Senator Gail Schwartz - Senate District 5

Senator Schwartz's Bills Signed into Law

2009-06-03T12:15:00.002-06:00

Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) has had a productive year for Senate District 5 and Colorado. As chair of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth it produced over two dozen dynamic bills to help build and sustain jobs in Colorado. Sen. Schwartz also sponsored more than 30 bills to revive rural Colorado by strengthening local economies, encouraging job creation, and expanding the new energy economy.

Supporting Rural Colorado:
Tuesday, Senator Schwartz will stand by as Governor Bill Ritter signed into law two of her bills which are important to rural Colorado: HB 1111 and HB 1119. HB 1111 will help the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment increase the availability of health care to under-served areas while growing local economies. The legislation helps coordinate available federal and state programs that capitalize on medical reimbursements, grants, and the placement of health care professionals in those areas. This bill also uses a federal visa program designed to bring foreign medical professionals into under-served rural areas. This visa program is a unique and exciting opportunity to bring Spanish-speaking health care professionals to our Spanish-speaking communities. The program also attracts new doctors to underserved areas by offering a student-loan payment program to help young doctors retire their debt.

Sen. Schwartz worked with Representative Ed Vigil to address rural substance abuse problems. HB 1119 establishes a grant program that will provide alcohol and substance abuse programs with prevention and treatments services to youth and adults in rural areas. These new programs will provide much-needed assistance to rural communities in their efforts to manage and prevent substance abuse. The bill was supported by a number of state health programs.

“I want to let the people in Senate District 5 know that your needs are represented and your voices heard at the capitol,” said Sen. Schwartz. “This session we passed several dynamic bills to support citizens living in rural parts of the state. This new legislation will help revive rural Colorado by strengthening local economies, encouraging innovation, and improving access to health care by bringing more resources to existing healthcare providers.”

“This year I worked with Senator Boyd, Rep. Vigil and Rep. Massey to sponsor a bipartisan piece of legislation that addresses urgent health care needs in our rural communities. HB 1111 recruits doctors to rural or underserved areas of the state to ensure that everyone in Colorado has access to quality health care. More importantly, this bill takes full advantage of significant federal funding opportunities to fill physician shortages without increasing state expenditures.”

“With HB 1119, Rep. Vigil and I created a rural substance abuse program to help rural communities in their efforts to manage, treat, and prevent drug and alcohol addictions. I firmly believe that everyone in Colorado should have access to quality care and services regardless of where they live. These two bills will promote a healthy Colorado and I am proud to see them become law.”

Coming up: Wildfire bill signing Wednesday
Wednesday, Governor Ritter will also sign SB 13 that was co-sponsored by Sen. Schwartz, sponsored by Sen. Dan Gibbs (D-Summit County), and endorsed by the Interim Committee on Wildfire Issues. This bill provides limited civil immunity for fire departments and other entities that donate surplus firefighting equipment. It also protects from personal liability volunteer firefighters, their commanders, and the organizations which employ them.

Coming up: Electric Cars bill signing Thursday
Thursday morning Sen. Gail Schwartz will join the Governor at the Alliance for Sustainable Colorado in Denver to sign SB75. This bill will open more of Colorado’s low-speed roads and city streets to neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs). Currently, Colorado has a patchwork of conflicting regulations for these vehicles. By establishing statewide legislation for their operation, it will be easier for more Coloradans to use energy-efficient electric cars and paves the way for future electric transportation and integration into the smart grid.

“Colorado has been and will continue to be a leader in the New Energy Economy,” Sen. Schwartz said. “I sponsored SB75 to promote low-speed neighborhood electric vehicles as one aspect of our larger energy goals this session. This bill will help Colorado move toward a local sustainable electric transportation system, reduce carbon emissions and support communities throughout the state.”

“Many important bills were supported by the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth,” continued Sen. Schwartz. “These bills will promote construction of green, solar-ready homes, green businesses, and green jobs and grow Colorado’s work force. Green industry saves our environment, but more importantly it develops reliable jobs for Colorado.”

Coming up: Broadband and B.E.S.T. bills signing Thursday
Thursday afternoon, Governor Ritter will sign many bills at the Capitol including SB 162 and SB 257. For rural Colorado, one of the most important pieces of legislation to come out of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth is the inventory of broadband service areas (SB 162). Sponsored by Sen. Schwartz and Rep. Larry Liston, this bill creates an inventory of state broadband areas and removes any restrictions on private gifts and grants needed to fund this program. This also extends the deadline to complete the inventory. This bill will initiate the mapping of broadband connectivity throughout the state.

“Schools, hospitals, and businesses cannot succeed where there is limited or no broadband access,” said Sen. Schwartz. “It is important for us to focus our economic development state-wide: in rural areas in addition to our cities. This bill will expand broadband access and pull down federal recovery dollars for investment. With SB 162 Colorado will be taking a critical first step to identify the gaps in broadband access and continue our plans to expand infrastructure and service throughout the state.”

“Mapping will provide us with a comprehensive inventory of broadband service areas to guide policymaking and form a consensus around the future of broadband,” continued Sen. Schwartz. “The faster we can get broadband access to rural areas, the faster we can level the playing field and ensure that healthcare, education and businesses will thrive in all parts of the state. This is essential to a successful Colorado.”

SB 257 amends the Building Excellent Schools Today Act (B.E.S.T.) which was created last year to construct $1 billion of new schools in Colorado. It allows more efficient implementation of the act without reducing funding or restricting lease-purchase agreement authorizations. The B.E.S.T. program was created to provide school districts especially in rural areas with much-needed funding for capital construction projects. The first round of funding received from this program will create a safe and supportive learning environment for the children in five districts of Southern Colorado.

