CDLC Statement in Response to Supreme Court Ruling

DENVER, CO — This morning, the Supreme Court struck down the ability for lower courts to issue nationwide injunctions. In the past several hours we have felt the visceral hurt and fear of our communities in light of the Supreme Court’s birthright citizenship ruling. There have been countless individuals who have reached out to us fearing for the well-being of their families, friends, and neighbors. As we come to terms with the realities of a Supreme Court willing to overturn precedent, we want to make one thing clear- the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus will continue to fight to protect our residents, our state, and our constitutional principles. 

Though this ruling has far-reaching implications, we want to reassure the residents of Colorado that any child born to non-citizen parents in the state continues to have birthright citizenship recognized. This ruling does not change that fact, and we applaud the actions of Attorney General Phil Weiser for joining 21 other states as a plaintiff in the suit that triggered the original preliminary injunction. As a result, despite today’s Supreme Court ruling, the preliminary  injunction still applies in Colorado. 

Unfortunately, the core provisions of this ruling still have the potential to cause significant harm to Coloradans. By limiting universal injunctions, this ruling will overwhelm the lower courts, making it harder to universally challenge access to rights clearly granted through congressional or constitutional provisions. We are witnessing the degradation of democratic norms in real time.

We, as your elected officials want to provide you the reassurance that we will continue to fight for you, to defend you. We will wage this battle in partnership with fellow elected officials across Colorado and ensure that Constitutional rights are not violated. 

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CDLC Celebrates Preliminary Injunction Granted in Case Moss v. Polis

DENVER, CO — Today, members of the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus joined Colorado WINS, Towards Justice, CIRC, and CO AFL-CIO for a press conference at the State Capitol to celebrate the preliminary injunction granted by Denver District Court Judge A. Bruce Jones.

With this injunction in place, we have an assurance that the Division of Labor Standards and Statistics in the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment will not turn over the personally identifying information of Colorado residents currently caring for unaccompanied minors. Yesterday’s ruling clearly demonstrates that due process will be upheld in the state of Colorado, and that ICE will not be able to undercut the laws of our state in order to carry out its campaign of terror. 

Part of the basis for the lawsuit that Mr. Moss brought forth is SB25-276, which prohibits the state’s collaboration with ICE without due process. Both Latino Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Julie Gonzales and Representative Elizabeth Velasco were prime sponsors of this bill. In reference to this legislation, Senator Gonzales stated, “We now have law in the state of Colorado that has been tested…this law is meant to ensure that prior to any personally identifying information being shared, with any federal agency, for the purposes of immigration enforcement, that they go talk to a judge”.  

While CDLC celebrates Judge Jones’ decision, it is important to recognize the harm that has already taken place. “There has been a breach in trust, not only from the public, but also with us as lawmakers because we came to the table to negotiate SB25-276 in good faith with the governor, and he still chose to comply with the subpoena.” said Latino Caucus Co-Chair Elizabeth Velasco. 

This preliminary injunction was the first step in what will likely be a monthslong legal process, but sends a clear message to any entity attempting to undermine the rights of the residents of Colorado that their actions will not be tolerated. 

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Sine Die: Celebrating CDLC Legislative Wins in the 2025 Session

DENVER, CO — On this final day of the 2025 legislative session, the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus (CDLC) is proud to announce the tremendous success of its policy agenda with 16 of 18 endorsed measures having passed. A full list of endorsed measures and their final status can be found below. 

“From shoring up workers protections, to the defense of the civil rights for immigrants, the success of CDLC’s’ policy agenda reflects the effectiveness and cohesion of caucus membership,” said Caucus Co-Chair Senator Julie Gonzalez. “As we continue to see dangerous levels of ineptitude from the federal government and direct attacks on our state, it was more important than ever that the caucus be able to come together and deliver results for all Coloradans this session.” 

Latino Caucus members led the charge on some of the most consequential pieces of legislation this session, and worked hard to center economic justice, worker protections, and defense of communities above all else. 

