Seed Newsvine
A Republican is now the speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives for the first time in six years.
Rep. Frank McNulty, R-Highlands Ranch, was unanimously elected speaker this morning. He was nominated by both majority leader Amy Stephens, R-Monument, and minority leader Sal Pace, D-Puelbo. No other legislator sought the post.
McNulty received the gavel from outgoing speaker Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, and then gave his Democratic predecessor a hug.
After ascending the podium, McNulty thanked Carroll for his work over the last two years.
"Speaker Carroll, this chamber, the people Colorado, are better for your time as speaker," he said.
McNulty then led the chamber in its first bit of business for the new session, the adoption of a resolution setting forth the rules of the House.
McNulty is a third-term representative from Highlands Ranch.
Carroll leaves the House after serving the maximum four terms allowed by state law. He was the first African-American speaker of the House in state history and, for a time, served alongside the first African-American Senate president, Peter Groff of Denver.
Groff, also a Democrat, left the legislature in 2009 to take a post in the Obama administration.
Showing posts with label Terrance Carroll. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Terrance Carroll. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Carroll Asks for Focus on Jobs
House speaker Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, called on his colleagues to focus on the state's economy during the 2010 legislative session during his opening day remarks this morning.
Carroll, who is in his last term as a state representative, said the legislature should focus on developing the clean energy industry, strengthening job training programs, and making budget cuts that will not cause significant harm to the state's families and communities.
The text of the speech follows:
"I, too, sing America.
"When the Harlem Renaissance author Langston Hughes penned those words in 1925, America was booming.
"In Colorado, myths about fast fortunes made from silver and gold yielded to firmer economic opportunities – opportunities grounded in Colorado’s northern oil fields and southern steel mills. In Colorado’s fertile wheat fields out east and mineral deposits out west.
"Colorado’s once-desolate high plains became a critical part of America’s breadbasket. The Rocky Mountains – once barely traversable – became the nation’s backbone, and with the completion of Moffat Tunnel, a vital part of the state’s economy.
"Yet this state and this nation’s exuberance was obscured by harsher realities. America’s horizon, in fact, was littered with unseen challenges.
"Langston Hughes recognized that challenges awaited – that we were a long way from realizing liberty’s full potential. And yet, he saw promise peeking out:
"'Tomorrow, I’ll be at the table, for I, too, am America.'
"Well, tomorrow has become today, and while this nation remains imperfect, the 20th Century and the first decade of the 21st , produced undeniable achievements.
"In retrospect, the signposts toward progress appear clearly marked. But it’s a mistake to read history as an inevitable march forward. For each signpost precedes a bend in the road. And each bend foretells an immense challenge requiring difficult choices, clear leadership, and the will to act.
"It’s only ten years into this century, and America is already shuddering under the weight of an immense burden.
"Two wars, two recessions – one nearly resulting in economic collapse – disasters both natural and man-made. If anything, history’s long march, which rarely presents time to exhale, is speeding up.
"Today, though better than yesterday, again presents this nation and this state with new challenges.
"Challenges that require critical choices, clear leadership, and the will to act.
"The choices we make today – both within this room and without – matter to Colorado’s families. They matter because tomorrow is not yet written.
"But when tomorrow is written, history’s burden will be on us to show that in this building, in this room, in this year, we are standing up for Colorado’s families. We are fighting for small businesses and we are working hard to create new jobs. We are steering the state toward recovery.
"While Colorado’s economy has been hit hard by the recent recession, we’ve shown ourselves to be incredibly resilient.
"That’s no surprise: we’ve been here before. The Pikes Peak Gold Rush of 1859, promised droves of gold prospectors quick fortunes and bright futures. But this region’s true identity only took shape when the “free gold” – the gold that was easiest to mine and pan for – was exhausted.
"That’s when Coloradans were forced to innovate. That’s when the great ideas and new technologies that shaped our state and its dynamic economy sprung into being. That’s when our true character was forged.
"That’s what we do in Colorado: we hit a bump, and then we change. We diversify. We get along.
"Colorado is a state of unique communities. And while Denver and Durango, Westminster and Walsenburg on the surface don’t seem to share much, they do share the same strength of character and trailblazing attitude that make them thrive. We don’t wait around for progress. We don’t wait for Washington. Instead, we lead the way to recovery!
"Ranking in the top five states for business, and with an unemployment rate a full three points below the national average, Colorado has a record to be proud of.
"The lynchpin of our economy is small business. And nothing is doing more to drive the creation of small business than New Energy.
"Nearly 20,000 new green-collar jobs that can’t be outsourced and 1,800 new companies – almost all small businesses – are attributable to the innovation our leadership is providing.
"But we’re not settling for the status quo.
"This session will bring new legislation to increase our renewable energy standard – the amount of power utility companies are required to generate from “green” sources – from 20 to 30 percent by 2020.
"This bold initiative will make Colorado’s clean energy standard one of the most aggressive in the country, and stake our state’s claim as an undisputed leader in New Energy. I thank Governor Bill Ritter for leading this ambitious effort.
"This green initiative and others will continue to make it easier and cheaper for families to move to renewable energy. It will continue to bring jobs and firms like Vestas and ConocoPhillips to Colorado. And it will foster the small, homegrown businesses that are the bedrock of our state.
"Prosperity, however, is all about balance. It’s all about creating a diversified economy.
"Developing a sustainable market for clean, traditional sources of energy, like natural gas for use in Colorado will create jobs, drive down energy costs, and help break the vicious boom-and-bust cycles that hurt our local communities.
"That need for balance extends well beyond our energy sector. It means fostering an economy we can all participate in. That ambition drives us to create more job opportunities for doctors and nurses that want to deliver critical primary care to our rural and vulnerable populations.
"It pushes us to develop our burgeoning creative class by supporting industries like film and media, art and design. And it compels us to develop a workforce suited to our dynamic economy.
"Unfortunately, the high cost of higher education and barriers to job training and re-training often make it hard for Coloradans to jumpstart or advance their careers.
"That’s why we’re pushing legislation to help Coloradans develop skills to succeed and ease the way toward good, stable jobs. We’re expanding opportunity for Colorado adults who have been laid off or want to change industries to upgrade their skill-sets through job training; we’re making it easier for Colorado’s students to transition from two-year to four-year colleges; and we’re training our job force today for the high-tech, high-paying green-collar jobs of tomorrow.
"A strong economy begins in the classroom. And while our education system will be challenged this year, we remain committed to our kids.
"We are aggressively positioning our schools for Race to the Top, and moving away from CSAP toward a better, more comprehensive form of assessment.
"This downturn has focused our energy on job creation and economic recovery. On building a stronger Colorado with a more diversified and flexible economy.
"In that same spirit, the recent downturn has also demonstrated that building a stronger Colorado will require a smarter government.
"We’ve always had a small government. And in the past year we’ve made it even smaller. During the downturn we’ve already cut over a billion dollars from government spending, creating a leaner government with a balanced budget.
"We’ve cut in such a way that will allow us to focus on what matters most to people. I applaud the Governor and Joint Budget Committee for finding efficiencies while protecting core services as much as possible.
"But we're not done yet. This session we will continue to make tough choices and tough cuts to balance an additional $1.2 billion shortfall for the upcoming year.
"It is imperative, however, that as we continue to cut, we also take a systematic approach to remaking government, so it is not only leaner, but better and smarter too. So government programs are targeted and effective, and serve Coloradans well.
"This session, we will call on government agencies to be more accountable, to come up with clear goals for their programs, and plans for executing those goals.
"And we'll hold their feet to the fire through performance audits.
"Because if we don’t demand more accountability, the small government we do have won’t work.
"This state’s rich diversity and strong character compel more still from our state government.
"Our commitment to building a stronger Colorado requires more accountability.
"But it also means we have an obligation to stand up for people. It means making sure this state is an equitable one, where all people have a fair shot and get a fair shake. That Colorado is a state where people, not special interests, get their way.
"We will not tolerate special interests trampling on the many so the few can benefit. We won’t allow the same obstructionism, the same bickering and the same influences that corrupt Washington to corrupt Colorado.
"And we will not allow reckless partisan games to get in the way of you and your family’s prosperity. After all, times are tough enough already.
"That’s why we’re standing with Coloradans. We’re standing with Coloradans by advancing a sensible package of legislation that will keep politics clean; protect our neighborhoods; halt the cycle of debt perpetrated by reckless and dishonest lenders; stop medical fraud; and make life just a little easier for Colorado’s families.
"Members, as we prepare to begin the 2nd regular session of the 67th General Assembly let our thoughts this morning reflect a deep and abiding commitment to creating a better tomorrow. A better society.
"A society where our ideological differences do not outweigh our commitment to protecting our Rocky Mountain vistas; do not outweigh our commitment to conserving our fresh water and preserving our clean air; do not outweigh our commitment to promoting the common good for Colorado’s families.
"And let us pray our words and deeds do not become mere noise, because we have neglected the widowed, the poor, the orphaned, and those who seek justice under this dome.
"For they, too, sing Colorado.
"As we prepare to undertake this historic session, I’d to paraphrase the words of Thomas Paine:
“These are times that try men’s – and women’s – souls.
"Let us not shrink from our responsibility to this state and its people.
"Let us be bold and do what’s right for the people of Colorado.
