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LAKEWOOD, Thursday, April 4, 2024 — A familiar face seen at driver license offices across Colorado shared her heartfelt tribute of receiving the gift of life during a National Donate Life Month flag raising ceremony hosted by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles and Donor Alliance at the Department of Revenue’s main office in Lakewood.

LAKEWOOD, Thursday, April 4, 2024 — A familiar face seen at driver license offices across Colorado shared her heartfelt tribute of receiving the gift of life during a National Donate Life Month flag raising ceremony hosted by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles and Donor Alliance at the Department of Revenue’s main office in Lakewood.

LAKEWOOD, Tuesday, April 2, 2024 — As the income-tax-filing season nears its end, the Colorado De

LAKEWOOD, Tuesday March 26, 2024 - Business owners looking to level-up their sales tax knowledge

8,000 Nonfarm Payroll Jobs Added in January;Unemployment Rate Rises to 3.4 PercentHousehold survey dataAccording to the survey of households, Colorado’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased one-tenth of a percentage point in January to 3.4 percent compared to the revised December rate of 3.3 percent. The number of unemployed individuals grew by 2,600 over the same time period to 110,200. The national unemployment rate was unchanged at 3.7 percent from December to January. Colorado’s labor force decreased by 2,500 in January to 3,237,200. The share of Coloradans participating in the labor force declined to 68.1 percent in January, compared to 68.3 percent the month prior. The U.S. labor force participation rate was 62.5 percent in January, identical to the month prior. The number of individuals employed in Colorado contracted by 5,100 in January to 3,127,100, which represents 65.8 percent of the state’s 16+ population. Colorado’s employment-population ratio of 65.8 in January was two-tenths of a percentage point lower compared to the December rate of 66.0 percent. The national employmentpopulation ratio increased one-tenth of a percentage point in January to 60.2 percent. Establishment survey dataEmployers in Colorado added 8,000 nonfarm payroll jobs from December to January for a total of 2,969,400 jobs, according to the survey of business establishments. Private sector payroll jobs grew by 5,600, while government rose by 2,400 jobs. Private industry sectors with significant job gains in January were: professional and business services (≈4,800) and manufacturing (≈1,700). Significant over the month private sector job loss occurred in trade, transportation, and utilities (≈1,800). Since January 2023, nonfarm payroll jobs have increased 57,900, with the private sector growing by 33,500 and government adding 24,400 jobs. The largest private sector job gains were in educational and health services (≈15,300), professional and business services (≈10,600), and leisure and hospitality (≈9,600). During that same period trade, transportation, and utilities (≈3,800), information (≈2,000), construction (≈1,000), and manufacturing (≈900) payroll jobs declined. Colorado’s rate of job growth over the past year is 2.0 percent, slightly exceeding the U.S. rate of 1.9 percent. Over the year, the average workweek for all Colorado employees on private nonfarm payrolls declined from 33.5 to 32.4 hours, while average hourly earnings grew from $35.90 to $37.23, two dollars and sixty-eight cents more than the national average hourly earnings of $34.55. Annual averages and benchmark revisions to 2023 dataThe annual unemployment rate for Colorado was 3.2 percent in 2023, revised up from the previously published 3.1 percent. The U.S. unemployment rate in 2023 was 3.6 percent.Colorado nonfarm payroll employment increased at an annual rate of 2.5 percent in 2023, or 72,700 jobs. The U.S. annual payroll jobs growth rate in 2023 was 2.3 percent.In accordance with annual practice, both establishment and household survey data estimates for Colorado undergo a benchmarking process. The benchmark process results in revisions to estimates for prior years. More information on the benchmarking process is available at the Bureau of Labor Statistics website. Informational SectionAll Colorado estimates from the establishment and household surveys, including greater geographic detail, are available at Colorado LMI Gateway. Estimates for all states and the nation are available at the Bureau of Labor Statistics.For data visualizations, visit CDLE’s Labor Market Information on Tableau.The February 2024 Colorado Employment Situation will be released at 8:00 AM on Friday, March 22, 2024. The full schedule of release dates for calendar year 2024 estimates is available at Colorado LMI Gateway. Technical NotesThis release provides information on industry employment and labor force statistics for January 2024, the most current estimates available from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. The reference period for the establishment and household surveys was the pay period or week that includes the 12th of the month.The unemployment rate, labor force, labor force participation, total employment, and the number of unemployed are based on a survey of households. The total employment estimate derived from this survey is intended to measure the number of people employed.Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates are based on a survey of business establishments and government agencies, and are intended to measure the number of jobs, not the number of people employed. Other series based on this survey include private sector average weekly hours, average hourly earnings and average weekly earnings.The business establishment survey covers about seven times the number of households surveyed and is therefore considered a more reliable indicator of economic conditions. Because the estimates are based on two separate surveys, one measuring jobs by worksite and the other measuring persons employed and unemployed by household, estimates based on these surveys may provide seemingly conflicting results. Resources MentionedSupplemental InformationLabor Force Summary January 2024City Report January 2024County Report January 2024County Report 2023 - 2024January 2024 Press Release

