WALSENBURG - Today, Governor Polis visited Colorado’s first state park to celebrate Lathrop State Park’s victory in Governor Polis’s Colorado State Park March Madness Bracket and meet with the dedicated staff who keep it running for Coloradans and visitors. Lathrop State Park was selected by Coloradans as the winner of Colorado’s State Park Bracket. To celebrate Colorado’s 43 state parks, Governor Polis hosted a bracket where Coloradans voted on their favorite state park.

“It’s fitting that as we celebrate Colorado’s 150th birthday, our state’s very first state park was recognized by Coloradans in our annual March Madness bracket. Coloradans have been fishing, camping, and watching the sun set behind the Spanish Peaks at Lathrop State Park for more than six decades. As Colorado’s first state park, Lathrop set the standard for how we can protect Colorado’s iconic outdoors and provide Coloradans and visitors places to get outside, stay active, and explore. I’m proud to be here today with the hardworking Colorado Parks and Wildlife workers who keep Lathrop Park safe, clean, and accessible for all of us,” said Governor Polis.

In 2021, Governor Polis signed legislation creating the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, which reduced Colorado’s state parks pass to just $29, breaking down barriers to the outdoors. The pass became available on January 3, 2023. Coloradans who qualify can also sign up for the Centennial State Park Pass, which costs just $14.

Today, Governor Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) joined aerospace and defense company Ursa Major to celebrate the grand opening of a new manufacturing facility in Longmont, Colorado. The facility will expand the company’s production of avionics and in-space propulsion systems while increasing manufacturing space at its Berthoud, Colorado headquarters. Today’s event marks an important milestone in Ursa Major’s Colorado expansion plans, which are poised to create up to 1,850 new jobs and enhance Colorado’s status as a leading U.S. aerospace ecosystem.

“Ursa Major’s expansion in Longmont highlights Colorado as a global leader in aerospace and defense. We are thrilled to see this innovative company grow and succeed in our state, bringing thousands of high-quality jobs for Coloradans that will strengthen our economy and drive even more businesses to call Colorado home,” said Governor Polis.

Ursa Major is a leading manufacturer of hypersonics, solid rocket motors and space mobility systems. The Longmont facility has capacity to seat more than 125 employees, and features dedicated labs for welding and manufacturing, an ISO 7 hard-walled clean room with an ISO 8 gowning room, and an environmental test lab. The expansion also allows Ursa Major’s hypersonics and solid rocket motor programs to grow in their existing locations.

“Colorado is home to Ursa Major. It’s where we safely design, test, and build, and where our people work every day to keep America ahead. We’re grateful for Colorado’s partnership and support as we expand. The state has been a strong champion of our mission to revitalize the defense industrial base, and we’re proud to deliver the systems the warfighter needs from the Centennial State,” said Chris Spagnoletti, CEO of Ursa Major.

To support Ursa Major’s expansion in Colorado, the Economic Development Commission (EDC) approved up to $35,260,763 in a performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit (JGITC) over an eight-year period. Additionally, the company may elect to convert up to $23 million of the JGITC award into Refundable Tax Credits, to be refunded at 80% of their total value or up to $18.4 million. These incentives are contingent upon Ursa Major, referred to as Projects Ladybug and Fluorine throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting specific net new job creation and salary requirements.

“Ursa Major’s expansion in Berthoud underscores the strength of our state’s business climate and Colorado’s status as a global leader in aerospace and defense. Our state is home to more than 2,000 aerospace companies, representing 24% growth over the last five years, and we are thrilled to support Ursa Major’s growth in this key Colorado industry,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman.

“Ursa Major’s investment demonstrates that Colorado is not only a place where aerospace companies innovate, but where they manufacture, grow and build for the long term,” said Raymond H. Gonzales, President of the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation. “This expansion brings together high-quality jobs, advanced production capabilities and an important Colorado-grown company that is shaping the future of the aerospace and defense industry.”

The company currently has more than 360 employees, including approximately 300 in Colorado.

