Highlights from the Colorado Legislature on Friday:
— The Senate confirmed former Rep. John Salazar to lead the Department of Agriculture.
— A spending standoff between the Republican House and Democratic Senate dragged on Friday when the Senate took its turn refusing to compromise over a resolution to suggest spending for the next fiscal year. The GOP is pushing for a lower suggestion; Democrats accuse Republicans of chest-thumping over a resolution that has little effect on state budget-writers.
— Another sign the bipartisan spirit at the Capitol has disappeared: the Senate argued for nearly 30 minutes over a resolution in honor of former President Ronald Reagan. Democrats sought to add a bit to the resolution about Reagan’s tax hikes; the GOP cried foul and the Democrats shelved the addition.
— Lawmakers wore red to promote women’s cardiovascular health.
New bills:
— Adds 10 cents to movie tickets to pay for incentives for film productions in Colorado (House Bill 1207).
— Allows anyone with permission to carry a handgun to carry a concealed handgun (House Bill 1205).
— Creates optional certification for “dementia care” (House Bill 1194).
— Requires school buildings to be more energy efficient (House Bill 1204).
— Requires landlords to tell prospective tenants how much their utilities will likely cost (House Bill 1214).