DENVER, Colo. — How do you know that the pound of potatoes you buy at the store or the gallon of gas you put in your car is the same every time? It’s thanks to the Weights and Measures standards established on a national and international level.On March 2, 1799, President John Adams signed into law a Congressional Act that called for establishing uniform standards for weights and measures. Before then, each state had its own system for weighing and measuring consumer products. President Adams’ signature that day was an important first step in regulating national standards for weights and measures and regulating their use.The week of March 1 – 7 has been designated as National Weights and Measures Week, a time to celebrate the work of inspectors who ensure the devices used to weigh and measure products for consumers are accurate. Governor Jared Polis has signed a proclamation commemorating Weights and Measures Week in Colorado.There have been significant changes in how products are weighed and measured. Today, scales are often computerized and new technologies are constantly being introduced. Companies are even developing apps to interface with the precision weighing and measuring equipment to provide better flexibility to both businesses and consumers.Yet for all the myriad changes and improvements, one constant has remained. Just as they have for decades, thousands of weights and measures inspectors still go out every day to inspect and test weighing and measuring equipment and pre-packaged products. Their work is as vital as ever, providing businesses and consumers with a protection that promotes economic development through equity in the marketplace.In Colorado, inspectors in two state agencies – the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Labor and Employment – combine forces to test the accuracy of weights and measurement devices every day.Inspectors with the Measurement Standards Program of the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) regularly test the accuracy of scales so consumers will know they are getting exactly what they are paying for in the produce aisles, deli counters or wherever they purchase items based on weight. These inspectors also check the scales at grain elevators and livestock sales across the state and even make sure the scales at DIA are accurately weighing travelers’ luggage. The State Metrology Laboratory (located within CDA) calibrates the measurement devices used by both CDA and CDLE inspectors as well as licensed providers. In 2023, the laboratory tested 11,532 devices for mass, volume and frequency. The lab is also the custodian of Colorado's official standards which are traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).Inspectors with the Division of Oil and Public Safety, a part of the Department of Labor and Employment, check the metering devices in gasoline dispensers to ensure pinpoint accuracy. They take samples of the fuel products at gas stations throughout Colorado and analyze them for quality. Similar inspections are done on retail and bulk propane, diesel meters, and compressed and liquefied natural gas dispensers. Each year the Colorado program inspects more than 55,000 gas pumps and hundreds of fuel oil and propane truck meters.Consumers who have questions or concerns about gas dispensed at a Colorado service station, should contact the Weights and Measures Section of the Division of Oil and Public Safety at (303) 318-8525 or by email at cdle_ops@state.co.us.Consumers with questions about the accuracy of produce scales should contact the Measurement Standards Program with the Department of Agriculture at (303) 477-4220 or submit a complaint online at ag.colorado.gov/ICS.

(Alamosa) – The Colorado Rural Workforce Consortium (CRWC) and the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) announce today that the Alamosa Workforce Center will be co-locating with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR).The new workforce center location will be at:305 Murphy Dr, Unit BAlamosa, CO 81101The Alamosa Workforce Center is staffed by skilled experts who are dedicated to assisting job seekers and businesses with their employment and workforce needs by promoting quality jobs, building strategic objectives and strengthening resources that enhance Colorado’s economic vitality.“We are excited about our co-location with DVR, which will result in more aligned and coordinated services, enhanced collaboration, and increased accessibility for our customers,” said Suzie Miller, Director of the Colorado Rural Workforce Consortium. “This partnership will also lead to a more seamless and effective system of support for individuals with disabilities seeking employment.”The Alamosa Workforce Center offers an array of services and resources including: Job search assistance, career counseling, skill development, employment services, career assessment and exploration, Veteran services, supportive services, workshops and training programs. Additionally, the Alamosa Workforce Center supports businesses through recruitment, retention, and upskilling services.DVR supports individuals with disabilities to prepare for, obtain, advance in, and maintain employment by providing a range of services based on individual employment needs and goals. Rehabilitation Counselors work closely with each person to determine an employment goal and identify and arrange for the services that will be needed to achieve this goal. DVR believes that anyone with a disability who wants to work, can work, regardless of the type or severity of their disability."DVR looks forward to teaming up with the Alamosa Workforce Center in serving individuals with disabilities. DVR's dream goal is that DVR working together with partners and stakeholders will close the prosperity gap for people with disabilities,” per Angelique Atkinson, District Supervisor for the Alamosa DVR office. “Co-locating with the Workforce Center will also naturally increase opportunities for employers in the Valley to find a talented and diverse workforce."For further information about our services, programs, or the relocation, please contact the Alamosa Workforce Center staff at 720-204-8723 or CDLE_Alamosa_WFC@state.co.us. You may also visit our website at https://sites.google.com/state.co.us/scworkforce/home.