About OEDIT’s Global Business Development Division

Global Business Development (GBD) is a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. GBD supports Colorado businesses and communities by using a data-driven approach to recruit, support, and retain businesses that contribute to a robust and diversified economy. We align our portfolio of programs, services, and incentives with industries that benefit Colorado companies and elevate the state’s national and international competitiveness. GBD also hosts foreign delegations and participates in trade and investment missions around the world to strengthen global awareness of Colorado. With a highly educated and motivated workforce, a thriving innovation economy, and nation-leading entrepreneurial spirit, Colorado is a top market for business development.

About Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.

Watch the full conversation: https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/video/govs-jared-polis-spencer-cox-on-education-and-technology-full-panel-267595333869

Today, Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera joined many Colorado aerospace companies to celebrate the successful Artemis II Lunar Mission and Colorado’s major contributions to that success. The mission, which lifted off from Kennedy Space Center at 4:35 PM MST on Wednesday April 1st 2026 and returned to Earth on April 10, 2026, with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego, California, at 6:07 PM MST showcases Colorado’s central role in America’s return to the moon. Over 250 Colorado companies participated in the Artemis program.

“Colorado’s aerospace companies are the industry-leading innovators that are helping us get back to the moon. It was an honor to join the amazing Artemis II crew at Red Rocks and congratulate them on a historic achievement. As I told the astronauts backstage: “Sure, you’ve travelled to the moon and back, but now you can say you’ve played to a sold out audience at Red Rocks!” said Governor Jared Polis.

“This mission’s success is a symbol of Colorado and America’s innovation and I am honored by the role our state played in this history-making moment,” continued Governor Polis.

“Today’s event was a powerful reminder of the Colorado aerospace ecosystem’s vital role in space innovation and exploration. With more than 250 Colorado-based companies contributing to the mission, it was exciting to meet the crew who flew it, and even more exciting to see how many Coloradans were inspired to become a part of the Artemis generation,” said Lt. Governor Primavera.

We’re committed to lowering healthcare costs and supporting the next generation of nurses—because you are the future of care in our state.

We celebrated with a pet adoption event alongside local shelters, including Humane Colorado, who brought adoptable puppies looking for loving homes.

Colorado leads on animal welfare because of the people working every day to protect pets and connect them with families. If you’re ready to add a pet to your home, consider adopting.

Today, Governor Polis. Lt. Governor Primavera and members of the General Assembly welcomed the Denver Summit FC team to the capitol.

“Colorado is a sports state and Denver Summit has hit the field running, breaking NWSL attendance records at the Empower Field home opener. I am thrilled the Summit has joined the roster of iconic professional teams that call Colorado home. I am honored to proclaim today Denver Summit FC Day at the Capitol to celebrate the women who inspire Coloradans with their toughness, skill, and determination at each game,” said Governor Polis.

“When I was growing up, girls didn’t play sports in school or professionally. That option simply didn’t exist for us. Now, young women across our state can watch Denver Summit FC and see athletes who look like them at the highest level of the sport” said Lt. Governor Primavera. “They can see a clear path from youth soccer fields in Colorado to professional careers, right here at home.”

Governor Polis proclaimed April 27, 2026 as Denver Summit FC at the Capitol Day. Read the Governor’s Proclamation.

“It’s such an honor to be part of the Denver Summit FC’s inaugural season and to recognize Colorado’s first major women’s professional sports team at the Capitol. Moments like this matter. It’s important to celebrate these milestones, the opportunities they create, and excellence in women’s sports. Go Summit!” said Senator Marc Catlin.

Today, I am launching our Roadmap to Reduce Homeowners Insurance—focused on lowering premiums, strengthening homes against wildfire and hail, and helping communities rebuild faster after disasters.

The goal: save Coloradans up to $800 a year and make coverage more accessible across our state.

Mexico is Colorado’s top export partner. In 2025, the state exported $1.7 billion in goods to Mexico, representing 15% of Colorado’s total goods exports. Beef and pork made up 33% of those exports.

