By BRIAN PORTER | Rocky Mountain Voice
If Republican House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese did not make it clear enough Wednesday in her address to the Colorado House upon the opening of the 75th General Assembly, the caucus simplified her words.
In a 25-second video also released Wednesday, the caucus shared 23 items which it pledges to address during the session.
The first item was the topic of the day on Wednesday: affordability.
“This session, the House Republicans remain steadfast in addressing the issues of importance to Coloradans,” she said. “Affordability remains at the forefront of our discussions. You will see that in our legislation.”
Yesterday marked the first day of the 2025 legislation session. Here are just some of the things our caucus is fighting for this year 💪#copolitics #coleg pic.twitter.com/IDizfhlI2L
— Colorado House Republicans (@COHouseGOP) January 9, 2025
The caucus is further expected to focus on lowering crime, defend TABOR refunds for Coloradans, support law enforcement and work to support deportation of criminal illegals while supporting legal immigration.
Pugliese recalled Wednesday having heard pleas on the campaign trail to protect TABOR — the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
“We will continue to fight to protect the Taxpayer Bill of Rights,” she said.
Democrats are expected by many in the 2nd Amendment community to make another run at anti-gun legislation, further stripping freedoms. In its bill watch, Rocky Mountain Gun Owners notes Senate Bill 25-003, the “assault weapons” ban. The organization expects to oppose five bills, but on the RMGO’s support list gun owners might like the anticipated “constitutional carry” bill, by Republican Rep. Ron Weinberg, which would provide for permitless carry.
The caucus is expected to put forward legislation supporting families, parental rights and the constitutionally-required funding of schools.
“We will continue to advocate for parents to fight for the rights of their children in whatever venue they need to,” Pugliese said.
To the liking of Western Slope ranchers, the video noted “no more wolves” as a policy position, and also to champion for rural communities.
Pugliese noted pro-business, pro-economy legislation the caucus will file which eliminates waste, lowers property taxes and saves money.
In the early moments of the session, Republicans have already beat the drum of protecting the 1st Amendment.
“You can’t just pick and choose the parts of the 1st Amendment you support,” Pugliese said. “Protecting 1st Amendment rights in the constitution should not be a partisan issue.”