This legislative session just concluded has illustrated the undeniable differences between Democrats and Republicans and the importance of majorities. Working day in and day out to represent the people of House District 47 has been another rewarding and humbling experience. It is an honor to serve the people of Pueblo, Otero and Fremont County.

I have consistently supported legislation that protects our Second Amendment rights, protects small businesses, allows for local control, improves education, ensures transparency and protects taxpayers from unnecessary tax increases.

Mental Health

Education

Agriculture

Gun Rights

Closing Hours

In the waning hours there is always a rush of legislation that was not addressed throughout the session, legislation that was talked about and politicized, but often nothing was done. This session is no different, with the hospital provider fee, the primary election bill and liquor sales in grocery stores. We get elected to make tough votes, and there were plenty.

The hospital provider fee reclassification was killed in the Colorado Senate. Early on I knew this was not going to be a bill that I could support. It was written and pushed as a means to usurp the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. Like TABOR or not, it was put in place by the voters to address out-of-control spending in Colorado and to a large degree, although there are many problems with it, it does just that. There will be many conversations in the coming months about how we support our medical care providers, and I expect to be a part of those. I contend that the $800 million dollar “shell game” deserved a vote of the people.

Another issue I heard about was the question of having a presidential primary vs. a caucus. I’ve clearly articulated that I believe it’s time for a presidential primary, but I’m only open to “closed” primarie,s where there are firm guidelines and timeframes so that Democrats are voting for Democrats and Republicans are voting for Republicans. After all, that is what a primary is all about. This doesn’t eliminate the caucus system. The caucus system is the most basic of grassroots politics, and it should stay in place as a means of electing party leadership, but a presidential primary would give voice to those that feel unheard. I also believe that a presidential primary would make Colorado more relevant on the national political scene. Unfortunately, the bill that came before the House was flawed, and I don’t believe it would have accomplished its ultimate goal without doing harm. Again, this is an issue that will undoubtedly receive attention in the coming months, and rightfully so. It’s time!

Finally, the grocery stores vs. the liquor stores bill came to my committee on May 10. I’ve never been an advocate for the large grocery stores having the ability to sell “regular” alcohol. I’ve always felt it created an uneven playing field for the “mom and pop” liquor stores that are scattered throughout the state. However, compromises were made and I heard from my small business community that they were fine with the legislation because the compromises created a good bill that allows for a competitive yet fair business environment. I ultimately supported the bill after hearing that.

I am looking forward to returning to Pueblo and spending more time with my family and friends, however this line of work weighs heavy on my mind. What can I do to best serve the people of Colorado? What issues are people experiencing? What kind of legislation would be most productive in combating them? I whole-heartedly appreciate and respect the people of Colorado and am hopeful for another opportunity to serve as a state representative.