"Thank you."
Carroll, who is in his last term as a state representative, said the legislature should focus on developing the clean energy industry, strengthening job training programs, and making budget cuts that will not cause significant harm to the state's families and communities.
The text of the speech follows:
"I, too, sing America.
"When the Harlem Renaissance author Langston Hughes penned those words in 1925, America was booming.
"In Colorado, myths about fast fortunes made from silver and gold yielded to firmer economic opportunities – opportunities grounded in Colorado’s northern oil fields and southern steel mills. In Colorado’s fertile wheat fields out east and mineral deposits out west.
"Colorado’s once-desolate high plains became a critical part of America’s breadbasket. The Rocky Mountains – once barely traversable – became the nation’s backbone, and with the completion of Moffat Tunnel, a vital part of the state’s economy.
"Yet this state and this nation’s exuberance was obscured by harsher realities. America’s horizon, in fact, was littered with unseen challenges.
"Langston Hughes recognized that challenges awaited – that we were a long way from realizing liberty’s full potential. And yet, he saw promise peeking out:
"'Tomorrow, I’ll be at the table, for I, too, am America.'
"Well, tomorrow has become today, and while this nation remains imperfect, the 20th Century and the first decade of the 21st , produced undeniable achievements.
"In retrospect, the signposts toward progress appear clearly marked. But it’s a mistake to read history as an inevitable march forward. For each signpost precedes a bend in the road. And each bend foretells an immense challenge requiring difficult choices, clear leadership, and the will to act.
"It’s only ten years into this century, and America is already shuddering under the weight of an immense burden.
"Two wars, two recessions – one nearly resulting in economic collapse – disasters both natural and man-made. If anything, history’s long march, which rarely presents time to exhale, is speeding up.
"Today, though better than yesterday, again presents this nation and this state with new challenges.
"Challenges that require critical choices, clear leadership, and the will to act.
"The choices we make today – both within this room and without – matter to Colorado’s families. They matter because tomorrow is not yet written.
"But when tomorrow is written, history’s burden will be on us to show that in this building, in this room, in this year, we are standing up for Colorado’s families. We are fighting for small businesses and we are working hard to create new jobs. We are steering the state toward recovery.
"While Colorado’s economy has been hit hard by the recent recession, we’ve shown ourselves to be incredibly resilient.
"That’s no surprise: we’ve been here before. The Pikes Peak Gold Rush of 1859, promised droves of gold prospectors quick fortunes and bright futures. But this region’s true identity only took shape when the “free gold” – the gold that was easiest to mine and pan for – was exhausted.
"That’s when Coloradans were forced to innovate. That’s when the great ideas and new technologies that shaped our state and its dynamic economy sprung into being. That’s when our true character was forged.
"That’s what we do in Colorado: we hit a bump, and then we change. We diversify. We get along.
"Colorado is a state of unique communities. And while Denver and Durango, Westminster and Walsenburg on the surface don’t seem to share much, they do share the same strength of character and trailblazing attitude that make them thrive. We don’t wait around for progress. We don’t wait for Washington. Instead, we lead the way to recovery!
"Ranking in the top five states for business, and with an unemployment rate a full three points below the national average, Colorado has a record to be proud of.
"The lynchpin of our economy is small business. And nothing is doing more to drive the creation of small business than New Energy.
"Nearly 20,000 new green-collar jobs that can’t be outsourced and 1,800 new companies – almost all small businesses – are attributable to the innovation our leadership is providing.
"But we’re not settling for the status quo.
"This session will bring new legislation to increase our renewable energy standard – the amount of power utility companies are required to generate from “green” sources – from 20 to 30 percent by 2020.
"This bold initiative will make Colorado’s clean energy standard one of the most aggressive in the country, and stake our state’s claim as an undisputed leader in New Energy. I thank Governor Bill Ritter for leading this ambitious effort.
"This green initiative and others will continue to make it easier and cheaper for families to move to renewable energy. It will continue to bring jobs and firms like Vestas and ConocoPhillips to Colorado. And it will foster the small, homegrown businesses that are the bedrock of our state.
"Prosperity, however, is all about balance. It’s all about creating a diversified economy.
"Developing a sustainable market for clean, traditional sources of energy, like natural gas for use in Colorado will create jobs, drive down energy costs, and help break the vicious boom-and-bust cycles that hurt our local communities.
"That need for balance extends well beyond our energy sector. It means fostering an economy we can all participate in. That ambition drives us to create more job opportunities for doctors and nurses that want to deliver critical primary care to our rural and vulnerable populations.
"It pushes us to develop our burgeoning creative class by supporting industries like film and media, art and design. And it compels us to develop a workforce suited to our dynamic economy.
"Unfortunately, the high cost of higher education and barriers to job training and re-training often make it hard for Coloradans to jumpstart or advance their careers.
"That’s why we’re pushing legislation to help Coloradans develop skills to succeed and ease the way toward good, stable jobs. We’re expanding opportunity for Colorado adults who have been laid off or want to change industries to upgrade their skill-sets through job training; we’re making it easier for Colorado’s students to transition from two-year to four-year colleges; and we’re training our job force today for the high-tech, high-paying green-collar jobs of tomorrow.
"A strong economy begins in the classroom. And while our education system will be challenged this year, we remain committed to our kids.
"We are aggressively positioning our schools for Race to the Top, and moving away from CSAP toward a better, more comprehensive form of assessment.
"This downturn has focused our energy on job creation and economic recovery. On building a stronger Colorado with a more diversified and flexible economy.
"In that same spirit, the recent downturn has also demonstrated that building a stronger Colorado will require a smarter government.
"We’ve always had a small government. And in the past year we’ve made it even smaller. During the downturn we’ve already cut over a billion dollars from government spending, creating a leaner government with a balanced budget.
"We’ve cut in such a way that will allow us to focus on what matters most to people. I applaud the Governor and Joint Budget Committee for finding efficiencies while protecting core services as much as possible.
"But we're not done yet. This session we will continue to make tough choices and tough cuts to balance an additional $1.2 billion shortfall for the upcoming year.
"It is imperative, however, that as we continue to cut, we also take a systematic approach to remaking government, so it is not only leaner, but better and smarter too. So government programs are targeted and effective, and serve Coloradans well.
"This session, we will call on government agencies to be more accountable, to come up with clear goals for their programs, and plans for executing those goals.
"And we'll hold their feet to the fire through performance audits.
"Because if we don’t demand more accountability, the small government we do have won’t work.
"This state’s rich diversity and strong character compel more still from our state government.
"Our commitment to building a stronger Colorado requires more accountability.
"But it also means we have an obligation to stand up for people. It means making sure this state is an equitable one, where all people have a fair shot and get a fair shake. That Colorado is a state where people, not special interests, get their way.
"We will not tolerate special interests trampling on the many so the few can benefit. We won’t allow the same obstructionism, the same bickering and the same influences that corrupt Washington to corrupt Colorado.
"And we will not allow reckless partisan games to get in the way of you and your family’s prosperity. After all, times are tough enough already.
"That’s why we’re standing with Coloradans. We’re standing with Coloradans by advancing a sensible package of legislation that will keep politics clean; protect our neighborhoods; halt the cycle of debt perpetrated by reckless and dishonest lenders; stop medical fraud; and make life just a little easier for Colorado’s families.
"Members, as we prepare to begin the 2nd regular session of the 67th General Assembly let our thoughts this morning reflect a deep and abiding commitment to creating a better tomorrow. A better society.
"A society where our ideological differences do not outweigh our commitment to protecting our Rocky Mountain vistas; do not outweigh our commitment to conserving our fresh water and preserving our clean air; do not outweigh our commitment to promoting the common good for Colorado’s families.
"And let us pray our words and deeds do not become mere noise, because we have neglected the widowed, the poor, the orphaned, and those who seek justice under this dome.
"For they, too, sing Colorado.
"As we prepare to undertake this historic session, I’d to paraphrase the words of Thomas Paine:
“These are times that try men’s – and women’s – souls.
"Let us not shrink from our responsibility to this state and its people.
"Let us be bold and do what’s right for the people of Colorado.
"Thank you."
2010 Legislative Session Opens
Members of the 67th General Assembly gathered at the Capitol today to launch the 2010 session of the legislature.
House speaker Terrance Carroll, Senate president Brandon Shaffer, and the Republican minority leaders of both chambers focused on the state's budget problems in their traditional opening day speeches.
Gov. Bill Ritter will deliver his final "State of the State" address tomorrow. He is expected to lay out several priorities for the session and provide some information about the budget cuts needed to close Colorado's budget shortfall.
House speaker Terrance Carroll, Senate president Brandon Shaffer, and the Republican minority leaders of both chambers focused on the state's budget problems in their traditional opening day speeches.
Gov. Bill Ritter will deliver his final "State of the State" address tomorrow. He is expected to lay out several priorities for the session and provide some information about the budget cuts needed to close Colorado's budget shortfall.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Ritter Issues MLK Day Statement
Gov. Bill Ritter paid homage to Rev. Martin Luther King today, pointing to Colorado's recent pioneering steps of naming African-Americans as leaders of both chambers of the General Assembly as evidence that King's ideals are having an effect on American society.
“Today, as the nation marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we stand on the eve of history," Ritter said in a written statement. "Barack Obama will be inaugurated tomorrow as the United States’ first African-American president, and in Colorado our state legislature has made history by becoming the first in the nation with an African-American Senate president and an African-American House speaker.
“King would be proud to see how far we have come toward achieving his dream of judging people by the content of their character and not the color of their skin. While we have come a great distance, we still have far to go, especially in today’s difficult economy. As we look to a new president to help lead us through this financial crisis, we must pursue King’s ideals with a renewed commitment so that we emerge from the downturn as a stronger nation and as a better Colorado.”
The governor did not appear at the Denver "Marade" ceremonies at City Park or Civic Center Park today because he is in Washington, DC for the inauguration ceremonies Tuesday.
“Today, as the nation marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we stand on the eve of history," Ritter said in a written statement. "Barack Obama will be inaugurated tomorrow as the United States’ first African-American president, and in Colorado our state legislature has made history by becoming the first in the nation with an African-American Senate president and an African-American House speaker.
“King would be proud to see how far we have come toward achieving his dream of judging people by the content of their character and not the color of their skin. While we have come a great distance, we still have far to go, especially in today’s difficult economy. As we look to a new president to help lead us through this financial crisis, we must pursue King’s ideals with a renewed commitment so that we emerge from the downturn as a stronger nation and as a better Colorado.”
The governor did not appear at the Denver "Marade" ceremonies at City Park or Civic Center Park today because he is in Washington, DC for the inauguration ceremonies Tuesday.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Speaker Terrance Carroll's Opening Remarks
Here is the text of the address delivered by House speaker Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, at the opening session of the 69th General Assembly this morning:
"Majority Leader Weissmann, Minority Leader May, members of the Colorado General Assembly, and distinguished guests, welcome to the opening of the First Regular Session of the 67th General Assembly. I am honored and humbled to lead this chamber as its 34th speaker, and thank you all for your support.
"I also want to thank the people of Colorado, who this November elected or reelected 65 members to the House to govern our state. The people have granted all of us a unique opportunity at a critical time in history. Of the 65 members of the Colorado House of Representatives, 17 of you took the oath of office for the first time today.
"I want to congratulate each of the following new members on their election: Cindy Acree, Dennis Apuan, Randy Baumgardner, Laura Bradford, Lois Court, Cheri Gerou, Dickey Lee Hullinghorst, Beth McCann, Joe Miklosi, Carole Murray, Sal Pace, Kevin Priola, Su Ryden, Sue Schafer, Scott Tipton, Ed Vigil and Mark Waller.
"I also want to recognize a few special guests who have joined us in the chamber today, many of whom are former members of the House. The Honorable Rosemary Marshall who I served with for 6 wonderful years is here today, as are the Honorable Wilma and Wellington Webb, the Honorable Gloria Tanner, the Honorable Regis Groff, the Honorable Michael Hancock and the Honorable Penfield Tate II. Please welcome these dedicated public servants and wonderful friends. I also want to thank Mrs. Mary Louise Lee for her rousing versions of the Star Spangled Banner and Lift Every Voice and Sing.
"Finally, I would be remiss if I did not single out the service of two departing members of this chamber. Speaker Andrew Romanoff and Majority Leader Alice Madden led our caucus for five years and our chamber for four, working tirelessly to move this state forward. When they began their tenures, the state had been ravaged by one of the worst budget crises in our history.
"Today, due in no small part to their efforts, 18,000 more students can afford the opportunity to go to college; 20,000 more kids have the chance to go to preschool and kindergarten; 50,000 more Colorado children will be able to get the health care they need; And every Colorado consumer has access to the clean energy technologies of tomorrow. Both parties, and indeed the entire state, benefited from Andrew Romanoff and Alice Madden’s capacity to consider various – and at time competing – viewpoints. Their thoughtful management of this chamber translated into transformative policies that have benefited all of Colorado. Please join me now in thanking them both for their years of service.
"The 65 of you in this room elected to the 67th General Assembly come from many different walks of life. Standing with us today are teachers, doctors, lawyers, farmers, ranchers, businessmen and women, members of the armed services and veterans who have risked their lives for our freedom. We have mothers, fathers, grandmothers and grandfathers. We have folks from big cities and small towns, the eastern plains and the western slope, blacks, whites, Hispanics, and pacific islanders. We have third and fourth generation Coloradans, others born out of state, and some of you who were even born abroad. We have liberals, moderates, and conservatives.
"We, members, represent the diverse fabric of Colorado’s community.
"A patchwork of unique and wonderful biographies that together make Colorado, like America, different and more magnificent than other societies in history. But that patchwork alone does not make this country great.
"What makes America great is that the fabric of our community is sewn together by a single thread. That thread is called opportunity.
"My mother – the daughter of a sharecropper and the granddaughter of a slave – taught me the importance of opportunity. She taught me that lesson even though her formal education did not extend beyond the third grade.
"She was 51 years old when I was born – she would have turned 90 this year, if she were still with us. I was her only child, and she raised me alone, in Anacostia, one of the toughest neighborhoods in one of the toughest towns in America: Washington D.C.
"Growing up, our nickname for the neighborhood was Dodge City. In my neighborhood, young black men were expected to be nothing more than a number on a police blotter.
"My mother, a woman of unconditional love and unbounded grace, understood that my only way out of the neighborhood was to capitalize on each opportunity, which came first in the form of a free public education.
"America cares not where you came from but only where you want to go. But for America to continue to flourish, we must be diligent in our work to preserve existing opportunities that are the engines of prosperity and offer new opportunities where none existed before.
"I know Colorado is a place where informed leaders still believe our promise is not yet fulfilled, and won’t be until each child has the opportunity to realize his or her full potential, each hardworking Coloradan has the opportunity to find a job, raise a family, and retire with security and dignity.
"I offer that our principal charge should be to continue to expand the circle of opportunity, so that every single Coloradan may have a genuine chance to succeed.
"Our task comes at a unique time. The world we live in today seems less secure than the world we inhabited just a short time ago. The state and the nation face a bleak economic outlook.
"More Coloradans are losing their jobs; The price of energy continues to fluctuate wildly; Spending and consumer confidence are down. And while Colorado, with its diversified economy and well-trained workforce, has fared better than the country as a whole, we are not immune to those forces driving the downturn.
"We’ve already seen firsthand how a global crisis affects us locally; A bank failure in Milan can hurt a cattle rancher in Meeker. Plant closings in Detroit can mean layoffs in Denver.
"As the recession worsens, what was once a quiet crisis is now loud, and threatens to become deafening.
"In these difficult times, Americans have sent a clear message to their political leaders: we don't care where you come from, what color your skin is, or what party you belong to. We care only how you can move us forward.
"The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King once said, “[t]he ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
"Members, the road ahead is besieged with challenges and controversy. Our response should not be panic or haste, but instead sound judgment, a steady hand, and an unflinching commitment to this great state.
"And as we tackle a weakening economy and difficult budget choices, let us never take our eyes off of our greater purpose; to expand the circle of opportunity in Colorado. May we all measure up to that task.
"Today, I ask each of you, the members of the Colorado House of Representatives, to work together toward achieving three common goals to help expand opportunity:
"First, to bring new, high-paying jobs to Colorado
"Second, to provide support for struggling families
"And finally, to build a world class public education system
"To meet these goals, I ask that we make an honest attempt to set aside our partisan differences, to look past ideological extremes, and to search for common ground. And while we will demonstrate bold but pragmatic leadership, we will also remember that no leader, political party or interest group has a monopoly on good ideas.
"Job One this legislative term is to create good jobs for Colorado.
"That’s why this November, Senate President Groff and I created the bi-partisan Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth. Together, we tasked that committee with crafting real solutions to bring new jobs to Colorado right now and to help get our economy back on track. The 10 members of that committee have already met half a dozen times and are soliciting ideas from business pioneers, civic leaders and individuals from across the state. I want to thank our 5 House members for working so hard over the last two months: Representatives Joe Rice, Buffie McFadyen, Judy Solano, David Balmer, and Larry Liston.
"We look forward to hearing your committee’s recommendations.
"But the magnitude of this crisis compels us to act immediately. Already, a number of promising ideas have come forward. Colorado’s businesses, especially our small businesses, are the engine of our economy and the source of many of this state’s jobs.
"Today we will introduce legislation sponsored by Representative Joe Rice to provide a new Colorado Jobs Tax Credit to companies that bring good, high paying jobs to our state.
"Recently, we’ve seen many small businesses struggle to keep their doors open because they can’t borrow the money they need to pay the bills. To continue growing, those businesses need access to capital and credit.
"So this year we will revive the Colorado Credit Reserve Program.
"With a small guarantee from the state, the program will encourage lenders to loan as much as $50 million to Colorado small businesses so they can stay afloat during this difficult period. Thank you to Representatives Sara Gagliardi and Don Marostica, and the Office of Economic Development, for their hard work on this issue.
"It’s no secret that Colorado’s roads and bridges need attention. Today, Colorado has 126 structurally deficient bridges and thousands of miles of roads that need work. We have $1.2 billion in shovel-ready road projects waiting for dollars and workers to arrive. And we have thousands of contractors, engineers, and construction workers sitting at home without jobs. Our current transportation funding system has failed to provide the dollars to get those shovels moving and get people back to work.
"Over the next few weeks, we must work with Governor Ritter and our delegation in Congress, to make sure we get the federal funding we need to start bringing new jobs to Colorado to fix our crumbling roads and broken bridges by this summer. But our work cannot stop there. We must pursue a long term, sustainable funding solution that continues to create jobs year in and year out and maintains safe roads and bridges.
"We want to create an economy where the best jobs and most innovative companies are housed right here in Colorado. We should continue to invest in our clean energy economy and the other high tech industries that are bringing new companies with them, new green collar jobs to Colorado.
"We know our recent work is already paying off: in just the last two years, we’ve seen the creation of 22,000 high-paying New Energy jobs. I look forward to working with Representatives Judy Solano, Andy Kerr, Michael Merrifield and others on a variety of innovative proposals that will continue to expand the market for solar and wind energy by removing barriers and making clean energy more accessible to homes, schools, and businesses.
"And, with the help of Representative Jim Riesberg, we will continue to invest in our promising bioscience industry to convince small, high-tech companies make Colorado their home.
"Finally, to attract companies that will be profitable tomorrow to locate in Colorado today, we must train a workforce with the skills they need to compete for these high paying jobs. So with the assistance of Representatives Nancy Todd and Ed Vigil, we will expand our job training programs at community colleges, with a special emphasis on preparing our labor force to tackle the good green collar jobs that are on their way.
"Unfortunately, more Colorado families are struggling financially today than at any other time in recent memory.
"And while we’ve made recent gains – expanding access to health care for 50,000 kids; supporting more students so they can afford college; and helping our poorest families cover their energy bills – the ebb of the economic tide is dragging many Colorado families backwards.
"My mother used to say, “Help people a little bit, point them in the right direction, and they will take care of the rest.” That’s why this year, we pledge to continue assisting Coloradans at the margins, particularly those being hit hardest by the economic slowdown – children, middle-class families, and older Coloradans, so that they too may know the good fortune of opportunity.
"There is a challenging paradox in government: As the need for services increases with a recession, actual revenues tend to decrease. This year we will be faced with tough decisions about how to trim an already lean budget. Though I cannot say today exactly how much or where the cuts should come from, I will say this:
"We will spend only what we can afford. We will balance the budget. We will put our money where our values are. We will do everything in our power to preserve the critical services that create opportunity: for children to get an education; for struggling families to go to the doctor when they are sick; for the unemployed to stay afloat while they search for their next job, and for Colorado families trying to protect their American Dream.
"More than 16,000 Colorado homeowners are now in foreclosure. And close to 6,000 families are on the brink. When Coloradans lose their homes, a breadwinner is more likely to lose his or her job, a child is less likely to graduate from high school, and families are more likely to slip into poverty.
"Keeping families in their homes provides a substantial benefit to all of us. It reduces pressure on our government safety net and it helps maintain home values so that our neighborhoods can thrive. And when Coloradans restructure their debt so they are able to pay back their loans, it ensures banks can keep lending to the next homeowner and the next small business entrepreneur.
"So this year, I welcome the legislation authored by Rep. Mark Ferrandino that will offer those Coloradans facing foreclosure a “temporary timeout;” a little extra time to work with their lenders to save their homes.
"Sadly, home buying remains only a dream for far too many Coloradans, especially those facing the specter of poverty. In these difficult times, many live paycheck to paycheck. And no one is more impacted by the evolving economic reality than our kids. This decade, the percentage of Colorado children living in poverty has risen eighty-five percent! That’s one of the highest increases in the entire country. And that is unacceptable! Reducing poverty is absolutely essential to building a strong, 21st century economy that works for everyone.
"That is why this year, Rep. John Kefalas will introduce an ambitious plan creating a framework to expand opportunity and reduce poverty significantly over the next ten years. Called the Economic Opportunity Task Force, the body will be charged with developing a strategic, integrated and comprehensive plan to help lift families out of poverty.
"The most important opportunity that government provides is a free public education to every child that wants one. But this opportunity afforded our kids is only as good as the quality of the education they receive. Unfortunately, when our schools fail, our students fail too. Too many of our students drop out of school before graduation. Those who drop out are more likely to commit a crime. They have a harder time finding a job. They are more likely to become a teen mom or a teen dad. And they’re more likely to struggle with addiction.
"During the past few years, we’ve committed to reducing the dropout rate, and taken the first necessary steps toward achieving that goal. We’ve expanded access to early childhood education, and we’ve worked to lay the foundation for a comprehensive kindergarten through college curriculum that prepares all our kids for the future.
"But that’s not enough. Rep. Karen Middleton is introducing legislation to create an Office of Dropout Prevention and Student Reengagement, to make sure that students complete their high school studies, and are ready to take the next step, whatever that step may be. And Rep. Debbie Benefield is unveiling a plan intended to make sure that every child, regardless of their race, where they live, or what their socioeconomic background is, has access to a high-quality teacher. And Rep. Michael Merrifield’s legislation will make it easier for high school students to have access to the college and technical training they need to get good, high-paying jobs.
"But student engagement requires parental involvement. When parents are involved, when they track their child’s performance, and keep close contact with their teachers, their child is more likely to succeed. Unfortunately, many parents simply can’t get enough time away from their job to help their children become effective learners. I hope this year to pass legislation from Rep. Andy Kerr that allows parents to take a few hours, unpaid, to step away from work to attend meetings at school without worrying about losing their jobs.
"Coloradans have weathered previous storms because we recognize opportunity and don’t let it pass us by.
"Perhaps no one in Colorado history had a better appreciation of the significance of opportunity than Barney Ford – the man called “The Black Baron” of his day -- whose image watches over this chamber. [Note: the stained glass window directly over the podium on the chambers’ west wall is a full portrait of Barney Ford]. Born a slave in Virginia, Ford escaped servitude by way of the Underground Railroad when he was still a young man. Once in Colorado, he capitalized on the opportunities provided to him by the New West. He became a successful gold prospector, hotelier, and landowner. But his influence extended well beyond his business achievements. Ford recognized what King later said, that the real measure of a man is where he stands in times of challenge and controversy. He led successful efforts to hold up Colorado’s bid for statehood until black suffrage was constitutionally secured. And he founded the first adult education program in the state, where men and women – many freed slaves newly-emigrated from the South – got their very first opportunity. Barney Ford saw that Colorado was a place where opportunity knows no bounds. A place where hard work, a willingness to take a risk, and personal sacrifice can lead to a better life.
"The task before us is to ensure that opportunity is available to this generation of Coloradans and the next. And while the path to prosperity will be challenging, and at times fraught with controversy, our journey must be successful. We cannot travel this path alone. We must lock arms and walk together toward a future for this great state where every child has the opportunity to get a quality education; to go to a great college; to find a good job; to raise a healthy family; and to live a decent life.
"I look forward to our journey together. Thank you and God bless you."
"Majority Leader Weissmann, Minority Leader May, members of the Colorado General Assembly, and distinguished guests, welcome to the opening of the First Regular Session of the 67th General Assembly. I am honored and humbled to lead this chamber as its 34th speaker, and thank you all for your support.
"I also want to thank the people of Colorado, who this November elected or reelected 65 members to the House to govern our state. The people have granted all of us a unique opportunity at a critical time in history. Of the 65 members of the Colorado House of Representatives, 17 of you took the oath of office for the first time today.
"I want to congratulate each of the following new members on their election: Cindy Acree, Dennis Apuan, Randy Baumgardner, Laura Bradford, Lois Court, Cheri Gerou, Dickey Lee Hullinghorst, Beth McCann, Joe Miklosi, Carole Murray, Sal Pace, Kevin Priola, Su Ryden, Sue Schafer, Scott Tipton, Ed Vigil and Mark Waller.
"I also want to recognize a few special guests who have joined us in the chamber today, many of whom are former members of the House. The Honorable Rosemary Marshall who I served with for 6 wonderful years is here today, as are the Honorable Wilma and Wellington Webb, the Honorable Gloria Tanner, the Honorable Regis Groff, the Honorable Michael Hancock and the Honorable Penfield Tate II. Please welcome these dedicated public servants and wonderful friends. I also want to thank Mrs. Mary Louise Lee for her rousing versions of the Star Spangled Banner and Lift Every Voice and Sing.
"Finally, I would be remiss if I did not single out the service of two departing members of this chamber. Speaker Andrew Romanoff and Majority Leader Alice Madden led our caucus for five years and our chamber for four, working tirelessly to move this state forward. When they began their tenures, the state had been ravaged by one of the worst budget crises in our history.
"Today, due in no small part to their efforts, 18,000 more students can afford the opportunity to go to college; 20,000 more kids have the chance to go to preschool and kindergarten; 50,000 more Colorado children will be able to get the health care they need; And every Colorado consumer has access to the clean energy technologies of tomorrow. Both parties, and indeed the entire state, benefited from Andrew Romanoff and Alice Madden’s capacity to consider various – and at time competing – viewpoints. Their thoughtful management of this chamber translated into transformative policies that have benefited all of Colorado. Please join me now in thanking them both for their years of service.
"The 65 of you in this room elected to the 67th General Assembly come from many different walks of life. Standing with us today are teachers, doctors, lawyers, farmers, ranchers, businessmen and women, members of the armed services and veterans who have risked their lives for our freedom. We have mothers, fathers, grandmothers and grandfathers. We have folks from big cities and small towns, the eastern plains and the western slope, blacks, whites, Hispanics, and pacific islanders. We have third and fourth generation Coloradans, others born out of state, and some of you who were even born abroad. We have liberals, moderates, and conservatives.
"We, members, represent the diverse fabric of Colorado’s community.
"A patchwork of unique and wonderful biographies that together make Colorado, like America, different and more magnificent than other societies in history. But that patchwork alone does not make this country great.
"What makes America great is that the fabric of our community is sewn together by a single thread. That thread is called opportunity.
"My mother – the daughter of a sharecropper and the granddaughter of a slave – taught me the importance of opportunity. She taught me that lesson even though her formal education did not extend beyond the third grade.
"She was 51 years old when I was born – she would have turned 90 this year, if she were still with us. I was her only child, and she raised me alone, in Anacostia, one of the toughest neighborhoods in one of the toughest towns in America: Washington D.C.
"Growing up, our nickname for the neighborhood was Dodge City. In my neighborhood, young black men were expected to be nothing more than a number on a police blotter.
"My mother, a woman of unconditional love and unbounded grace, understood that my only way out of the neighborhood was to capitalize on each opportunity, which came first in the form of a free public education.
"America cares not where you came from but only where you want to go. But for America to continue to flourish, we must be diligent in our work to preserve existing opportunities that are the engines of prosperity and offer new opportunities where none existed before.
"I know Colorado is a place where informed leaders still believe our promise is not yet fulfilled, and won’t be until each child has the opportunity to realize his or her full potential, each hardworking Coloradan has the opportunity to find a job, raise a family, and retire with security and dignity.
"I offer that our principal charge should be to continue to expand the circle of opportunity, so that every single Coloradan may have a genuine chance to succeed.
"Our task comes at a unique time. The world we live in today seems less secure than the world we inhabited just a short time ago. The state and the nation face a bleak economic outlook.
"More Coloradans are losing their jobs; The price of energy continues to fluctuate wildly; Spending and consumer confidence are down. And while Colorado, with its diversified economy and well-trained workforce, has fared better than the country as a whole, we are not immune to those forces driving the downturn.
"We’ve already seen firsthand how a global crisis affects us locally; A bank failure in Milan can hurt a cattle rancher in Meeker. Plant closings in Detroit can mean layoffs in Denver.
"As the recession worsens, what was once a quiet crisis is now loud, and threatens to become deafening.
"In these difficult times, Americans have sent a clear message to their political leaders: we don't care where you come from, what color your skin is, or what party you belong to. We care only how you can move us forward.
"The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King once said, “[t]he ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
"Members, the road ahead is besieged with challenges and controversy. Our response should not be panic or haste, but instead sound judgment, a steady hand, and an unflinching commitment to this great state.
"And as we tackle a weakening economy and difficult budget choices, let us never take our eyes off of our greater purpose; to expand the circle of opportunity in Colorado. May we all measure up to that task.
"Today, I ask each of you, the members of the Colorado House of Representatives, to work together toward achieving three common goals to help expand opportunity:
"First, to bring new, high-paying jobs to Colorado
"Second, to provide support for struggling families
"And finally, to build a world class public education system
"To meet these goals, I ask that we make an honest attempt to set aside our partisan differences, to look past ideological extremes, and to search for common ground. And while we will demonstrate bold but pragmatic leadership, we will also remember that no leader, political party or interest group has a monopoly on good ideas.
"Job One this legislative term is to create good jobs for Colorado.
"That’s why this November, Senate President Groff and I created the bi-partisan Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth. Together, we tasked that committee with crafting real solutions to bring new jobs to Colorado right now and to help get our economy back on track. The 10 members of that committee have already met half a dozen times and are soliciting ideas from business pioneers, civic leaders and individuals from across the state. I want to thank our 5 House members for working so hard over the last two months: Representatives Joe Rice, Buffie McFadyen, Judy Solano, David Balmer, and Larry Liston.
"We look forward to hearing your committee’s recommendations.
"But the magnitude of this crisis compels us to act immediately. Already, a number of promising ideas have come forward. Colorado’s businesses, especially our small businesses, are the engine of our economy and the source of many of this state’s jobs.
"Today we will introduce legislation sponsored by Representative Joe Rice to provide a new Colorado Jobs Tax Credit to companies that bring good, high paying jobs to our state.
"Recently, we’ve seen many small businesses struggle to keep their doors open because they can’t borrow the money they need to pay the bills. To continue growing, those businesses need access to capital and credit.
"So this year we will revive the Colorado Credit Reserve Program.
"With a small guarantee from the state, the program will encourage lenders to loan as much as $50 million to Colorado small businesses so they can stay afloat during this difficult period. Thank you to Representatives Sara Gagliardi and Don Marostica, and the Office of Economic Development, for their hard work on this issue.
"It’s no secret that Colorado’s roads and bridges need attention. Today, Colorado has 126 structurally deficient bridges and thousands of miles of roads that need work. We have $1.2 billion in shovel-ready road projects waiting for dollars and workers to arrive. And we have thousands of contractors, engineers, and construction workers sitting at home without jobs. Our current transportation funding system has failed to provide the dollars to get those shovels moving and get people back to work.
"Over the next few weeks, we must work with Governor Ritter and our delegation in Congress, to make sure we get the federal funding we need to start bringing new jobs to Colorado to fix our crumbling roads and broken bridges by this summer. But our work cannot stop there. We must pursue a long term, sustainable funding solution that continues to create jobs year in and year out and maintains safe roads and bridges.
"We want to create an economy where the best jobs and most innovative companies are housed right here in Colorado. We should continue to invest in our clean energy economy and the other high tech industries that are bringing new companies with them, new green collar jobs to Colorado.
"We know our recent work is already paying off: in just the last two years, we’ve seen the creation of 22,000 high-paying New Energy jobs. I look forward to working with Representatives Judy Solano, Andy Kerr, Michael Merrifield and others on a variety of innovative proposals that will continue to expand the market for solar and wind energy by removing barriers and making clean energy more accessible to homes, schools, and businesses.
"And, with the help of Representative Jim Riesberg, we will continue to invest in our promising bioscience industry to convince small, high-tech companies make Colorado their home.
"Finally, to attract companies that will be profitable tomorrow to locate in Colorado today, we must train a workforce with the skills they need to compete for these high paying jobs. So with the assistance of Representatives Nancy Todd and Ed Vigil, we will expand our job training programs at community colleges, with a special emphasis on preparing our labor force to tackle the good green collar jobs that are on their way.
"Unfortunately, more Colorado families are struggling financially today than at any other time in recent memory.
"And while we’ve made recent gains – expanding access to health care for 50,000 kids; supporting more students so they can afford college; and helping our poorest families cover their energy bills – the ebb of the economic tide is dragging many Colorado families backwards.
"My mother used to say, “Help people a little bit, point them in the right direction, and they will take care of the rest.” That’s why this year, we pledge to continue assisting Coloradans at the margins, particularly those being hit hardest by the economic slowdown – children, middle-class families, and older Coloradans, so that they too may know the good fortune of opportunity.
"There is a challenging paradox in government: As the need for services increases with a recession, actual revenues tend to decrease. This year we will be faced with tough decisions about how to trim an already lean budget. Though I cannot say today exactly how much or where the cuts should come from, I will say this:
"We will spend only what we can afford. We will balance the budget. We will put our money where our values are. We will do everything in our power to preserve the critical services that create opportunity: for children to get an education; for struggling families to go to the doctor when they are sick; for the unemployed to stay afloat while they search for their next job, and for Colorado families trying to protect their American Dream.
"More than 16,000 Colorado homeowners are now in foreclosure. And close to 6,000 families are on the brink. When Coloradans lose their homes, a breadwinner is more likely to lose his or her job, a child is less likely to graduate from high school, and families are more likely to slip into poverty.
"Keeping families in their homes provides a substantial benefit to all of us. It reduces pressure on our government safety net and it helps maintain home values so that our neighborhoods can thrive. And when Coloradans restructure their debt so they are able to pay back their loans, it ensures banks can keep lending to the next homeowner and the next small business entrepreneur.
"So this year, I welcome the legislation authored by Rep. Mark Ferrandino that will offer those Coloradans facing foreclosure a “temporary timeout;” a little extra time to work with their lenders to save their homes.
"Sadly, home buying remains only a dream for far too many Coloradans, especially those facing the specter of poverty. In these difficult times, many live paycheck to paycheck. And no one is more impacted by the evolving economic reality than our kids. This decade, the percentage of Colorado children living in poverty has risen eighty-five percent! That’s one of the highest increases in the entire country. And that is unacceptable! Reducing poverty is absolutely essential to building a strong, 21st century economy that works for everyone.
"That is why this year, Rep. John Kefalas will introduce an ambitious plan creating a framework to expand opportunity and reduce poverty significantly over the next ten years. Called the Economic Opportunity Task Force, the body will be charged with developing a strategic, integrated and comprehensive plan to help lift families out of poverty.
"The most important opportunity that government provides is a free public education to every child that wants one. But this opportunity afforded our kids is only as good as the quality of the education they receive. Unfortunately, when our schools fail, our students fail too. Too many of our students drop out of school before graduation. Those who drop out are more likely to commit a crime. They have a harder time finding a job. They are more likely to become a teen mom or a teen dad. And they’re more likely to struggle with addiction.
"During the past few years, we’ve committed to reducing the dropout rate, and taken the first necessary steps toward achieving that goal. We’ve expanded access to early childhood education, and we’ve worked to lay the foundation for a comprehensive kindergarten through college curriculum that prepares all our kids for the future.
"But that’s not enough. Rep. Karen Middleton is introducing legislation to create an Office of Dropout Prevention and Student Reengagement, to make sure that students complete their high school studies, and are ready to take the next step, whatever that step may be. And Rep. Debbie Benefield is unveiling a plan intended to make sure that every child, regardless of their race, where they live, or what their socioeconomic background is, has access to a high-quality teacher. And Rep. Michael Merrifield’s legislation will make it easier for high school students to have access to the college and technical training they need to get good, high-paying jobs.
"But student engagement requires parental involvement. When parents are involved, when they track their child’s performance, and keep close contact with their teachers, their child is more likely to succeed. Unfortunately, many parents simply can’t get enough time away from their job to help their children become effective learners. I hope this year to pass legislation from Rep. Andy Kerr that allows parents to take a few hours, unpaid, to step away from work to attend meetings at school without worrying about losing their jobs.
"Coloradans have weathered previous storms because we recognize opportunity and don’t let it pass us by.
"Perhaps no one in Colorado history had a better appreciation of the significance of opportunity than Barney Ford – the man called “The Black Baron” of his day -- whose image watches over this chamber. [Note: the stained glass window directly over the podium on the chambers’ west wall is a full portrait of Barney Ford]. Born a slave in Virginia, Ford escaped servitude by way of the Underground Railroad when he was still a young man. Once in Colorado, he capitalized on the opportunities provided to him by the New West. He became a successful gold prospector, hotelier, and landowner. But his influence extended well beyond his business achievements. Ford recognized what King later said, that the real measure of a man is where he stands in times of challenge and controversy. He led successful efforts to hold up Colorado’s bid for statehood until black suffrage was constitutionally secured. And he founded the first adult education program in the state, where men and women – many freed slaves newly-emigrated from the South – got their very first opportunity. Barney Ford saw that Colorado was a place where opportunity knows no bounds. A place where hard work, a willingness to take a risk, and personal sacrifice can lead to a better life.
"The task before us is to ensure that opportunity is available to this generation of Coloradans and the next. And while the path to prosperity will be challenging, and at times fraught with controversy, our journey must be successful. We cannot travel this path alone. We must lock arms and walk together toward a future for this great state where every child has the opportunity to get a quality education; to go to a great college; to find a good job; to raise a healthy family; and to live a decent life.
"I look forward to our journey together. Thank you and God bless you."
Colorado Takes Historic Step as Carroll Assumes Speakership
The Centennial State took a pioneering step this morning as the General Assembly opened with African-American men at the helm of the Senate and House.
Rep. Terrance David Carroll, D-Denver, a former police officer, minister and lawyer, was formally installed as speaker of the House before a packed gallery and to the enthusiastic applause of members from both parties.
Over in the Senate chamber his counterpart, Sen. Peter Groff, a lawyer and educator, was again chosen by his colleagues to be president of the Senate.
The pomp in the House began with stirring and emotional renditions of the National Anthem and "Lift Every Voice and Sing" by Mary Louise Lee and the presentation of the colors by two members of the Colorado Army National Guard.
Outgoing speaker Andrew Romanoff launched the 2009 session of the legislature, as has been his custom, by injecting some humor into the proceedings.
“Pursuant to the Constitution, and the power now waning in me, I do hereby now call the House of Representatives to order for the 67th General Assembly of the state of Colorado,” outgoing speaker Andrew Romanoff said. Romanoff then joked that House Chief Clerk Marilyn Eddins would be “appointed for life.”
The House erupted into a standing ovation when new majority leader Paul Weissman, before moving for election of a new speaker, congratulated Romanoff on his service.
So did the Republican leader. “A special thank you for how you conducted the business of the house these past four years, Rep. Mike May of Parker said. “Thank you for your friendship.”
May seconded the nomination of Carroll as speaker. No one opposed Carroll.
Upon taking the podium Carroll congratulated Romanoff for his service and presented him with the gavel and “Bruce base” used during his tenure at the podium.
“Members, thank you for your vote of confidence,” Carroll said in his first comments to the House. “II look forward to living up to the confidence you have placed in me by electing me as speaker of this body.”
“I am honored and humbled to lead this chamber as its 34th speaker,” Speaker Carroll said in his opening address. “The people of Colorado have granted all of us a unique opportunity at this critical time in history.”
Carroll’s historic day was observed by a panoply of former African-American legislators, including ex-Sen. Penfield Tate, Denver clerk and recorder Stephanie O’Malley, ex-Sen. Regis Groff, former Rep. Rosemary Marshall, former Rep. Wilma Webb and former Denver mayor Wellington Webb.
Carroll paid homage to Romanoff and former majority leader Alice Madden for “working endlessly to move this state forward.”
“Both parties, and indeed the entire state, benefited from Andrew Romanoff’s and Alice Madden’s capacity to consider various, and at time competing, viewpoints,” he said. “Their thoughtful management of this chamber translated into transformative policies that have benefited all of Colorado.”
Republicans joined twice in a standing ovation for Romanoff and Madden.
Carroll, who is in his final term as a state representative, succeeds term-limited Andrew Romanoff in the speaker’s chair. Romanoff, who played a key role in helping Democrats win the majority in both houses of the General Assembly in 2004, was term-limited. He had recently been considered a contender for the U.S. Senate seat to be vacated by Democrat Ken Salazar.
Groff commences his second session as Senate president. During his opening address to the Senate Groff said his status as the chamber's president, and Carroll's as House speaker, are not so much a reflection on them as on the state and those elected to the General Assembly.
"It is yet another stitch in the great fabric that is the history of this remarkable state," Groff said. "The historic uniqueness of what is happening in the Senate and House today is not a testament to Speaker Carroll or me, but a testimonial to Colorado and her people and members of this General Assembly."
Friday, December 5, 2008
Scanlan to be Majority Whip
Rep. Christine Scanlan, D-Summit County, will be the new majority whip of the House.
The announcement by incoming speaker Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, is an effort by the Democratic majority to assure that its leadership team is representative of rural Colorado.
“I am proud to announce that our caucus has elected yet another smart, Western Colorado woman to a leadership post," Carroll said. "Rep. Scanlan has a deep and broad understanding of the issues that affect all Coloradans, especially education, forest health and transportation issues. Rep. Scanlan will help lead our caucus as we fight for the middle-class, for job creation, and for economic stability in Colorado. I am thrilled that she has joined our leadership team.”
Scanlan, who was appointed to the House in 2007 and elected to a full term in November, said that Democrats will focus on the economy in 2009.
“One thing should be clear: when this leadership team of men and women, Front Range and West Slope, lawyers and ranchers, comes together in January, we are going to spend every day working to create jobs, jobs and more jobs," she said. "As different as we are, that's our common goal: to strengthen this economy and get Coloradans working, creating a more stable economy for future years.”
Carroll was elected speaker in November after the leading candidate to replace current speaker Andrew Romanoff of Denver, Bernie Buescher of Grand Junction, lost his re-election bid.
The announcement by incoming speaker Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, is an effort by the Democratic majority to assure that its leadership team is representative of rural Colorado.
“I am proud to announce that our caucus has elected yet another smart, Western Colorado woman to a leadership post," Carroll said. "Rep. Scanlan has a deep and broad understanding of the issues that affect all Coloradans, especially education, forest health and transportation issues. Rep. Scanlan will help lead our caucus as we fight for the middle-class, for job creation, and for economic stability in Colorado. I am thrilled that she has joined our leadership team.”
Scanlan, who was appointed to the House in 2007 and elected to a full term in November, said that Democrats will focus on the economy in 2009.
“One thing should be clear: when this leadership team of men and women, Front Range and West Slope, lawyers and ranchers, comes together in January, we are going to spend every day working to create jobs, jobs and more jobs," she said. "As different as we are, that's our common goal: to strengthen this economy and get Coloradans working, creating a more stable economy for future years.”
Carroll was elected speaker in November after the leading candidate to replace current speaker Andrew Romanoff of Denver, Bernie Buescher of Grand Junction, lost his re-election bid.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Dems Create Joint Job Growth Committee
The Democratic leaders of both houses of the General Assembly will create a joint Job Growth and Economic Growth Committee to develop ways of strengthening Colorado's economy.
The committee is to develop possible legislative approaches to strengthening Colorado’s small businesses and non-profits, improve the state's infrastructure, expand its "New Energy Economy," and stimulate job growth in rural areas.
"Colorado can't wait for a future federal bailout," Sen. Peter Groff, the senate president, said. "We have serious issues to address right now, and it is up to us to find new ways to address these economic challenges."
Carroll said that he and Groff moved to establish the committee because they expect economic conditions to worsen.
