Top items for the 2009 Colorado Legislature:
—First order of business: Find up to $600 million in budget cuts for the fiscal year ending June 30. The main focus: Higher education, Medicaid and programs not protected by federal or state law.
—A “Jobs by June” plan to employ thousands in construction-related industries, including raw materials, maintenance and engineering. The House and Senate have created a committee to study job programs.
—Gov. Bill Ritter wants to provide tax credits to companies that create at least 20 new jobs. He also hopes to give businesses quick access to credit through a Colorado Credit Reserve Program.
—Ritter wants lawmakers to expand Colorado First work force training programs at community colleges, particularly for new energy economy jobs.
— A bill is being drafted to invest in renewable energy companies through the Colorado Clean Energy Fund. Lawmakers are considering legislation to help homeowners invest in solar panels and to encourage schools to use solar technology.
—Create partnerships between business and higher education to provide skills needed for jobs in renewable energy.
—Find ways to expand Internet access to rural communities.
—Create 120 jobs for emergency responders across the state, possibly funded by a fee for ambulance service.