Additionally, in 2024, Mexico remained Colorado’s #1 inbound market in visitation with almost 300,000 visitors contributing to Colorado’s robust tourism economy. This represents a 9% increase in visitors over 2024 and a 33% increase since the pandemic.

In late 2025, United Airlines launched year-round nonstop flights between Denver and Mexico City. In February, Volaris announced a new, twice-weekly service between Queretaro and Denver, set to begin on June 3rd, 2026. This is the first time an air carrier has flown between Denver International Airport and Querétaro Intercontinental Airport.

Today Governor Polis, local leaders, and Resource Central unveiled a new 15-foot sculpture made of recycled hammers, bringing together art and Colorado’s commitment to sustainability to celebrate and honor Earth Day. Resource Central is a nonprofit based in Boulder to help people save water, conserve energy and reduce waste.

“Everyday is Earth Day here in Colorado, and I am excited to be joining leaders in our community to show the impact of recycling on reducing our carbon footprint, protecting our natural resources, and utilizing unused materials to create inspirational art that showcases the community. Our mission has always been to leave our state better than we found it, for future generations to enjoy all that Colorado has to offer,” said Governor Polis.

2026 is the 250th anniversary or semiquincentennial of the United States, and the 150th anniversary, or sesquicentennial, of the State of Colorado; however, Coloradans may not know that 2026 is also the 50th Anniversary of the successful reintroduction of River Otters in Colorado.

“Did you know that 2026 marks the 50th Anniversary of the successful reintroduction of River Otters? While the nation’s semiquincentennial and Colorado’s sesquicentennial may take the splashy headlines, we are also celebrating an important anniversary for Colorado’s River Otters. These slippery, but playful, creatures play an important role in strengthening the health of our rivers and we have seen River Otter populations successfully spread across the western slope ahead of this milestone anniversary of their reintroduction. This year the 250/150/50 celebrations include all of us and Colorado’s river otters,” said Governor Polis.

“River otters had been eliminated from Colorado by about 1910. CPW reintroduced 120 otters between 1976 and 1991. Surveys occurring between 2003 and 2017 along with our staff’s field observations suggest that otters are now at least fairly well distributed on the west slope of Colorado. said CPW Director Laura Clellan. “Our survey efforts this year, in addition to public sightings submitted through iNaturalist, will help CPW understand where we have otters now and if there are areas where they could further expand.

Between 1976 and 1991, Colorado reintroduced the species, releasing over 100 otters sourced from healthy populations in other states. Scientists at Colorado Division of Wildlife (now CPW) selected five locations with high-quality otter habitat as release sites: Cheeseman Reservoir, the Gunnison River, the Piedra River, the stretch of the upper Colorado River that runs through Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Dolores River.

(An early river otter reintroduction conducted by Colorado Division of Wildlife.)

Colorado is among 21 states that have or are making efforts to reintroduce and foster River Otter populations. Colorado’s river otter populations are doing so well, state efforts are now dedicated to monitoring them. CPW efforts this year will give the state a better understanding of otter populations statewide.

Thanks to the leadership of Representative Matt Soper, Representative Matthew Martinez, Senator Dylan Roberts, and Senator Marc Catlin, this new law ensures that when products are labeled Colorado-grown, they truly come from our state.

From Palisade peaches to Pueblo green chiles and San Luis Valley potatoes, we’re protecting the foods that make Colorado proud. 🌽🍑🌶️

The public naming contest invited Coloradans across the state to help choose the name of the express intercity train that will connect communities along the Front Range beginning in 2029. The campaign generated strong statewide participation, with Coloradans submitting videos, sharing posts on social media, and encouraging friends and neighbors to vote for their favorite option.

Among the four finalists, Colorado Connector (“CoCo”) received the most votes, emerging as the clear favorite in a contest designed to engage the public in shaping the future of passenger rail in Colorado.

