Takeaways from the special session on property taxes
The Colorado General Assembly has wrapped up its four-day special session on property taxes, but what unfolded during those days may give us a glimpse into what's to come in January when the regular session begins.
And some of the takeaways should concern Colorado voters.
One major issue that arose was the breakdown of the fragile peace in the typically well-behaved Senate. The special session saw an unusual public dispute among senators, leading to concerns that tactics to shut down debate could become the norm when the 120-day session begins in January.
This could result in a lack of productivity and further division among lawmakers come January during the regular session.
Another disconcerting event occurred when Democrats attempted to push forward with a debate on the main property tax legislation without following proper procedures. Despite objections from Republicans and a failed vote to suspend the rules, Senate President Steve Fenberg declared the motion approved and denied a requested roll call vote.
It was clear that Democrats, even though they have the majority, are willing to bend the rules to push through their agenda.
Meanwhile, bad behavior has been running rampant in the House without consequences.
Representative Elisabeth Epps of Denver used nearly all of the allotted debate time to make controversial and offensive antisemitic comments about the Israeli-Hamas conflict. She then joined protesters in the gallery, disrupting House proceedings. Hurling absenities onto the floor from the gallery.
The House leadership has failed to hold her accountable for her actions, raising questions about their own standards of conduct.
House Rule 23(b) says "no member shall engage in loud private discourse or commit any other act tending to distract the attention of the House from the business before it."
The House has not invoked that rule in at least 25 years.
Epps's comments came while Rep. Ron Weinberg, who is Jewish, was given time to address her earlier comments. "We are not enemies," Weinberg said.
The question continues: If this is how Rep. Epps and Rep. Hernandez conduct themselves during a three-day specials session – how will they act out during a 120 regular session?
READ MORE:
WHAT THE COLORADO LEGISLATURE PASSED DURING THE SPECIAL SESSION
JEWISH DEMOCRATIC LEADERS CONDEMN ANTISEMITIC OUTBURSTS IN COLORADO HOUSE
REP. ELISABETH EPPS GOES OFF THE RAILS IN TEAR-FILLED ANTISEMITIC RANT
With the 2024 election year fast approaching, tensions are likely to escalate even further.
Democrats are looking to maintain their supermajority hold of the House and extend it to the Senate, while Republicans will be looking to win back lost seats. This could lead to even more contentious debates over issues such as guns, abortion, trans rights and drug use.