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Howdy, Colorado Democrats!
We are excited to be re-launching our newsletter, The Dem Dispatch, as a monthly newsletter you will receive the first week of every month to keep you informed on what your elected officials and State Party are hard at work on and how you can get involved!
Party Updates
We are so proud of all the work Democrats are doing throughout the state. We specifically want to highlight and uplift the work of our Volunteers of the Year! We also would like to thank Josie and Senator Rollie Heath for their hard work, commitment and dedication to the Democratic Party. They received the highly-coveted and well-earned Lifetime Achievement Award at the Obama Gala.
[link removed] [[link removed]] Below is a letter from the Heath Family:
Pictured: Awards for Volunteers of the Year. Image by Joshua Trupin [link removed] [[link removed]]
To kick off our reboot of the Dems Dispatch we would like to highlight our wonderful Volunteer of the Year recipients: Pictured: Josie and Senator Rollie Heath giving remarks at Obama Gala 2024 with Governor Polis and Chair Shad Murib presenting the Heath’s with the award.
District 1: Sue McGinley Congratulations on this Lifetime Achievement Award Josie & Rollie Heath (aka Mom and Dad, Grammy & Pop Pop!)
District 2: Lisa Lewis We are often asked “What was it like to grow up with Josie & Rollie as your parents/grandparents?”
District 3: Mary Dodd Here are some thoughts in honor of this Lifetime Achievement Award…
District 4: Lisa Chollet Yes, we had “famous” people around our kitchen table often as dinner guests (including several Presidential Candidates). The Heath Family kitchen table also ALWAYS had room for our childhood friends, new and old friends, & business or work associates who became lifelong family friends… they were always treated to a home-cooked meal, accompanied by a ping-pong or pinball game, or an invitation for pool volleyball or a game of Hearts.
District 5: Chandra Wilkins Weekends were spent with Josie and Rollie attending EVERY soccer game, basketball game or swim meet we had, near and far… AND it also meant that our teammates would join us afterwards, often still in uniform, to leaflet a precinct on the way home. Trips to Baskin Robbins were always included – with double-decker cones encouraged.
District 6: Melissa Garland Walking in parades was a staple for every 4th of July (often placed behind the horses depending on the County) … as was tossing out Heath candy bars along the route. Those same Heath bars were always given out for Halloween too.
District 7: Scott Merrifield Grandkids were pulled in wagons stacked high full of candidate literature and taught their numbers while racing ahead on their bikes to identify Democratic household addresses for Grammy & Pop Pop to door knock on next.
District 8: Justin Martinez Growing up as a Heath required constant upward-turned palms that said: “Hello, my name is ______ Heath, and today our family is working on the following cause/political race. Can you give money, time, or your vote?” As a result, those same hands welcomed countless friends from every corner of Colorado and the United States into our lives. People all over the map have given selflessly of their money and time to support a Heath ticket or initiative… Thanks to each of you for working with Josie and Rollie to make a real difference on causes that are near and dear to all of our hearts!
Thank you for all the work you do; we truly appreciate every single one of our volunteers and know we could not do this without you! Mom & Dad/ Grammy & Pop Pop, thank you for your life of service and continual inspiration. At the age of 86, you each still do more in a week for others than most people do in a year. Working tirelessly for children, education, the environment, equity & justice. Despite your busy lives, you somehow ALWAYS also put us (and each other) first. We will carry the values, lessons, and love that you have surrounded us with forever. Congratulations on this Lifetime Achievement Award. So lucky to have spent our lifetimes with you.