“Colorado’s children are our most important asset,” said Sen. Gail Schwartz. “We need to make sure they have top-notch schools, which includes top notch energy-efficient facilities. This landmark achievement of state funded school buildings is the result of a long-term, collaborative commitment to provide all students in Colorado with a 21st century education. In Colorado’s current economic climate, the approval of these grants for new school construction is critical in creating jobs and stimulating the economy in our rural communities. We are making an investment in Colorado’s educated work force of tomorrow. I am grateful to the State Board of Education for their commitment to improving Southern Colorado’s public school systems and supporting the families who rely on them.”

This summer the work continues…

This summer, Senator Schwartz will continue working throughout her district and at the Capitol as a member of the Task Force on Health Care, the Water Resources Review Committee, Capital Development Committee, Heritage Tourism Board and higher education efforts. She intends to continue meeting with her constituents to discuss emerging issues and new opportunities before next session starts in January, 2010.

COLORADO # 1 IN NATION FOR TIRE DUMPS

2009-04-29T09:48:00.001-06:00

Senate Chamber

State of Colorado

Denver

NEWS RELEASE

Schwartz’s SB 289 can create green jobs with old tires

DENVER--- Colorado is home to 1/3 of whole waste tires in America, with 60 million waste tires in two large tire monofills (one in Hudson off I-76 in Weld County and the other in Midway in southern El Paso County.) In addition to these large tire dumps, millions of tires are in smaller piles on farms and commercial and residential properties around the state.

SB 289 passed the Senate Local Government and Energy Committee and addresses the waste tire problem.

“The proposed legislation is an opportunity to make use of existing revenue, create green jobs from waste tire recycling and reuse and support a new sector of sustainable recycling businesses,” said Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass), Senate sponsor of SB 289. “Supporting a strong recycling sector that creates green jobs, eliminating the tire dumps and providing rural Coloradans with programs to clean up waste tires on their properties.”

“For Colorado to maintain its leadership role in the new sustainable economy, we must address the scourge of over 60 million waste tires that scar our landscape,” Sen. Schwartz said. “The large tire monofills are a public health threat and an environmental disaster waiting to happen.”

SB 289 will:

Prohibits the disposal of whole waste tires in tire monofills.
Requires the shredding of tires before deposit in tire monofills.
Requires DPHE to adopt a ten year plan for the elimination of tire monofills.
DOR to collect the existing $1.50 waste tire recycling development fee at the time of the sale of a new tire.
Requires tire retailers to 1) use registered waste tire haulers and 2) to accept waste tires.
Allows DOLA to reallocate unused funds at the end of the quarter between existing program categories.

SB 289 will next head to the Senate floor.

Emma Farms Cattle Company gets a visit from Sen. Schwartz

2009-04-27T09:19:00.006-06:00

Gail shows her support of Agriculture
by visiting the only Wagyu herd in Colorado
at Emma Farms Cattle Company this weekend.

Sen. Schwartz continues to advocate for the survival of
cattle ranching along the Western Slope.

Schwartz's Energy Bills Signed by Governor

2009-04-24T08:41:00.003-06:00

NEWS RELEASE

Senate Chamber
State of Colorado
Denver

SCHWARTZ’S ENERGY BILLS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR RITTER

DENVER— Four important bills sponsored by Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) were signed in to law by Governor Bill Ritter:

Bill #	Short Title	Sponsors	Action
SB 039	Conserve Energy Tiered Rates Incentive	Sen. SCHWARTZ / Rep. CURRY	Signed
SB 177	New Solar Facility Prop Tax Valuation	Sen. SCHWARTZ / Rep. VIGIL	Signed
HB 1233	Recognize Acequias	Rep. VIGIL / Sen. SCHWARTZ	Signed
HB 1294	Renew Nongame & Wildlife Checkoff	Rep. VIGIL / Sen. SCHWARTZ	Signed

“I am so happy these four very important bills were signed into law,” said Sen. Schwartz. “These two senate bills are essential to our energy efficient future in Colorado and will help the economic development in the state. HB 1233 recognizes the value and cultural importance of the Acequia tradition and preserves that essential history of the San Luis Valley.”

SB 39, Conserve Energy Tiered Rates Incentive, will expand energy efficient investments and create energy savings. For years, water utilities have encourages water conservation through a method called inclining block rate, where the price of water rises with increasing usage. This bill would use the same method to deal with rising power costs and also create sensible energy markets that benefit the economy and Colorado’s environment. Sen. Schwartz carried this bill for the Holy Cross Rural Electric Association who offered the concept for energy conservation.

SB 177, New Solar Facility Property Tax Valuation, will requires that, similar to wind energy facilities, state assessed solar energy facilities will be valued using the income approach. This means that the actual value will be based on the projected gross revenue of such facilities. This bill provides incentives to the solar industry and property tax revenues to counties now based on energy generation.

HB1233 is a very important bill to Colorado and the San Luis Valley region. This bill promotes and encourages the continued operation of acequias, or historic community ditches, and the viability of the historic communities that depend on this system as a means of irrigation and cultural preservation in Southern Colorado. Sen. Schwartz carried this bill with Representative Ed Vigil (D-San Luis) who’s great grandparents were the first water rights owners in the state of Colorado.

HB 1294 extends the voluntary contribution designation (or income tax checkoff) benefitting the Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Fund from tax year 2009 through tax year 2011. The Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Fund provides funding for projects that manage or recover nongame wildlife. Nongame wildlife includes 750 species of wildlife in Colorado that cannot be hunted, fished, or trapped. These projects include wildlife such as lynx, river otter, black-footed ferret, greenback cutthroat trout, mountain plover, and others. The nongame program does not receive state tax dollars and depends on voluntary contributions.

Sen. Schwartz & Rep. Curry host town hall

2009-04-21T10:03:00.003-06:00

Sen. Schwartz & Rep. Curry
invite you to join them for a town hall meeting

Saturday April 25, 2009: 10am
At
WESTERN STATE COLLEGE
ASPINALL-WILSON CENTER
600 North Adams Street, Gunnison

Bring some friends for a discussion on the state of Colorado’s budget,

higher education and other issues facing our state.
With the economy at the front of all our minds,

take advantage of this opportunity to speak directly with the

elected officials who represent you and your families.

