Economic Prosperity
The economy of Colorado’s Western Slope is incredibly diverse - encompassing the outdoor recreation economy, agricultural economy, and all of the essential work that supports our thriving mountain towns. I grew up watching hard-working locals contribute to our local economy amidst growing obstacles. We know the pandemic affected everyone, but it negatively impacted our low and middle-income communities the most. These economies depend on legislation that will keep up with our changing world. Working class citizens like teachers, police officers, firefighters, and nurses need support. Working parents need support. Small businesses need support. You can continue to count on me to work for our local communities, keep jobs in the Western Slope, and increase opportunities for our working class.
My 2024 Sponsored Legislation:
HB24-1001: Rural Jump-Start Program
This bipartisan bill will extend a program that provides financial incentives to small businesses to open in rural areas and will create, support, and retain jobs to uplift our rural communities.
HB24-1365: Opportunity Now Program
This bipartisan bill adds funding to the Regional Talent Development Initiative grant program fund to address workforce shortages in infrastructure and building trades. A strong workforce supports local businesses and positively impacts our rural economies.
SB24-190: Rail Economic Incentives
This bill provides financial incentives to businesses opening in Craig and Hayden, our coal transitioning communities, when they utilize the rail line to haul freight. This increase in rail revenue will allow for the mountain passenger rail to be affordable to all, bringing more business to the Western Slope.
My 2023 Sponsored Legislation:
SB23-001: Supporting Affordable Housing
Allows and incentivizes public-private partnerships to develop affordable housing on unused state land.
SB23-051: Support for Rural Telecommunications Providers
This bipartisan bill increases broadband access in rural communities and helps get resources and funding to improve rural broadband services.
As your representative, I will continue to:
Promote economic diversity on the Western Slope.
Advocate for our outdoor recreation economy.
Invest in infrastructure improvements.
Sponsor regional public transportation programming so all workers can easily and affordably move around their communities.
Build relationships with small business owners.
Work to ensure all community members can afford to live in our beautiful towns.
Represent constituents and stakeholders invested in the economy.
