Colorado Lawmakers Target Health Care, Housing, and Workforce in 2026

State lawmakers from Colorado’s Western Slope are prioritizing legislation aimed at addressing healthcare costs, housing affordability, and workforce development as the 2026 legislative session commenced on March 15. During a press call, Democratic representatives from mountain communities highlighted their focus on “affordability,” a term that has increasingly resonated with constituents as costs soar in some of the state’s most expensive areas.

One of the significant issues raised was the surge in health insurance premiums. According to Connect for Health Colorado, many individuals relying on the state’s individual insurance marketplace are facing premium hikes of up to 400% following the expiration of federal subsidies at the end of 2025. “Folks on the Western Slope, more than anywhere else in the state, rely on those subsidies to keep their health insurance affordable,” stated Sen. Dylan Roberts, a Democrat representing Frisco. He cautioned that without renewed subsidies, the uninsured rate could rise significantly in western Colorado.

In response to this crisis, state lawmakers had previously enacted temporary funding during a special legislative session last summer, utilizing revenue from one-time tax credits. While this measure provided some relief, it is not a long-term solution. Roberts and his colleagues are currently exploring ways to extend state aid for health insurance premiums and continue pressuring Congress to renew federal subsidies. Despite the U.S. House’s recent passage of a three-year extension, previous attempts in the Senate to secure such funding have failed, leaving lawmakers uncertain about future support.

Housing Solutions and Insurance Challenges

Affordable housing is another critical area where Western Slope lawmakers aim to make an impact. Sen. Roberts has introduced Senate Bill 1, which would allow county governments to allocate property tax revenue towards supporting multi-jurisdictional housing authorities. Currently, counties are restricted from utilizing these funds for such purposes. Moreover, the bill proposes expanding eligibility for state tax credits aimed at middle-income housing projects.

In addition, House Speaker Julie McCluskie intends to revive a proposal aimed at reducing homeowners’ insurance costs. The initiative, which was unsuccessful last year, seeks to create state funds to assist homeowners in mitigating risks from wildfires and hail damage. The proposed funding mechanism involved a 1% fee on homeowners’ insurance policies, which faced opposition from both Republicans and some Democrats. McCluskie plans to reintroduce the bill this session with a revised funding strategy, emphasizing the need for innovative financing solutions to support necessary property improvements.

Workforce Development and Environmental Protection

Beyond health care and housing, Western Slope lawmakers are also focusing on workforce development and environmental protection. McCluskie is leading efforts to consolidate higher education and workforce resources into a new state department, enhancing access to training and apprenticeship programs.

Rep. Meghan Lukens has introduced a bill to establish clearer pathways for employment within state government. Additionally, she is advocating for House Bill 8, which aims to expand the role of Colorado Parks and Wildlife in managing outdoor recreation. This measure seeks to address the increasing pressures on public lands and foster collaboration among state agencies, tribes, and local communities.

Rep. Elizabeth Velasco is also prioritizing worker rights, particularly for immigrant populations. She successfully sponsored an immigration protection measure last year, which limited data sharing between state and federal immigration authorities. Velasco has introduced another bill this session, House Bill 6, aimed at designating “thriving” post-secondary education institutions within the state.

As the legislative session progresses, Western Slope lawmakers are poised to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing their constituents, with a keen focus on affordability and sustainability in health care, housing, and workforce development. The session will continue until May 13, 2026, providing ample time for lawmakers to advocate for meaningful changes that could significantly impact their communities.