The legislative session is flying by, and we have been very busy at the Capitol. I am incredibly excited about the legislation I am working on to build a better future for my constituents and Coloradans.
I am cosponsoring a major bipartisan K-12 education package that will help schools across Colorado recover from the recession era budget cuts, support successful implementation of existing policies and implement new reforms. This legislation will provide increased funding for programs that ensure reading proficiency by third grade, provide additional support for English Language Proficiency, funding for construction of kindergarten facilities and increase transparency so parents can see exactly where money is being spent in their child’s school and in their district.
Access to post-secondary education is directly correlated to economic vitality, which is why I am also working on legislation that increases access to college. I put myself through school and know first-hand the difficulties many students face with the rising costs of tuition and securing scholarships and financial aide. I am working with a broad coalition to craft legislation that will encourage state and private investment and matching funds for grants and scholarships for aspiring students.
I am also carrying two bills that came out of the poverty reduction task force that I was a part of during the summer. House Bill 1072, the child care tax credit bill, will ensure that working families, who earn below $25,000, are able to receive a state tax credit to offset the cost of child care. Colorado has one of the most expensive costs for child care in the country and that can force many parents, especially those in low-income households, to leave their careers. This bill will incentivize self-sufficiency by helping parents stay in the workforce while their children receive the care they need.
I am also sponsoring the Property Tax, Rent and Heat Rebate grant program, which was recommended by the poverty reduction task force. I am very excited to be working on this rebate program that helps seniors and persons with disabilities live independently in their homes. It will help with basic necessities like food, rent and heating and ultimately saves taxpayers money. I feel strongly that we must protect the seniors living in our community. This is an issue I campaigned on and I will work tirelessly to guarantee its success.
I am honored to be your representative and grateful that I get to go to work every day to build for a better future for Lakewood and all of Colorado.
I always enjoy hearing from constituents. Please call me at 303-866-2939, or email me at brittany.pettersen@state.co.us with any questions or concerns.