DENVER—A summary of progress on promises made by Gov. Bill Ritter during his campaign and in his state of the state address in January:
Promoting Renewable Energy
Ritter adopted a Western Governors Association’s resolution calling for a 20 percent improvement in the efficiency of electricity use statewide by 2020. Ordered the use of hybrid or flex-fuels in state-owned vehicles. Signed Senate Bill 51 requiring energy efficiency in state buildings. Signed a bill providing incentives for electricity transmission lines; put $7 million in a Clean Energy Fund to help transfer research to the marketplace; promoted the use of bio-fuels.
Health Care
Ritter said in January that 770,000 Coloradans lack health insurance, including 180,000 children. The total figure has since risen to 792,000. Proposed a Colorado Health Plan to provide every Coloradan access to some basic form of health insurance by 2010. Critics say Coloradans have access but can’t afford it. Ritter issued an order joining a multistate drug-purchasing pool.
Transportation
Ritter appointed a Colorado Transportation Finance and Implementation Panel to work with an independent panel in charge of state transportation needs. Organized statewide transportation summits to get suggestions from the public. Is committed to solving congestion on Interstate 70 to promote tourism and development but hasn’t said how he will accomplish that.
Economic Development
The governor gets good marks from business leaders for promoting renewable energy and what he calls the new energy economy. His legislative agenda for next year includes promoting bioscience and aerospace.
Public Education
The governor outlined a “10-year path of progress” to cut the dropout rate in half for high school students. Announced plans to streamline statewide tests and appointed a panel to study ways to reduce the amount of time spent on refresher courses needed for an educated work force. Added 2,000 more slots for low-income preschool students with plans for 2,000 more slots next year.
Higher Education
Ritter wants colleges and universities to double the production of technical certificates and college degrees over the next 10 years. Organized a summit of higher education leaders to address ways to reduce the financial burden for college students. College costs continue to rise because of tax and spending limits approved by voters.
Public Safety
Ritter promised to reduce the number of prisoners who commit new crimes upon release. Promised to support drug courts and intervention programs because many inmates are substance abusers. Plans to address those problems in the coming year.
Government Efficiency
The governor promised to review performance of all government agencies and find ways to cut costs. That report is expected next year.