“Each and every member of the Latino Caucus has played a critical role in the success of our policy agenda,” shared Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Elizabeth Velasco. “With 11 out of 13 Latino Caucus members in the House, it was especially essential in the House that we work collectively in order to confront some of the hardest battles of these past few months.”   

In the coming weeks, we look forward to working with Governor Polis’ Office to enact these crucial pieces of legislation. 

Response to the Colorado Springs Raid: Defending Human Rights and Due Process

Colorado Springs, Colorado- Following the DEA actions that took place over the weekend, the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus would like to reaffirm our support for public safety activities as long as due process and transparency remain part of any actions.

Due process is not a privilege—it is a right. It is not granted based on status, citizenship, or occupation. 

Current reports indicate that various illicit activities were taking place at the site of the raid. The Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus will continue to advocate for the safety of our communities, while demanding that our legal system operate lawfully and humanely. No one, regardless of immigration status, should be stripped of dignity or rights. 

Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus Supports the Challenge to TABOR’s Constitutionality

DENVER, CO — Today, the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus is proud to endorse Caucus-members Rep. Camacho and Rep. Garcia’s Resolution, HJR25-1023, requiring the constitutionality of TABOR to be challenged. 

“Chronic underfunding of our state caused by TABOR has hindered our ability to effectively govern and deliver on the results our constituents deserve. I am proud that the Latino Caucus has unanimously endorsed this resolution and stands united in our mission to improve the quality of life and opportunity for all Coloradans,” said Rep. Camacho. “The bottom line is that TABOR has harmed the lives of Coloradans for far too long.” 

The U.S. Constitution sets forth that a republican form of government be adopted by the states. Such a mandate means that legislative bodies must retain fundamental law-making authority. The challenge brought forth will contend that TABOR violates the Enabling Act of Colorado and the U.S. Constitution by depriving Colorado’s legislature of essential governing powers. 

We look forward to continuing to work with our fellow members of the legislature, and fighting for a better future for all Coloradans.

Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus Hosts Press Conference Unveiling 2025 Legislative Agenda

DENVER, CO — Today, members of the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus gathered to unveil their legislative priorities for the 2025 legislative session. A collective 16 bills (full list included below) have been endorsed by the caucus, each falling into one of the 2025 policy pillars of the caucus. “This is not a new process for the caucus to engage in”, shared Co-Chair Senator Julie Gonzalez in reference to the caucus’ endorsement process, “but it is particularly important at this moment in time and demonstrates our ability to get things done and to govern effectively”. 

Out of 16 bills endorsed, 4 were chosen by members to highlight at today’s press conference. Representative Yara Zokaie shared the importance of Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act, which is the most expansive update to Colorado anti-discrimination laws in 70 years. “This bill is about defending the very people that make this state strong” stated Rep. Zokie. 

Caucus Secretary Representative Matt Martinez presented on HB25-1023 which gives authority to local governments to oversee the construction of fencing projects in the San Luis Valley. This legislation is especially important in light of the Cielo Vista Ranch fencing dispute which has disturbed wildlife and caused environmental degradation in the surrounding area. 

Caucus Treasurer Representative Javier Mabrey reinforced the caucus' commitment to safer jobs and higher wages presenting on the Worker Protection Collective Bargaining Act which eliminates unnecessary barriers to the unionization process, which will in turn diminish wage disparities experienced by workers of color. 

The last bill presented in today’s press conference was the Tax Expenditure Adjustment which seeks to expand crucial tax credits to further serve the working class communities of Colorado.  Representative Lorena Garcia emphasized the importance of tax credits as a tool to alleviate poverty and lower the cost of living for hard working Coloradans. 

Today’s press conference clearly demonstrates how the Latino Caucus is leading for our communities. The 13 members of the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus represent urban, suburban and rural communities, and their breadth of experience and knowledge is clearly demonstrated in the variety of bills endorsed. 

Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus Reaffirms Denver’s Welcoming City Policies in Wake of Congressional Hearing

Denver, Colorado - In today’s congressional hearing Denver Mayor Mike Johnston joined mayors from other large cities to speak to the efficacy of welcoming city policies and push back against misinformation about immigration and public safety. Their testimony underscored the essential role immigrants play in strengthening communities and economies, while also making it clear that Colorado is focused on real solutions, not political scapegoating.