“The Colorado Connector reflects exactly what this train is about: bringing communities together and creating a faster, cleaner and more convenient way to travel across our state,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Nearly 26,000 Coloradans stepped up to help name this train, and that level of participation shows just how excited people are about finally delivering modern passenger rail along the Front Range.”

The name Colorado Connector highlights the train’s central purpose: linking communities, expanding mobility, and making travel between cities along the Front Range easier and less stressful. Leaders say the name also reflects a broader vision for the future of transportation in Colorado – one built on connection, accessibility and shared opportunity. The winning name is rooted in the idea that modern rail can strengthen connections between cities, workers, families and visitors across Colorado’s fastest-growing regions.

“This name reflects both the communities this train will connect and the promise of the service we’re building for them,” said Sal Pace, general manager of the Front Range Passenger Rail District. “After years of planning and study, we are seeing real momentum – bringing us closer to a train Coloradans will be able to ride in just a few years.”

The votes are below:

#1 – Colorado Connector (“CoCo”): More than 9500 votes. [36.8% (9,502 votes)]

#2 – Front Range Express Destinations (“FRED”): More than 8800 votes. [34.3% (8,865 votes)]

#3 – Colorado Ranger: More than 5400 votes. [21.0% (5,426 votes)]

#4 – RangeLink: Barely over 2,000 votes. [7.9% (2,029 votes)]

The District launched the “Name the Train” campaign to encourage broad public participation as planning for Front Range passenger rail continues. Residents were invited not only to vote but also to share videos explaining their choice and encouraging others to participate. The outreach effort generated strong engagement across the state and helped build public awareness of the project.

“Today we took another historic step towards a more affordable and liveable Colorado. By allowing non-profits, transportation districts, schools, housing authorities and others to build housing on underutilized and unused land, we are breaking down barriers that block partners who want to be part of the housing solution. This bill allows underutilized land to be turned into homes people can afford, in communities we want to live in. I thank the sponsors for their dedication to tackling our housing challenges and for getting this bill to my desk,” said Governor Polis.

In December, Governor Polis, Rep Boesenecker and other legislators, spoke about the HOME Act in Fort Collins and why it was an important step forward to increase housing opportunities in Colorado. Governor Polis called for the legislature to open the door to more housing on underutilized land in his 2026 State of the State address.

“Too many families in Colorado Springs are afraid of being priced out of the place they call home,” said Senator Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs. “If we’re serious about solving the housing crisis in Colorado, we need to open up every available option to get our neighbors secure and affordable housing. The HOME Act will help our communities build the housing that is so desperately needed in our state.”

“Access to affordable and secure housing is the reason I am able to serve my community at all,” said Senator Julie Gonzales, D-Denver. “We have a housing crisis in this state, and Coloradans who work multiple jobs to make ends meet still can’t afford to buy a home and plant roots in their communities. This bill will allow community organizations more flexibility to give their neighbors that gift of stable, affordable housing.”

“These laws are some of many breakthrough efforts that Colorado Democrats have passed this year, and in recent legislative sessions, to save Coloradans money on housing,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Andy Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, sponsor of HB26-1001 and SB26-001. “The HOME Act and SB26-001 remove barriers to getting affordable housing built and create more flexibility for local governments and communities to use existing tools to be responsive to the housing needs of their communities. We’re working to create housing options that work for all Coloradans’ budgets. These new laws will help deliver housing that hardworking people can afford.”

“Colorado Democrats are making it easier to build more housing now to reduce housing costs for Coloradans,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver, sponsor of HB26-1001. “In Denver, we’re already seeing rents drop significantly due to an increase in the housing supply. Our new law gives communities throughout Colorado another tool to get affordable housing projects approved and built to deliver more affordable housing.”

“At Eagle County School District, we’ve seen firsthand the many ways building needed housing on available land can help our district, hardworking teachers, and community. We are excited to see the HOME Act open up opportunities like this across the state. Today’s action could help the hardworking teachers and staff members of our district save up to $1,500 a month on rent, supporting the educators and staff,” said Eagle County School District Superintendent Philip Qualman.

