Colorado Senate 2026 Legislative Day 038 [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a roll call confirming a quorum of 33 present, 0 absent, 1 excused, and 1 vacant seat. Senator Danielson led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Senator Liston humorously presented a limerick while moving to approve the Senate Journal of February 19, 2026, which was adopted after a vote. Senate Services reported that several bills and resolutions were correctly printed and revised, including Senate Bill 89, recommended for amendment and referral to the Committee on Appropriations. Appointments to various boards and committees were confirmed, including members of the State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund and the Colorado Agricultural Development Authority. Senator Coleman honored Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity for its community contributions, while Senators Kirkmaier and Roberts highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and recognized Ukraine Power, a nonprofit delivering aid to Ukraine. Senator Liston introduced members of Ukraine Power, including founder Yana Malik. The Senate considered Senate Joint Resolution 12, designating February 20, 2026, as Colorado FFA Day, celebrating the Future Farmers of America's contributions to agricultural education. The resolution was adopted with a vote of 33 ayes, 0 noes, 0 absent, 1 excused, and 1 vacant. Senator Henriksen's request to add the current roll call as co-sponsors was approved. The meeting proceeded to the third reading of bills on the consent calendar, including multiple House Bills concerning supplemental appropriations, all introduced by Representative Sirota and Senator Bridges. Senators Zamora-Wilson and Baisley registered no votes on several bills, with most bills passing with overwhelming support. House Bill 1151 passed unanimously. House Bill 1155, concerning supplemental appropriations for the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, sparked discussion. Senator Kirkmeyer expressed concerns about budget cuts affecting healthcare services, while Senator Mauvelet acknowledged challenges in behavioral health services. Senator Frazelle emphasized responsible use of taxpayer dollars. A senator from Thornton raised concerns about the Department of Health Care Policy and Finance's mismanagement, criticizing its handling of taxpayer dollars and staffing increases despite budget constraints. Senator Bridges noted underestimated costs in the Coverall Coloradans program, while Senator Kirkmeyer called for accountability within HCPF. Senator Mullica shared emotional accounts from parents affected by cuts in long-term care hours, stressing the urgency of addressing the department's failures. Senator Wiseman urged a comprehensive approach to tackle structural problems driving costs. Votes on several bills related to supplemental appropriations passed with a majority vote. House Bill 1167, concerning a supplemental appropriation to the Department of Regulatory Agencies, passed with 24 ayes, 9 noes, 0 absent, 1 excused, and 1 vacant. Majority Leader Rodriguez moved to lay over the General Order Second Reading of Bills until February 23, 2026, which was approved. Appointments on the Consent Calendar were read, and Majority Leader Rodriguez moved for their confirmation, which passed unanimously. Senator Pelton announced that FFA members were serving breakfast and mentioned a Joint Budget Committee meeting after adjournment. Senator Wiseman noted adjustments to the judiciary calendar for Monday. Senator Pelton announced a Nuclear Caucus Lunch and Learn on Monday and introduced Councilman Roland Rainey from Colorado Springs. Senator Sullivan took a moment of personal privilege to reflect on the anniversary of his son’s murder in the Aurora Theater Massacre. Majority Leader Rodriguez thanked the chamber for their work and moved to recess until 12 PM, which was approved.