“The national economic forecast is bleak; economic indicators suggest the U.S. faces a potentially deep recession,” Carroll, the speaker-designate of the House, said. “Colorado, with its diversified economy and well-trained workforce, has fared better than the nation as a whole. But our state is not immune to those forces driving the economic downturn."
The committee, which will have ten senators and representatives drawn from both parties among its members, will make recommendations to the General Assembly in January.
Colorado's economy appears to be performing, at least in some ways, better than the national economy. The state has experienced 26 consecutive months of job growth and its unemployment rate is nearly one full percentage point lower than the national rate.
The committee is to develop possible legislative approaches to strengthening Colorado’s small businesses and non-profits, improve the state's infrastructure, expand its "New Energy Economy," and stimulate job growth in rural areas.
"Colorado can't wait for a future federal bailout," Sen. Peter Groff, the senate president, said. "We have serious issues to address right now, and it is up to us to find new ways to address these economic challenges."
Carroll said that he and Groff moved to establish the committee because they expect economic conditions to worsen.
“The national economic forecast is bleak; economic indicators suggest the U.S. faces a potentially deep recession,” Carroll, the speaker-designate of the House, said. “Colorado, with its diversified economy and well-trained workforce, has fared better than the nation as a whole. But our state is not immune to those forces driving the economic downturn."
The committee, which will have ten senators and representatives drawn from both parties among its members, will make recommendations to the General Assembly in January.
Colorado's economy appears to be performing, at least in some ways, better than the national economy. The state has experienced 26 consecutive months of job growth and its unemployment rate is nearly one full percentage point lower than the national rate.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Dem Leadership Team Announced
House Democrats, in addition to electing a new speaker, chose the other members of the majority caucus leadership team today. The group includes four new faces.
Rep. Paul Weissman of Louisville, who will start his last term in the House in January, will be majority leader.
The assistant majority leader will be Rep. Andy Kerr of Lakewood, while the majority caucus chair will be Aurora's Karen Middleton.
Rep. Claire Levy, D-Boulder, returns to the leadership team as majority whip, assisted by Rep. Randy Fischer, D-Fort Collins.
The assistant caucus chair is newly-elected Rep. Sal Pace of Pueblo.
The speaker-to-be of the 67th General Assembly, Rep. Terrance Carroll of Denver, said he expects the Democrats' leadership team to "hit the ground running."
“We have lawyers, cowboys, teachers, ranchers and engineers in our caucus, and we have members that hail from every part of the state,” Carroll said. “Together, we really look like Colorado and we truly understand the economic struggles Coloradans face. As the new speaker, I hope to draw on that diversity and tap the talent of every member in our caucus.”
Rep. Paul Weissman of Louisville, who will start his last term in the House in January, will be majority leader.
The assistant majority leader will be Rep. Andy Kerr of Lakewood, while the majority caucus chair will be Aurora's Karen Middleton.
Rep. Claire Levy, D-Boulder, returns to the leadership team as majority whip, assisted by Rep. Randy Fischer, D-Fort Collins.
The assistant caucus chair is newly-elected Rep. Sal Pace of Pueblo.
The speaker-to-be of the 67th General Assembly, Rep. Terrance Carroll of Denver, said he expects the Democrats' leadership team to "hit the ground running."
“We have lawyers, cowboys, teachers, ranchers and engineers in our caucus, and we have members that hail from every part of the state,” Carroll said. “Together, we really look like Colorado and we truly understand the economic struggles Coloradans face. As the new speaker, I hope to draw on that diversity and tap the talent of every member in our caucus.”
Terrance Carroll is New House Speaker
Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, was chosen as the new speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives today.
Carroll, who served as assistant majority leader this past session, will be the first African-American speaker in the state's history.
The slot opens up when Rep. Andrew Romanoff, D-Denver, and the speaker since January 2005, leaves the house in early January. Romanoff is term-limited.
Observers originally believed that Rep. Bernie Buescher, D-Grand Junction, would be the next speaker. However, Buescher was defeated in his bid for re-election Tuesday.
Carroll joins Sen. Peter Groff, D-Denver, as a legislative trailblazer in the Centennial State. Groff, chosen as senate president last January, is the first African-American to hold that legislative post.
Carroll, who served as assistant majority leader this past session, will be the first African-American speaker in the state's history.
The slot opens up when Rep. Andrew Romanoff, D-Denver, and the speaker since January 2005, leaves the house in early January. Romanoff is term-limited.
Observers originally believed that Rep. Bernie Buescher, D-Grand Junction, would be the next speaker. However, Buescher was defeated in his bid for re-election Tuesday.
Carroll joins Sen. Peter Groff, D-Denver, as a legislative trailblazer in the Centennial State. Groff, chosen as senate president last January, is the first African-American to hold that legislative post.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Centennial State's Tuskegee Airmen Honored with New Highway Markers
Colorado veterans of the famed World War II Tuskegee Airmen were honored for their service today as new signs for the "Tuskegee Airmen Memorial Highway" were displayed for the first time by Gov. Bill Ritter, Colorado Department of Transportation executive director Russell George and sponsors of the bill that designated the new memorial highway.
Surrounded by uniforms and memorabilia at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, House Assistant Majority Leader Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, unveiled the signs that honor the civil rights pioneers who helped make the unit of African-American pilots and crew members legendary.
"We talk a lot about our World War II veterans. We talk a lot about our heroes. But I can't think of any truer heroes," Carroll said, according to an article in the Rocky Mountain News. "They fought for this country when this country wouldn't fight for them."
From 1941 through 1946, over 990 African-American pilots earned their wings at Alabama's Tuskegee Army Air Field, receiving commissions and pilot wings. Black navigators, bombardiers and gunnery crews were trained elsewhere in the country. Four hundred fifty of the pilots served in North Africa, Sicily and Italy.
Colorado becomes the second state in the union to honor its Tuskegee Airmen veterans with a highway memorial.
The Tuskegee Airmen Memorial Highway is designated along I-70 between Brighton Boulevard and Tower Road.
Carroll was the house sponsor of the resolution designating the Tuskegee Airmen Memorial Highway.
Surrounded by uniforms and memorabilia at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, House Assistant Majority Leader Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, unveiled the signs that honor the civil rights pioneers who helped make the unit of African-American pilots and crew members legendary.
"We talk a lot about our World War II veterans. We talk a lot about our heroes. But I can't think of any truer heroes," Carroll said, according to an article in the Rocky Mountain News. "They fought for this country when this country wouldn't fight for them."
From 1941 through 1946, over 990 African-American pilots earned their wings at Alabama's Tuskegee Army Air Field, receiving commissions and pilot wings. Black navigators, bombardiers and gunnery crews were trained elsewhere in the country. Four hundred fifty of the pilots served in North Africa, Sicily and Italy.
Colorado becomes the second state in the union to honor its Tuskegee Airmen veterans with a highway memorial.
The Tuskegee Airmen Memorial Highway is designated along I-70 between Brighton Boulevard and Tower Road.
Carroll was the house sponsor of the resolution designating the Tuskegee Airmen Memorial Highway.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Bill to Fund New State Courts Building, History Museum Clears House
The dangerous and aging state courts building west of the Capitol will be replaced if a bill given final clearance by the House Wednesday is signed into law.
The current state judicial building, located across Lincoln Avenue from the Capitol at the south end of Civic Center park, has been plagued by structural problems, persistent water leaks and vulnerability to terrorist or criminal attacks.
Once built, the new judicial complex will be named the "Ralph L. Carr Judicial Complex."
It will house the state supreme court and court of appeals, as well as agencies of the supreme court, and the Department of Law (attorney general), state public defender, Office of the Child's Representative and Alternate Defense Counsel.
Currently most of those court agencies and other state prosecution and public defender agencies are housed in private office buildings leased by the state.
House debate on the measure focused on the debt the state will assume to build it and the assertions by one Republican that the building is not in need of replacement due to its relatively young age.
Rep. Douglas Bruce, R-Colorado Springs, argued that TABOR requires voter approval of the proposal, despite state supreme court precedent holding that lease-purchase agreements of the type to be used to build the new court complex aren't subject to that constitutional provision. He also said the building shouldn't be replaced since it is only about 40 years old.
"This is a momentous bill," Bruce said. "On average, according to the sponsor, court costs for having your day in court are going to go up about 37 percent. This is $633 million in debt the people won't be able to vote on."
Rep. Buffie McFadyen, D-Pueblo West, pointed out that the design of the currrent building is not amenable to safety.
"It's not a building worth keeping," McFadyen said. "Building on the cheap is not saving any taxpayer any money."
Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, also pointed out that the current building is unsafe.
"Our courts are targets," Carroll said. "I think it's necessary. Our court [building], right now, is grossly insufficient in the level of security it has."
Rep. Don Marostica, R-Loveland, said the measure protects the state against inflation in construction costs and reminded legislators that the bill contemplates that the judicial department would purchase the site now occupied by the history museum.
The third reading vote in the House on SB 206 was 50-14. It gained final approval in the Senate April 14 by a 22-12 vote. The bill now moves back to the Senate for consideration of amendments added by the House.
Construction on the new museum would commence in the second quarter of 2009, with completion by 2011, while the new Ralph L. Carr Judicial Complex would be built between 2012 and 2014.