Governor Polis also signed SB26-001 - Workforce Housing & Housing Tax Credit, sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts and Jeff Bridges, and Representatives Chris Richardson and Andrew Boesenecker.

“Ensuring Coloradans can live where we work is an important part of making Colorado more affordable and liveable. Today we are taking action to further partner with local governments to expand housing opportunities for teachers, nurses, firefighters, and workers throughout our communities. I appreciate the hard work of the sponsors in bringing this bill forward,” said Governor Jared Polis.

“I’m proud that the first bill introduced in the Senate this year is one to unlock local governments’ ability to meet their own housing needs,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco. “This bill will cut red tape and give counties, municipalities, and housing authorities more tools to help them build and maintain housing for more working families and individuals. This means more opportunities for Coloradans to stay in their communities and stable housing for the workers who keep our rural and mountain towns running.”

“Local governments know their housing needs, and the state shouldn’t artificially limit the tools they can use to ensure their residents have a place they can afford to live,” said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “This bill removes barriers for counties and municipalities to invest in affordable and workforce housing and accelerates development. It’s a commonsense approach that lets local communities address their housing shortages.”

“This is a good bill that doesn’t increase taxes or levy new fees but instead provides flexibility to local governments to address housing issues in a manner that fits the priorities of the citizens they serve,” said Representative Chris Richardson, a sponsor of SB26-001.

Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) celebrated Colorado Agriculture Day, recognizing the enduring commitment and resilience of the state’s agricultural industry. Governor Polis also signed two bills into law increasing support for farmers and ranchers.

“Colorado’s hardworking farmers and ranchers are an important part of our 150-year legacy as a state and an important part of our future. Colorado’s farmers and ranchers work hard to put food on our tables, are stewards of our waters and lands, and represent who we are as a state. As we celebrate our sesquicentennial birthday, we honor the history of agriculture in our state, and recognize our farmers and ranchers who help provide Colordans with basic necessities for a healthy, strong, and thriving life,” said Governor Polis.

Colorado Agriculture Day is an opportunity for all Coloradans to acknowledge the indispensable role agriculture plays in the daily life and future prosperity of the state’s economy. Ancestral Puebloans cultivated corn, squash and beans on the lands now called Colorado for hundreds of years before statehood and agriculture continues to be a vital part of the state’s economy while supporting the open spaces Coloradans value.

“As we celebrate Ag Week and Ag Day, let’s recognize the incredible work of our farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers,” said Acting Commissioner of Agriculture Robert Sakata. “Supporting our local producers is a direct investment in a robust and resilient food system for all. We encourage every Coloradan to participate in this celebration by purchasing Colorado Proud products, visiting a local farm or ranch, or sharing a locally sourced meal with your friends and neighbors.”

The state’s agricultural system rests on the traditions, ingenuity, and deep knowledge of those who came before. This year, which has been proclaimed as the International Year of the Woman Farmer by the United Nations, we also want to elevate the 28,000 Colorado women farmers and ranchers who account for 41.8 percent of the state’s agricultural producers.

To celebrate Ag Day, Governor Polis signed two ag-related bills that will help conserve at-risk farmland and make it more affordable for new and beginning farmers and ranchers (SB26-064) and allow for use of money from the Livestock Indemnity Funds to be used to prepare for and respond to emerging disease threats to livestock health (HB26-1067).

“Colorado’s agriculture producers work hard year round to put food on our tables and today we are taking actions to expand support for these hard working Coloradans. By offering agricultural loans to protect our most valuable lands and make them more affordable for new and beginning producers we are investing in our agricultural economy which creates good jobs and produces world-renowned food. We are also ensuring that our farmers and ranchers have the resources to better protect the health of their livestock from disease threats such as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and New World Screw Worm,” said Governor Polis about SB26-064 and HB26-1067.