We will discuss current legislation and how this

budget crisis may affect your neighborhoods, communities, and businesses.

Join with us in communication that will help formulate ideas

for stimulating growth within our local economies.

We look forward to meeting you and hearing what is on your mind.

For more information please contact:

Sen. Gail Schwartz-SD 5
gail.schwartz.senate@gmail.com
303-866-4871
***
Chair: Senate Local Government & Energy
Chair: Select Cmte on Job Creation & Economic Growth
Member: Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources

Rep. Kathleen Curry-HD-61
repcurry@gmail.com
303-866-2945
***
Speaker Pro Tempore
Member: House Agriculture Livestock & Natural Resources

2009-04-16T12:43:00.002-06:00

JOIN SENATOR GAIL SCHWARTZ FOR A TOWN HALL MEETING

Senator heads to Woody Creek this weekend to meet with constituents

__________________________________________________________________
DENVER – State Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) invites you to join her
for a Town Hall meeting this Saturday afternoon in Woody Creek.

Topics to be discussed include Colorado’s budget, higher education funding,
and a legislative update. There will also be a time for a question and
answer session with Senator Schwartz.

Saturday, April 18th
2 – 4 p.m.
Woody Creek Community Center
06 Woody Creek Plaza
Woody Creek, CO
(970) 922-2342

Questions? Contact Carly Knudson at 303-866-4871 or cmknudson@gmail.com

Oil & Gas Rules head to Gov. Ritter's Desk!

2009-03-24T15:12:00.001-06:00

SENATE DEMOCRATS
PROTECT COLORADO’S HEALTH,
ENVIRONMENT, AND JOBS
The Rule Review Bill (HB 1292) passes on 2nds

DENVER— Making sure Colorado has clean air and clean water. Protecting the health and safety of Colorado’s citizens. Strengthening our economy by keeping our workers healthy and allowing the oil and gas industry to thrive. Those are just a few things the new Rules Review bill does and HB 1292, which includes new rules for Oil and Gas, passed the Senate today on 2^nd reading.

HB 1292 is sponsored by Senator Jennifer Veiga (D-Denver) in the Senate. “The rule review process is a limited process to look at Executive Branch rules to see if they have exceeded the statutory authority we have given them. We have both generally and specifically given the Oil and Gas Commission the authority to manage and balance the needs of the oil and gas industry with wildlife and natural resources protections. The Commission has done that in this omnibus rules bill and we have found the rules are appropriate.”

Sen. Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass): “The rules protect our environment, our drinking water supplies, our groundwater, our clean air standards, and our wildlife habitat. They reflect a balance of competing interests, and respond to industry concerns ensuring the on-going vitality of energy development in Colorado which is one of Colorado’s most important industries. I am acutely aware of the Legislature’s responsibility to balance our state’s economic, environmental, and public health priorities, and I am confident that we have done so in the case of these new rules.”

Sen. Joyce Foster (D-Denver): “There is no question rigs are down because oil and gas prices are down. Drilling has slowed recently in Colorado, but drilling has slowed in other states as well because of falling natural gas prices, the economy, and limitations on pipeline capacity. The economy is killing jobs – not oil and gas rules.”

The rules protect drinking water supplies, groundwater, and clean air standards, and will ensure safety for oil and gas and emergency responders by requiring disclosure of industrial chemicals. They add critical protections for wildlife, a precious natural resource that generates massive income for our tourism and outdoor recreation industries. The rules also protect private property rights. At the same time, the rules won’t harm the oil and gas industry. The rules offer more predictable timelines for permit processing and incentives for longer-term planning.

This was the most extensive rulemaking hearing in the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission’s (COGCC) history. During more than 21 days of hearings, the Commission heard approximately 12 hours of public comment by about 200 people and another 75 hours of testimony from about 160 party and staff witnesses. It also reviewed thousands of pages of written comment, witness testimony, and exhibits, addressed dozens of legal motions, and conducted more than 70 hours of deliberations. The resulting rules reflect substantial input from local governments, the oil and gas industry, property owners, and conservation groups.

HB 1292 was sponsored by Rep. Anne McGihon in the House.

The bill will now head to the Governor’s desk.

Consumer Insurance Protection

2009-03-24T11:24:00.000-06:00

GOV. RITTER APPLAUDS NEW CONSUMER INSURANCE PROTECTION AND EDUCATION TOOL

HB 1385 was sponsored by Sen. Gail Schwartz in 2008

DENVER-- Gov. Ritter today announced that the Department of Regulatory Agencies’ Division of Insurance has launched a new online guide designed to protect and educate consumers on insurance choices and to help them save money during this economic crisis. This is the result of a bill from last year sponsored by Rep. Diane Primavera and Sen. Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass).

"The creation of this website will make shopping for insurance policies less of a headache for consumers. This website increases transparency and creates a centralized location online where policies can be compared, questions answered and complaints filed and read. We are taking the anxiety out of insurance shopping and making the process easier for everyone," said Sen. Gail Schwartz, who was the Senate sponsor of the bill.

“Rep. Primavera’s 2008 House Bill 1385 called for this web guide, which is a part of our ‘Building Blocks for Healthcare Reform’ plan,” said Gov. Ritter. “As we face this global economic crisis, we know that every penny counts and this website provides easy-to-use information to consumers so they can make the best choices for their budget.”

The website guides consumers through the many choices to consider when selecting insurance including: the types of insurance available, coverage limits, a comparison of benefits offered by different carriers, premium costs and the number of complaints a company has received. Consumers also can find information about how to file written complaints if they are dissatisfied and feel an insurance company hasn’t fulfilled their expectations.

"During these tough economic times, people are losing their jobs and their benefits. Many Coloradans are finding themselves shopping for insurance on their own for the first time in their lives. The website launch is a timely tool for those trying to navigate the maze of insurance policies,” said Rep. Dianne Primavera.

