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The I-70 Scout & Eastern Colorado News

Category: Politics & Elections

  • House Passes Bipartisan Legislation Introduced by Senators Gardner, Hassan to Help Save Newborn Babies’ Lives, Moves One Step Closer to Becoming Law

    House Passes Bipartisan Legislation Introduced by Senators Gardner, Hassan to Help Save Newborn Babies’ Lives, Moves One Step Closer to Becoming Law

    Washington, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives passed bipartisan legislation that Senators Cory Gardner (R-CO) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) introduced in the U.S. Senate to help save lives and improve the health of newborn babies. The bipartisan Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act will provide federal funding for comprehensive and standardized newborn screening tests for conditions such as critical congenital heart disease, cystic fibrosis, and hearing loss. The tests can identify treatable conditions that, if caught early, can prevent serious illness, lifetime disabilities, and even death 

    “I’m glad this bipartisan legislation overwhelmingly passed the House to ensure families have access to newborn screening. As a parent, I know the importance of early screening to identify genetic disorders – they can be the key difference between life and death,” said Senator Gardner. “Early treatment from newborn screening can save families, the taxpayer, and the health care system millions of dollars down the road. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to reauthorize this program to ensure that states have the support they need to continue critical screenings for newborn babies.”

    “I want to thank my colleagues in the House for passing this bipartisan legislation to provide federal funding for life-saving newborn screening tests,” said Senator Hassan. “I will continue to work with Senator Gardner to bring this bill up for a vote in the Senate and ensure that this critical program is appropriately funded.”

    The bipartisan Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act – which builds on the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2008 – provides funding for state programs that screen newborns for a complete panel of disorders, as recommended by experts, and that educate parents and providers about the disorders. The bill also includes additional funding to support states’ follow-up and tracking programs, as well as laboratory quality. Each year, these screenings result in over 12,000 newborns being diagnosed with disorders, many of which can be treated even before symptoms begin to appear. The House version of the bill is led by Representatives Roybal-Allard (D-CA), Mike Simpson (R-ID), Katherine Clark (D-MA), and Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA).

     

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  • Gardner, Blunt, Klobuchar, Cortez Masto Introduce Bill to Support Travel & Tourism, Boost Jobs

    Gardner, Blunt, Klobuchar, Cortez Masto Introduce Bill to Support Travel & Tourism, Boost Jobs

    Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senators Cory Gardner (R-CO), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced legislation to reauthorize Brand USA, a public-private partnership that enhances tourism across the country by promoting international travel to the United States.

    “Colorado’s tourism industry has exploded in growth as more than 80 million visitors each year travel to ski our world-class resorts, enjoy the great outdoors, and experience the real American West,” said Senator Gardner. “With direct flights to Denver International Airport from countries as varied as Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Germany, our state shines as one of the nation’s top ten most visited states. This bill will boost further tourism by strengthening the Brand USA program, which is the promotion agency for U.S. tourism and operates at no cost to the U.S. taxpayer. I look forward to working to get this legislation signed into law and helping grow the U.S. tourism industry, which generates more than $20 billion in annual spending in Colorado.”

    Since 2013, Brand USA has brought 6.6 million incremental international visitors to the United States, generating a total economic impact of nearly $48 billion and supporting an average of around 52,000 jobs annually. In 2018, Brand USA generated $4.1 billion in incremental visitor spending, resulting in a marketing return on investment of 32:1.

    The program has been a proven success in boosting tourism to the United States and driving economic growth, but the 2018 congressional budget caps agreement diverted Brand USA’s user fees away from the program to general revenue.

    Brand USA is funded by international visitors and private contributions – not U.S. taxpayers. Half of its budget comes from the private sector through cash and in-kind contributions. The rest of the budget – up to a maximum of $100 million – is funded by a nominal fee assessed on visa-free international visitors screened by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization. Amounts collected in excess of the cap are returned to the U.S. Treasury to help reduce the deficit.

