Bill would also restrict the practice for those who are pregnant, under 18, or who have an intellectual or developmental disability By Moe Clark Meghan Baker, a staff attorney for the advocacy organization Disability Law Colorado, asked state lawmakers during a bill hearing on Tuesday to imagine what it would be like to spend 23 hours a day alone in a jail cell. “You can’t see a TV or a clock, …
Prolonged isolation behind bars is cruel, inhumane, degrading treatment and harmful to health. Rep. Judy Amabile2:56 AM MDT on Apr 4, 2021 This past year has been one of loneliness and isolation for many. We have been denied the company of family and friends. The things that bring us joy and help us mark the time have been taken away. Social distancing and quarantine have taken a toll on our …
Our office has been barraged with messages from ardent supporters of three Republican-sponsored “election reform” bills (1053, 1086 and 1088). I have read these bills. Each aims to reshape Colorado’s elections, including diminishing our gold standard mail-in balloting system. It’s deeply disturbing that so many people believe there was widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election. Study after study, including by the former administration’s own Justice Department, simply do not bear that out. …
This week a bill that would allow “ranked choice voting” in nonpartisan Colorado municipal elections passed the State Affairs Committee, of which I am a member. I voted in favor of this bill, HB21-1071, and it is now on to a second reading in the Assembly. With ranked choice voting, voters can rank the candidates they like rather than choosing only one. The rules can vary but a simple example, as …
Colorado’s 2021 legislative session picked up again this week. Alongside Rep. Adrienne Benavidez, I introduced my first bill, HB21-1064, which reforms the Colorado juvenile sex offender registry to improve outcomes for youth in the justice system without compromising public safety. This is a difficult issue, and it’s so important to reform the rules governing the registry. For more background, read the bill fact sheet, and New York Magazine article The List. I welcome your …
A few updates on our efforts at the Capitol, by the numbers: 2 Top concerns of the 50 constituents who contacted us this month – Vaccines for COVID-19 (read more), and Unemployment system issues (read more) 5 Virtual Town Halls held in Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Grand and Jackson Counties. I appreciate everyone who joined us to share concerns and ideas. Many Zoom meetings with constituents, state and city staffers, public health officials, non-profits, lobbyists, …
Colorado’s 2021 Legislative Session gaveled in at 10 o’clock this morning. I was officially sworn in to represent the people of Colorado House District 13. Working inside the Capitol for the first time, I am more aware than ever of the awesome responsibility and privilege of serving the people of Colorado. Thank you to my campaign team, and all of the volunteers, donors, and thought leaders who helped us get …
New State Resources for COVID Relief In a special legislative session, Colorado lawmakers passed 10 bills providing $300 million for COVID-19 relief. The bills cover several interest areas that may affect you. This website lists the aid resources currently available, and gives information on how to apply. Some processes are still developing (see notes below). For instance, small business aid is being administered locally. If you run into any problems finding help or …
Ballots are out. I have worked hard for the chance to represent you in the Colorado House, and I would be honored to have your vote. Remember: Vote early, vote blue, and vote your entire ballot. Find your closest drop box or voting location. Not registered? You can register to vote and vote in person up to7 pm on Election Day. Let’s do this! – Judy Here’s a quick round up of the 11 state measures on …
Published in the Daily Camera | August 14 My son’s friend came over Saturday to say goodbye. For the last two years, BB (not his real name) had been living in hotel on the southeast side of Boulder. During regular if infrequent dinners over the years, I have gotten to know him. He is animated and interested in a wide variety of topics. The dinners were fun. He always brought …
