Statehouse Republicans find themselves in long-forgotten territory, with minority status in the legislature and a Democrat in the governor’s office. It’s the first time the current crop of lawmakers don’t at least have a GOP governor to give them a seat at the policymaking table, but we fully expect they will be part of the mix.
Gov. Ritter was quick to say last week that he’ll be open to Republican ideas that make a positive contribution.
GOP lawmakers are lining up several early pieces of legislation, with some conservatives putting immigration at the top of their list. It’s an odd priority – after all, the legislature just passed tough immigration reform during a special session in July. But several Colorado Springs lawmakers say they want to keep the issue fresh for voters in 2008. It’s not an issue that worked well for the party in 2006, and it could put the local GOP at odds with the White House.
Rep. Bill Cadman has introduced a bill to fine immigrants $500 if they are in the state illegally. Sen. Dave Schultheis plans a bill to make it a felony if an illegal person shows fake documents to get a job. He also wants to make it a non-bailable offense.
Other Republican efforts will be more constructive. Sen. Josh Penry of Grand Junction wants to work with Democrats to create a rainy-day fund beyond the current 4 percent reserve required by law. He is also planning legislation to create a statewide graduation standard requiring four years of math and science. “Two years of math and science are not acceptable,” Penry said.
Sen. Greg Brophy from Wray is pondering a “right to farm” bill that would protect small farmers from interference by non-farm neighbors. He’s also interested in reducing prison recidivism by implementing faith-based rehabilitation programs.
The GOP will play defense, too. House leader Mike May said his caucus will try to block bills that raise costs on business. Sen. Ron May plans a resolution asking voters to overturn a provision of a new law that indexes Colorado’s minimum wage to inflation.
May and Senate GOP leader Andy McElhany say they agree with key Democratic priorities from expanding affordable health care to improving education, but not necessarily Democratic solutions. May seems more willing to admit he’s working with Democrats as the session gets underway. McElhany’s Senate caucus features more red-meat conservatives this year.
Penry said Republicans are looking to 2008 when they hope to regain the majority, but are mindful of the current climate. “We have a responsibility to keep faith with our constituents,” he said. “2008 will be here soon enough; we need to do our job now.” We hope that this sentiment endures for both parties throughout the 120-day session.
