Capitol Connection – January 10, 2014
The 69th General Assembly Kicks Off in 2014
The second session of the 69th General Assembly began this past Wednesday. House Speaker Mark Ferrandino, House Minority Leader Brian DelGrosso, Senate President Morgan Carroll, and Senate Minority Leader Bill Cadman all mentioned, in part, the heartbreaking events that took place in our state in 2013, and how, in all instances, people came together to work for the common good in overcoming these tragedies.
The Legislative Policy Committee (LPC), this year chaired by Mark Trenka of the Denver Metro Association of REALTORS®, will convene for their first meeting of the year next Friday to begin their work on your behalf. The 2014 Policy Statements, approved by the Board of Directors, establish guidelines by which the LPC acts to support legislation which ensures economic vitality, provides jobs and housing opportunities, preserves the environment, protects property owners, and builds better communities. LPC members actively participate in various subcommittees to review and recommend action on specific bills that fall within these guidelines. There are 36 committed REALTOR® members on the LPC this year – representing local boards and associations across the state. Both Commercial and Residential REALTORS® are represented.
Governor Hickenlooper Delivers State of the State Address
Governor Hickenlooper delivered his 4th State of the State Address on Thursday, strongly communicating that Colorado will not be defined by tragedies in our state, but by our ability to respond and overcome them together.
Some key issues he discussed were: continuing to promote economic growth and small business within the state, enhancing and streamlining the DMV computer systems to make it more efficient for consumers, updating telecommunication laws, increasing funding to higher education and increase per pupil funding to schools, leading the nation by controlling our emmissions through a proposed methane capture rule, bolstering mental health programming in schools and communities, and continuing to responsibly implement Amendment 64. The Governor asked for bipartisan cooperation to help achieve these goals.
For the full text of Governor Hickenlooper’s State of the State Address, click here.
REALTOR® Day at the Capitol: Wednesday, February 26th
Don’t miss the 2014 REALTOR® Day at the Capitol on Wednesday, February 26 at the McNichols Building and the State Capitol. Based on feedback received from local leadership, we have completely revamped this event and are very excited for you to attend. We are offering Capitol Tours and Meetings with Legislators as part of the selections to help craft an educational and entertaining day. This is a great opportunity for you to learn about and discuss important policy issues affecting the real estate industry this upcoming year, as well as hear from legislative leaders and network with your legislators. Pre-registration is $55 and includes lunch and an afternoon program. For more details, or to register today, please click here.
