“You don’t feed the monkey.” – Sen. Dave Owen, R- Greeley, after another senator asked how to prevent hackers from “monkeying around” with voting computer systems.
“Cows may come and cows may go but the bull in this place goes on forever.” – Sign posted in an office near the House floor
“Europe is going to die.” – Paul Cameron, chairman of the Family Research Institute, testifying against Senate Bill 166, which he said would lead to gay marriage. He claimed that European countries’ lax views toward gay unions are leading to low birthrates.
THE BILL: Ban’s costs snuffed
The ban on indoor smoking had a bumpy ride in the statehouse last week with fights over where smoking should be allowed.
The current version of House Bill 1175 exempts bingo halls, casinos, taverns, racetracks and private clubs.
But, as the bill moved through the process, another change attracted less attention. Since it was introduced, the bill has been amended to remove a major cost.
Originally, the bill included protections for workers who might complain about employers who fail to enforce the ban.
Workers would be allowed to file claims with the Colorado Civil Rights Commission if they felt they were victims of discriminatory retaliation. The state expected that it would investigate 160 such claims per year, but would find probable cause of discrimination in only eight cases.
That process carried a hefty cost – an estimated $182,089 in 2006-07 and $178,714 in 2007-08.
By removing that provision, the state expects no extra costs due to the bill.
LOOKING AHEAD
Last week was the deadline for House bills to get out of the House and Senate bills to get out of the Senate. The surviving bills now face a new round of hearings in the other house. In other words, more talking about issues that have already been talked about. Schedules are subject to change, so remember to check ahead if you plan to attend.
TUESDAY
Fruits and vegetables: Senate Bill 127 creates a pilot program to make free fruits and vegetables available to students at participating schools. The House Education Committee meets after the floor session concludes in the morning.
WEDNESDAY
Sex abusers: One of the bills that prompted the ire of the Catholic Church is now in the Senate Judiciary Committee. To appease opponents, House Bill 1088 was altered to apply only to criminal, not civil, actions. At 1:30 p.m.
Rainy-day funds: The House Finance Committee is set to consider four bills that set aside tax dollars to prepare for future financial emergencies. At 1:30 p.m.
THURSDAY
Health insurance: Senate Bill 35 would create a new premium-subsidy program for low-income, uninsured people in La Plata and Mesa counties, using $15 million per year of Referendum C money for the next five years. Senate Health and Human Services, at 1:30 p.m.
Juvenile offenders: The House Judiciary Committee reviews a bill that would allow juveniles convicted to life in prison to apply for parole after 40 years. At 1:30 p.m.
