At the Chamber, we’re committed to building a great place to live and do business. We supported Proposition CC and with it the opportunity to invest in areas that are critical to our success, including education and transportation. We are disappointed that the proposal did not pass last night.
In Colorado, we face very challenging realities: 62% of our schools only operate four of five school days because they cannot afford to be open the full school week. We fund higher education at 48th out of 50 states. And our roads continue to deteriorate – most notably in our rural areas. In a recent study those rural roads ranked second worst in the country. Unaddressed, these issues will impact our economy and our ability to compete. We remain committed to working with the legislature and the governor’s office to find ways to support education and transportation.
Just this afternoon, it was announced that Proposition DD has passed. The measure asked voters whether to allow in-person and online sports betting in Colorado. A 10% tax on casinos and operators would provide a down-payment to implement recommendations of the state water plan. Much like the lottery has supported green spaces, the tax revenue from sports betting will unlock funding to better prepare for our water demands now and in the future.
While the election is over, our policy work continues. We’re preparing for the legislative session that begins in January. We invite you to join us at the Legislative Preview and kick off 2020 with party leadership on Jan. 7. RSVP for Legislative Preview.
Kelly Brough is the president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber.