Written by: Marianne Partisan

The Colorado House of Representatives has approved a record-breaking state budget of $40.6 billion, marking yet another example of excessive spending by Democrats. The budget, along with its accompanying bills, was passed on Monday.

The budget legislation, known as the "long bill," received a 46-18 vote in favor, with one member being excused. The bill includes approximately a dozen amendments that lawmakers approved during a marathon debate held last week.

However, prior to the final vote on the long bill, Republicans expressed their objections to the overall growth of the budget and state government. They also voiced their disappointment over the defeat of their priorities during the amendment battle held last week.

The state of Colorado has witnessed a significant increase in its budget in recent years, with a staggering rise of $17 billion over the past five years alone. The current budget proposal includes an additional $2 billion, representing a 5.75% increase.

The bulk of the budget is allocated to cover the operating expenses of various government departments, agencies, and programs. This year's $2 billion budget increase primarily focuses on enhanced spending for public education, the governmental workforce, and behavioral health services.

“Nine Zeros!” Blows up the outrageous $40,000,000,000 Colorado budget passed by the Colorado House. (THE LOBBY)

Furthermore, the House lawmakers approved an increase of approximately $11 million in general fund revenue, primarily derived from taxes. These funds will be allocated to various amendments proposed by non-JBC (Joint Budget Committee) members. Notably, $6.1 million from the general fund will be allocated to senior services within the Department of Human Services.

While the unamended version of the budget now moves to the Senate for consideration, Democrats maintain strong majorities in both chambers of the Legislature – so the budget  will likely receive little pushback.  Senators will have the opportunity to propose their own amendments this week, and the JBC will determine whether any amendments should be removed before the final version reaches Democratic Governor Jared Polis for his signature.

READ MORE:

• COLORADO LEGISLATURE BEGINS DEBATE ON $40.6 BILLION BUDGET FILLED WITH LIBERAL WASTEFUL SPENDING

• COLORADO LAWMAKERS ONLY HAVE $23 MILLION FOR NEW PROGRAMS BUT HAVE A WISH LIST TOTALING $2 BILLION

• COLORADO FACES BUDGET DILEMMA AS TAXPAYERS AWAIT REFUNDS AND DEMOCRATS PRIORITIZE SPENDING OVER TAXPAYER RELIEF

• DEMOCRATS PUSH EXPENSIVE PASSENGER RAIL AGENDA DESPITE FEARS RIDERS WILL IGNORE

Critics argue that the continuous expansion of the state budget reflects the Democrats' propensity for excessive spending, putting an increasing burden on hardworking taxpayers. The significant growth in the budget over the years raises concerns about fiscal responsibility and the potential long-term consequences of such unchecked spending.

As the budget process moves forward, it remains to be seen whether Republicans and fiscal conservatives can effectively challenge the Democrats' spending spree and advocate for more responsible budget allocations that prioritize the needs of all Coloradans.