The Division of Insurance has worked hard over the last six months to produce one of the most comprehensive consumer sites in the country,” said Colorado Commissioner of Insurance, Marcy Morrison. “We urge Colorado citizens to become better informed before making tough decisions about any type of insurance."

To view the guide, visit the Department of Regulatory Affairs website or click here.

BIODIESEL FUELING AHEAD

2009-03-24T10:07:00.000-06:00

BIODIESEL FUELING AHEAD
SB098 passes final with bipartisan support in Senate

DENVER – Friday, the Senate passed a bill on final reading sponsored by Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) which assigns the same tax-exempt status for biodiesel as given to dyed special fuels in Colorado. The bill received unanimous bipartisan support during third reading in the Senate on Friday.

“This bill supports both the biofuel industry and our agricultural community today and into the future,” said Sen. Schwartz. “We hope to promote and expand the next generation of biofuel production in Colorado, including new energy crops such as algae. By supporting these industries, we are creating a positive model for the development of alternative energy sources while supporting Colorado businesses and our rural economy.”

Over the past several years, biofuels have been at a competitive disadvantage due to a Special Fuel excise tax. Senate Bill 98 will open up the market for biofuels by providing the same tax-exempt status for biodiesel as given to dyed special fuels in Colorado. The bill will create the opportunity for petroleum distributors to blend biofuel locally and sell biodiesel products for construction and agricultural use without having to tax consumers.

In working on this legislation, Sen. Schwartz partnered with the biodiesel community, the Colorado Petroleum Association, and the Governor’s Energy Office. This broad base for support and input will ensure that the bill meets the long-term needs of the biofuel industry and firms that are currently advancing biodiesel production in Colorado.

The bill was recently passed by the Senate and is on its way to the House.

Representative Ed Vigil (D-San Luis) is the House sponsor of the bill.

Sen. Schwartz congratulates five Southern Colorado school districts awarded BEST grants

2009-03-20T10:06:00.004-06:00

STATE CAPITOL CELEBRATES
B.E.S.T. ANNOUNCEMENT

DENVER – Today, Senator Gail Schwartz ( Senate District 5 ) joined Governor
Bill Ritter, State Treasurer Cary Kennedy, and former Speaker of the House
Andrew Romanoff to officially announce the schools receiving new schools
buildings and improvements under the B.E.S.T. (Building Excellent Schools
Today) program.

Of the eleven school districts selected to receive grants, five are from
Southern Colorado. The five Southern Colorado school districts and projects are:

Alamosa School District RE-11J;
two new elementary schools will replace three elementary schools

Sangre De Cristo School District RE-22J;
new PK-12 school

Centennial School District R-1;
new PK-12 school

Sargent School District RE-33J;
new junior/senior high school and elementary school renovation

Mountain Valley School District RE-1;
roofing and repair under designed structure

Officials and students from the Sangre de Cristo School District traveled
to the State Capitol to take part in the announcement. Superintendent Lynn
Howard and Lyle Nissen, Chairman of the Capital Construction Committee,
thanked Senator Schwartz and state officials for their support of rural
school districts.

“In Colorado’s current economic climate, securing the funding for these badly needed projects is critical to help provide safe schools for our children,” said Senator Gail Schwartz. “New schools also mean hundreds of new constructions jobs in these communities that will help stimulate the local economy. I am thankful for the support of State Board of Education for Southern Colorado’s public school systems and the families that rely on them.”

The total cost of the first round of B.E.S.T. grants totalled over $98,000,000.

Senator Schwartz was a key sponsor of the 2008 legislation that created the
B.E.S.T, or Building Excellent Schools Today, program. B.E.S.T. increases
the financial assistance provided to school districts by the State of
Colorado for desperately- needed capital construction projects,
particularly in rural school districts.

# # #

Acequias Honored by Colorado Legislature

2009-03-18T10:25:00.003-06:00

SEN. SCHWARTZ PROTECTS
HISTORIC SOUTHERN COLORADO

HB1233 passes final with bipartisan support in Senate

DENVER – Wednesday, the Senate passed a bill on final reading sponsored by Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) which promotes and encourages the continued operation of acequias, or historic community ditches, and the viability of the historic communities that depend on this system as a means of irrigation and cultural preservation in Southern Colorado. The bill passed unanimously.

Senator Schwartz presented the bill in front of the Senate this morning. “It has been an honor to carry this historic bill with Rep. Vigil, whose family has lived in San Luis for generations,” said Sen. Schwartz. “HB1233 recognizes the value and cultural importance of the Acequia tradition. In carrying this bill, I have learned a tremendous amount about Colorado’s first water right and the role of early settlers in establishing our agricultural traditions.”

Acequia refers specifically to water management within historic districts on lands settled before to Colorado became a state. Acequia farmers carry out ancient irrigation practices based on a community ditch where water is treated as a community resource. This bill creates a legal structure that will allow Acequia farmers to protect their water rights and formalize their communal water corporations.

HB 1233 recognizes cultural diversity as an important source of resilience in our society and acknowledges the Acequia as one of Colorado’s most important cultural and historic resources. The San Luis Peoples Ditch in Costilla County has the oldest adjudicated water rights in the state, dating back to the 1850’s and is the heart of Acequia culture in Southern Colorado.

Scholars have long recognized Acequia as a civic institution and a significant part of the cultural, historical, economic and ecological history of Southern CO and Northern NM, once part of Spanish colonial territory. Acequias were recognized by Congress in the Water Resources Development Act of 1987 as valuable cultural, historical and engineering resources that facilitated the settlement and development of agriculture in the American Southwest.

Representative Ed Vigil (D-San Luis) is the House sponsor of the bill.

HB 1233 is now headed to Governor Bill Ritter’s desk for signing.

###

New Energy Economy Expo at the Capitol with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.!