“Today’s congressional hearing underscores what we in Colorado have long understood: welcoming policies are integral to the fabric of safe and thriving communities," said Caucus Co-Chair Senator Julie. "By ensuring that all residents, regardless of immigration status, feel secure in interacting with local authorities, we strengthen public safety and community cohesion.

During the hearing, Mayor Johnston cited data demonstrating that crime rates in Denver have decreased, reinforcing studies that show welcoming policies build community trust in law enforcement and increase overall safety. 

"Welcoming city policies are designed to uphold the Constitution and make communities more safe, prosperous, and resilient," said Caucus Co-Chair Representative Elizabeth Velasco. "Local law enforcement's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and trust of the communities they serve, not to act as extensions of federal immigration authorities."

The mayors also addressed the challenges posed by a lack of comprehensive federal immigration reform, emphasizing that local governments should not be held accountable for systemic issues beyond their jurisdiction. Several mayors called for collaborative efforts to address immigration comprehensively, rather than placing undue burdens on cities committed to ensuring the best outcomes for their residents.

As advocates for immigrant rights and effective governance, we stand with welcoming city policies and city leaders in their commitment to uphold policies that protect the rights and well-being of all residents. We urge Colorado’s federal delegation to pursue comprehensive immigration reform that reflects our nation's values of fairness, opportunity, and justice.

Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus Announces its Endorsement of SB25-001

DENVER, CO — Today, the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus is happy to announce its endorsement of SB25-001, the Colorado Voting Rights Act. We are proud to partner with  Colorado Common Caucus on this endeavor, and fully support their efforts in the passage of this bill. 

Latino voters make up 17% of the Colorado electorate, but consistently face barriers to participation due to issues of language access, amongst many others. Despite all the strides Colorado has made in breaking down barriers to voter participation, we still have one of the widest racial turnout gaps in the nation; in 2020, there was a 20-point turnout difference between white voters and voters of color. This legislation furthers existing protections for Colorado voters, and sets firmer standards for election management at the municipal level. Municipalities exercise a great deal of discretion in setting election rules and practices. COVRA will set clear, common-sense standards to ensure localities that run their own elections employ practices that do not create systemic disparities in participation or representation between communities.

COVRA is a crucial step forward in safeguarding the rights of the Latino electorate. The Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus is eager to see this legislation passed, and looks forward to continuing the expansion of voter access in Colorado. 

Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis Shares Resignation From Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus With Members

DENVER, CO — This afternoon, the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus received a letter of resignation from Senator Sonya Jaquez Lewis. This letter was presented at the caucus’ meeting at 1 pm and accepted by membership. At this time, Senator Jaquez Lewis is no longer a member of the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus. 

Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus Meets with Governor Polis to Discuss Community Concerns and Upcoming Legislative Session

DENVER, CO — This afternoon, members of the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus met with Governor Polis to discuss the upcoming legislative session and elevate several community concerns. The caucus introduced their four policy pillars for the year: 

Protecting air, land, and water,

Safer jobs and higher wages, 

Addressing the cost of living, and 

Defending our communities.

Much of the legislation that the caucus will be supporting this year will be grounded in these four pillars. 

In addition to discussion of legislation, a primary concern raised by the caucus is the continual conflation between criminality and immigration in the current media landscape and in the Governor’s own remarks. Crime and immigration are two very distinct issues and such rhetoric makes not just immigrants unsafe, but all communities of color. CDLC shares the value of wanting to make Colorado a safe state, but this should not be done at the cost of immigrants. There is no statistical evidence to show that recent arrivals are committing crimes at higher rates than other groups and it has been proven many times that overall immigrants commit crimes at much lower rates than US citizens. As we await the beginning of the Trump Administration, it is more important than ever that all branches of Colorado’s government stand up to protect our most vulnerable communities and prevent the further marginalization of immigrants.