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  • Secretary of State Jena Griswold Alerts Colorado Businesses of Misleading Filing Solicitations

    Secretary of State Jena Griswold Alerts Colorado Businesses of Misleading Filing Solicitations

    The Colorado Secretary of State’s office today is alerting small business owners about potentially misleading notices requesting an extra fee for a third party to file business documents. The Secretary of State’s office has received multiple reports of these potentially deceptive or misleading solicitations being sent to Colorado businesses. The Colorado Secretary of State maintains an easy to use online filing system for businesses. Use of a third party to complete filings with the Secretary of State is not required.

    The solicitation may:

    • Appear similar to a government form.

    • Contain your business entity’s actual business ID number and date of formation, as reflected in the Secretary of State’s business records.

    • Contain a “Customer ID Number” that does not match a number given to you by a State or Federal Agency.

    • Contain a warning to make sure that the form’s instructions are followed exactly when completing the form.

    • Contain a due date for your response.

    • Mention a periodic report.

    Please be advised that the Colorado Secretary of State’s office does not send these solicitations. A sample of the misleading notice is attached. In this example, the company is charging a $75 “processing fee” for a $10 filing. The Secretary of State’s office does not mail out business filing forms and compliance with these notices is not required.

    All business filings, including annual Periodic Reports, are filed online. The current fee for filing the Periodic Report is only $10. Business owners can find instructions to easily and directly file business forms on the Secretary of State’s website under the Business Organizations heading.

    “We want to make sure Coloradans have the tools they need for their businesses to succeed. We have an easy-to-use and affordable business filing system. Business owners should be wary of third-party solicitations related to filing requirements,” said Secretary of State Jena Griswold

    In order to receive advance notice of when Periodic Reports, Trademark renewals, or Trade Name renewals are due, business owners can sign up online for free Email Notifications. Additionally, business owners can visit www.sos.state.co.us to verify their business status, file a form or obtain a free certification.

     

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  • JBC Dems Tout Strong Economic Growth After Newly Released Budget Forecast

    JBC Dems Tout Strong Economic Growth After Newly Released Budget Forecast

    (June 19) – This morning, the members of the Joint Budget Committee heard the June quarterly budget forecasts which showed a strong economy in the state of Colorado, an increase in expected revenue, and high wage growth. While the state economy was projected to continue growing, the forecasts also showed uncertainty and potential negative impacts due to federal tax policy changes and the potential for tariffs and trade wars.

    In response, members of the JBC released the following statements:

    “I am encouraged by the strong budget forecasts presented this morning; however, we will need to address the challenges resulting from prolonged TABOR refunds which mean fewer opportunities to invest in healthcare, education, and transportation. I am hopeful that we will be able to continue to protect our state’s finances while delivering for hardworking Colorado families in the coming year,” said JBC Chair Sen. Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City.

    “Originally, we were only expecting a TABOR refund for the current fiscal year, but due to tight labor market and rising wages, this new forecast shows a refund for the foreseeable future ,” said JBC Vice-Chair Rep. Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo. “We have a great opportunity to strengthen our state’s resources for hardworking individuals and families, especially in Southern Colorado. These increases can strengthen our state’s K-12 education, transportation and help lower the cost of healthcare, leaving a state for our kids to thrive in.”

    “With more revenue predicted for the 2019-20 fiscal year, I believe that we will be able to build on the successes of this past legislative session and make much needed investments in our state’s education and transportation systems. As always, members of the JBC will continue to work in a bipartisan manner to balance competing priorities, make smart investments to address our state’s biggest financial needs, and prioritize fiscal responsibility,” said Sen. Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada.

    “While this new forecast shows an increase in revenue, it also shows a slight economic slowdown on the horizon,” said Rep. Chris Hansen, D-Denver. “Uncertainty at the federal level from rising trade tensions with the Chinese and tariffs with Mexico is dragging down our economy, hurting our agricultural sector and creating uncertainty for businesses across the board. If this uncertainty continues at the federal level withthis administration, we will see a slowing rate of growth and less ability to invest in the key needs of our state.”

    A full copy of the Legislative Council forecast can be found here. A copy of the Office of State Planning and Budgeting forecast can be found here.