2009-03-13T08:26:00.008-06:00

On Thursday March 12, I was joined by Governor Ritter and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at our New Energy Economy Expo to celebrate Colorado's leadership in new clean-energy technologies and legislation. With the help of Alliance for Sustainable Colorado, Environment Colorado, and the Governor's Energy Office, the event was organized to showcase advances in clean technology and Colorado's green energy future. The expo exhibitors featured New Energy Economy businesses, organizations and entrepreneurs from the solar, wind, efficiency, biofuel, transportation and smart grid sectors.

We are all proud of the great strides Colorado has made over the last few years with respect to renewable energy investment. In collaboration with Governor Ritter, the Colorado state legislature has committed to making Colorado a national leader in our New Energy Economy. Past and current legislation to support our state's green innovation has created a more stable and resilient economy in Colorado during these difficult economic times by attracting jobs, manufacturing and innovation to the state.

At the event, Robert Kennedy Jr. applauded these efforts, saying “Colorado is at the forefront of an energy revolution that promises to transform the U.S. economy. Gov. Ritter and other Colorado leaders have established the state as a national and international leader in the production and manufacturing of traditional and renewable energy."

(Sen. Schwartz, Nichole Goodman-Alliance for Sustainable Colorado, Robert Kennedy Jr., Carly Marie Knudson)

This session, the legislature's Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth endorsed 11 of its 25 bills to focus specifically on renewable energy and clean technology promotion. These bills will promote construction of green, solar-ready homes, the development of green jobs, and the expansion of green businesses. Green industry saves our environment, but more importantly it develops reliable jobs for Colorado. To read the Select Committee's final report and learn more about these exciting initiatives, please follow the link provided below:

http://www.state.co.us/gov_dir/leg_dir/lcsstaff/2009/comsched/09JobCreationFinalReport.pdf

DEMOCRATS’ JOBS BILLS PASS THE SENATE

2009-03-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

Senate Chamber
State of Colorado
Denver

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
CONTACT

Alejandra Garza de Gutierrez (303)866-5288
Abigail Vacanti (303) 866-4882

DEMOCRATS’ JOBS BILLS PASS THE SENATE
SB 51 and SB 162 pass final reading and head to House

DENVER— The economic crisis is hitting people hard throughout the country and Colorado is not immune. 47,000 jobs have been lost in the last twelve month and Colorado’s unemployment rate is over 6%. With these numbers on everyone’s mind, the Colorado Senate passed two important bills on final reading this morning which will create jobs for Colorado.

SB 51 passed this morning on a vote of 24 to 11. This bill is sponsored by Senator Morgan Carroll (D-Aurora) will help average home owners, for the first time, finance renewable energy upgrades for their homes and businesses. By bringing alternative energy upgrades within reach for hundreds of thousands of people in Colorado, this bill will save people money, increase our energy independence, and create thousands of jobs. SB 51 will also bring in millions of dollars in investment to Colorado by attracting investment capital and renewable energy firms to our state. (SB 51 fact sheet attached)

“Colorado has been the leader in the new energy economy,” said Senator Carroll, “and we must continue to do so. We need to make affordable, renewable energy available to more homeowners. When we do that, they will save money and we will be putting more renewable energy companies to work. It’s a win- win situation.”

Senator Gail Schwartz’s (D-Snowmass) Broadband Bill (SB 162) had bipartisan support and passed by a vote of 33 to 2. This was one of the 26 major jobs bills which came out of and was endorsed by the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth, which Sen. Schwartz chaired. The DC based Information Technology and Innovation Foundation estimates that if $10 billion is spent on broadband nationwide, we could see 498,000 permanent jobs in existing and new businesses. Colorado needs to be ready for this. This bill will create the mapping of broadband connectivity throughout the state so that Colorado can take advantage of federal stimulus dollars to build out broadband connectivity state-wide.

Last month, President Obama traveled to Denver to sign the $787 billion “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act” into law. According to the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute, Colorado will also see some of the $7 Billion earmarked for broadband Internet. If Colorado sees even 2 % of this funding, it could provide $140 Million for Internet and digital infrastructure.

“This bill will create a plan to expand broadband throughout Colorado, especially in underserved areas,” said Senator Schwartz. “This project is ready to go. The faster we can get broadband to rural areas, the faster we can level the playing field and ensure that health care, education and businesses can establish themselves in all regions throughout the state. This state’s economic development depends on expanding broadband.”

These two bills will now head to the House.

SB 51, sponsored by Sen. Carroll, is carried by Rep. Claire Levy (D).

Rep. Larry Liston (R), Rep. Buffie McFadyen (D), Rep. Joe Rice (D), and Rep. Judy Solano (D) will carry SB 162 in the House and was sponsored by Sen. Schwartz in the Senate.

###

Better Schools Because of BEST

2009-02-27T14:19:00.002-07:00

NEW SCHOOL BUILDINGS
FOR SOUTHERN COLORADO
Sen. Schwartz congratulates five Southern Colorado school districts named BEST finalists

DENVER – Today, Senator Gail Schwartz ( SD 5 – Democrat ) congratulated five Southern Colorado schools districts named finalists for receiving new schools buildings and improvements under the B.E.S.T. program.

The five Southern Colorado school districts and projects are:

Alamosa School District RE-11J; two new elementary schools will replace three elementary schools
Sangre De Cristo School District RE-22J; new PK-12 school
Centennial School District R-1; new PK-12 school (supplemental)
Sargent School District RE-33J; new junior/senior high school and elementary school renovation
Mountain Valley School District RE-1; roofing and repair under designed structure (supplemental)

A total of eleven Colorado school districts were selected as finalists to receive B.E.S.T. funding for construction or renovation projects, with five being from Southern Colorado.

Senator Schwartz was a key sponsor of the 2008 legislation that created the B.E.S.T, or Building Excellent Schools Today, program. B.E.S.T. increases the financial assistance provided to school districts for desperately- needed capital construction projects, particularly in rural school districts.