[link removed] [[link removed]] Love your proud kids: Stratton (& Rhonda), Kristin, Joel (& Kelly), and grandkids: Ally, Jen, Rollins, Heath, Davis, Owen & Henry
Pictured: Senator Cory Booker giving his keynote speech at Obama Gala. Image by Joshua Trupin
We thank all our sponsors for supporting both DemFest and the Obama Gala:
RD Sewald Congresswoman Diana DeGette
Dr. Stephan Maus Congressman Joe Neguse
Biden/Harris 2024 Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo
Colorado State Firefighters Association Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen
AFL-CIO Senator John Hickenlooper
Mike Johnston Senator Michael Bennet
Vivage Beecon Congressman Jason Crow
Sewald Hanfling Governor Jared Polis
Southern Ute Indian Tribe Attorney General Phil Weiser
Corazón Printing Secretary Jena Griswold
Colorado Education Association Treasure Dave Young
Watson Wenk Group Adam for Colorado
SEIU Blanca and Cavanaugh O’Leary
ASFCME John Walsh
ActBlue Senator Kerry Donovan
Occasions Catering Representative Meg Froelich
Dr. Kathleen Van Voorhis
Mannie Rodriguez
Richard Howell
U.S. Senate Updates
Bennet, Cornyn Introduce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Seniors Hickenlooper, Bennet Welcome Tens of Millions for Colorado to Reduce Emissions, Boost Manufacturing
U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced the Increasing Access to Biosimilars Act to lower prescription drug costs for seniors. This legislation will boost competition and encourage physicians to prescribe biosimilar medications with lower out-of-pocket costs. Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet welcomed $22 million from the Department of Energy (DOE)’s Industrial Demonstrations Program [[link removed]] to Fort Lupton-based Golden Aluminum Inc., an industry leader in sustainable approaches to aluminum production. The grant will enable upgrades to boost efficiency, to increase production of clean energy technologies, and to enhance workforce training.
“The skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs means that many Americans have to choose between life-saving medications and putting food on the table, especially seniors, communities of color, and the millions of people living on fixed incomes,” said Bennet. “This legislation would increase patient access to lower-cost biosimilars, saving them and our health care system money.” “Golden Aluminum’s Colorado-grown, game-changing technology is a perfect example of how we’re putting our climate dollars to good use — helping America slash our emissions and strengthen our manufacturing sector,” said Hickenlooper.
“Far too many seniors forgo treatment because they can’t afford the high cost of prescription drugs,” said Cornyn. “This legislation would help lower the costs of prescription drugs by expanding access to biosimilars, which offer the same lifesaving benefits without the higher price tag. “Colorado continues to lead the nation in developing solutions to reduce emissions and safeguard our climate. I’m glad that Golden Aluminum will be able to use this funding to upgrade their facilities to reduce fuel consumption, improve efficiency, and recycle more materials for use in clean energy technologies,” said Bennet.
Read more here. [[link removed]] Read more here [[link removed]] .
U.S. House Updates
First-term Congresswoman Delivers Funding for all Fifteen of her Project Proposals in Colorado’s New 8th Congressional District Congresswoman Caraveo secured federal funding for the following projects:
March 6, 2024 Adams County
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo, MD (CO-08) announced on Wednesday that she secured over $16 million in federal funding for community projects in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, with projects in all three counties (Weld, Adams, and Larimer). The Congresswoman said she pressed for federal funding on fifteen community projects, and all fifteen received funding. The projects will receive these resources through the appropriations package that passed the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday afternoon. City of Brighton: $959,752 for the City of Brighton for Core City Water Line Replacement Project
“When I was elected to Congress, I came to Washington with a drive to deliver for our communities in Colorado,” said Rep. Caraveo. “Today, I’m proud to say that I secured over $16.1 million in federal funds that will help maintain strong public services in the Front Range and Northern Colorado. From clean water infrastructure in Brighton to a community center in Thornton and a micro transit program in Berthoud, these projects impact every corner of the 8th Congressional district and will help pay for costly infrastructure upgrades without forcing local taxpayers to shoulder the cost.” City of Commerce City: $4,116,279 for the Chambers Avenue Widening
MORE LATINOS HAVE HEALTH INSURANCE THAN EVER BEFORE BECAUSE OF THE ACA South Adams County Water and Sanitation District: $959,752 for the South Adams County Water and Sanitation District for PFAS Drinking Water Treatment Plant Project
March 21, 2024 City of Thornton: $850,000 for the Quebec Street – 136th Avenue to north of 138th Avenue Widening Design.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar joined Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse, Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray and Senate DPCC Chair Debbie Stabenow in commemorating the 14th anniversary of the House passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). $1,000,000 for the Thornton Community Center Reconstruction Project.
CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: Thank you so much, Senator, for your leadership. We're here to celebrate these 14 years standing on the shoulders of the work that late Senator Harry Reid and our Speaker, our forever Speaker Nancy Pelosi did, and her legacy is why we are here to celebrate. City of Westminster: $959,752 for the City of Westminster for Lowell Boulevard Water Main Replacement Project
There's not too much that I can add to what's already been said, but I did want to focus on one thing: there are more Latinos enrolled in health insurance today than ever before because of this monumental legislation. That peace of mind and quality, affordable healthcare is especially important. We've seen a 53 percent increase in Latino enrollment since President Biden took office. Larimer County
When the ACA was first enacted, it represented a commitment to everyone in this country, regardless of race or zip code, that you would have the ability to access affordable and quality healthcare. Today, that promise still stands. Town of Berthoud: $864,000 for the Berthoud Area Transportation System (BATS) Microtransit Program
Read more here [[link removed]] . Weld County
City of Dacono: $850,000 for the Engineering Design for State Highway 52 between Weld County Road 7 & 15
City of Evans: $677,000 for the City of Evans for Waterline Replacement Project
Town of Frederick: $110,000 for the Frederick Minor Home Repair
Greeley-Weld County Airport: $850,000 for the Taxiway Bravo & Echo Complex
City of Greeley: $1,050,000 for the Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Improvements along the 10th Street Corridor
Greeley Boys & Girls Club: $850,000 for the Greeley Teen Center
Town of Mead: $1,000,000 for the 3rd and Welker Intersection Improvements Project
Weld County: $1,000,000 for the High Plains Boulevard I-25 Arterial Road
The appropriations minibus passed on a bipartisan vote of 339-85. It will now go to the Senate for a vote before reaching President Biden’s desk.
Colorado Senate Updates
FENBERG, MARCHMAN BILL AIMED AT ESTABLISHING PASSENGER RAIL FOR COLORADO CLEARS COMMITTEE JAQUEZ LEWIS, KOLKER BILL TO PROTECT COLORADANS, PROHIBIT FIREARMS IN SENSITIVE SPACES PASSES COMMITTEE
SB24-184 [[link removed]] , sponsored by Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, would implement a congestion reduction fee that would be used to offset climate impacts and mitigate the congestion, and wear and tear on Colorado’s roads caused by rental vehicles. Revenue generated from the fee would create a sustainable funding source to be used as a matching source for federal investment opportunities for statewide transit and rail, as well as other forms of public transportation. March 27, 2024
“For years Coloradans have been waiting for the promise of a fast, efficient passenger rail system that makes it easy, safe, and affordable to travel all across our great state,” Fenberg said. “Now, with the availability of critical federal funds through President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver on that promise. I am excited to champion this effort that will secure more efficient transit options while cutting emissions, reducing traffic, and connecting communities across Colorado.” SB24-131 [[link removed]] would restrict the presence of firearms in certain locations where children and families may be present. The bill would prohibit carrying a firearm - openly or concealed - in the following locations and their parking areas: government buildings where legislative meetings and offices are located; courthouses; preschools, K-12 schools, and colleges; and polling locations. The bill includes exemptions for peace officers, members of the US Armed Forces performing official duties, working student resource officers, and more.
Read more here [[link removed]] . “Gun violence has taken far too many lives in communities all across Colorado, which is why we’re working to create safe places free from gun violence,” said Jaquez Lewis. “This bill would restrict firearms in locations where emotions can run high or where children are largely present, such as schools, including college campuses, government buildings or polling places on Election Day. I’m proud to see this piece of common sense gun violence prevention legislation move forward.”
“Addressing the gun violence epidemic is one of my top priorities, and is incredibly important to the communities I represent,” Kolker said. “Too many Coloradans’ lives have been permanently altered – or taken – by gun violence. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues as we fight to deliver concrete solutions to save lives, like our bill to prohibit firearms in sensitive spaces.”
Many states protect sensitive places from gun violence. Arizona, Florida, Texas, Georgia and Louisiana prohibit open and concealed carry at voting locations. The locations protected under this bill have been deemed sensitive spaces in recent rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Read more about the Colorado Senate Democrats here [[link removed]] .
Colorado House Updates
JOINT RELEASE: Legislation to Protect Streams, Rivers and Wetlands in Colorado Introduced Bill to Reduce Gun Violence Passes Committee
March 20, 2024 Legislation would require responsible business practices to sell firearms and make it easier to recognize dangerous firearm purchasing patterns, helping to prevent gun violence.
