What Colorado Leaders Are Saying about New Laws Signed by Gov. Polis to Support Colorado Schools & Improve Student Success, Increase Access to Higher Education and Affordable Housing

ARVADA - This afternoon in Arvada and Denver, Governor Polis  signed legislation to support Colorado’s schools, improve student success and unveiled the Colorado Department of Transportation’s new Pegasus shuttle. Pegasus will depart year-round from Denver’s Union Station, with stops at the Denver Federal Center in Lakewood, Idaho Springs, Frisco, Vail, and Avon.

“We are thrilled the Governor is signing HB22-1294 (Special Education Services in Charter Schools) which will provide diverse learners with greater opportunities for special education access through charter schools. Charter schools are about to celebrate 30 years of existence here in Colorado, and his support demonstrates his commitment to high-quality education for students of all backgrounds. Today there are 266 charter schools all across Colorado collectively serving more than 134,000 students, which is significantly larger than than the largest school district in the state. On behalf of all these schools and the many leaders, teachers and families they represent, we want to thank the Governor and the prime sponsors of this bill for their efforts in consistently putting students first. It does not go unnoticed, and we are deeply grateful,” - Colorado Colorado League of Charter Schools. 

“Prospect Academy is a charter public school opening in Fall of 2022, designed to meet the needs of all students, including struggling learners and students who learn differently. HB22-1294 has been critical to ensuring that Prospect Academy has equitable funding to support students with special needs in its first year. We are incredibly grateful for the Governor’s support,” said Dr. Terry Croy Lewis, Executive Director of the Colorado Charter School Institute

“Special Education Funding will further services and support for students with disabilities in Colorado, making special education and general education programs stronger. This is the right work for students in Colorado, a true bipartisan effort to change lives,” said Tamara Durbin, Executive Director, Northeast Colorado BOCES.

“HB22-1376 represents the collective work and shared priorities of a broad coalition of almost 20 education, health, and youth-serving organizations. Research shows that students master academic content most effectively when they experience trusting and affirming relationships with their peers and adults, and when they feel emotionally and physically safe so they can focus on learning. We are grateful for our legislators and governor for prioritizing our kids' well-being by making this bill law,” said Kelly Causey, CEO& President, Colorado Children's Campaign.

This afternoon Gov. Jared Polis joined CDOT and other transit partners for the unveiling of the Pegasus shuttle today at Union Station and to sign SB22-180 to increase transit. 

“Such an exciting opportunity to be here today to celebrate SB22-180 which creates more sustainable and affordable mobility options that contribute to cleaner air for Colorado! Thanks to the Colorado legislature and Governor Polis for your leadership,” said Kathleen Bracke, Boulder County Transportation Staff and CDOT Transportation Commissioner for District 5.

“CDOT’s investment in mountain transit is a critical component in reducing congestion on the I-70 corridor. Pegasus will offer frequent and convenient weekend transit service to travelers and mountain residents alike,” said Margaret Bowes, Director, I-70 Coalition

"Whether addressing local air quality or climate change, or addressing both local and state mobility needs, we must transform how we use our roads.  Pegasus has the potential to be that transformational catalyst, helping us want to change how we travel and building ridership for a more thoughtful transportation future,”  said Randy Wheelock, Clear Creek County Commissioner. 

“It is indispensable that we build a culture of transit ridership to reduce ozone levels and all related air pollution to protect our most vulnerable populations and the climate.  SB 22-180 is a bold commitment to transform transportation behavior to achieve those ends,” said Commissioner Wheelock added.

“Eagle County is thrilled to see this giant step to more convenient, affordable, and accessible mobility solutions for everyone using the I-70 corridor!” said Matt Scherr, Eagle County Commissioner.

"Transportation is the number one source for greenhouse gas pollution in Colorado, and air pollution from cars is most harmful during the high ozone, hot summer months. Making public transit easier to use is an obvious solution. It also provides relief to working families facing higher prices," said George Marlin, president of Colorado Communities for Climate Action and Clear Creek County Commissioner. 

“Transportation is a lifeline for our mountain communities. Pegasus will help solve the issue of congestion that impacts Summit County and support our local economies by connecting travelers to our local transit service, Summit Stage,” said Tamara Pogue, Summit County Commissioner.

"Transit can do a lot – and this policy shows it. The state is choosing transit to reduce air pollution, take action on climate, expand access to opportunity, and save Coloradans money. Public transportation is good for our communities and funding initiatives like this ensure everyone has access at a time when household budgets are tight,” said Alana Miller, Colorado climate policy director for NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council).