“This is one of my happiest moments as a lawmaker,” said Sen. Gail Schwartz. “To know that hundreds of children in Southern Colorado will be able to attend school each day in new, safer buildings is good news for two main reasons. First, our children deserve safe learning environments. Second, these construction projects will provide good-paying jobs in these communities. I encourage the State Board of Education to grant their final approval to these projects so that we can get to work on providing better schools for children in Southern Colorado.”

The Colorado State Board of Education will give their final approval at their March 2009 state board meeting. Projects approved by the State Board will be awarded after March 19.

For more information on the BEST project recommendations, visit http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdefinance/CapConstMain.htm

Colorado Gets Charged Up for Electric Cars

2009-02-26T10:28:00.007-07:00

Schwartz’s Electric Car Showcase

Wows Crowds at the State Capitol

DENVER— They came. They saw. They conquered a few hearts. Today, dozens of visitors came to the State Capitol to learn more about neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) and Senate Bill 75.

Several neighborhood electric vehicles were displayed on the East Lawn to the delight of those who decided to hop behind the wheel and take a spin around the Capitol grounds. Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) was on hand to tout the benefits of NEVs. Joined by Tom Perkins, owner of Motor City Dodge (Colo. Springs); Valerie Weber Hamann, president of Evergreen Consulting Services; Shae Singer from Aspen Electric Cars; and Aaron Nelson, project director for Alliance for Sustainable Colorado, the event underlined the importance of Senate Bill 75 and the move toward a sustainable electric transportation system.

“Neighborhood electric vehicles will help drive Colorado’s new energy economy,” said Sen. Schwartz. “These vehicles are a greener way to travel around town – to the store, to drop the kids off at school, to dinner and a movie – and I can’t wait to see these vehicles on city streets from Fort Collins to Alamosa.”

“Senate Bill 75 is triple-bottom line policy. The Neighborhood Electric Vehicles legislation reduces carbon emissions, stimulates our economy, and supports community,” Nelson said.

Supporters say the widespread adoption of these eco-friendly vehicles will stimulate neighborhood cohesion by encouraging shorter trips to local small businesses, reducing load on public roads and parking areas, as well as encouraging new job growth in an emerging industry.

Senate 75 is scheduled to be heard in Appropriations before heading to the Senate for 2^nd reading. The bill will set statewide standards for the safe operation of electric cars and make it easier than ever to drive one.

This piece of legislation is the result of months of collaborative work with dedicated individuals and Alliance for Sustainable Colorado. We are ready to move Colorado towards a future focused on expanding access to alternative forms of transportation that fit within the framework of Colorado’s New Energy economy, and this bill is another step in the right direction for our state.”

The House Sponsor of SB 75 is Representative Don Marostica (R-Larimer County).

Fast Facts about Neighborhood Electric Cars:
Zero emissions
No gas required
30-45 mile driving range
Estimated battery life 25,000 miles
Easily charged at any standard 110V outlet
Average cost of operation is 1-3 cents/mile
4-6 hours charge time from 50% to full battery

Prevents over 12,000 pounds of emissions from tailpipes annually
for every replacement of gas powered vehicles

JOB CREATION AND FOREST MANAGEMENT

2009-02-18T09:54:00.002-07:00

Senate Chamber
State of Colorado
Denver

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, February 18, 2009

CONTACT

Alejandra Garza de Gutierrez (303)866-5288
Abigail Vacanti (303) 866-4882

JOBS COMMITTEE ENCOURAGES FEDERAL FUNDING
FOR JOB CREATION AND FOREST MANAGEMENT

DENVER— Wednesday, Democratic members of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth submitted a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to encourage continued federal funding to strengthen Colorado’s economy, part of which would come from the federal recovery President Obama signed into law yesterday.

Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass), the Chair of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth, submitted the letter Wednesday after a briefing at the Joint House and Senate Agriculture Committee meeting on 2008 Forest Health Report by Jeff Jahnke, State Forester, and Rick Cables, the U.S. Forest Service Regional Forester.

Tuesday President Obama traveled to Denver to sign the $787 billion “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act” into law at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. That bill included $3.1 billion for repair restoration and improvement of public facilities on public and tribal lands. Colorado is hoping some of this funding could go toward important projects in the state which will create jobs for Colorado workers.

"Colorado is well positioned to use the federal recovery money to stimulate job creation, particularly in the forestry industry and new energy economy," said Senator Schwartz. "We must find jobs for the thousands of people who have lost theirs here in Colorado, and this is a huge opportunity to put people to work and help our environment. This is something everyone needs to step up on, we have our children's future at stake and must not let this opportunity pass us by."

The letter reads: “Colorado’s land base is comprised of a majority of federal land ownership which creates a unique relationship between federal land management agencies within the state and our citizens.” The letter goes on to describe forest improvement projects that are shovel ready and waiting for federal funding: “We can complete these projects through many means that offer jobs to the citizens of the state.”

The Democratic members who signed the letter include: Senator Gail Schwartz, Chair, (D-Snowmass), Rep. Joe Rice (D-Littleton), Senator Jennifer Veiga (D-Denver), Rep. Judy Solano (D-Adams), Senator Rollie Heath (D-Boulder), Rep. Buffie McFadyen (D-Pueblo).

SENATOR SCHWARTZ WELCOMES BROADBAND EXPANSION

2009-02-17T16:37:00.002-07:00

SENATOR SCHWARTZ WELCOMES BROADBAND EXPANSION
THANKS TO FEDERAL RECOVERY

DENVER— Today, President Obama traveled to Denver to sign the $787 billion “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act” into law. Colorado is expected to receive $2.791 billion over the next two years. And Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) could not be more excited that some of these federal recovery dollars are coming in. As the Chair of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth, Senator Schwartz has been working very hard to encourage an atmosphere of job creation, specifically in her district.

According to the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute:

Colorado will also see some of the $7 Billion earmarked for broadband Internet.

If Colorado sees even 2 % of this funding, it could provide $140 Million for Internet and digital infrastructure.