“Colorado’s farmers and ranchers are good stewards of the land; these bipartisan laws save them money, protect our water and strengthen our ag economy,” said Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont, sponsor of SB26-064 and HB26-1067. “Every farmer and rancher wants to keep their livestock healthy, and this law will extend the permissible uses of a livestock health management fund to include preventative education and collaboration. Another law I sponsored will uplift the next generation of Colorado’s farmers and ranchers and safeguard water and natural resources.”

“Farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our state, and in a time of increasing uncertainty, they need our support now more than ever,” said Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, sponsor of SB26-064 and HB26-1067. “I am proud to see these bills signed into law that will help farmers and ranchers respond faster to disease outbreaks and that will uplift the next generation of farmers and ranchers through easier access to loan financing.”

“Colorado is losing farmland faster than any state in the country. With roughly 1.6 million acres lost in just five years, according to the United States Department of Agriculture, we must take steps to support our farmers and ranchers and keep agricultural land in production. SB26-064 Modify Colorado Agricultural Future Loan Program is one step toward protecting the future of agriculture in Colorado,” said Senator Cleave Simpson, a sponsor of SB26-064.

“As we continue confronting the ongoing threats of avian influenza, foot-and-mouth disease, and the imminent risk posed by the New World screwworm, it is critical that we take a proactive and coordinated approach to disease prevention. These outbreaks can have devastating consequences for livestock health, agricultural stability, and the livelihoods of producers.” said Representative Ty Winter, a sponsor of HB26-1067.

“SB26-064 expands the entities which can help facilitate loan for new farmers. Colorado has lost farmland at an unprecedented rate and the state should do all we can to help the next generation of farmers be able to get into agriculture,” said Representative Matt Soper, a sponsor of SB26-064.

CDA is highlighting agriculture’s indelible impact on Colorado all year in conjunction with the America 250 - Colorado 150 celebrations to acknowledge the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Centennial state’s induction into the Union. With the theme of “Setting Colorado’s Table,” CDA has unveiled a large-scale, traveling mural, which can be seen at the Colorado Capitol throughout Ag Week, that celebrates the past, present and future of agriculture in our state.

Additionally, in partnership with History Colorado, CDA will publish a coffee table book with stories of Colorado’s agricultural history this summer. Celebrations will continue at the Colorado State Fair, where CDA will partner with Longer Tables to set one of the 150 Colorado Tables. We’ll end the year by supporting communities across the state to set their own Harvest Table dinners to bring friends and neighbors together over a shared meal.

For more information on CDA’s planned celebrations, please join our Setting Colorado’s Table mailing list.

Colorado was ranked as having the 7th lowest effective tax rate in the country. This outside analysis was conducted by WalletHub, which analyzed the Real-Estate Tax, Vehicle Property Tax, Income Tax, and Sales & Excise Tax. According to Wallethub’s comprehensive analysis, Colorado has lower taxes than all its neighboring states except Wyoming, as well as lower taxes than self proclaimed ‘low tax’ states including Florida (9), and Texas (42).

“Income tax cuts and saving people money has been one of my top priorities since day one, and I’m proud of the work Colorado has done to reduce taxes for everyone. From cutting the income tax three times and property taxes five times to exempting many additional items from the sales tax – we have helped more Coloradans keep more of their hard-earned money. I look forward to building on this work, including if there are opportunities for additional, revenue-neutral income tax cuts for Coloradans,” said Governor Jared Polis.

Laws Governor Polis has signed to reduce taxes include:

• SB26-010 - Agricultural Property Tax Definitions: Helps Colorado farmers, ranchers, and rural communities by saving agriculture producers money on property taxes.

• SB24-233 - Property Tax: Reduces the improved commercial and agricultural assessment rates for 29% down to 25% by Tax Year 2026.

• HB24-1311 - Family Affordability Tax Credit: Gives money back to Colorado families with children younger than 17, up to $3,200 per child, when there is a TABOR surplus. This helped cut child poverty rates by nearly 41%.

