The 2020 legislative session is right around the corner, kicking off Wednesday, Jan. 8. Since the close of the 2019 session, the Chamber team has been tracking a number of critical issues we anticipate will come up during the 2020 session.
We've also met with legislators, followed interim committee progress and followed several task forces that have been meeting since last session. One thing is certain: 2020 will be another challenging policy year for the business community.
One issue that has already raised concern is the proposal on State Option for Health Care Coverage – a state-based public health insurance plan. A stakeholder group, required by House Bill 19-1004, recently released its proposal and a portion is especially worrisome to the Chamber. It would require that every health insurance carrier that offers a product on the individual market participate, even if they don’t currently operate in a particular geographical area. If the state decides it needs more hospital options, the proposal could also compel hospitals to participate if they don’t voluntarily do so, with a few exceptions. We believe requiring a company to compete in a market that they aren’t equipped to serve only adds to costs and inefficiencies. Click here for our full letter to Director Kim Bimestefer and Commissioner Michael Conway.
Another issue the Chamber has been following closely is the FAMLI Task Force, mandated by Senate Bill 19-188. The family and medical leave bill proposed last session, which initially would have created a $1-2 billion employee leave program administered by the state and funded by a payroll tax, was changed to a study. This came after weeks of feedback from Colorado’s employers and employees that highlighted serious concerns about the financial solvency of such a large, new government program. The task force is required to provide recommendations to legislators on what a paid family and medical leave program could look like in Colorado by the start of the 2020 session. They’re reviewing everything from the number of weeks of leave allowed to who is covered to how much someone needs to work before they’re eligible. The Chamber firmly opposes any mandated participation because market-based solutions that are proven to be actuarially sound will provide more stability to businesses. Flexibility and options are critical for the range of companies and employees that call Colorado home. Click here for our full letter to the FAMLI Task Force.
We know policy impacts how we do business in Colorado, and the Chamber weighs in on issues that impact our economy and quality of life: education and workforce development, health and wellness and infrastructure. We will continue to advocate for funding for our highest priorities, especially transportation and the state water plan. And we’ll continue to work on behalf of our members to ensure that Colorado is a great place to work and live. We look forward to working with legislators on issues important to the business community this next session and will keep our members updated throughout the session.
Get Policy Alerts to Your Inbox.
Sign up for the Chamber’s policy alert and get the latest news on policy that matters to your business. You can sign up at denverchamber.org/news.
Want to engage more on policy issues? Consider a policy-level membership. Learn more about our committees at denverchamber.org/committees.
Dorothy Jones is the director of public affairs for the Denver Metro Chamber.
