Colorado Senate 2026 Legislative Day 038 - The Colorado Channel [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a roll call confirming a quorum of 33 present, led by Senator Danielson with the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Liston moved to approve the Senate Journal of February 19, 2026, which was adopted after a brief limerick. The Senate addressed several bills and resolutions, including the revision of various Senate and House bills. The Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources reported on Senate Bill 89, recommending it be amended and referred to the Committee on Appropriations. They also recommended confirmations for several appointments to boards, including the State Board of Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund and the Colorado Agricultural Development Authority. Senator Coleman recognized Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity for their community service, and Senators Kirkmaier and Roberts discussed the humanitarian efforts of Ukraine Power, a Colorado Springs-based organization aiding those affected by the war in Ukraine. A tribute was read to commend their work. The Senate considered Senate Joint Resolution 12, designating February 20, 2026, as Colorado FFA Day, recognizing the contributions of the Colorado FFA in promoting agricultural education. The resolution passed with a vote of 33 ayes, 0 noes, and co-sponsorship was added without objection. The meeting continued with the third reading of various bills on the consent calendar concerning supplemental appropriations to different departments. The Majority Leader moved for their passage, with Senators Zamora-Wilson and Baisley registering no votes. Most bills passed with votes ranging from 31 to 33 ayes. House Bill 1151, concerning a supplemental appropriation to the Department of Corrections, passed unanimously. House Bill 1155, related to the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, sparked contentious discussion. Senator Kirkmeyer raised concerns about the impact of budget cuts on healthcare services, particularly Medicaid. Other senators acknowledged the challenges but supported the bill, emphasizing the need for investment in mental health services. Senator For Sale criticized the lack of accountability in rising healthcare costs. Concerns were raised about the management of the Department of Healthcare Policy and Financing, including past errors and the need for clear priorities. One senator highlighted the unexpected growth in the Coverall Coloradans program and the high administrative burden on providers. Emotional accounts from parents of disabled children were shared, emphasizing the impact of funding challenges. Votes on several bills included House Bill 1155, which passed with 20 ayes and 13 noes, and other appropriations bills, all of which passed. The meeting included discussions on House Bill 1166 and House Bill 1167, both of which passed. Majority Leader Rodriguez moved to lay over the General Order Second Reading of Bills until February 23, 2026, which was approved. The meeting proceeded to consider Governor's Appointments, confirming several appointments with a unanimous vote. Announcements included an invitation to an FFA event, a notice about a Joint Budget Committee meeting, and updates on the judiciary calendar. Personal moments were shared by Senators Pelton and Sullivan, reflecting on family and loss. The meeting concluded with a recess until 12 p.m. that day.