House of Representatives Sends First Bills to Senate

DENVER—The House of Representatives sent their first bills to the Senate on Wednesday morning, including House Bill 1015, sponsored by Rep. Chris Holbert, and HB 1033, sponsored by Rep. Spencer Swalm. Both passed unanimously.

House Bill 1015 requires more thoughtful consideration be given to new regulatory proposals if they involve occupations or professions that were previously unregulated. The bill limits the number of proposals the legislature may consider. It also extends the time each proposal is reviewed, except in cases deemed to pose an imminent danger to the public.

“This bill acts as a safeguard against unchecked regulations that far too often create more obstacles than efficiencies for business owners and job creators,” said Holbert, R-Parker. “It slows down the process of adopting new regulatory models to allow policymakers more time for preparation and thoughtful consideration.”

House Bill 1033 protects an insurer or a self-insured employer from being fined by the Division of Workers’ Compensation if they received notice of the injury after the deadline for reporting passed.

“Arbitrarily slapping fines on insurers and the self-insured for circumstances they can’t prevent isn’t fair. It’s irresponsible” said Swalm, R-Centennial. “This bill affords businesses the discretion they deserve before fines are issued. Flexibility and fair review by government agencies are essential during times of fiscal uncertainty.”

The House of Representatives sent two other bills to the Senate today: HB 1050, sponsored by Rep. Roger Wilson, outlines provisions for taxpayers to make a voluntary contribution to the Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Fund, while HB 1078, sponsored by Rep. Edward Vigil, simplifies the regulatory process for drink water treatment facilities.

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