By Carolyn Martin (CHEC Director of Government Relations)
The State of the Legislature
Navigating the Capitol during this unique season we find ourselves in has been challenging on many levels. Fear dominates almost every interaction. A cloud of deep oppression hangs over the dome. Our liberties are being decimated while our lives are being micromanaged. Normal has morphed into something unrecognizable. We have willingly been led to this place of compliance because we have forgotten what it means to rise and stand (Psalm 20:7-8).
In a recent study which compared the unemployment rate of every state before the pandemic and the change in that rate over the last year, Colorado ranked 50th. Only Hawaii ranked lower. Is anyone really surprised that South Dakota ranked 1st? But, instead of following the lead of the states who have come out on top after a year into this pandemic, the governor in his state-of-the-state address spoke of his plans to make “bold transformational change.”
Moving toward 100% renewable energy by 2040 is high on the governor’s list. We will also see legislation to bring us closer to universal healthcare, which the voters rejected in 2016. If the majority in the legislature have their way, we will see increased fees, taxes, and prices in various areas, including housing and transportation for starters. Parental rights are also in the crosshairs of legislators. Back again this session is a bill (SB21-016) that would allow minors to receive medical care for sexually transmitted diseases without parental consent — including preventive measures like the HPV vaccine.
In the first round of bills to be introduced, the minority brought forward a set of bills to try to address the governor’s extended emergency powers. They also submitted a group of bills which attempt to restore confidence in our elections. All of these bills will be heard in the next two weeks.
Now is the time to make your voice heard! For immediate action items, check out former Senator Lundberg’s website. Hint: look for a new action item coming tomorrow on his website! Interested in knowing more about the bills being proposed in the legislature? Sign up to receive my weekly prayer emails here.
Trusting in the mighty power and grace of Jesus,
Carolyn Martin, CHEC Director of Government Relations
carolyn@chec.org
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