• HB24B-1001 - Property Tax: Accelerates the assessment rate reductions from SB24-233 on improved commercial and agricultural property to 25% to 2025, and expands the assessment rate reduction to the general commercial, industrial, natural resources, and state assessed classes by Tax Year 2027.

• SB22-238 - 2023 And 2024 Property Tax: Passed with bi-partisan support, reduced the nonresidential property assessment valuation for 2023 from 29% to 27.9% of actual value, and extended the lower agriculture and renewable energy rates from SB21-293 into 2024.

• HB22-1055 - Sales Tax Exemption Essential Hygiene Products: Ended the state sales and use tax on feminine hygiene products and diapers.

• SB 21-293 - Property Tax Classification And Assessment Rates: Reduced property tax assessment rates for agriculture, renewable energy, from 29% to 26.4%.

• HB21-1311 - Income Tax: Closes tax loopholes that benefit special interests and puts more money into Coloradans’ pockets by eliminating all income taxes on social security for seniors over age 65 and giving tax relief to families with young children through Colorado child tax credit. This legislation also doubles Colorado’s Earned Income Tax Credit, helping an estimated 320,000 hard-working Colorado families earn their way out of poverty.

• HB21-1312 - Insurance Premium Property Sales Severance Tax: Exempts tens of thousands of small businesses from having to pay or even file the Business Personal Property tax on their businesses personal property, saving Colorado’s small and growing businesses thousands of dollars annually.

Thank you to Consul General Quigley and everyone who joined us in celebrating this special friendship. Here’s to growing our partnership even further! #ColoradoCanada #FriendshipDay

Today, Governor Jared Polis, Colorado Parks and Wildlife and The Conservation Fund announce the conservation of Tolland Ranch in an important victory for wildlife habitat and public land access. Located in Gilpin and Boulder counties, the 3,314-acre property is critical habitat for elk, deer and moose, and the access to South Boulder Creek and 16 ponds will provide anglers with new fishing opportunities. The Conservation Fund acquired the property from private owners and conveyed it to CPW in order to conserve the habitat for future generations. CPW is developing a management plan to operate Tolland Ranch as a State Wildlife Area (SWA), which prioritizes access for hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing recreationists, and will evaluate opening the property to limited hunting and fishing opportunities in fall 2026, after necessary accessibility updates and regulations are made.

“This is a major win for Colorado and our commitment to protecting our natural resources, wildlife and iconic outdoors. Colorado is a leader in outdoor recreation and conservation, expanding public access to some of Colorado’s natural treasures like Fishers Peak, Pikes Peak and many more. I am excited to protect Tolland Ranch, creating a new State Wildlife Area to protect an important wildlife habitat, and create more outdoor recreation opportunities for all Coloradans to enjoy” said Governor Polis.

“Tolland Ranch is a unique opportunity to conserve important wildlife habitat and hunting and fishing opportunities along Colorado’s Front Range,” said Dan Gibbs, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Natural Resources. “This is another great example of how funds generated by hunters and anglers help to conserve critical fish and wildlife habitat - and secure permanent public access for hunting, fishing and wildlife-related recreation. I want to also acknowledge the tireless work by staff at The Conservation Fund, CPW and Great Outdoors Colorado to help make this project a reality.”

“Today’s historic sister state agreement between Volyn and Colorado marks another strong tie connecting the State of Colorado and the people of Ukraine. This partnership highlights the importance of sharing culture and trade and collaborating across government, education, and industry to strengthen our economies. As a Sister State of Volyn, Colorado stands with Ukraine against brutal and dictatorial Russian aggression, and we continue to highlight that international cooperation makes us stronger and safer,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

“First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Government and the people of the United States of America and, in particular, to Jared Polis, the Governor of the State of Colorado for the consistent and comprehensive support of Ukraine during this challenging time for our country. We deeply value the solidarity and partnership that we experience every day. Today’s agreement with the State of Colorado lays a reliable foundation for building long-term and substantive partnership relations that will contribute to development and the strengthening of interregional ties,” said Denys Denyshchenko, Deputy Head of the Volyn Regional State Administration.