Governor Jared Polis is urging Colorado lawmakers to honor the will of the voters by immediately implementing a measure approved last November that directs the state to provide benefits to the families of officers killed in the line of duty. During his State of the State address, Polis highlighted the tragic death of Golden officer Evan Dunn and emphasized the need to support his family and other families in similar situations. Proposition 130, which was approved by voters, requires the state to allocate $350 million to help law enforcement agencies and provide benefits to the families of officers killed in the line of duty.
Polis emphasized the importance of acting quickly to ensure that families like Annalise Dunn, the widow of Officer Dunn, receive the support they deserve. However, Colorado lawmakers are facing challenges in implementing the program, as the measure did not specify a timeline or how the money should be allocated. The state is also dealing with financial constraints, as there is a budget shortfall of several hundred million dollars.
Legislative leaders are divided on how the voter-approved funding mandate should be carried out. While some suggest including the $350 million in the upcoming year’s budget, others argue that there are other pressing priorities that need to be addressed. House Speaker Julie McCluskie suggested using the state’s reserve fund to allocate the necessary funds.
Overall, there is a call for action to fulfill the promises made to support the families of officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. With discussions ongoing among lawmakers, the implementation of Proposition 130 remains a priority to ensure that families like the Dunns receive the support they rightfully deserve.
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