House Agriculture, Water, and Natural Resources Committee on a vote of 9–4.

HB26-1014: Extend Colorado Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit

This bill extends the Colorado Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit through tax year 2034. It provides income tax credits to businesses that meet specific job creation criteria, encouraging new job growth across the state. Since 2020, Mesa County has added 1,052 jobs through this tax credit to date. The bill passed House Finance on a vote of 9-2.

HB26-1237: Transportation Safety Modifications

This bill updates several traffic laws to improve safety and clarify enforcement. It strengthens the winter traction law by focusing on proper tires, chains, or approved traction devices during snow and ice, rather than drivetrain type. The bill also prohibits stopping or parking in designated bike lanes, with limited exceptions, to better protect cyclists. It allows law enforcement and authorized personnel to remove vehicles, cargo, or debris that are blocking traffic. It replaces the term “accident” with “crash” or “incident” in state law to reflect modern safety standards and consistent language.

HB26-1229 Supporting The Human Animal Bond

This bill updates the definition of “social determinants of health” to include the human-animal bond as this bond is proven to support peoples behavioral and physical well-being. The bill was introduced in the House and assigned to the House Health & Human Services Committee for consideration.

February was a productive month at the Capitol. I have advanced legislation focused on homelessness services, outdoor recreation, job growth, transportation safety, and public health. Each of these efforts are aimed at practical solutions that support Mesa County and communities across Colorado.

I wanted to extend a heartfelt thank you for your continued trust and support as I work hard to serve the people of Colorado and the Western Slope.