LAKEWOOD - Tuesday, Feb.

LAKEWOOD - Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024 —  Coloradans eligible for a Property Tax, Rent, Heat (PTC) Rebate should apply before April 15 to ensure they also receive a TABOR refund.With the passage of the Identical TABOR Refund Act in December, Coloradans who do not plan to file a state income tax return can still receive the refund if they apply for a PTC Rebate by April 15.The Property Tax, Rent, Heat (PTC) Rebate is available to Colorado residents to help with their property tax, rent, and/or heat expenses. The rebate is based on income, and includes people with disabilities and older adults.For tax year 2023, the rebate amount can be up to $1,112 for applicants. If applications are received by April 15, 2024, applicants can also receive a TABOR refund, which equates to $800 for single filers and $1,600 for married couples filing jointly.Eligible Coloradans include seniors (age 65 or older, or surviving spouse age 58 or older), Coloradans with disabilities, and individuals with a total income of less than $18,026 or a married couple with total combined income of less than $24,345.“It’s important to support all Coloradans, especially those in underserved and underrepresented communities,” said Brendon Reese, Department of Revenue Division of Taxation director. “We want Coloradans experiencing hardship to know that there are resources out there to help and PTC rebates are one of them. With the flattened TABOR refund, you can receive a refund even if you didn’t file a state income tax return for 2023 – you just need to submit a PTC Rebate application.”The PTC Rebate has provided relief to about 15,000 Coloradans since 2019. This program ensures seniors and Coloradans with disabilities can remain occupied in their heated homes year after year.The PTC Rebate application is also available in Spanish, and to provide better customer service to non-English speaking Coloradans, Taxation Division call centers  can now assist non-English speaking PTC applicants through a translation service.More information, including qualifications, is available on the PTC Rebate web page.PTC PosterPTC Brochure 

Plan identifies 24 drugs and dosages that could save Coloradans up to $51 million over three yearsFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEFebruary 27, 2024Media ContactsShelby Wieman | shelby.wieman@state.co.us (Governor’s office)Marc Williams | marc.williams@state.co.us (HCPF)Denver, CO - Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing (HCPF) announced the submission of Colorado’s amended application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Biden Administration to import lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada. The submission is an amendment to the initial application submitted on Dec. 5, 2022. With this step forward, Colorado is closer to federal approval to operate Colorado’s Canadian Drug Importation Program. If the FDA approves, Colorado can start the process of bringing lower-cost prescription drugs into the state so more Coloradans can afford the medication they need to thrive.“We are focused on saving Coloradans money on healthcare, one of the highest costs people face. We know this will help save people money on prescription drugs — upwards of $51 million in the first three years and now we are one step closer to launching our Drug Importation Program. We urge a speedy approval from the FDA as this action will help make prescription drugs, and health care, more affordable for all Coloradans,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.In 2019, solidifying his commitment to save people money on health care and to bring down the cost of prescription drugs, Governor Polis signed the landmark bipartisan Senate Bill 19-005 sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Rodriguez, Senator Ginal and then Representative Jaquez Lewis. The legislation authorized HCPF to seek approval from the federal government to establish an importation program to provide Colorado employers and consumers access to Canada’s lower-priced drugs.In August 2022, the Polis administration announced the selection of the three primary partners for the program, which sets up the supply chain for eligible prescription drugs to be securely routed to Colorado. Including and beyond those three primary partners, the program consists of a unique team of wholesalers, a qualified laboratory, a relabeler, and a reporting partner that meet all federal requirements. This process will ensure high-quality prescription medications from Canada arrive safely at Colorado pharmacies.“Our Canadian drug importation program, once approved by the FDA, will bring meaningful savings to Coloradans and our employers, as part of Colorado’s array of innovative and effective solutions intended to save people money on prescription drugs,” said HCPF Executive Director Kim Bimestefer.As this program nears implementation, HCPF looks forward to engaging stakeholders to ensure Colorado consumers have access to lower cost, high-quality medications. Visit HCPF’s website for more information and to learn more about upcoming stakeholder opportunities. About the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing: The Department administers Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid program), Child Health Plan Plus, and other programs for Coloradans who qualify. These health care programs now cover about one in four Coloradans. For more information about the Department, please visit hcpf.colorado.gov.