Senator Gail Schwartz introduced SB 162 to increase the mapping of broadband access through all areas of the state. Senator Schwartz saw the need to have a shovel-ready project for when the stimulus dollars came in, and this is that project. Colorado can’t expand broadband throughout the state without first mapping where it needs to go. This bill will pave the way for the federal funding which will lay out the broadband infrastructure in the state. These federal funds will help Colorado maintain and update that mapping long-term to continue the expansion of broadband.

“Schools, hospitals, and businesses don’t move to places where there is no broadband access,” said Sen. Schwartz. “It is important for us to focus our economic development state-wide: in rural areas in addition to our cities. These federal recovery dollars will bring essential support to Colorado and my broadband inventory bill helps to lay the ground work for the federal package.”

Today President Barack Obama addressed this part of the “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act”: “Because of this investment, nearly 400,000 men and women will go to work rebuilding our crumbling roads and bridges, repairing our faulty dams and levees, bringing critical broadband connections to businesses and homes in nearly every community in America, upgrading mass transit and building high-speed rail lines that will improve travel and commerce throughout the nation.”

SB 162 will be next heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee, possibly on Friday.

ELECTRIC CARS ARE ON A ROLL!

2009-02-15T12:39:00.006-07:00

*Sen. Schwartz takes a spin in an Electric Car*
***
SB 75 cruises out of Transportation Committee on 5-2 vote

DENVER-- Last Week, Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) presented Senate Bill
75 before the Transportation Committee. The measure passed on a 5 -2 vote.
Voting for the measure were Senators Gibbs (D), Williams (D), Veiga (D),
Romer (D), and Spence (R).

SB 75 would open more Colorado low speed roads to fuel efficient electric
vehicles. Currently, Colorado has a patchwork of conflicting regulations
for these vehicles. By establishing statewide legislation for their
operation, Sen. Schwartz hopes to encourage more Coloradans to consider
using energy efficient electric cars.

“Electric cars are a greener way to travel and I am looking forward to
seeing more of them on Colorado city streets,” said Senator Schwartz. “By
facilitating their use we’re promoting an environmentally responsible
transportation option while outlining guidelines for their safe use.”

SB 75 will next be presented before the Senate Appropriations Committee.
***
keep an eye on legislation here: www.leg.state.co.us and follow the links to bills

Join me in Chaffee County!

2009-02-09T14:12:00.003-07:00

Saturday February 14th
Buena Vista & Salida

BUENA VISTA at 10 am
Buena Vista Community Center
715 E. Main Street
Buena Vista, Colorado

SALIDA at 2 pm
Bongo Billy’s Meeting Room
300 W. Sackett Avenue
Salida, Colorado

With today’s economic issues on all of our minds, take advantage of this opportunity to speak directly with your State Senator for Chaffee County. Gain perspective on how Colorado’s budget decisions may affect your neighborhoods, communities and businesses.

*************************
Topics to be covered include:
The state of Colorado’s budget
Legislation sponsored by Sen. Schwartz
Renewable Energy & Transportation
Select Committee on Job Creation & Economic Growth
Ideas for stimulating growth within our local economy

For more Information please contact:
(303) 866-4871
gail.schwartz.senate@gmail.com

***

Schwartz Fights Displacement of Vets

2009-02-06T08:16:00.003-07:00

SCHWARTZ FIGHTS DISPLACEMENT OF VETS at HOMELAKE CENTER

DENVER-- The Colorado State Veterans Center at Homelake in Monte Vista has been undergoing a renovation for several months. The 30 residents who are military veterans were relocated to temporary facilities, however, the closure of the center has been proposed as a budget cut to address the State’s budget deficit. Homelake is a Veterans Administration facility.

After learning that the State would forfeit the remainder of a $4.1 million federal grant for the renovation, Senator Schwartz has begun meeting with executive department personnel and the Governor’s office to push for the completion of this project and the ultimate return of the vets to Homelake.

“At a time the state needs every dollar, we cannot afford to put ourselves in a position where we are returning a federal match of 65% and the $350,000 that has been received to date. It is imperative that we finish the life safety improvements and return these honorable vets to their domicile.”

Additional Facts:
The domiciliary program is currently under a provisional certification due to life safety deficiencies that will be corrected by the renovation project. The federal grant program provides 65% of the project funding, requiring a 35% match. If state matching funds are delayed or reverted, the State will be in default of its contract with the VA to provide state matching funds and to maintain a certified VA domiciliary operation within the facility.

Senate Chamber State of Colorado Denver

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 05, 2009

CONTACT

Senator Gail Schwartz (303) 866-4871/ gail.schwartz.senate@gmail.com

COMPREHENSIVE JOBS PACKAGE RECOMMENDED

2009-01-29T14:39:00.005-07:00

(DENVER) On the Capitol steps this afternoon, backed by business leaders and workers, the legislature’s Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth recommended a comprehensive package of job-creation bills. When enacted, these proposals will create tens of thousands of jobs.

The proposed legislation will focus on five key areas:

1. Transportation: Create Thousands of Jobs Repairing Our Crumbling Roads and Bridges;

2. New Businesses: Offer Tax Incentives to Companies that Move to Colorado and Create Jobs;

3. Credit: Increase the Availability of Loans to Small Business to Help Create Jobs;

4. New Energy Economy: Expand New Energy and Clean Technology Jobs, and;

5. Rural Job Creation: Create Rural Medical Jobs and Promote Job Training.

The announcement was led by Sen. Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass Village), Chair of the Select Committee, who said, "While Colorado has fared better than most other states, we know we are not immune. Just this week we heard the latest job numbers. Even though Colorado's unemployment rate is still lower than the national average, it does not make up for the fact that almost 47,000 Coloradans have lost their jobs in the past year. The Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth started looking at how to address these challenges and we are proud of these nine bills. Let's get more Coloradans to work."

Rep. Joe Rice (D-Littleton), Co-Chair of the Committee said, “We all feel these tough times, whether we are here working to balance the budget in the Capitol, or tightening our belts at home with our families, or facing budget cuts at work. We brought together the best ideas from many different leaders, from all different sectors and perspectives, and put the very best of those ideas into legislation that will get Colorado working again. We are here today to proudly announce that we have begun to meet our goal: with this job creation package, we begin to put Colorado back to work, and to put our economy back on the right track.”

