By Amanda Hardin | Contributing Commentary, Rocky Mountain Voice
The opening of the 75th Colorado Assembly was marked at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025, on the floors of both the House and Senate at the Colorado State Capitol.
The day was filled with pomp and circumstance, some preliminary spirited policy discussions, and the first signs of the intense debates that will shape Colorado governance this year.
Here’s a closer look at the key moments from a bustling opening day:
Notable attendees
The opening of a legislative session brings out a diverse crowd, and the 75th session was no different.
Ernest House, Jr., of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and formerly the executive director of the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs (CCIA), was the first to address the Colorado House.
There was also a large gathering of Teamsters, one of the largest formal labor unions in the U.S. They have a highly-influential force in labor relations, engaging in strikes, negotiations and advocacy campaigns to address contemporary challenges like automation, wage inequality and workplace safety. The Teamsters are politically-active, supporting legislation and policies that benefit workers, such as stronger labor protections, healthcare access and retirement benefits.
There were also bikers spotted, who were keeping an eye on any laws introduced that might impact how they ride (lane splitting, helmet laws, lane filtering, etc).
Many smaller special interest groups were also in attendance, just keeping an eye out on things that could impact how they function.
A ceremonial start
The session began with time-honored traditions in both chambers.
Following the land acknowledgment from House, Jr., honoring the Ute, Cheyenne and Arapahoe Tribes, there were patriotic displays marking the occasion, including the presentation of colors by the Colorado National Guard in the Senate and Civil Air Patrol in the House.
Performances of the National Anthem were seen in both the House and Senate. In a heart-warming touch, the children of House members led the Pledge of Allegiance, embodying unity and the shared commitment to public service. The formal gaveling-in then commenced the legislative session.
Getting down to business, and disagreements
Following the opening ceremonies, Vanessa Riley was unanimously appointed chief clerk of the House, and the secretary of state certified the results of the recent elections, formally enabling the seating of new representatives. However, the certification process quickly became a flashpoint for debate, revealing underlying tensions and setting the tone for a session likely to be marked by contentious issues.
The debate stemmed from concerns raised by certain legislators toward election security and integrity. Rep. DeGraaf voiced apprehensions about exposed passwords, raising questions about the security of election systems. Rep. Bottoms went a step further, calling for a criminal investigation into the secretary of state’s office, citing discomfort with the processes and systems currently in place for certifying election results.
Critics of these objections argued the claims lacked substantiation and undermined public trust in Colorado’s electoral processes. They pointed to extensive safeguards, including bipartisan audits, prior investigations by the Denver district attorney, and the absence of any credible evidence of tampering or fraud. Proponents of the certification process emphasized that Colorado’s elections are considered among the most secure in the nation, and warned against perpetuating election denialism — a divisive issue that resonates even in the national political arena.
The first roll call vote
The debate culminated in a roll call vote on the credentials committee’s report. With 57-6 margin of support, with one excused and one seat vacant, the motion passed, allowing Chief Justice Marquez to administer the oath of office.
This vote officially seated the representatives and concluded the day’s most polarizing discussion, while also signaling the complex dynamics that will likely define the session in the days to come.
A glance into the future
The legislative session is expected to address a range of significant issues in 120 days, with firearms legislation and public safety taking center stage.
Historically, the Colorado General Assembly has seen a significant volume of legislation introduced during its sessions. For instance, in the 2024 session, lawmakers introduced 705 bills, with approximately 74% passing both chambers.
This year, so far, more than 100 proposals have been put forward, not unlike the 74th legislature, in which SB 24-131, to restrict firearms in sensitive spaces, and HB 24-1270, introducing a liability insurance requirement for firearm owners, were filed.
The Colorado General Assembly’s official website provides up-to-date information on all introduced legislation, including bill numbers, topics, sponsors, and current status. Make sure you have “2025 Regular Session” selected at the top. There are other filters available to narrow searched.
Stay engaged
The opening day underscored the importance of public participation in the legislative process. For Coloradans, this session offers an opportunity to make their voices heard on critical issues. Whether attending hearings, contacting legislators or staying informed through local news, public engagement is vital.
As this legislative session unfolds, it’s a reminder that the power of governance ultimately lies with the people. Let’s work together to shape Colorado’s future.