Welcome to Briefly, Colorado Politics’ daily news briefing. Here’s what’s happening today:

Caraveo reintroduces bill aimed at supporting Colorado’s water conservation efforts 

U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo, D-Colo., has reintroduced the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) Improvement Act, which streamlines the program and permits the use of dryland agricultural practices to conserve water.

According to Caraveo, the bill, originally introduced by former Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.), would provide more flexibility for farmers and ranchers who want to retire their land or pass it on to the next generation with better incentives and fairer compensation. 

“The CREP Improvement Act is a big step forward for Colorado’s farmers and our environment,” Caraveo said. “By improving tools available to conserve water and preserve land, we are empowering farmers and ranchers to take a leading role in protecting our water resources while also maintaining Colorado’s agriculture community.”

Defense equipment manufacturer expanding to Colorado

Defense and space equipment supply company Safran Electronics & Defense will be expanding to Colorado, Gov. Jared Polis and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced today.

The company is planning to open a facility in Parker that will manufacture electric propulsion thrusters and host a workshop for space telemetry ground equipment, offices, and meeting rooms. The site will also host the company’s U.S. team for satellite communications, as well as space and ground domain awareness. 

“Colorado aerospace companies are at the forefront of technological innovation, and Safran will continue that legacy while creating 20 new, good-paying jobs,” said Polis. “I’m pleased to welcome Safran to Colorado, the best place to live, work and do business.”

“Colorado is strategically located and home to an aerospace ecosystem that will advance Safran’s long-standing commitment to investing in the U.S. and deliver our capabilities to meet the dynamic needs of the U.S. space market,” said Joe Bogosian, the company’s President and CEO. 

According to OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman, Colorado’s aerospace industry has seen 30% growth since 2019 and employs over 240,000 workers. Safran is expected to create 20 new jobs at the Parker facility, including engineers, technicians, and operators.