Representative Don Marostica (R-Lovelend) said of his bill (SB 67) expanding access to credit, “This will help Colorado’s small businesses at a time when they need to borrow money most.”

Other speakers at the mid-day event at the Capitol included Tom Clarke, Executive Vice President, Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation/Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce; Tony Gagliardi, Colorado Director, National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB); Blake Jones of the solar energy association CoSIEA; and Don Childears, President and CEO, Colorado Bankers Association.

The Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth includes Senator Gail Schwartz, Chair, (D-Snowmass), Rep. Joe Rice (D-Littleton), Senator Jennifer Veiga (D-Denver), Rep. Judy Solano (D-Adams), Senator Rollie Heath (D-Boulder), Rep. Buffie McFadyen (D-Pueblo), Senator Shawn Mitchell (R-Broomfield), Rep. Larry Liston (R-El Paso), Senator Mark Scheffel (R-Parker), and Rep. David Balmer (R-Centennial).

Business Advisors to the Select Committee include: Gail Lindley, Denver Bookbinding Co, Inc.; Neil Hall, Building Construction Trades Council; Craig Cox, Interwest Energy Alliance; Jim Hertel , Colorado Managed Care Newsletter; Mark Mehalko, AECOM; Felix Lopez, Trinidad State Junior College; Chuck Ward, Qwest Communications; Patricia Barela-Rivera, Consultant; Rob Perlman, Steamboat Ski Resort; and Michael DeBerry, Chevron.

COMPREHENSIVE JOBS PACKAGE ANNOUNCED

2009-01-28T15:55:00.002-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, January 28, 2009

For more information:
Abigail Vacanti (303) 866-4882
Alejandra Garza de Gutierrez
(303)866-5288
Katie Reinisch (303) 866-2774

COMPREHENSIVE JOBS PACKAGE ANNOUNCED
Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth
Endorses 8 job creation bills

DENVER— On Thursday, the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth will release a comprehensive package of eight job-creation bills endorsed by the committee.

These bills will create thousands of jobs in transportation and in rural communities, work with banks to help small businesses create jobs, help companies create new jobs for Colorado workers, and develop Colorado's energy economy.

WHAT: Press Conference to announce 8 bills endorsed by the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth followed by Q and A.

WHEN: 1pm, Thursday, January 29^th, 2009

WHERE: West Steps of the Capitol

WHO: Sen. Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass Village), Chair Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth
Rep. Joe Rice (D- Littleton) Co-Chair Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth
Tom Clarke, Executive Vice President, Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation/ Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
Tony Gagliardi, Colorado Director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)
Don Childears, president and CEO of the Colorado Bankers Association

#####

LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR

2009-01-27T12:24:00.005-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
CONTACT
Alejandra Garza de Gutierrez (303)866-5288
Abigail Vacanti (303) 866-4882

SEN. GAIL SCHWARTZ WINS LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR

DENVER— Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass Village)was awarded the Legislator of the Year Award by the Colorado Association of Conservation Districts (CACD). "It is important to remember we are only borrowing this land and must work to ensure our beautiful state and nation is preserved for future generations,” said Sen. Schwartz. “The Conservation Districts across Colorado understand this and are working every day as examples of collaboration and education to ensure our state stays magnificent. It gives me great joy to work alongside so many dedicated individuals in the fight to care for and protect our natural resources and state's genuine beauty"

Sen. Schwartz was awarded officially at the CACD Conservationist of the Year award at the banquet on Wednesday January 21, 2009. She is also sponsoring several major bills this session aimed at enhancing the “new energy economy,” while at the same time protecting Colorado’s important natural resources.

"The Colorado Association on Conservation Districts is pleased to recognize Senator Schwartz as the Association’s Conservation Legislator of the Year,” said Eric Jessen, director of CACD. “Senator Schwartz has been a powerful advocate for many issues supporting rural Colorado’s economy, including strong support for agriculture and the conservation community. She was instrumental in legislation ensuring the Tax exempt status for Colorado's 76 Conservation Districts"

The mission of Colorado’s 77 Conservation Districts is to provide leadership for the conservation of natural resources to ensure health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the state through a responsible conservation ethic. CACD works to educate, promote, help obtain funds, and provide information on issues and programs aimed at enhancing and protecting our natural resources. It works with private farm, ranch landowners and other suburban developments to assist in wise and proper management of natural resources.

To learn more about CACD visit: http://www.cacd.us/

SEN. SCHWARTZ ATTENDS INAUGURATION

2009-01-23T14:30:00.002-07:00

JANUARY 20, 2009...HISTORY WAS MADE!

(Gail & Alan Schwartz)

Tuesday January 20, Senator Gail Schwartz attended the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, President Barack Obama, in Washington, D.C.

“It was an honor to be a part of this historic inauguration. As I stood in the crowd of millions of people and listened to the words of President Obama, I truly felt inspired to be a part of this new hope. I am very enthusiastic about working with the new administration to bring jobs to Colorado and particularly to District 5.”

It was wonderful to be surrounded by a crowd so unified and energized by the new President. We have all worked tirelessly to help get him elected, traveling to Washington to share in the day and personally be a part of history was remarkable. Everyone in attendance seemed committed to doing their part to help ensure President Obama’s success going forward.

The inauguration was a very inclusive occasion — the culmination of a nationwide team effort -- with a real feeling that we have helped change of the tide of our nation, and own a tiny piece of it. I look forward to working with the new administration to chart a better course for Colorado and our nation.

(Sen. Schwartz & Senate Pres. Groff)

Thanksgiving Day Weekend in Emma

2008-11-29T12:53:00.000-07:00

We took some time during Thanksgiving Day Weekend to visit a local cattle ranch in Emma. The weather was cold but beautiful.