The Colorado state government’s $43.9 billion spending plan, Senate Bill 206, was recently passed by the Senate, moving forward to the House after extensive debate. The budget aims to balance the state’s finances, addressing a $1.2 billion deficit in the 2025-2026 spending plan through cuts and fund transfers. The budget comprises $17 billion in general funds, $14 billion in federal dollars, and $12.8 billion in cash funds.
Lawmakers faced tough decisions, making “extremely painful” cuts while keeping commitments to the people of Colorado. The budget allocates funds for school lunches, employee pay raises, and federal litigation costs. It also sets caps on public college and university tuition increases and increases funding for K-12 education.
The budget process involved 63 “orbitals” with statutory changes to balance the spending plan, making it one of the most complex budget bills in recent years. Notable amendments included funding restorations for various programs, such as Medicaid provider rates. A bipartisan amendment passed to fund long-term care and medical services for Medicaid clients and a safe streets initiative. Additionally, the budget included per diem increases for lawmakers, which faced opposition from Republicans.
The budget faced criticism and praise from lawmakers, with debates over funding for various programs. While challenging decisions were made, there is acknowledgment that further steps are needed to address long-term fiscal challenges in Colorado. The budget now moves to the House for further consideration during the remainder of the legislative session.
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