The current state judicial building, located across Lincoln Avenue from the Capitol at the south end of Civic Center park, has been plagued by structural problems, persistent water leaks and vulnerability to terrorist or criminal attacks.
Once built, the new judicial complex will be named the "Ralph L. Carr Judicial Complex."
It will house the state supreme court and court of appeals, as well as agencies of the supreme court, and the Department of Law (attorney general), state public defender, Office of the Child's Representative and Alternate Defense Counsel.
Currently most of those court agencies and other state prosecution and public defender agencies are housed in private office buildings leased by the state.
House debate on the measure focused on the debt the state will assume to build it and the assertions by one Republican that the building is not in need of replacement due to its relatively young age.
Rep. Douglas Bruce, R-Colorado Springs, argued that TABOR requires voter approval of the proposal, despite state supreme court precedent holding that lease-purchase agreements of the type to be used to build the new court complex aren't subject to that constitutional provision. He also said the building shouldn't be replaced since it is only about 40 years old.
"This is a momentous bill," Bruce said. "On average, according to the sponsor, court costs for having your day in court are going to go up about 37 percent. This is $633 million in debt the people won't be able to vote on."
Rep. Buffie McFadyen, D-Pueblo West, pointed out that the design of the currrent building is not amenable to safety.
"It's not a building worth keeping," McFadyen said. "Building on the cheap is not saving any taxpayer any money."
Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, also pointed out that the current building is unsafe.
"Our courts are targets," Carroll said. "I think it's necessary. Our court [building], right now, is grossly insufficient in the level of security it has."
Rep. Don Marostica, R-Loveland, said the measure protects the state against inflation in construction costs and reminded legislators that the bill contemplates that the judicial department would purchase the site now occupied by the history museum.
The third reading vote in the House on SB 206 was 50-14. It gained final approval in the Senate April 14 by a 22-12 vote. The bill now moves back to the Senate for consideration of amendments added by the House.
Construction on the new museum would commence in the second quarter of 2009, with completion by 2011, while the new Ralph L. Carr Judicial Complex would be built between 2012 and 2014.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Ritter Signs Wage Transparency Act
Gov. Bill Ritter signed into law Thursday a bill that forbids employers from punishing employees who disclose information about their salaries and wages.
SB 122, the "Wage Transparency Act," does not contradict any authority given employers by federal labor laws. Instead, within the confines of federal law, it prohibits employers from taking any action that might be construed as discipline, or from threatening such actions, in situations where an employee "inquire[s] about, disclose[s], compare[s], or otherwise discusse[s]" compensation.
The new law also forbids employers from requiring employees to sign non-disclosure or confidentiality agreements limiting employees' right to discuss openly the pay they receive.
SB 122 was sponsored by Sen. Sue Windels, D-Arvada, and Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver.
SB 122, the "Wage Transparency Act," does not contradict any authority given employers by federal labor laws. Instead, within the confines of federal law, it prohibits employers from taking any action that might be construed as discipline, or from threatening such actions, in situations where an employee "inquire[s] about, disclose[s], compare[s], or otherwise discusse[s]" compensation.
The new law also forbids employers from requiring employees to sign non-disclosure or confidentiality agreements limiting employees' right to discuss openly the pay they receive.
SB 122 was sponsored by Sen. Sue Windels, D-Arvada, and Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Bill Banning Firing for Talking About Pay Clears House
The House gave final approval Monday to a bill that would prohibit employers from punishing employees for disclosing the amount they are paid.
SB 122 declares that it is an unfair labor practice for an employer to "discharge, discipline, discriminate against, coerce, intimidate, threaten, or interfere with any employee or other person because the employee inquired about, disclosed, compared or otherwise discussed the employee's wages."
The bill also applies to situations where an employer requires, as a condition of employment, nondisclosure of wages earned and bans employers from requiring a signed waiver of an employee's right to disclose his or her wage information.
The proposed "Wage Transparency Act" exempts employer actions permitted by federal law and does not apply to employers not subject to the National Labor Relations Act, 29 U.S.C. section 151 et seq.
The 37-26 vote on the measure followed party lines, except for the "no" vote cast by Rep. Bernie Buescher, D-Grand Junction. Reps. Kathleen Curry, D-Gunnison, and Rafael Lorenzo Gallegos, D-Antonito, were absent and did not vote.
Advocates maintain that the measure is needed to facilitate awareness of unequal pay for women and between employees of different races.
SB 122 is sponsored by Sen. Sue Windels, D-Arvada, and Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver.
The bill heads back to the Senate for consideration of amendments approved by the House.
SB 122 declares that it is an unfair labor practice for an employer to "discharge, discipline, discriminate against, coerce, intimidate, threaten, or interfere with any employee or other person because the employee inquired about, disclosed, compared or otherwise discussed the employee's wages."
The bill also applies to situations where an employer requires, as a condition of employment, nondisclosure of wages earned and bans employers from requiring a signed waiver of an employee's right to disclose his or her wage information.
The proposed "Wage Transparency Act" exempts employer actions permitted by federal law and does not apply to employers not subject to the National Labor Relations Act, 29 U.S.C. section 151 et seq.
The 37-26 vote on the measure followed party lines, except for the "no" vote cast by Rep. Bernie Buescher, D-Grand Junction. Reps. Kathleen Curry, D-Gunnison, and Rafael Lorenzo Gallegos, D-Antonito, were absent and did not vote.
Advocates maintain that the measure is needed to facilitate awareness of unequal pay for women and between employees of different races.
SB 122 is sponsored by Sen. Sue Windels, D-Arvada, and Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver.
The bill heads back to the Senate for consideration of amendments approved by the House.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
House Committee Postpones Vote on Medical Malpractice Bill
The House Judiciary Committee postponed Wednesday a vote on a controversial bill that would increase the maximum of amount of money a malpractice plaintiff can recover and authorize damages for disfigurement.
The hearing on SB 164 drew a large crowd to the Old Supreme Court Chambers at the Capitol. Dozens of people in support of the bill wore yellow shirts, while several dozen physicians in opposition wore white lab coats.
The committee's decision to postpone consideration of the bill came after two Democrats indicated they were not inclined to support the bill. Given that the commitee's four Republicans were likely to vote "no," those two additional possible "no" votes would have been enough to kill the bill.
SB 164 is sponsored by Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, and Sen. Peter Groff, D-Denver.
The hearing on SB 164 drew a large crowd to the Old Supreme Court Chambers at the Capitol. Dozens of people in support of the bill wore yellow shirts, while several dozen physicians in opposition wore white lab coats.
The committee's decision to postpone consideration of the bill came after two Democrats indicated they were not inclined to support the bill. Given that the commitee's four Republicans were likely to vote "no," those two additional possible "no" votes would have been enough to kill the bill.
SB 164 is sponsored by Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, and Sen. Peter Groff, D-Denver.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Speaker Romanoff Announces New Committee Assignments
In the aftermath of the resignation of former Rep. Michael Garcia and the appointment of Rep. Karen Middleton, D-Aurora, to replace him, speaker Andrew Romanoff shuffled Democratic committee assignments Wednesday.
Middleton was assigned to the Education and State, Veterans & Military Affairs Committees. She replaces Rep. Edward Casso, D-Commerce City, on the education panel and Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, on the State, Veterans & Military Affairs Committee.
Casso moves over to the Business Affairs & Labor Committee, where he replaces Rep. Mark Ferrandino, D-Denver.
Ferrandino moves to the Finance Committee.
Carroll, having recently been elected assistant majority leader, will remain only on the Judiciary Committee. He will keep his post as chair of that committee.
In addition, Reps. Christine Scanlan, D-Dillon, and Randy Fischer, D-Fort Collins, switch committee assignments. Scanlan goes from the Transportation & Energy Committee to the Education Committee while Fischer moves from the education panel to Pueblo West Democrat Buffie McFadyen's transportation and energy panel.
Middleton was assigned to the Education and State, Veterans & Military Affairs Committees. She replaces Rep. Edward Casso, D-Commerce City, on the education panel and Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, on the State, Veterans & Military Affairs Committee.
Casso moves over to the Business Affairs & Labor Committee, where he replaces Rep. Mark Ferrandino, D-Denver.
Ferrandino moves to the Finance Committee.
Carroll, having recently been elected assistant majority leader, will remain only on the Judiciary Committee. He will keep his post as chair of that committee.
In addition, Reps. Christine Scanlan, D-Dillon, and Randy Fischer, D-Fort Collins, switch committee assignments. Scanlan goes from the Transportation & Energy Committee to the Education Committee while Fischer moves from the education panel to Pueblo West Democrat Buffie McFadyen's transportation and energy panel.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Terrance Carroll New Dem Assistant Leader in House
Rep. Terrance Carroll, D-Denver, was elected by fellow House Democrats to be the chamber's Assistant Majority Leader Tuesday.
Carroll, who now chairs the Judiciary Committee, edged Rep. Paul Weissman, D-Louisville, in the race for the leadership slot.
House Democrats needed to choose a new Assistant Majority Leader after Rep. Michael Garcia, D-Aurora, resigned earlier in the week.
Carroll, who now chairs the Judiciary Committee, edged Rep. Paul Weissman, D-Louisville, in the race for the leadership slot.
House Democrats needed to choose a new Assistant Majority Leader after Rep. Michael Garcia, D-Aurora, resigned earlier in the week.
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