Previewing the State Legislature’s Biggest Fights: Our Massive Deficit, the Rent Algorithm, and a Colorado DOGE?
Jan 13, 2025
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Deep Singh Badesha, a seasoned politics contributor and lobbyist, discusses Colorado's legislative landscape as lawmakers tackle a $750 million budget deficit. He dives into the complexities of new housing bills, spotlighting a controversial rent algorithm aimed at making rental pricing more transparent. The conversation also touches on voter engagement with fiscal policies and hints at a quirky possibility of Colorado creating its own DOGE. Badesha’s insights shed light on the political maneuvering necessary to balance fiscal responsibility with public needs.
The 2023 Colorado state legislature session is characterized by an unexpectedly cordial environment among lawmakers, contrasting with last year's tensions.
Amid a significant budget shortfall, legislators are focusing on housing issues, particularly proposals around rent-setting algorithms and affordability solutions.
Deep dives
Legislative Session Kickoff
The state legislature has resumed its session, marking a stark contrast from previous years characterized by intense protests and confrontations. The initial atmosphere is described as unusually cordial, with legislators from both parties engaging positively. Despite underlying tensions remaining, particularly between the House and Senate, the public is witnessing a more cooperative environment compared to last year’s contentious events. This shift highlights a temporary respite in the often tumultuous political landscape as lawmakers navigate their duties.
Budget Deficit Challenges
Colorado faces a significant budget shortfall of approximately $750 million, leading to challenging discussions around fiscal responsibility among lawmakers. This budget deficit arises from a combination of slowing population growth, diminishing tax collections, and recent tax cuts that have impacted revenue. As cuts become necessary, legislators are cautious about implementing any new fiscal initiatives, indicated by the hesitancy to include fiscal notes on proposed bills. These budget pressures will shape legislative priorities, pushing officials to consider strategic areas for potential reductions.
Grandstanding and Future Political Moves
With the 2026 election on the horizon, many lawmakers are positioning themselves for future political aspirations, leading to an increased emphasis on grandstanding during legislative sessions. The culture of overshadowing substantive discussions with lengthy speeches reflects this shift, especially as representatives jockey for visibility and influence. The competition to secure positions in government, like the state offices or higher legislative roles, will dominate the current year's agendas. This atmosphere may stifle cooperation and yield a focus on political theater rather than collaborative policymaking.
Housing Market and Legislative Actions
Discussions around housing remain pivotal in Colorado, with concerns about high rental prices and market dynamics shaping legislative priorities. Recent conversations among lawmakers suggest renewed interest in tackling the issue of rent-setting algorithms, with expectations of a bill banning such practices gaining traction. Additionally, innovative housing solutions like modular homes are being explored as potential means to alleviate affordability issues. However, skepticism persists regarding the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing the housing crisis, particularly as the legislature deals with broader budget constraints.
The many esteemed lawmakers of Colorado’s 75th General Assembly returned to the Capitol last week for four months of high-stakes legislative action! So we’re looking ahead to the biggest stories to watch, fights to come, and potential triumphs of the session — plus a few predictions and inside scoops. Politics contributor Deep Singh Badhesha joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about some of the new faces, new battles, and familiar ideas we are likely to hear about this time around. From multiple housing bills to perhaps a DOGE of Colorado’s own, we’re breaking down what it all could mean for Denver.
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