The Colorado Channel Colorado Senate 2026 Legislative Day038_b [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a roll call confirming a quorum of 33 senators present. Senator Danielson led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Senator Liston recited a limerick before the Senate Journal from February 19, 2026, was approved. The Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources reported on amendments to Senate Bill 89 and recommended appointments to various boards, including the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund and the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp Committee. Senator Rodriguez moved to adjourn, but a moment of personal privilege was granted. Senator Coleman recognized Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity for its community contributions, particularly in mentorship for seniors. Senators Kirkmaier and Roberts also spoke, with Roberts highlighting the humanitarian efforts of Ukraine Power in response to the war in Ukraine. Senator Liston introduced members of Ukraine Power, acknowledging their fundraising efforts. The Senate considered Senate Joint Resolution 12, designating February 20, 2026, as Colorado FFA Day, recognizing 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 Pelton expressed gratitude for collaborating on the resolution and introduced several educators involved in the FFA program. The meeting proceeded to the third reading of bills on the consent calendar, with multiple House Bills concerning supplemental appropriations read. Senators Zamora Wilson and Baisley requested to be recorded as no votes on specific bills. House Bill 1150 passed with 32 ayes and 1 no, and House Bill 1152 passed with 31 ayes and 2 noes. House Bill 1151, concerning the Department of Corrections, passed unanimously. Discussion on House Bill 1155, related to the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, included concerns from Senator Kirkmeyer about budget cuts affecting healthcare services. Senator Brazil emphasized the need for transparency in healthcare spending and criticized cuts to Medicaid. The discussion highlighted challenges in balancing the budget while ensuring access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. Concerns were raised about the management of HCPF, including past billing errors and the need for responsible budgeting. One senator noted the unexpected growth in the Coverall Coloradans program and the high administrative burden on providers. Emotional accounts from constituents regarding care for disabled children were shared, emphasizing the department's failures. Votes on several bills related to supplemental appropriations for various departments were conducted, with most bills passing despite some dissent. House Bill 1166 passed with 33 ayes, and House Bill 1167 passed with 24 ayes and 9 noes. Majority Leader Rodriguez moved to lay over the General Order Second Reading of Bills until February 23, 2026, which was approved. The Consent Calendar included appointments to the Financial Services Board and the Advisory Committee to the Property Tax Administrator, all confirmed with 33 ayes. Senator Pelton R. announced an event for FFA members, and Senator Mauvelet mentioned a Joint Budget Committee meeting. Senator Weisman provided updates on the judiciary calendar, while Senator Pelton B. shared a personal moment about his daughter's basketball tournament. Senator Liston announced a Nuclear Caucus Lunch and Learn event, and Senator Sullivan reflected on the anniversary of his son’s death in the Aurora Theater Massacre. The meeting concluded with Majority Leader Rodriguez thanking members for their work and moving to recess until 12 p.m., which was approved.