     

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  • June forecast shows continued growth for Colorado economy

    June forecast shows continued growth for Colorado economy

    DENVER — The Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) today released the June forecast showing stronger than expected revenue growth. Strong wage growth is driving continued consumer spending, sustaining our economic expansion. However, trade conflicts pose a risk to Colorado’s economy, as recently proposed escalations could result in higher prices for domestic consumers and fewer export markets for farmers and manufacturers.

    “Colorado has one of the strongest economies in the country and we want every Coloradan to share in that success. By saving families money on education and health care, investing in priority areas and growing our reserves, we can set our state up for long-term prosperity and ensure that our economy works for all Coloradans,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Even though this forecast shows strong growth in revenue, Washington’s misguided tariffs and trade wars could negatively impact key Colorado industries like agriculture and manufacturing. We must continue to stand against policies that threaten our state’s economic growth.”

    General Fund revenue is projected to grow 7.1 percent in FY 2018-19 and 4.7 percent in FY 2019-20. The General Fund revenue forecast for FY 2018-19 was revised up from the March forecast by $270.7 million, or 2.2 percent. The forecast for FY 2019-20 was increased by $114.4 million, or 0.9 percent. The General Fund reserve is projected to be $274.8 million above the required statutory reserve amount of 7.25 percent of appropriations in FY 2019-20.

    FY 2018-19 cash fund revenue is projected to grow 6.0 percent from the prior fiscal year, while FY 2019-20 cash fund revenue is forecast to decrease by 1.9 percent. Forecasted cash fund revenue for FY 2018-19 is $11.4 million, or 0.5 percent, lower than March projections. Cash fund revenue collections for FY 2019-20 are $29.8 million, or 1.2 percent, lower than March projections.

    Revenue subject to TABOR is projected to be above the Referendum C cap by $295.6 million in FY 2018-19 and $412.2 million in FY 2019-20. TABOR refunds totaling $39.8 million will be paid out in FY 2018-19. This amount includes the $18.5 million in excess of the Referendum C cap in FY 2017-18, plus a net $21.3 million remaining from the FY 2014-15 TABOR refund.

    You can view the full revenue forecast here.

     

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  • Training for Armed School Personnel

    Training for Armed School Personnel

    Denver, CO — FASTER* Colorado — an organization committed to making our school children as safe as possible— announces its latest training class for armed school staff members. The class will be held June 21, 22, and 23 and will be held in Adams County, CO. The training is organized in partnership with Independence Institute.

    FASTER Colorado launched its first training class in 2017, and is currently in its third year of training. FASTER Colorado curriculum includes skills to stop an active killer, as well as tactical medical training to deal with related injuries such as gunshot wounds.

    “Colorado law already allows K-12 school staff to carry a concealed firearm on campus, provided they are designated by their school board, or charter school board, as a school security officer. They are also required to obtain proper training,” said Laura Carno, Founder of FASTER Colorado. “Over 150 school staff in Colorado are already so designated. We provide them world-class training in stopping active killers and saving lives.”

    The tuition is $1,000 per class member, and scholarships are available. FASTER Colorado is a project of Independence Institute. According to Amy Cooke, Independence Institute’s Executive VP, “We raise scholarship money, because we never want lack of training budget to keep any school personnel from having access to this lifesaving training. We are honored to partner with FASTER Colorado to help save the lives of Colorado’s school children.”

    Members of the media may attend portions of the class, and conduct interviews with: FASTER Colorado Founder, Laura Carno, FASTER Colorado’s instructors (all active-duty law enforcement), and Evan Todd (Columbine survivor). At class time, there may be class attendees who are open to interviews. We ask that media not report the names, schools, or images of class attendees without that individual’s express consent. 

    For more information, please go to FasterColorado.com. For media questions, or to schedule an interview, please contact Laura Carno at either 719-492-0211. Details of the daily schedule and location will be provided to those media with interest in attending.

    *Faculty/Administrator Safety Training and Emergency Response

     

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  • ArapCo commissioner, sheriff to visit I-70 Corridor May 23

    Arapahoe County District 3 Commissioner Jeff Baker and Arapahoe County Sheriff Tyler Brown will host a public meeting for I-70 Corridor residents starting at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, May 23, at Kelver Library, 404 E. Front St., Byers.

    Topics to be discussed include public safety, the county’s aging jail and courthouse, and plans for a new sheriff’s substation and county services satellite office in Byers.

     

  • Governor Polis and Secretary of State Griswold announce March 3rd, 2020 as Colorado’s new presidential primary date

    Governor Polis and Secretary of State Griswold announce March 3rd, 2020 as Colorado’s new presidential primary date

     DENVER — Today Governor Jared Polis and Secretary of State Jena Griswold announced March 3rd, 2020 as the new date for Colorado’s presidential primary. The two were joined by leaders from the Democratic, Republican, Unity American Constitution and Approval Voting parties.

    “Our Super Tuesday primaries will be a tremendous opportunity to participate in democracy and for Coloradans to have their voices heard by presidential candidates in all parties,” said Governor Jared Polis. “We are proud of 2018’s record turnout, as well as Colorado’s status as a leader on voting rights. We hope to build on that momentum by participating in a primary along with other Super Tuesday states to ensure that all major candidates listen firsthand to the concerns of Colorado voters.”

    In 2016, Colorado voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 107, which restored primary elections in Colorado in presidential election years. The state was previously using the caucus system.

    “I am excited to join Governor Polis in officially setting March 3, 2020 — Super Tuesday — as the date for Colorado’s 2020 presidential primary. This will be the first presidential primary in Colorado in 20 years — and the first where unaffiliated voters will be able to participate,” said Secretary of State Jena Griswold. “As Colorado’s Secretary of State, I believe in the power of our democracy. A secure and accessible presidential primary will give Coloradans the opportunity to create the future we imagine.”

     

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  • Bennet Statement on Release of Special Counsel Mueller’s Report

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement:

     “The redacted report makes clear that the president’s behavior, and that of his team, should deeply concern every American. The report documents the president’s failure to cooperate with the special counsel, efforts to mislead the American people, and troubling interactions with Russia, a foreign adversary. To exercise its constitutional responsibility to provide oversight, Congress should have access to the full report and all underlying materials.

    “In the meantime, the Attorney General of the United States should refrain from using his office to shape the Mueller report in a partisan, self-interested manner.”

  • Gardner Statement on Mueller Report

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) today released the below statement following Attorney General William Barr’s release of Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and related matters.

    “Special Counsel Robert Mueller led a fair and thorough investigation, and I have continuously supported ensuring this investigation reached its conclusion. I look forward to reviewing the report and hearing answers from the appropriate personnel regarding the process and contents of the report,” said Senator Gardner. “The Special Counsel report made public today includes the release of as much information as is consistent with U.S. law. Now that the report is public, it’s time for Congress to move forward and get to work on behalf of the American people. The report also confirms what we already know, Russia interfered in our election. I will keep up the pressure on the Putin regime and pursue additional sanctions – they cannot go unpunished.”

    Senator Gardner has been an outspoken critic of Russia and President Putin and has been a leader in Congress on punishing Russia for their efforts to interfere in the 2016 presidential election and other illegal activities around the world. He is the author of S. 2780, a bill to require a determination on designation of the Russian Federation as a state sponsor of terrorism. Gardner and a bipartisan group of Senators have reintroduced a Russia sanctions package that has been called the “sanctions bill from hell” by the lead sponsor. He has also introduced legislation to provide new tools for the United States to combat malign Russian influence and create economic opportunities at home and abroad. 

    In addition to Gardner’s service on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he is a member of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission. The Helsinki Commission consists of 21 Commissioners, 18 from the United States Congress and one each from the Departments of State, Defense, and Commerce. Senator Gardner is also a member of the Senate NATO Observer Group, which has an expanded mission to closely monitor and inform Senators outside of national security committees about defense spending commitments of Alliance members, the process of upgrading military capabilities, the Alliance’s counter-terrorism capability, NATO enlargement, and the ability of NATO member states to address non-conventional warfare.

     ###

    Cory Gardner is a member of the U.S. Senate serving Colorado. He sits on the Energy & Natural Resources Committee, the Foreign Relations Committee, the Commerce, Science, & Transportation Committee, and is the Chairman of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy.