House Republicans Highlight Action Needed on Key Issues Following Governor’s Address
(Denver, CO – January 9, 2025) – Colorado House Minority Leadership responded to Governor Polis’ State of the State address, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger commitments to affordability, public safety, education, upholding the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), and agriculture.
“Colorado families are facing significant challenges, and I appreciate the Governor’s recognition that affordability remains one of the greatest concerns for Coloradans. The legislature must acknowledge the role it has played in making Colorado less affordable through excessive fees and overregulation”, said Pugliese. “Our state is no longer growing at the rate it once did, and families, seniors, and small businesses are feeling the impact. People are telling us they cannot afford to raise their families here, and seniors fear they must leave the state because they cannot live on fixed incomes. We need to cut fees and government over-regulation to restore affordability and opportunity for every income level.”
Colorado Republican House Whip Ryan Armagost emphasized the pressing need for significant investments to address growing public safety threats. “A safer Colorado is a vision we all share, but achieving it requires more than superficial funding increases,” he stated. “Our communities are facing serious challenges, including illicit drugs, rising property theft, and transnational gang activity.”
Armagost also stressed the importance of supporting law enforcement efforts. “We appreciate that the Governor has acknowledged the will of the people in their vote to allocate $350 million to law enforcement for recruitment, retention, and training. This funding is vital to addressing staffing shortages and ensuring the safety of our communities. It is a meaningful step toward honoring and supporting those who protect and serve.”
Minority Leader Pugliese added, “We are glad the Governor echoed my statements on the floor yesterday that violent, illegal immigrants who harm any and all Colorado citizens, especially children pose a significant threat to public safety and must be addressed.”
Representative Anthony Hartsook emphasized the need to fully fund education at all levels. “Fully funding education, from K-12 to higher education, is essential for the future of our state,” said Hartsook. “While avoiding the budget stabilization factor is progress, it is not enough. Schools, students, and families need resources now—not years from now. Meaningful investment and comprehensive reform cannot wait.”
Pugliese also reaffirmed the Colorado House Republicans’ commitment to protecting TABOR and promoting fiscal responsibility. “TABOR is essential to protecting taxpayers' money and maintaining trust in responsible government spending. Unfortunately, the Majority agenda continues to prioritize circumventing TABOR to collect more tax dollars from hardworking families. Coloradans have consistently voted to protect TABOR which is why we remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding TABOR and defending Coloradans from attempts to undermine this vital protection.”
Assistant House Minority Leader Ty Winter concluded by expressing frustration over the Governor’s silence on the impact of wolves. “The devastation wolves are causing to Colorado’s livestock producers is a harsh reality they now face,” said Winter. “Livestock producers are bearing the brunt of urban policies that do not work for rural Colorado, as demonstrated by mounting livestock losses and livelihoods at risk. With only a few wolves released, there are already significant dollars of depredation caused. Given the major budget deficit, we cannot guarantee that affected producers will receive the compensation they need for their losses.”