DENVER, CO – House Speaker Julie McCluskie today introduced legislation to restore critical protections for Colorado’s streams, rivers and wetlands. HB24-1379 [[link removed]] is also sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts and Representative Karen McCormick. DENVER, CO - The House Business Affairs & Labor Committee today passed two gun violence prevention bills to require firearm dealers to hold a license to sell firearms and help law enforcement recognize dangerous firearm purchasing patterns. HB24-1353 passed by a vote of 6-3. SB24-066 passed by a vote of 8-3.
“This Colorado approach to protecting our streams, rivers and wetlands will provide certainty to communities, sustain our water quality, and ensure future generations can enjoy the great Colorado outdoors we all love,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “Clean water is our most precious resource on the Western Slope–necessary for everything from our booming outdoor recreation economy and agriculture industry to high country breweries, ski resorts and increasing household demand. I’m proud Colorado is stepping up to secure our water future after the Supreme Court removed important protections and left our waterways in jeopardy.” “Colorado Democrats have passed numerous gun violence prevention laws over the last few years, and this bill will help ensure compliance with these laws,” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver, sponsor of HB24-1353. “Our legislation would require a firearms dealer to have a state permit in order to sell firearms and would increase inspections to ensure that gun dealers are complying with state and federal gun laws. Data show that state permitting policies for firearm dealers lead to fewer guns trafficked. I’m proud to sponsor this legislation to keep our communities safe from gun violence.”
“Protecting Colorado's threatened water supply is a key priority for the communities I represent on the Western Slope, and is far too important to be left in limbo, which is why we're taking action now," said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. "This critical bill will help us protect our precious water resources while appropriately balancing the agricultural and community needs in our state." "Firearm dealers could be the first line of defense against gun violence if they are given the proper tools, which is what this legislation aims to do," said Rep. Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB24-1353. "Our bill would train firearm dealers to better identify people with dangerous intentions from accessing guns – from straw purchasers, those at risk for self-harm and more. We’re implementing crucial oversight measures to prevent gun violence and save Colorado lives."
“Water is a precious resource and is critical to our economy and way of life. I am committed to protecting Colorado’s water today and building a more water-efficient, sustainable, and resilient future. Today, we further our commitment to protect Colorado’s water for the next generation of Coloradans,” said Governor Polis. Read more here [[link removed]] .
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House Passes Bill to Save Coloradans Money on Prescription Drugs
DENVER, CO – The House today passed a bill to save people money on prescription drugs. HB24-1010 would streamline prescription drug access for Coloradans with chronic, complex, rare, or life-threatening medical conditions and save them money on life-saving prescription drugs.
“Health care decisions should be based on the health and safety of a patient, not dictated by profits for health care insurers,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “Doctors are sometimes required to order medications for their patients through specific pharmacies, which leads to delays in care and additional costs for patients. We need to make sure Coloradans can access the medication they need, when they need it and this bill breaks down prescription drug access barriers while saving Coloradans money.”
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Upcoming Events
(if you have events you want featured in future Dem Dispatch newsletters, please send to [email protected]!)
District Assemblies & Conventions will be conducted until April 11th – see full list of districts and dates here [[link removed]] .
April 13th State Assembly & Convention
Upcoming County Events:
Mother Jones Fundraising Dinner
Sat, April 20, 6:00pm – 8:30pm Huerfano County Community Center, 928 Russell St, Walsenburg, CO 81089, USA
Larimer Dems Spring Fundraiser - Empowering Women
Sunday, May 12, 2024
3rd Annual Spring Into Action Fundraiser
Sun, May 19, 2pm – 4pm Homestead Bar and Grill, 303 River Valley Ranch Rd, Carbondale, CO 81623
Featured Merch
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Last chance to get your AFL-CIO DemFest Limited Edition T-shirt and mug! Deadline to order is April 5th! [[link removed]]
That is it for now, thank you for reading.
Go, fight, win!
Colorado Dems
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[link removed] [[link removed]] The Colorado Democratic Party works to elect and protect Democrats who are committed to fighting for good jobs, access to healthcare, affordable housing, and a good education for our children.
Our party has some big goals, including ousting Lauren Boebert from Congress, breaking up Republican majorities in local offices, and protecting our legislative majorities and frontline Democrats.
If you want to support our efforts, consider chipping into our 2024 Democratic Action Fund today >> [[link removed]]
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